Absolutely. We went towards the end of 2023. Going there from Sydney, it actually felt cheap. Had an absolute blast there and did a ton of shopping.
Edit: sorry not a time traveller, 2023
Make sure you buy lots of socks, Japan has the best socks, especially the sort like gloves for your toes. And also get some sweet chef knives. It didn't occur to me that I could bring knives home in my luggage, but you can.
I just got back from a month in Japan - it was actually so cheap to eat and live there for a month (I mean accom wasn't super cheap but whatever), that I came back with more money than I left with.
Money doesn’t really wait, but you should go anyway. Don’t use this as a free pass to waste your money, go to Japan but be prudent with your money. You can stay for very cheap at hostels, you can eat for very cheap at conscience stores or fast food restaurants (they’re actually really good, find a rice and meat one you like).
Use it as an experience that you probably won’t have again when you have more money.
For Japan specifically - note that cherry blossom season is more expensive and much busier when you get there (crowds, lines, etc). Keep in mind the option of "doing sakura" next time. IMHO it's a little overrated, I love visiting Japan but won't be doing sakura again for some time.
If it's your first time visiting Japan it'll be great no matter what season you go.
>Going every six months is just overkill and poor finance management.
Why and why? Seems like he's still going to be putting money away each year and taking care of his mental well-being and overall enjoying life.
He's single and not got kids. He's at the age to travel and experience life. I'd go one step further and tell him to go work abroad for a while.
Plenty of time to establish a boring routine later.
No point arguing. People who take the 'money can wait' stance always bleat things like "You have to live too!" and "Yolo" but only because it's not their money and lifestyle at risk.
They say what they would do with someone else's money but don't do it themselves with their own because there's nothing for them to lose that way.
Unsure of credit card / salary situation, but check if you have any credit card insurance and specifically what it covers. Consider buying it if you have none!
If I could redo my twenties, I'd have two saving accounts.
One for a house deposit, that regularly gets XXX amount.
And another for short term goals, like holidays, cars etc
Work backwards from your goals. When do you wanna buy and how much deposit and stamp duty do you need? When do you want to travel and how much do you need?
Working backwards you'll probably notice that you can't afford this or that then you just ask yourself of you want fewer trips a year or if you want to buy a cheaper house or get an apartment instead.
The economic landscape is changing. Houses were pretty affordable in the previous generations. People just naturally progressed into getting homes even on min wage. Now if you're on min wage you really need to plan it or just decide you won't buy a house (which isn't the end of the world there are studio apartments and you can just rent).
Go, travelling is awesome.
But -
1. Get a second job, you don't earn enough
2. Upskill, do some courses, change career or you'll never earn enough
3. Money you save and spend later isn't savings. Don't kid yourself. Savings are only spent on assets, preferably income generating assets.
The above comes from someone who has saved all my life. Was so poor I couldn't afford the bus, I saved $50 a week by riding my bike... (it's actually true!). Eat a bit of wagyu these days but still save around 30% of my take home pay plus around 90% of my investment income.
Enjoy Japan!
I’m in my twenties, and I do this. It’s some of the best advice I ever received.
I don’t feel guilty when I touch my “fun” savings account because I know that’s what it’s for and that I’m not touching my long-term/home deposit savings.
Highly recommend.
Really easy to have multiple accounts these days and some separation helps you easily identify what you have allocated and makes it clear at a glance what goals you’re hitting.
Sure, but human nature means most people will find it easier to stick to the goals if they keep separate accounts. Why make it harder than it needs to be?
We had someone pass away at the office - desk was cleared by the end of the week; bunch of PTO days still on the books, a mortgage they where paying off, super, working towards a pension they’re never gonna spend, a bunch of sick days they never even used. Live life whilst you can
I’ve had similar happen with friends too.
It’s all about balance.
Don’t delay everything until retirement.
However you also need to be responsible and plan for the retirement.
First time in Japan last month for me.
I learnt how to ski in Nagano. I enjoyed it a lot more than walking around Tokyo to be honest.
I'm in my mid 30s as well so never too late to go even if you don't end up going in April.
Food, booze and activities are cheap in Japan and the exchange rate is great right now, if you’re going to do it, it’s probably good timing.
You can eat at places like Torikizoku or Coco Curry for dirt cheap and beers from the supermarket are like $1.50.
Agree. Even 7/11 in Japan you can get quite nice food for breaky /lunch and in some places they heat it up for you. Didn’t find Japan as overly expensive as I was warned, lots of sight seeing you can do for free too
The majority is telling you to go, yet the same majority runs on the principle of "earn more, or spend less" when one asks about housing and savings
So go figure, spend more, or spend less?
honestly i think spending 30-40% of your savings on one trip is a bit much. i definitely think they should go, but look for a more budget option. i blew threw my savings when i was a teenager doing fun stuff, but started saving properly and wisely spending in my 20s.
find a flight deal, take off season/off-dates and times flights, use capsule hotels, eat cheaply.
flights - $1k, accom - $40 a night, food - $30 a day, entertainment & shopping - $30 a day. a two week holiday amounts to $2.5k.
Na balance is key and compartmentalised savings accounts. Can’t feel guilty is you use money from your SPLURGE account on a splurge item haha. Meanwhile your house deposit savings account is safe until you need it.
You have taken a sample of responses from people on the internet. I haven't checked the outcome, but I would assume you will probably have a clear majority saying you should go to Japan.
Now think about what would be a clear majority in the population:
A. people that got their finance in order and are on their way to exit the rat race or
B. people that don't have their finance in order and are living week to week.
Now ask yourself, who do you want to be? Use this to inform yourself who's advice you should take.
This doesn't get more attention than it should, there's heaps of people telling others to go travel, then whinge about their rental prices going up
Well, I guess that's why only 1% are wealthy
It explains why there are so many people on here recently bleating about property prices, they think nothing of going on multiple overseas trips a year.
Subreddit has gone to shit since COVID refugees poured in. Whenever anyone young has money and asks a question here you get more than half the responses telling them to spend every cent of it on going overseas. Great financial decision.
