Traveler Profile: @KimCrossesBorders & Her Unconventional Path

Next up on my traveler profile series is @KimCrossesBorders. We’ve been following each other for a while on Instagram, but have yet to meet in person (someday!!). She constantly inspires me with her upbeat, feel-good vibe and energy. Her story is a bit different than my own — she went straight to a life of travel, never doing the 9-5 thing! So I thought she would be a fun person to talk to and hear about how she makes a living, saves for travel, and plans for the future. I hope you enjoy!

When did you catch the travel bug and was travel a big part of your early life?

I caught the travel bug in college one summer. I took two big trips to Europe and fell in love!I was in awe of how big the world is, and how small my town was. My first trip was to Budapest, and everything felt like a fairytale to me.
I am biracial, so I would take trips frequently to Honduras when I was younger. I was never really grateful for these experiences though, and unfortunately, I really resented spending my summers in Honduras instead of with friends in the USA.

What did you major in in college and when did you make the decision to go travel vs look for a “regular” 9-5 job?

El oh el. Okay, so I majored in Political Science with an emphasis on European politics. I had an internship in Berlin, Germany my final semester and it was the absolute worst. It was a typical desk internship, and I was very lethargic. I think it was the combination of the cold winter and having a very boring job. I was exhausted from essentially doing nothing. So I made a VOW to myself that I would NEVER conform to the normal 9-5 desk job. And for me, I honestly wanted to be on my boss.

How was it telling your parents and friends/family about your plans?  Were they supportive?

My parents were a little confused. Understandably, since I was set on going to law school. And they really loved that idea because they were never given that possibility. Once they saw I could make a living out of it (and not mooch off them as they thought I would) they became more proud of me. My friends are extremely supportive, which really helped me get through things.

How do you make money to fund your travels and support yourself?

After I graduated, I got a few gigs teaching English online. I was so grateful for these jobs because they allowed me to make my own schedule and work from wherever. My current goal is to grow my YouTube channel to make a living off of it. I live very humbly, especially since I have some credit card debt I am trying to pay off from my time in university. I hardly shop, and I try to eat as cheaply as possible.

Do you have any money saving tips for young people wanting to travel but working with limited budget?

YES, minimize your recurring expenses as much as possible. I am ASSUMING that you are not spending money on really unnecessary things like Starbucks already. But look at your recurring expenses and bring them down. I got rid of Amazon Prime (who needs it when you are all around the world anyways) and a few apps which helped a lot.

What’s your plan for the future?  Do you foresee traveling short term, long term, or TBD!

To be honest, I am a little burnt out on traveling. I am also really missing a community and friends. I have a 2020 goal of only traveling to 6 countries maximum. In 2019, I went to around 14 countries. It was a little too much for me personally, and I can feel the aftermath of all of it. This year I really want to flourish financially, mentally, and physically so I will slow down. My goal is to get a freelance visa in Germany so I can continue to have the flexibility and travel around the EU.

What’s one thing you wished you had known before you set out on this adventure that you can share with others?

I wish I would have known that not everyone will share your love of knowing the local culture.I met so many travelers that were only in it for their own agenda. Therefore it can feel a little lonely when you want to talk to locals, and others want to hit up that aesthetic cafe. I love going to pretty cafes, don't get me wrong. But I travel to educate myself, question my beliefs, and learn from locals. Traveling can be an isolating experience. But it also the most whimsical, life-changing thing ever.

What has been the best part of full-time travel and what has been the hardest part of full time travel?

Best part-- oh my gosh, I have learned so much. I used to always suck at geography and history, but now I think it is one of my strongest assets. I love learning about a culture's history and why they are the way they are. I love eating local cuisine, and just interacting with the local culture. It truly is the best thing ever.
Worst part- It is lonely, and you have no stability. I would rather have no stability than a boring life. But it still gets to me, I miss working out and meeting up with friends. I think knowing when it is time to take a break is crucial. Especially if you want to travel long term. Travel should be adding to your life, not taking away.

What’s a go to travel gadget that you can’t live without?

Hm, so I LOVE Lush shampoo bars. I always have one with me. They are good for liquid requirements, and if you are in a dire situation it is excellent.

All time favorite destination and why, go!
Oh shoot, when I figure that out maybe I will stop traveling for a while.