On... Travelling

In my early blog, I've estimated AUD 15,000 per annum as a travelling budget. My recent trip to Japan already surpassed that (AUD 20,000+) and that is only our first vacation this year.

I might be the odd one out but travelling is really not my thing. As someone who wants to retire early and achieve financial independance; you can see how just one vacation (family is probably planning another one or two for 2023), has already blown our budget out of proportion.

There are many reasons why I dislike travelling. First, and most importantly of course is the budget. Travelling is not cheap. There are definitely cheaper options. But when you can afford, the tendency is to push the limit. That's probably human nature. To me, the money spent does not justify the ends at all.

Second reason is that I don't really see the value (value is subjective). To be honest, I dont really have something to look forward to with regards to travelling. Some people want to travel to taste new food. Some people want to shop. Some people want to experience a different culture. Some people just want to boast I think. None of those appeal to me at all.

Third reason is because of the hassle that has to do with travelling. As a dad, with two little kids, it is not easy to look after them. Apart from the kids, there is also the luggage and personal belongings. It is relatively easy to handle kids, luggage and personal belongings in a safe country. Consider some other places. I imagine we might have lost our luggage or wallets, while busy looking at maps and navigating our way through busy train stations.

Also, many things can go wrong while travelling. You can just use your imagination. To me, travelling is an activity with way more downside than upside.

In a financial standpoint and pursuing early retirement, ditching travelling is a low hanging fruit. But will I still travel? As long as my family loves it - Yes, I will. It's not a financial decision but an emotional one.