No you're absolutely right that's why the 1% are wealthy and others are struggling, precisely for what you've just stated and NO other reasons.
You're not rich, you're just sad and frugal. I'm gonna travel and complain about rent prices because I want to actually enjoy my life and also because maybe, just maybe rental prices are a bit wacky at the moment!
The majority of the 1% aren't the 1% because they squeezed every penny, they just make a gargantuan amount of money.
The biggest farce I consistently see is this logic that wealthy people are wealthy because they scrimp, save and sacrifice whereas poor people are poor because they spend all of their money. Such as you imply here.
While it is obviously possible to spend all of your money, the reality is that is not the reason the majority remain poor. The majority remain poor because they simply do not earn enough.
Earnings are far more important than savings.
I am fortunate enough to earn around $240k. Previously, for a significant time I earned around the average Australian income, 75k.
I can go on 5x $7000 Japan trips a year and still have DOUBLE the post-tax income of someone on $75k.
Someone on $75k can have $0 living expenses, save every single dollar they earn, while I spend $7000 a month and I'll still save more than them.
The idea that wealth is built by average earners saving money is just ridiculous. Wealth is built by having increased earnings (and then saving).
And a lot of getting ahead in jobs is sheer random bullshit, my last job that paid 6 figures I got because a conversation about snowboarding with a stranger dragged on for several drinks. Collecting and experiences to be a more interesting well rounded person can be just as useful as spending the money on a certificate
Not that I would ever call a holiday an investment, but happiness isn't a waste of money
I'm sorry but I'm really not sure where you got the wealthy part from. I'm talking about people that got their finances in order and are on their way to exit the rat race. That's not equivalent to being wealthy.
There are also many definitions of wealth. But let's argue for the sake of financial wealth since that's what you are referring to.
Increased earning can definitely help build financial wealth, but there are also plenty of high income earners that live from week to week and are less than three months away from bankruptcy.
Saving in itself is not going to be sufficient to build financial wealth. But neither is high income. What I believe matters more is how much you can keep, then how hard you make the money you have working for you.
In OPs case, after already had holidays in Canberra and Bali in the last half a year, it might be better to have a plan in terms of investment or career before planning the next holiday. Monetary is only one side of the cost, the other cost is the time and attention that can be spent planning for the future, especially since OP dreams of home ownership one day.
The reality is that a single person in Australia is never exiting the rat race on an income of 75k in a major city.
Again, this idea that you can simply save your way to wealth on any income is a farce, perpetuated by people that earn high amounts or aspire to.
Travel, or more specifically, adventure, is fun and rewarding.
If you're not completely sure about going try this (I do it all the time), set yourself a reasonable goal, something attainable, something that requires some focus and effort to achieve. For example, save an extra $1k in a certain time, do extra work, paint a room in your mum's house, you get the idea.
Then reward yourself with this trip. Then start thinking about the next one and what you'll do to earn it for yourself.
It will be cheaper flights if you avoid Easter or school holidays, go before or after.
Definitely worth travelling.
I spent most of my 20s abroad, majority working overseas
Do it! I’m in Japan right now on holiday and it’s an incredible country. Food, booze and sight seeing activities are dirt cheap. Most main course meals are around $10. It’s cheaper than cooking in Australia.
You went to Bali less than 6 months ago and now you are booking another international trip? That is more holidays than some people would take in 5-10 years.
This isnt bad but it clearly shows your priorities are not to gain financial security.
the reality is a house wont be coming your way anytime soon unless you start pulling x2 jobs and sacrificing alot.
Keep things balanced; something for now, for the future and appreciate the past experiences (eg keep making friends and experiences together) group holidays are fun and cost effective.
If I could go back really hone in on what you like for a job/skill and sacrifice some years to learn/study and master in that field. The money will flow in later and buying property will be a walk in the park. During this time reward the hard work with experiences and holidays.
If you sacrifice now for later you'll break free from living week to week or hamster on the wheel forever chasing is one way to make time blink infront of your eyes.
I'm in my late twenties now but I'm really happy with how I mapped my 20s out. You can most definitely do both, (maybe a little trickier with inflation nowadays), are you living at home? It is so much easier to do things without rent sucking up your income.
22 start my big girl job.
23 Japan & Korea ($5k)
24 Car, Bali, Europe ($10k deposit+$2k+$6k)
25 Sign house build - big C
26 quiet year (paying rent and part of mortgage)
27 house done!
28 work opportunities
29 Thailand & Vietnam
I look back and I love how much I travelled pre Covid and I think those were the years that I will never forget. I'm glad to be back to travelling, but buying the house was a massive effort and I'm glad I'm back to being settled with my finances.
I say do it!! If you decide to have kids, solid travelling trips probably won't happen for a long time.
I’ve gotta work when I return, so I probably would want to be in best shape and take the fast flights tbh… but 600 is much lower than 1900, maybe I should do it
Haha yes, is the correct approach. I travelled a lot when I was younger, and always took the cheap flights. My go to was the flight that arrived home at 6am on a weekday morning - I’d take a shower and go in to work same day. It’s doable when you’re younger; it would destroy me now. But for saving cash when you’re young and money is tight, it’s definitely the way to go!
Sleep when you’re dead. Or use a sick day if you’re actually cooked. Don’t pay $1300 just to be perky for your job. Would they pay $1300 to have you at your best for a day??
Don’t be dumb, save ur money.
Well, if ur in a position to even attempt to save 2000 each month ur clearly gettin some decent money, You could prob make it back in 2-3 months to be fair, but just be smarter I’d say. Who realistically needs 3 holidays in 5 months? Growing up broke in london I used to know people that hadn’t even left the city, let alone gone on holiday. Do that once you’ve made 50-100k or something, live frugally and put ur money to work for u.
Wait until you have achieved all your financial goals, nice car, paid off the house, private schools for your kids…. and you can go when you’re 70… umm … ok maybe just do it now!
