How I Afford Traveling Full Time

Every now and then someone asks this question so I thought I would make a video about it. How is it that I'm able to travel all the time and not hold down a full time job?
Circumstances will be different for everybody and there are probably few people that match my situation but this is the complete rundown of my finances.
How much KZbinrs make:
Socialblade.com
Stock video:
www.blackbox.global/
www.pond5.com
Affiliate links of gear used:
--Cameras:
Sony Alpha A6600 with 18-135mm Lens - amzn.to/36Xte9K
Sigma 16mm F/1.4 DC DN Lens for Sony E - amzn.to/2ZlUyOi
--Other Gear:
Comica Traxshot Super Cardioid Stereo Mic - amzn.to/2YOz8aU
PowerDeWise Professional Grade Lavalier Lapel Mic - amzn.to/2EEwqLd
AOKA 28in/1.1lb Carbon Fiber Tripod with Ballhead - amzn.to/3trUwAW
--Any donations greatly appreciated!
www.paypal.com/paypalme2/jayw...
www.buymeacoffee.com/jaywande...
Venmo @JayWandersOut
--Patreon link (Get my InReach password to track me as I thru hike the AT starting Feb 2022!
/ jaywandersout
Video capture: OBS Studio 22.0.2 64bit (free)
Video editing application: Davinci Resolve Studio 17.4
Image editing program: Gimp 2.10.28 (free)
Vector Drawing: Inkscape 1.1 (free)
Music from Epidemic Sound
www.epidemicsound.com/referra...
#thruhiking #suvlife #vanlife #finances #afford #traveling #freedom #nomadlife #nomadland #finances #retirement #earlyretirement
stock video, Amazon, affiliate, donations, adsense, side hustle

[@KimCrowHikes]

I love how open and honest you are. It is admirable. Thanks Jay.

[@gregskolozdra]

I’m inspired by your courage to escape the office grind and your courage to go on your amazing adventures. You are spending you money, time and energy wisely.

[@crystalhooper3191]

First off, thank you for your service 🇺🇸🇺🇸 my daughter is a Marine. Secondly, you do not look your age! And finally, thank you for being a responsible adult! You’ve worked, earned a good living, saved, so go enjoy it!!!

[@doreenblanding3107]

THERE IS NO WAY YOU ARE THAT OLD! DUDE you look so young! The years have treated you well. thank you for sharing.

[@JayWandersOut]

Yep, I'll be 50 on the AT. Not sure what to think of that.

[@driftwood4458]

Thanks for being so open and honest about your finances since actually it’s none of our business.

[@theskyehiker]

When I was still working with community college students I always cautioned students against acquiring debt. Debt is one of the biggest limitations of freedom and it sounds like you learned this early in life. Thanks for the rundown Jay.

[@JayWandersOut]

Yep, I'm shocked so many people still don't understand debt. They look at how much they need to pay per month instead which is mindblowing.

[@Justin_Hikes]

"Try not to get yourself in debt." Yes! That and lifestyle inflation are the most common problems people get into. Really appreciate your transparency about your finances. Great info!

[@JayWandersOut]

Yes, for most people as they make more they spend more so never save enough. I admit I was the same for awhile but I just happened to still make more than I spent.

[@sideshow00]

"I only had a dog.. house.. no crazy payments..." Aka no woman no wife no kids so he's free lmao Yeah I said it.

[@ThomasGapinski]

Thank you for your service. Your plan for the next 10 years seems really attainable since you worked hard to save and cut expenses. I look forward to seeing your AT videos.

[@EarlyRiser71]

Fun video Jay. Damn, had no clue you went in the Marines so late (military speaking) in life. Pretty cool. Also forgot we are so close in age. Probably why I relate to you so well. Merry Christmas bro. 🤘🕓

[@JayWandersOut]

Yeah, I went in at 30 and had to sign an age waiver and run a 5k for the recruiters. I was in pretty good shape though so no problem. Merry Christmas! I'll be back in the USA in a few more days and start digging through a ton of boxes of gear.

[@TXMEDRGR]

Thanks for your service in the Marines. I was an Amphib sailor while in the USN/USNR.

[@p.fleming2353]

Thank you for sharing!

[@vanman4923]

Appreciate your honesty. Informative as always. Merry Xmas!

[@shannondipity]

Love your videos!!!

[@TheAdventureGeek]

Thanks for being so open and honest. Xx

[@jimmyjenkins9240]

Thanks. That was very informative.

[@KevinSmith-wr1sy]

Great video. Enjoyed it!

[@christinehazel1680]

Very informative video, thanks Jay.

[@HeyItsTim]

Yea Jay, thanks for sharing with us. I've always wondered about these things. Love your videos.

[@bluerainsky]

It's nice to hear a honest and direct response to such question.

