A couple in their thirties decided to embark on a global adventure by selling their house and belongings to travel the world with just one backpack each. Josh and Katie, both 33, caught the travel bug during a previous trip to Australia in 2015. The idea to sell their home arose during a vacation in Mexico earlier this year when they realized they could maximize their funds for a more enriching experience.
After swiftly selling their three-bedroom house in Manchester within a day of listing, the couple began their journey in Thailand. They funded their travels using the proceeds from the house sale and selling various possessions online. With a monthly budget of £1,500 to £2,000, they allocate £500 for accommodation, while the rest covers daily expenses, currently amounting to around £35 in Thailand.
Comparing their current spending to their previous monthly expenses of £4,000 back home, Josh, an exterior cleaner, stated that they have downsized to just four backpacks with no remaining possessions after selling everything from clothes to furniture. Katie, a hairdresser, expressed excitement about the adventure and the opportunity to spend quality time together as a family, despite missing their loved ones.
Originally considering a move to Australia, the couple opted for a more flexible lifestyle after realizing the cost-effectiveness of traveling through Southeast Asia. They plan to provide alternative education for their children outside traditional schooling, utilizing online resources and tutoring services.
The family, currently exploring Southeast Asia with no fixed itinerary, documents their experiences on social media platforms. To follow their journey, visit @4backpacksmanymemories on TikTok and @4BackpacksManyMemories on YouTube.