Would You Sell Your House to Travel the World with Just One Backpack?

This article explores the inspiring story of a family from Sheffield, South Yorkshire, who sold their home to embark on a life-changing global adventure. Josh and Katie, along with their two young children, are travelling full-time, embracing a simpler lifestyle while exploring the world. Their journey highlights the joys and challenges of prioritising family experiences over material possessions.

Last updated: 29 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Josh and Katie sold their home and possessions to travel full-time with their children.
• They aim to live on a budget of £1,500 to £2,000 per month, significantly less than their previous outgoings.
• The family plans to combine remote learning with experiential education for their children.
• They focus on embracing the unknown and enjoying family time together.
• The adventure began after a life-changing trip to Australia in 2015.

From Dreaming to Doing: The Decision to Travel Full-Time

For many families, the dream of travelling the world often clashes with the demands of daily life. However, for Josh and Katie, the desire for adventure became a reality when they decided to leave their home behind. Their journey began with a year spent in Australia, which sparked their enthusiasm for exploring new cultures and experiences.

After years of contemplating their next steps, the couple's pivotal moment came during a holiday in Mexico this January. They realised they had the opportunity to live a life that prioritised family time and personal fulfilment over material possessions. This epiphany led them to make the drastic decision to sell their home and possessions, allowing them to travel full-time with their children.

Financial Freedom: A New Budget for a New Lifestyle

Before making the leap, the couple had a clear understanding of their financial situation. In the UK, their monthly expenses were approximately £4,000, which included mortgage payments, utilities, groceries, and other costs associated with maintaining a household. However, their new lifestyle aims for a budget of £1,500 to £2,000 per month, which they believe is achievable while living in Southeast Asia.

Their budget breakdown includes:

• Accommodation: £500 per month
• Daily expenses: £35 per day for food, activities, and other necessities

This drastic reduction in living costs allows them to focus on enjoying their family adventure rather than being burdened by financial stress. The couple acknowledges that they can find affordable living options while still enjoying a high quality of life.

A Unique Approach to Education

One of the biggest concerns for families travelling full-time is how to manage their children's education. Josh and Katie have embraced a flexible approach, combining remote learning with real-world experiences. They plan to use online resources from Oakwood Academy and have arranged for a private tutor to check in weekly with their children.

This hybrid model allows their kids to engage with their studies while also learning through travel. By visiting historical sites, natural wonders, and cultural landmarks, the children are gaining a practical understanding of the world around them. Katie notes that the children are thriving in this new routine, which appears to be enriching their lives in profound ways.

Embracing the Unknown

One of the most thrilling aspects of their journey is the sense of adventure that comes with not having a fixed itinerary. The family has not planned their route beyond their current location, and they seem to relish the freedom that comes with the unknown. Katie expressed that the uncertainty of their travels excites them, allowing for spontaneous experiences and opportunities.

This approach to travel fosters a sense of unity and resilience within the family. As they explore new destinations, they are not only creating cherished memories but also learning to adapt and overcome challenges together, reinforcing their bond.

The Emotional Journey

Leaving behind friends and family can be emotionally challenging, and Katie admitted that saying goodbye was difficult. However, she quickly found comfort in the excitement of their new adventure. “If I could pick them up and take them with me, I would,” she reflects, indicating the deep connections they maintain despite the distance.

As they continue their travels, the family embraces the idea that as long as they have each other, they can conquer any obstacle. This mindset is crucial in maintaining positivity and enthusiasm as they navigate their new lifestyle.

Life in Southeast Asia: Current Experiences

Currently residing in Thailand, the family is enjoying the freedom of their new lifestyle. They have not booked their next destination yet, which adds to the thrill of their journey. With plans to explore more of Southeast Asia, they are taking each day as it comes, allowing their experiences to shape their travels.

The family updates their journey through social media, sharing their adventures with followers on TikTok under the handle @4backpacksmanymemories. These posts not only document their travels but also inspire others to consider a life of adventure with their families.

What Lies Ahead: Future Travel Plans

The family plans to move on to another destination in Southeast Asia on 29 September, although they have not finalised where that will be. This open-ended approach allows them to adapt to their surroundings and immerse themselves in local cultures. The focus remains on enjoying the journey rather than ticking off a checklist of places to visit.

Conclusion: The Adventure Continues

Josh and Katie's journey serves as a reminder that pursuing one's dreams often requires making tough choices. By prioritising family time and experiences over material comforts, they have embarked on an adventure that many can only dream of. Their story encourages others to reflect on their own priorities and consider what changes they might make to achieve the life they desire.

As they continue their travels, one question remains: What will their next adventure reveal? #FamilyTravel #AdventureAwaits #TravelLife

FAQs

How did Josh and Katie afford to travel full-time?

Josh and Katie significantly reduced their monthly expenses by selling their home and possessions, allowing them to travel on a budget of £1,500 to £2,000 per month.

What educational resources are they using for their children?

The family plans to use online resources from Oakwood Academy and engage a private tutor to support their children's education while travelling.

How do they manage their finances while travelling?

They have created a budget that focuses on affordable accommodation and daily expenses, which allows them to maintain a sustainable lifestyle while exploring new destinations.

What challenges have they faced on their adventure?

While the emotional challenge of leaving family and friends was significant, the couple has embraced the unknown and adapted well to their new lifestyle.

What is their next destination?

They plan to move to a new location in Southeast Asia on 29 September, although they have not yet finalised their exact destination.