[@jimmyjenkins9240]

Thanks. Thart was very informative.

[@roaming_bob8591]

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE.

[@winkhvac62]

Thank you for sharing.

[@mischiefonthetrail8961]

I’m definitely going to try out the stock video!! Thanks for the video

[@dansworld9635]

Awesome Jay. Thanks so much for sharing. Thumbs UP!

[@glo_glo488]

Merry Christmas Jay!! 🎁🎄🇺🇸

[@Ron_C]

Thanks for your service Jay. (Retired Army here). I've looked into stock photography several years ago. It makes me laugh at times when folks think we make tons of $ on YT. I think I made $300 last year..lol! Be safe and thanks for sharing brother.

[@ramblingmuse]

I love your videos. Can't wait to meet you on trail!

[@nathanlaulis429]

Thank you so much for being so honest Jay.

[@jimhenderson387]

So interesting! I've long wondered about this stuff. Thanks.

[@chuckoffcampus9738]

Fascinating video. Thank you for your service.

[@sweetbodhisoul891]

Thank you for sharing this info, definitely an inspiration to retire earlier!!

[@juststeve9459]

Interesting…thanks for sharing!

[@ronaldrose7593]

You're an honest man Jay. I'm enjoying your trek on.the At. Stay safe out there. 🤗

[@viadharmawheel]

Thank you for your service Jay! Keep living the life!

[@HikingWithWhiskers]

You’re always giving out good information!! Thank you for sharing! Merry Christmas!🎄🎁

[@JayWandersOut]

And a happy new year!

[@jasonjackson7293]

Thanks for sharing. I like you point about getting rid of those frivolous expenses.

[@1z1zmike]

Thanks for sharing…🙂🙏

[@marlinmiller786]

Jay, it was a pleasure meeting you on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018. Merry Christmas and wishing you the best in 2022.

[@maryleonard6381]

Wow Jay ! Since you have gotten on the AT your sub have more than doubled, whoop whoop! You are really awesome 😎 and I love your time lapses.

[@sissyensor988]

Love your stuff on Yellowstone! I'll be retiring this year and plan to drive there at some point.. In the meantime, I'll live vicariously through you.. Enjoy life -- you are doing it right! 😊

[@lisamonalisahikes]

Thank you for sharing. Nice to see someone down to earth. Not wasting money is a big thing... and no loans. I do have a kid but I live well within my means. So people shouldn’t use that as an excuse- where there’s a will there’s a way. Thanks for the video info

[@JPC-MB]

Jay, a very honest and heartwarming video. Thank you. Also, thank you for all of your fantastic content. Much success. JPC

[@zanthornton]

Thanks for captioning! Hearing loss is common in vets

[@BearTrekAdventures]

Very interesting video 👍. The stock video is intriguing...never heard of that before.

[@JayWandersOut]

Yep, I'm still learning and trying to think of ideas to film. It has to be really smooth footage though and there's a lot to learn but I think it's still something I want to pursue further.

[@funwiththefacklers8346]

We love watching your AT videos, we hiked in 2019. Thank you for being honest , many people wonder how people someone like you have your lifestyle. We are full time RVer’s . Thank you for your service in the military.

[@cumberlandquiltchic1]

That’s very interesting. Good for you! I also have tinnitus allllll the time. I have trouble sleeping, it’s annoying. I like your level headedness.

[@jake-a-lopeandfoodguruhike9350]

Fascinating! Loving your videos! Husband and I will be starting NOBO on 3/26. We’re “right behind” you 🤙😉

[@matthewmayerhikes]

This was very interesting! I have a very similar story... I am single and without children and have worked in IT for ten years. I began investing in real estate and other businesses several years ago which has allowed me the ability to hike and travel full time.

[@hope2someday691]

Good stuff Jay. You are the most thorough KZbinr out there. Are you going to do a video about your new (and old) video equipment for the AT?

[@JayWandersOut]

Yes, I definitely am. I'm still in Germany and most of my stuff is at my sister's so a bunch of gear videos will be coming.

[@Cindyscrossstitch]

Thank you for your service. You do not look your age. Happy trails🌻

[@seantran4178]

Thank you Jay, I think you are look little like me. I'm same as your high and your age too. No family and kid. But i never hiking, which why i wanna go out there start from thru-hike on PCT. I wanna learn everything and ready for this hike as much as i can. May be this my last chance for hiking because, year later when i get old, I might not have much energy to get out there. Thank you for your advices and I wish to hear from you more. Love your Chanel and always support.

[@clarkansas6590]

Good job

[@DanielOutdoors]

Thanks man, things I didnt know

[@civilman43]

I saw that clip you sold of the veggie dip on a commercial. It looked great for something to eat when I was watching it. Not so great as I cant remember what it was advertising. Small world ,have been following Your AT hike and am at day 13 really interesting. Keep up the great video's they help me relax after a long day.

