Coming from the US where it is very easy to hit up an ATM and get cash any time you need it, you will find that this can be much more difficult when traveling abroad. I have had experiences in East Africa where it was impossible to find an ATM that would accept my US bank cards (or my Nigerian one for that matter) and then were also very picky about the USD that they would accept. It is my recommendation that you are sure to have a decent amount of cash with you, but check that it is absolutely pristine! Many of the vendors in foreign countries will not…

As I begin this journey, one of the most constant stressors has been deciding what the heck to pack that is going to last at least six months, be good for multiple climate zones and fit into one carry one back pack. With some tips from Rick Steves, the list below is what I managed to come up with. It is by no means perfect and I am sure I am going to have to do some shopping along the way, but it is a good starter reference for anyone who thinks they might try to do a journey like this one. Note: Even though I have been told I…