Coming back home was not just a physical transition; it was a whirlwind of emotions, cultural readjustments, and a reminder of financial considerations that I figured deserved a post after a four month hiatus from blogging. Let’s jump in!

Mason and I took the bold step to quit our jobs, say farewell to the mundane, and dive headfirst into the world of long-term travel. Little did we know, the reality of traveling as a couple would bring forth a mix of emotions and challenges even amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes and beautiful moments we’ve gotten to share!

As we continue to explore with only the essentials in our backpacks, it often makes us question what will we genuinely want or need when we return to the routines of everyday life? We’ve combed through our packing list and have come up with all that you’d really need for a long adventure - from a minimalists point of view!

We were able explore the beautiful Blue Mountains while working in exchange for a place to stay! It felt so good to see the differences we were making around the house while gaining friends in the process. Plus, being hosted by someone who genuinely appreciated our efforts made this experience truly great!

Our backpacking journey through Southeast Asia has been full of diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering meals. However, to make the most of your adventure without breaking the bank, we have learned that budgeting is essential. Take a look at what we averaged daily over that past 12 weeks!

While it's effortless to portray a flawless life on social media, it's important to remember that the journey to these beautiful places may not always align with the 'picture-perfect' image you see!

We tracked every single penny we spent during the month of September while we traveled through Thailand and Vietnam. With a few hiccups along the way, read to see how we did with spending as a backpacking couple!

We’ve flown across the world to explore the beautiful islands in Thailand! How did we plan it? Well with the help of an outstanding tour guide, we were able to see and experience so much in just 12 days! After writing this post, I wish I could go back and relive our travels with this amazing group of people!

We didn’t have this all planned out but somehow after reading a good book and plunging headfirst into an idea, we’re traveling around Southeast Asia with only our backpacks!

After spending eight days driving 1,600 miles around the beautiful Golden State of California, I think we’ve fallen in love! Five National Parks, one that can only be accessed by boat, and everything in between! We experienced wine country, waterfalls, sequoias, fresh fruit stands, beaches, bridges, and so much more!

From walking down Honky Tonk Highway, to driving through the Appalachian Mountains, dipping our toes in the Atlantic Ocean, Mason putting a ring on my left hand, and riding along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail - I think we did just about everything we could on this road trip!

Coming for a day trip? A full weekend? A week? I’ve got all the recommendations on how to spend your time in beautiful Kansas City!

Lower Greenville is an area you don’t want to miss when you’re in Dallas next! We fell in love with the atmosphere, unique foods, and shops that surround Greenville Avenue!

It all begins with an idea to get outta town and outta routine — here are my top three National Parks that we’ve visited thus far!

It all started with an idea to see a single National Park but somehow exploded into visiting four well-known National Parks in a matter of eight days! Do you think you could do it?

Here’s our list of all our road trips essentials - be sure to check it out before your next adventure!

We drove through 5 National Parks in the southwest states in just nine days! From Arches to Grand Canyon and everything in between - read more to see what you should add to your next road trip!