[@JayWandersOut]

Hilarious with the veggie clip! Stock videos wind up all over the place thats for sure.

[@robertfmccarthy2360]

Thanks for being vulnerable, I’m sure you just made someone life easier.

[@adamholbrook2281]

Thanks Jay. Interesting video. Is there any opportunity or interest in contract IT work? Love the content from the AT. I’ll check out your others too. I’ll be following along on your hike.

[@wisenber]

I did work at not having debt and keeping my expenses in check. I never factored in the cost of aging relatives when I was younger though. A parent or aunt with failing health can consume more than kids. Fortunately, I'm here to help, and I would never consider not helping, but it is making my own retirement plans much more conservative. That being said, I've been in IT for decades. With the remote work opportunities and expanding reach of broadband, I can still sail around the world and manage to get 10-15 hours billable in on an average week which is probably less time than you spend editing. I actually enjoy my work, so it's no chore. However, that plan has to wait on the aforementioned relatives. I can't replace the time I have left with them.

[@Mark_Jacobson81]

The main thing is you are living life on your terms Jay 👍. I’ve had tinnitus for years but recently got worse after the second Pfizer jab, so not real keen on getting a booster, ever. Been causing my quite a lot of distress, can hardly sleep. So I feel for you Jay if you have ear ringing. I read very recently that a significant amount of vets have hearing issues and tinnitus 😔

[@JayWandersOut]

Yeah, our job required us to listen to hi frequency channel bands for hours at a time and you had to keep the volume pretty high to make out the voices in all the noise. Pretty horrible for the ears.

[@TooTall_hikes]

Interesting. Hmm thanks for the info

[@LordQuiche]

Nice. I just got the GoPro10 for the PCT, it’s a pocket marvel! 🖖

[@JayWandersOut]

Nice! I'm still in Germay so I haven't even seen mine yet.

[@zanthornton]

Again I learn something good! Where can we post review?

[@joepifer1985]

thank you for your service. i went to iraq myself

[@scottanderson1445]

Hi Jay- you might want to research a 72t. This allows you to take small equal payments from your retirement account without the penalty before 59.5. Because your income is so low you might be able to take those tax free; something like $500.00 per month. Definitely something to research in your spare time.

[@zanthornton]

You deserve more $$ but also this stuff gives satisfaction ( hiking, geek/ nerd stuff & freedom) I sent $25 & others should too because I'm disabled vet ( I don't get benefits yet) I appreciate it honesty and you deserve great things!

[@JayWandersOut]

Thanks for the support! It all adds up right? Little by little.

[@FOLLOWINGWALKERSWORLD]

Hey Jay that was a very informative video. Stock video is interesting. Thanks & Merry Christmas 👍😎✌️🚐

[@JayWandersOut]

Van life and outdoors stuff is popular right now in the world. I just keep forgetting to film some outdoorsy things that I could potentially upload. A limitation is not having any brands showing and that makes it tough. The clips have to be smooth as well so no shaking or wobbling or anything like that.

[@adamholbrook2281]

Thanks Jay. Interesting video. Is there any opportunity or interest in contract IT work? Love the content from the AT. I’ll check out your others too. I’ll be following along on your hike.

[@JayWandersOut]

I like being on my own schedule, go where I want when I want, so probably won't get into any contract.

[@rwilkins1583]

Jay I thought you were in your early 30s lol!! Interesting video

[@mountainmanhank8911]

Thanks Jay, I watched you through the Azt, now I'm heading out next week. Solo or almost, Ping my dog is going along. I can't take her thru NP.

[@JayWandersOut]

Enjoy! I loved my time on the AZT.

[@krisg3984]

Informing us that it’s do-able and congrats on dipping that broccoli 😎

[@JayWandersOut]

Yep, do-able. I really want to refilm that but with a lot better quality like maybe a black curtain behind it, more of a side angle, and make it more dramatic.

[@davidshock2259]

Very interesting video. I was wondering if the 4Runner is the best overall vehicle for living in and for exploring? I'm interested in doing something similar as you are doing (I'm 48). Looking at vehicles. The 4Runner seems good, but Comsumer Reports gives it low ratings.

[@JayWandersOut]

I think it's great but definitely not for big people. I've had no trouble with it so far and know that one of its weaknesses is it is easier to rollover and especially worse with a lift. It's definitely capable though and I've pulled a small RV out of the mud before.