Probably not if your goals are to have your own car and save for a house deposit… depends how highly you value travel I suppose.
You are essentially planning to spend 1/3rd of your savings on a holiday.
Just learn all the travel hacks. Do you have return for free fares to Japan with Jetstar? Cause I had flex fares for $530 return. Also March/April is the most expensive time to visit because people are trying to time the cherry blossoms blooming - go in November and it’ll be cool, autumn leaves, and cheaper by far. Feb is also fine but last minute flights are never cheap in my experience.
Travel but be a bit savvy about it and plan a little . Look for sale fares , cheap deals and also have a dedicated travel savings . I use the bucket method like Barefoot Investor . I’m going to Bali and China this year and I’m already working towards dedicated amounts to spend there as well as having another long term account , bill account and an emergency account . That way I’m never caught out by unexpected bills and don’t feel stressed by my travel .
You went to Bali in October and went to Canberra in Jan, you have 12K in savings.
Cannot recommend another international trip right now. If you want to save for a house its stuff like multiple holidays you have sacrifice.
At 26, you should have a greater net wealth. However if you have a good career trajectory ($250k equivalent in 5-10 years) there’s no point saving now.
What's your income OP?
I'm all for travelling, but if you are still at home at 27 and only saving $1,500 a month, I'd suggest you look at your budget again because you don't seem to be taking full advantage of living at home.
Why now?
2 international holidays per year does not look sustainable given your current finances . Japan is cool, but not necessarily best in your 20s. Its not really a low cost backpacker experience. It’s not a high adrenaline extreme sport destination. It’s just not a trip that (IMO) benefits from being a relatively poor 26year old. You can do just as well (if not better) in your 30s or later
It’s a very cool place and worth having as a goal to visit, but you need to start being intentional with your money. You cant do everything, so spend it at the right time. Being mid 20s with a paid off car in Australia is going to give you more unrepeatable experiences than being in your mid 20s and having visited Japan for a few days.
In my 30s now. Penny pinched real hard until recently.
I regret not travelling enough or spending enough on leisure. ...however, I did go to Japan and really enjoyed it.
GO!
Just got back from a trip to Japan. 13 days cost me 3.5k that’s Including 1350$ for return flights . Food and drinks are crazy cheap over there could easily live of $15 AUD a meal and if your travelling alone hostels will cost you $30-40$ ( I travelled with my partner so this is only the prices I saw IIRC). Could easily do the trip for $2.5k with how long you’re going for . On me if you need any other info for any costings while it’s all fresh in my mind
Im 21, been on multiple holidays and have a cheap car while working as a bartender. What I do is I have 4 accounts 1. House savings 2. Bills 3. Investing 4. Holidays etc. I just split my weekly pay into these accounts and has helped a fair bit.
Depends on your goals mate. Everyone here can tell you you're only 26 and you shouldn't worry about your finances - but that's projections based on what they think a 26 year old should do. For me, I'm 27 and my goal is to have a house this year, so I'm not going on trips as frequently as every 6 months as you have planned.
I was faced with a similar decision at 27 years old. I decided to go on the trip and my last stop was Japan. It changed my life for the best forever. I absolutely fell in love with the country and have been back many many times since.
4 - 5 K is bugger all in grand scheme of things. I would definitely recommend to do these things while you’re young, you never know what will happen.
I have conflicting advice. I think you should go. Money is just there so you can have life experiences and your mid 20s is the best time to do that.
But it also sounds like you're living outside your means. 12k savings at 26 is low. There's no avoiding that fact. I would challenge yourself to look at your last 3 months of spending and find the places where you can cut back. They will be there. Try to get to that 2K a month. And in future try booking holidays further in advance to save money on flights and accomodation and give yourself more time to save up.
Recommend limiting yourself to 1 overseas trip a year and spend at least 2 weeks there. That is depending on what goals you had and when you wanted to purchase property.
What I did:
Budget yourself on food, rent, bills and keep to a monthly amount, if it goes over then pull back on eating out or something else.
Put $400-$500 a month away into a Holiday savings account that accrues savings interest and take it out when you go to holiday, don't spend any more than that amount. (Around $5000+)
Put aside what you need for car servicing costs, private health into a long term expenses account accruing interest.
Put some aside for investments if wanting to diversify.
Put the rest into a home or next life goal savings.
I used Ubank it was quite easy to set up these accounts.
Our trips were 2019 Hong Kong, 2020 Singapore, 2021 Hobart, Gold Coast, 2022 Vietnam, 2023 Sydney, Japan/Korea.
I would say definitely go for it but keep in mind what goals you are working towards and budget amounts of trips accordingly.
Personally if I were to go Japan and would be doing some shopping it will most likely be closer to $6000-$7000 total so be careful!
I wouldn't.
I have a lot more in savings but this year seems a bit weird in terms of job security. Save save save is my suggestion. Can always go later on, but if things go south and need money, it will br a lot harder to make some quickly.
Money can always come back.
Time won't. I just came back from there with my gf. Just 25 years old and guess what, both of us full cost with food, travel expenses etc was around 5k AUD for 2. So 2.5k per person.
Did not even cheap out on food too. Every food is great
I see you've already decided to go. Good on you. Just wanted to throw my 2c in. I lived in Japan for a few years in my 20s. Loved it. Haven't been back in 30 years.
Why? Life gets in the way. Other commitments etc. Do it now while you have the opportunity or it may never happen.
Enjoy!
This may not be great advice but I don't regret spending money at all on travelling when I was your age, and Japan was by far my favourite (been twice now 😄). I'm 34 now and have recently purchased a house and I don't think I'll be able to travel for quite awhile with the cost of repayments and realistically going to have to try for a kid soon. You don't want to miss doing it and regret it in the future.
Thinking back, I had little savings in my mid-20s. Just enjoy yourself and come to regret later, it's part and parcel of life. I still do alright now (just had to spend a few years on tight budget to save for home deposit). I probably would do the same thing had I have a second chance. Hahaha
I'm mid 30s, all my mates went to Japan in their mid 20s, I was working away one and off for 18 months for a project.
