Asked & Answered.

Where are you going?

Short answer: everywhere!
This year’s lineup: Indonesia in June, Australia in July & August, New Zealand in September, and India in October & November.

Follow along by subscribing to Led By Strangers, my newsletter where I share stories from the people I meet along the way.

Where do you stay?

Say it with me: HOSTELS!
Yep, hostel life is my ride-or-die. They get a bad rep, but in reality, many are clean, safe, and full of character—if you know where to look and how to book.

Fun fact: the 2005 horror film Hostel hurt Slovakia’s tourism industry so much, director Eli Roth was invited on an all-expenses-paid trip to help undo the damage.

For me, the top priority is a co-working space. As long as I have a bed, a desk, and some good social vibes, I’m all in.

Want more tips? Check out my blog: Backpacker's Guide to Booking Hostels: Safe, Clean, and Accommodating

What do you bring with you?

A backpack—two, actually.
If you’re always on the move like I am, backpacks beat suitcases every time. They’re lighter, more flexible, and better for varied terrain.

I carry one for clothes and essentials, and another for my work setup (yes, I’m a gadget guy). Pro tip: invest in a waterproof pack that can handle your valuables and keep everything safe.

Sure, I still overpack sometimes—but after plenty of trial and error, I’ve learned how to prep for long-term stays without the baggage (literally).

Get my packing advice here: The Ultimate Backpacking List: What to Bring and What to Leave Behind

How do you afford long-term travel?

This lifestyle isn’t for you if budgeting feels like punishment.
I’m a budget traveler—hostels under $30/night, self-cooked meals, and extended stays (a month or more) to stretch every dollar.

I also work full-time remotely. It takes discipline, time-zone juggling, and sometimes sacrificing sleep, but the payoff is worth it.

This didn’t happen overnight. It took years to design a life I could take on the road. Curious how I did it? Read more about me, and follow my blog!

What made you decide to solo-travel?

Once I got past the initial discomfort, I realized I was way more open to new experiences—and new people—when I was alone.

Ditching the need for constant companionship was a game-changer. Solo travel helped me connect with different cultures, grow more independent, and learn a lot about myself.

There’s a moment in solo travel when you hit pure euphoria: you’re in a new place, enjoying your own company, and totally in the moment. Some feel homesick. Me? I get more excited every time I pack up and head somewhere new.

So friends and family—don’t worry, and don’t follow me. I’m doing just fine on my own ;)