[@MaxZomboni]

I really wish people were not so negative about making money on KZbin. I hear a lot of KZbinrs complain all the time that it's impossible to make a living on KZbin, so they have to make money other ways. But when you check those Social Blade pages of some of the more popular channels, a lot of KZbinrs are making some crazy good money for what they do on KZbin, really big money. Even some of the smaller channels are making at least enough to get by on. I know it's hard to get started , but once your channel starts growing so does the money. I think serious KZbinrs should concentrate on #1 growing their channel and their ad money, and maybe on donations to help them get by until their channel is profitable enough.

[@JayWandersOut]

Yep, some channels are doing incredibly well. It's funny the most attractive hikers do the best each thru hike year.

[@MaxZomboni]

@@JayWandersOut Well of course an attractive thumb nail will always get a lot views. But attractive or not, you have to stay focused on your channel content. One very attractive hiker I subscribe to was hitting $1,800 a month with her daily AT vlogs, according to Social Blade . Then she started falling behind on editing and uploading , and in one month her income dropped to about $700 a month, and has been staying at that level. I believe that is her only current income. So losing over 50% of her pay has got to be hurting her. I gave her a couple of friendly comments and suggested that if she was having that much problems getting the videos edited, she should probably cut back on editing and just upload videos with less editing. But she seems determined that the editing must be perfect. Unfortunately KZbin doesn't pay extra for editing time.

[@rayraythejet]

Hey Jay would you say that a cannon rebel camera would be adequate for making stock video?. I am looking for a camera to video my hikes as well..I want to keep my camera gear simple.

[@JayWandersOut]

I'd say yes. Probably 1/3 of my sales were from an Osmo Pocket with a much smaller sensor. When video quality isn't pro level the content is more important. With a camera without stabilization however you'd want only tripod mounted shots as stock footage has to be buttery smooth when moving. There's a lot to it and everybody is always thinking of what to film. Register as a creator at Pond5 then look at the videos of their most sold clips to get an idea of what would do best. Good luck! Getting a nice low aperture lens makes for good looking quality right away. I don't know much about Canon lenses though.

[@rayraythejet]

@@JayWandersOut thanx

[@bkbland1626]

2 words...low overhead. Dig? YMMV. Have a nice day. Skully

[@stanislavmraz4023]

Very reasonable, no debts.

[@jakemcavoy2554]

😊 Jay, you don't look a day older than 32.

[@Truth-Seeker75]

Healthcare?

[@OntheWrightPath]

I've been looking at something that would make passive income. Trying to get some cool stock footage could be fun.

[@JayWandersOut]

Yeah, I go in waves of filming then nothing or months. Since most of my videos are nature related most of my clips online are outdoorsy but I'd say those make up 25% of sales. It seems like timeliness of content gets the most sales like when covid started the little clips opening various takeout containers sold multiple times. I filmed those on a whim when some food arrived with the Osmo Pocket. I think passive income is one of the best strategies for making a living while traveling. I even uploaded many clips from my PCT thru hike and sold a couple.

[@misscandy84]

Wait yu did pct too did yu blog it ?

[@JayWandersOut]

Yep, about 54 videos of it all from 2018.

[@wyndwalkerranger7421]

How do you figure out your taxes with so many income streams?

[@JayWandersOut]

Big spreadsheets. You have to though and then make a list of all your expenses as well.

[@allencrider]

Alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, Starbucks.

[@JayWandersOut]

Sadly I'm hooked on coffee but Folgers instant for me. I will buy a drip coffee at Starbucks though if I intend to sit there and use their wifi for hours. Worth it in the long run.

[@larrytucker222]

Being debt free and minimize spending is key.

[@alanlau3278]

I wish our politicians were as honest and transparent as you.

[@JayWandersOut]

Sadly honest people don't become politicians. I think almost all of them are pathological liars and care only about getting elected and re-elected and more and more power.

[@idontkn0ww]

Damn dude i thought you were like 35-40 years old! you look great for 50. "asian don't raisin" as they say haha

[@ghostrunnerco6791]

weeds really cheap in a lot of places these days you barely notice the dent in your pocketbook👍 j/s

[@billsonsin7547]

Where is your tax home (state you file income taxes)?

[@JayWandersOut]

Illinois

[@Qthunderchicken]

I got tinnitus from serving and the VA denied my claim...EEEFFF the VA

[@barbarac4138]

Advise you to not do social security till after 67, it made an eight hundred dollar monthly difference by waiting till 67 for me.

[@JayWandersOut]

I heard retire at 67 if you will live to 71 but retire at 62 otherwise. With my kidney disease I probably won't make it to even mid 60s let alone 71.

[@magicaltrails]

Well, I am APPALLED by how little you are making from youtube! I imagined that you guys who really produce great content were making real money. :( I am sorry that isn't so.

[@scottdacey1858]

Damn. I knew I should not have got married.

[@gravy9587]

Good move buying and holding the Bitcoin. Very likely it will give you financial freedom in ten years.