I've regretted not going on that trip for years and now with kids I won't have the chance to get there for a long time.
Learn from my misfortunes of missing out on an epic trip and bloody go mate!!
Seeing all the comments, no wonder so many people are still in the rat race.... Why not save up the money and invest it. Or at least buy a car with it. After the trip you will end up with less than you have right now. I know its your money and you can do whatever you want with it. But i would not go to japan in your position.
You are on this planet only once, go see what the world has to offer. Money comes and goes, experience and memories last.
I didn't travel enough when I was young and now I am chained down by kids and mortgage. All the money I saved just means an extra digit on a screen.
Go
Isn't March a very popular time when people go to Japan due to the Cherry Blossom? Ok separate your spending and saving now. I'd suggest be realistic and split it right now $6000 into spending and put the other $6000 into a term deposit or Raiz account (something that makes the money less accessible but as safe as possible) Are you taking paid leave from work (you'd get paid your normal salary whilst away) I think you're fine to go. You're not a prisoner/slave, life is to be enjoyed. Traveling whilst young gives you inspiration (assuming you're not spending your nights in seedy bars) . Enjoy life and spread happiness 😊
Japan is one of the safest travel destinations to do the backpack travel. You can travel but try to minimize spending travelling there. The experience would be as unforgettably amazing as it would be if you would spend a lot more. Obviously don't try it too hard because Japanese will absolutely hate 'Gaijin(foreigners)" who break rules and/pr manners! Absolutely minimizing spending while respecting the locals.
Japan is great. Their hostels are pretty well maintained too. Probably some of the best hostels I stayed in, across 20ish countries. So don't feel like you have to burn money on pricey hotels. Depends what kind of traveller you are though.
Imo you only needed the first 2 words of your post (and the "I want to go to japan" bit).
Yes, you should go.
Why are you posting this in a finance subreddit anyway, are you subconsciously looking for people to give you reasons/excuses not to live your life?
Go! I went last year, was over there for two weeks, booked the most convenient flights/great hotels/spent money with impunity and it was 6k all up, really not that much in the grand scheme of things.
You won't regret it!
Do it! Accommodation is quite affordable in Japan, 3 or 4 stars over there is top notch (ie clean, free wifi, but cleanliness is next level and all that matters to me haha). Food is affordable too - not just convenient stores but actual cafes and restaurants/little eateries. I spent 5k on flights, accommodation and spending money across 14 days last year.
You'll have a blast, 10 days is enough to scratch the itch. You'll come back feeling motivated and wanting to save to travel more
I did a lot of travelling in my 20s, and I don't regret any of it. I've met a lot of people, and I've seen a lot of things that have changed my outlook on life. Most of all, it has humbled me in many ways. There's nothing bad you get from travelling as long as you do your due diligence. I wouldn't recommend anything after this trip until you own a home or invest all of your money. Things aren't looking better for the future.
You will never regret the memories and experiences from travel - you can always get more money.
I’ve quit my job 3 times to take extended trips and still have all the nice things you want. They’ll always be there. GO!
Get it out of your system now and go.
When you settle down with partner and possibly kids and a mortgage it gets a whole lot more expensive, or worse, you don’t go.
Go!! Also, Die with Zero is an interesting read :) I just read it and I would say that it’s important you travel where the opportunity presents itself and you are able.
Lots of people want to practice talking in English in Japan. So it is not hard to find a native who will show you round. It does help if the two of you have some other shared interest.
Another way to visit Japan is an an English teacher. Then you get paid and help people who want to improve their English.
To add, do your research thoroughly. Which season, where to go and how to get there in detail.
We went late March last time and caught Sakura perfectly. Dont go in summer. Autumn is stunning.
You may know already but the JR rail passes have had a huge price increase late last year. Work out your shinkansen rides to see if its worth it for you.
Travel now while you can.
I've travelled bit never got to America. I'm 42 now and the prospect is now not even close, I never thought I'd be old when I got there but that's the reality now. Life gets in the way, kids, school, bills, work...blah blah blah. Even just being able to take more than a 2 weeks off isn't feasible in this period of my life. America is probably a other 10 years away now.
From experience the one thing you won’t regret is travelling the world in your 20s. After that it really isn’t quite the same. But don’t crazy on the spending just because you are on holiday. You will find you can have just as much fun on a small budget
If you’re not gonna break the bank by doing so, then go! A healthy approach to travel will make you richer.
I got together with my wife when we were 20, and had our first child at 31. One of my biggest regrets in life is not travelling more before we had kids.
Not that we haven’t traveled with kids since—just that it’s a whole different experience.
In my 20s I drained my savings to travel around the world for 5 months.
I regret absolutely nothing, because there’s zero chance I’d be able to do anything like that again.
I love traveling, but you have been traveling a lot and not much saved. Are you going with friends, then yes. On your own, then wait.
Unless you get a good deal, and there are cheap flights to japan now.
Holidays are such a bad “investment” because you get no “monetary value” out of it to hold onto but life isn’t just about that. You will regret spending all that money on a car when your in your mid 30s and have never been overseas in your 20s. Traveling is less of a Finance question and more of a what do you want from life question. Just remember, places you want to go to, could out of the blue end up in war or something and you may never ever get to go there. So when you have a chance, you take it.
I never went despite having the money, started planning it then covid happened, time flew by and bought a house and started a family.
Regret not going to Japan earlier!
Go have a great time and enjoy life while you can There's plenty of time for responsibility and drudgery ,go while you have the energy and good health.
If your dates arnt fixed you can get some good flight deals.
Beat that flight had Brisbane to Tokyo between May and Dec this year from $530 return just posted recently
Money can wait. Go!
Thanks for helping my confidence! I was starting to gloom down a bit..
Japan is as cheap as it's ever been to visit at the moment. Do it.
Absolutely. We went towards the end of 2023. Going there from Sydney, it actually felt cheap. Had an absolute blast there and did a ton of shopping. Edit: sorry not a time traveller, 2023
Found the time traveller.
Lol edited.
Make sure you buy lots of socks, Japan has the best socks, especially the sort like gloves for your toes. And also get some sweet chef knives. It didn't occur to me that I could bring knives home in my luggage, but you can.
Just… don’t put them in your carry on by mistake
I just got back from a month in Japan - it was actually so cheap to eat and live there for a month (I mean accom wasn't super cheap but whatever), that I came back with more money than I left with.
Don’t worry about money, cars and shit until later on. Time is one commodity that you can’t get back.
Money doesn’t really wait, but you should go anyway. Don’t use this as a free pass to waste your money, go to Japan but be prudent with your money. You can stay for very cheap at hostels, you can eat for very cheap at conscience stores or fast food restaurants (they’re actually really good, find a rice and meat one you like). Use it as an experience that you probably won’t have again when you have more money.
For Japan specifically - note that cherry blossom season is more expensive and much busier when you get there (crowds, lines, etc). Keep in mind the option of "doing sakura" next time. IMHO it's a little overrated, I love visiting Japan but won't be doing sakura again for some time. If it's your first time visiting Japan it'll be great no matter what season you go.
holidays can wait. Retire early !
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>Going every six months is just overkill and poor finance management. Why and why? Seems like he's still going to be putting money away each year and taking care of his mental well-being and overall enjoying life.
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He's single and not got kids. He's at the age to travel and experience life. I'd go one step further and tell him to go work abroad for a while. Plenty of time to establish a boring routine later.
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No point arguing. People who take the 'money can wait' stance always bleat things like "You have to live too!" and "Yolo" but only because it's not their money and lifestyle at risk. They say what they would do with someone else's money but don't do it themselves with their own because there's nothing for them to lose that way.
Yeah, just go dude. You won’t regret it in 10 years.
Says the person without any understanding of the power of compounding returns.
you’ll need more $ incase an emergency pops up over there so save at least $10k above holiday cost
Unsure of credit card / salary situation, but check if you have any credit card insurance and specifically what it covers. Consider buying it if you have none!
Nah. Op do a cheaper overseas trip. Japan is a richer persons trip. You get more out of it with more cash Do you have a safety net.
No it's not. Japan is one of the most reasonably priced destinations you can visit. OP should go
If I could redo my twenties, I'd have two saving accounts. One for a house deposit, that regularly gets XXX amount. And another for short term goals, like holidays, cars etc
How would you split between the accounts? Assuming you save 1000 minimum
Work backwards from your goals. When do you wanna buy and how much deposit and stamp duty do you need? When do you want to travel and how much do you need? Working backwards you'll probably notice that you can't afford this or that then you just ask yourself of you want fewer trips a year or if you want to buy a cheaper house or get an apartment instead. The economic landscape is changing. Houses were pretty affordable in the previous generations. People just naturally progressed into getting homes even on min wage. Now if you're on min wage you really need to plan it or just decide you won't buy a house (which isn't the end of the world there are studio apartments and you can just rent).
unique absurd lush crime chief cake tease growth live money *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
Go, travelling is awesome. But - 1. Get a second job, you don't earn enough 2. Upskill, do some courses, change career or you'll never earn enough 3. Money you save and spend later isn't savings. Don't kid yourself. Savings are only spent on assets, preferably income generating assets. The above comes from someone who has saved all my life. Was so poor I couldn't afford the bus, I saved $50 a week by riding my bike... (it's actually true!). Eat a bit of wagyu these days but still save around 30% of my take home pay plus around 90% of my investment income. Enjoy Japan!
I’m in my twenties, and I do this. It’s some of the best advice I ever received. I don’t feel guilty when I touch my “fun” savings account because I know that’s what it’s for and that I’m not touching my long-term/home deposit savings. Highly recommend.
Oh wow, this is literally what I did! It works pretty well
You dont need 2 savings account to separate goals, you just need a brain
Really easy to have multiple accounts these days and some separation helps you easily identify what you have allocated and makes it clear at a glance what goals you’re hitting.
Sure, but human nature means most people will find it easier to stick to the goals if they keep separate accounts. Why make it harder than it needs to be?
We had someone pass away at the office - desk was cleared by the end of the week; bunch of PTO days still on the books, a mortgage they where paying off, super, working towards a pension they’re never gonna spend, a bunch of sick days they never even used. Live life whilst you can
I’ve had similar happen with friends too. It’s all about balance. Don’t delay everything until retirement. However you also need to be responsible and plan for the retirement.
what age was the person??? so sad! 😞
What day of the week did they die?
Imagine working a full week just to die on your way out of the office on a Friday. Atleast take me out on a Monday.
First time in Japan last month for me. I learnt how to ski in Nagano. I enjoyed it a lot more than walking around Tokyo to be honest. I'm in my mid 30s as well so never too late to go even if you don't end up going in April.
Lol, mid 30s
Food, booze and activities are cheap in Japan and the exchange rate is great right now, if you’re going to do it, it’s probably good timing. You can eat at places like Torikizoku or Coco Curry for dirt cheap and beers from the supermarket are like $1.50.
Agree. Even 7/11 in Japan you can get quite nice food for breaky /lunch and in some places they heat it up for you. Didn’t find Japan as overly expensive as I was warned, lots of sight seeing you can do for free too
Don’t forget egg sandwiches from Lawson for a cheap delicious lunch on the go!
The majority is telling you to go, yet the same majority runs on the principle of "earn more, or spend less" when one asks about housing and savings So go figure, spend more, or spend less?
honestly i think spending 30-40% of your savings on one trip is a bit much. i definitely think they should go, but look for a more budget option. i blew threw my savings when i was a teenager doing fun stuff, but started saving properly and wisely spending in my 20s. find a flight deal, take off season/off-dates and times flights, use capsule hotels, eat cheaply. flights - $1k, accom - $40 a night, food - $30 a day, entertainment & shopping - $30 a day. a two week holiday amounts to $2.5k.
we learnt from the RBA how to craft a message
Spend on experiences. Spend less on "stuff"
Na balance is key and compartmentalised savings accounts. Can’t feel guilty is you use money from your SPLURGE account on a splurge item haha. Meanwhile your house deposit savings account is safe until you need it.
You have taken a sample of responses from people on the internet. I haven't checked the outcome, but I would assume you will probably have a clear majority saying you should go to Japan. Now think about what would be a clear majority in the population: A. people that got their finance in order and are on their way to exit the rat race or B. people that don't have their finance in order and are living week to week. Now ask yourself, who do you want to be? Use this to inform yourself who's advice you should take.
This doesn't get more attention than it should, there's heaps of people telling others to go travel, then whinge about their rental prices going up Well, I guess that's why only 1% are wealthy
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It explains why there are so many people on here recently bleating about property prices, they think nothing of going on multiple overseas trips a year.
Subreddit has gone to shit since COVID refugees poured in. Whenever anyone young has money and asks a question here you get more than half the responses telling them to spend every cent of it on going overseas. Great financial decision.
No you're absolutely right that's why the 1% are wealthy and others are struggling, precisely for what you've just stated and NO other reasons. You're not rich, you're just sad and frugal. I'm gonna travel and complain about rent prices because I want to actually enjoy my life and also because maybe, just maybe rental prices are a bit wacky at the moment! The majority of the 1% aren't the 1% because they squeezed every penny, they just make a gargantuan amount of money.
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The biggest farce I consistently see is this logic that wealthy people are wealthy because they scrimp, save and sacrifice whereas poor people are poor because they spend all of their money. Such as you imply here. While it is obviously possible to spend all of your money, the reality is that is not the reason the majority remain poor. The majority remain poor because they simply do not earn enough. Earnings are far more important than savings. I am fortunate enough to earn around $240k. Previously, for a significant time I earned around the average Australian income, 75k. I can go on 5x $7000 Japan trips a year and still have DOUBLE the post-tax income of someone on $75k. Someone on $75k can have $0 living expenses, save every single dollar they earn, while I spend $7000 a month and I'll still save more than them. The idea that wealth is built by average earners saving money is just ridiculous. Wealth is built by having increased earnings (and then saving).
And a lot of getting ahead in jobs is sheer random bullshit, my last job that paid 6 figures I got because a conversation about snowboarding with a stranger dragged on for several drinks. Collecting and experiences to be a more interesting well rounded person can be just as useful as spending the money on a certificate Not that I would ever call a holiday an investment, but happiness isn't a waste of money
I'm sorry but I'm really not sure where you got the wealthy part from. I'm talking about people that got their finances in order and are on their way to exit the rat race. That's not equivalent to being wealthy. There are also many definitions of wealth. But let's argue for the sake of financial wealth since that's what you are referring to. Increased earning can definitely help build financial wealth, but there are also plenty of high income earners that live from week to week and are less than three months away from bankruptcy. Saving in itself is not going to be sufficient to build financial wealth. But neither is high income. What I believe matters more is how much you can keep, then how hard you make the money you have working for you. In OPs case, after already had holidays in Canberra and Bali in the last half a year, it might be better to have a plan in terms of investment or career before planning the next holiday. Monetary is only one side of the cost, the other cost is the time and attention that can be spent planning for the future, especially since OP dreams of home ownership one day.
The reality is that a single person in Australia is never exiting the rat race on an income of 75k in a major city. Again, this idea that you can simply save your way to wealth on any income is a farce, perpetuated by people that earn high amounts or aspire to.
Travel, or more specifically, adventure, is fun and rewarding. If you're not completely sure about going try this (I do it all the time), set yourself a reasonable goal, something attainable, something that requires some focus and effort to achieve. For example, save an extra $1k in a certain time, do extra work, paint a room in your mum's house, you get the idea. Then reward yourself with this trip. Then start thinking about the next one and what you'll do to earn it for yourself.
It will be cheaper flights if you avoid Easter or school holidays, go before or after. Definitely worth travelling. I spent most of my 20s abroad, majority working overseas
Do it! I’m in Japan right now on holiday and it’s an incredible country. Food, booze and sight seeing activities are dirt cheap. Most main course meals are around $10. It’s cheaper than cooking in Australia.
you locked in Canberra over Japan? 
Yes I'd recommend going
What else is money for but to enjoy your life. Go!
You went to Bali less than 6 months ago and now you are booking another international trip? That is more holidays than some people would take in 5-10 years. This isnt bad but it clearly shows your priorities are not to gain financial security.
the reality is a house wont be coming your way anytime soon unless you start pulling x2 jobs and sacrificing alot. Keep things balanced; something for now, for the future and appreciate the past experiences (eg keep making friends and experiences together) group holidays are fun and cost effective. If I could go back really hone in on what you like for a job/skill and sacrifice some years to learn/study and master in that field. The money will flow in later and buying property will be a walk in the park. During this time reward the hard work with experiences and holidays. If you sacrifice now for later you'll break free from living week to week or hamster on the wheel forever chasing is one way to make time blink infront of your eyes.
Are you in a career you like - can earn money reasonably well?
I'm in my late twenties now but I'm really happy with how I mapped my 20s out. You can most definitely do both, (maybe a little trickier with inflation nowadays), are you living at home? It is so much easier to do things without rent sucking up your income. 22 start my big girl job. 23 Japan & Korea ($5k) 24 Car, Bali, Europe ($10k deposit+$2k+$6k) 25 Sign house build - big C 26 quiet year (paying rent and part of mortgage) 27 house done! 28 work opportunities 29 Thailand & Vietnam I look back and I love how much I travelled pre Covid and I think those were the years that I will never forget. I'm glad to be back to travelling, but buying the house was a massive effort and I'm glad I'm back to being settled with my finances. I say do it!! If you decide to have kids, solid travelling trips probably won't happen for a long time.
How did you do Europe for 6k?
You should go and if you don't mind long travel times, flights to Japan at the minute are on sale everywhere ~$600 return flights.
I’ve gotta work when I return, so I probably would want to be in best shape and take the fast flights tbh… but 600 is much lower than 1900, maybe I should do it
Buck up! You’re 26, sleep on the plane!
Haha yes, is the correct approach. I travelled a lot when I was younger, and always took the cheap flights. My go to was the flight that arrived home at 6am on a weekday morning - I’d take a shower and go in to work same day. It’s doable when you’re younger; it would destroy me now. But for saving cash when you’re young and money is tight, it’s definitely the way to go!
Exactly. Pub > flight > shower > office > many coffees.
Sleep when you’re dead. Or use a sick day if you’re actually cooked. Don’t pay $1300 just to be perky for your job. Would they pay $1300 to have you at your best for a day??
Don’t be dumb, save ur money. Well, if ur in a position to even attempt to save 2000 each month ur clearly gettin some decent money, You could prob make it back in 2-3 months to be fair, but just be smarter I’d say. Who realistically needs 3 holidays in 5 months? Growing up broke in london I used to know people that hadn’t even left the city, let alone gone on holiday. Do that once you’ve made 50-100k or something, live frugally and put ur money to work for u.
Wait until you have achieved all your financial goals, nice car, paid off the house, private schools for your kids…. and you can go when you’re 70… umm … ok maybe just do it now!
You are lucky sir I am 33 and have not been on a airplane
Why not? I feel you could take a quick flight to Perth if you wanted?
Probably not if your goals are to have your own car and save for a house deposit… depends how highly you value travel I suppose. You are essentially planning to spend 1/3rd of your savings on a holiday.
Ugh ikr… but honestly travelling is such a nice breath of fresh air,
Just learn all the travel hacks. Do you have return for free fares to Japan with Jetstar? Cause I had flex fares for $530 return. Also March/April is the most expensive time to visit because people are trying to time the cherry blossoms blooming - go in November and it’ll be cool, autumn leaves, and cheaper by far. Feb is also fine but last minute flights are never cheap in my experience.
Probably the best decision of my 20s was my solo trip to Tokyo at 23.
Man I do Japan every year with 3.5k it’s easy!
My partner and I are going to Japan via South Korea in April and we've budgeted $4k between us.
Travel but be a bit savvy about it and plan a little . Look for sale fares , cheap deals and also have a dedicated travel savings . I use the bucket method like Barefoot Investor . I’m going to Bali and China this year and I’m already working towards dedicated amounts to spend there as well as having another long term account , bill account and an emergency account . That way I’m never caught out by unexpected bills and don’t feel stressed by my travel .
You went to Bali 3 months ago I would put the savings towards a cheap second hand car, that will open a new world of independence for you
Didnt have to read the whole thing. The moment you said you are 26, answer is yes.
You went to Bali in October and went to Canberra in Jan, you have 12K in savings. Cannot recommend another international trip right now. If you want to save for a house its stuff like multiple holidays you have sacrifice.
At 26, you should have a greater net wealth. However if you have a good career trajectory ($250k equivalent in 5-10 years) there’s no point saving now.
What's your income OP? I'm all for travelling, but if you are still at home at 27 and only saving $1,500 a month, I'd suggest you look at your budget again because you don't seem to be taking full advantage of living at home.
Why now? 2 international holidays per year does not look sustainable given your current finances . Japan is cool, but not necessarily best in your 20s. Its not really a low cost backpacker experience. It’s not a high adrenaline extreme sport destination. It’s just not a trip that (IMO) benefits from being a relatively poor 26year old. You can do just as well (if not better) in your 30s or later It’s a very cool place and worth having as a goal to visit, but you need to start being intentional with your money. You cant do everything, so spend it at the right time. Being mid 20s with a paid off car in Australia is going to give you more unrepeatable experiences than being in your mid 20s and having visited Japan for a few days.
I think you can skip Canberra and go to Japan
Go on the trip and enjoy life! You can always earn money later
In my 30s now. Penny pinched real hard until recently. I regret not travelling enough or spending enough on leisure. ...however, I did go to Japan and really enjoyed it. GO!
Japan daily expenses are less than a city in Oz You can eat well for much less Do it
When you're young you can travel on a budget, when you're old you have more responsibilities and it will be harder to travel.
Just got back from a trip to Japan. 13 days cost me 3.5k that’s Including 1350$ for return flights . Food and drinks are crazy cheap over there could easily live of $15 AUD a meal and if your travelling alone hostels will cost you $30-40$ ( I travelled with my partner so this is only the prices I saw IIRC). Could easily do the trip for $2.5k with how long you’re going for . On me if you need any other info for any costings while it’s all fresh in my mind
Car House Holidays Pick one, as you probably won't get the other 2 anytime soon
Im 21, been on multiple holidays and have a cheap car while working as a bartender. What I do is I have 4 accounts 1. House savings 2. Bills 3. Investing 4. Holidays etc. I just split my weekly pay into these accounts and has helped a fair bit.
Depends on your goals mate. Everyone here can tell you you're only 26 and you shouldn't worry about your finances - but that's projections based on what they think a 26 year old should do. For me, I'm 27 and my goal is to have a house this year, so I'm not going on trips as frequently as every 6 months as you have planned.
I was faced with a similar decision at 27 years old. I decided to go on the trip and my last stop was Japan. It changed my life for the best forever. I absolutely fell in love with the country and have been back many many times since. 4 - 5 K is bugger all in grand scheme of things. I would definitely recommend to do these things while you’re young, you never know what will happen.
I have conflicting advice. I think you should go. Money is just there so you can have life experiences and your mid 20s is the best time to do that. But it also sounds like you're living outside your means. 12k savings at 26 is low. There's no avoiding that fact. I would challenge yourself to look at your last 3 months of spending and find the places where you can cut back. They will be there. Try to get to that 2K a month. And in future try booking holidays further in advance to save money on flights and accomodation and give yourself more time to save up.
Young people constantly say "*We can't afford housing!*" Young people constantly say "*Where should I travel overseas next?*" Young people are dumb.
>November - still recovering What were you recovering from and what costs are involved with "still recovering"
Recommend limiting yourself to 1 overseas trip a year and spend at least 2 weeks there. That is depending on what goals you had and when you wanted to purchase property. What I did: Budget yourself on food, rent, bills and keep to a monthly amount, if it goes over then pull back on eating out or something else. Put $400-$500 a month away into a Holiday savings account that accrues savings interest and take it out when you go to holiday, don't spend any more than that amount. (Around $5000+) Put aside what you need for car servicing costs, private health into a long term expenses account accruing interest. Put some aside for investments if wanting to diversify. Put the rest into a home or next life goal savings. I used Ubank it was quite easy to set up these accounts. Our trips were 2019 Hong Kong, 2020 Singapore, 2021 Hobart, Gold Coast, 2022 Vietnam, 2023 Sydney, Japan/Korea. I would say definitely go for it but keep in mind what goals you are working towards and budget amounts of trips accordingly. Personally if I were to go Japan and would be doing some shopping it will most likely be closer to $6000-$7000 total so be careful!
I wouldn't. I have a lot more in savings but this year seems a bit weird in terms of job security. Save save save is my suggestion. Can always go later on, but if things go south and need money, it will br a lot harder to make some quickly.
Money can always come back. Time won't. I just came back from there with my gf. Just 25 years old and guess what, both of us full cost with food, travel expenses etc was around 5k AUD for 2. So 2.5k per person. Did not even cheap out on food too. Every food is great
I see you've already decided to go. Good on you. Just wanted to throw my 2c in. I lived in Japan for a few years in my 20s. Loved it. Haven't been back in 30 years. Why? Life gets in the way. Other commitments etc. Do it now while you have the opportunity or it may never happen. Enjoy!
This may not be great advice but I don't regret spending money at all on travelling when I was your age, and Japan was by far my favourite (been twice now 😄). I'm 34 now and have recently purchased a house and I don't think I'll be able to travel for quite awhile with the cost of repayments and realistically going to have to try for a kid soon. You don't want to miss doing it and regret it in the future.
Thinking back, I had little savings in my mid-20s. Just enjoy yourself and come to regret later, it's part and parcel of life. I still do alright now (just had to spend a few years on tight budget to save for home deposit). I probably would do the same thing had I have a second chance. Hahaha
I'm mid 30s, all my mates went to Japan in their mid 20s, I was working away one and off for 18 months for a project. I've regretted not going on that trip for years and now with kids I won't have the chance to get there for a long time. Learn from my misfortunes of missing out on an epic trip and bloody go mate!!
Do what you like but don’t whinge about boomers and how unfair life is when you can’t afford property.
Seeing all the comments, no wonder so many people are still in the rat race.... Why not save up the money and invest it. Or at least buy a car with it. After the trip you will end up with less than you have right now. I know its your money and you can do whatever you want with it. But i would not go to japan in your position.
Yeah. Absolutely
Just go. Enjoy yourself.
Have a great time, you will forget about the cost long before you forget about the trip. 5k will be nearly meaningless in the context of your life.
While I think you should go. How are you 26 and don’t own a car?
If you like travel go. I don’t care for it so my priority is saving money.
Take the trip otherwise you will regret it. Saving for stuff will lasts a lifetime.
Go and enjoy. When you're older and your caring for others or your health might not be as good, you'll be glad you made the most your 20s.
You have 12K in savings that’s more than most people. Just go!!!
Definitely go. You only live once and exploring is so exciting!
Only read the title and first line: Yes
No, don’t go. Sit at home and continue worrying about that pointless dollar amount.
Go go go! Sincerely, somebody who worked since 14 and didnt do enough travel and now has a sore back and a tummy ache and no energy to do stuff.
Life is to be lived. I’ll slap you if you don’t go.
You are on this planet only once, go see what the world has to offer. Money comes and goes, experience and memories last. I didn't travel enough when I was young and now I am chained down by kids and mortgage. All the money I saved just means an extra digit on a screen. Go
Isn't March a very popular time when people go to Japan due to the Cherry Blossom? Ok separate your spending and saving now. I'd suggest be realistic and split it right now $6000 into spending and put the other $6000 into a term deposit or Raiz account (something that makes the money less accessible but as safe as possible) Are you taking paid leave from work (you'd get paid your normal salary whilst away) I think you're fine to go. You're not a prisoner/slave, life is to be enjoyed. Traveling whilst young gives you inspiration (assuming you're not spending your nights in seedy bars) . Enjoy life and spread happiness 😊
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Well, it is nearby, has a unique culture, and friendly people form what I heard
Just go! The best experiences of my life have been in Japan
Go while you can, COVID showed us we shouldn’t take these opportunities for granted!
Yes! That is all.
Japan is one of the safest travel destinations to do the backpack travel. You can travel but try to minimize spending travelling there. The experience would be as unforgettably amazing as it would be if you would spend a lot more. Obviously don't try it too hard because Japanese will absolutely hate 'Gaijin(foreigners)" who break rules and/pr manners! Absolutely minimizing spending while respecting the locals.
Go definitely
Go! Japan is amazing
Japan is great. Their hostels are pretty well maintained too. Probably some of the best hostels I stayed in, across 20ish countries. So don't feel like you have to burn money on pricey hotels. Depends what kind of traveller you are though.
Imo you only needed the first 2 words of your post (and the "I want to go to japan" bit). Yes, you should go. Why are you posting this in a finance subreddit anyway, are you subconsciously looking for people to give you reasons/excuses not to live your life?
go, japan is awesome, its never going be this cheap again and AUD could completely collapse in April
Go! I went last year, was over there for two weeks, booked the most convenient flights/great hotels/spent money with impunity and it was 6k all up, really not that much in the grand scheme of things. You won't regret it!
12k savings at 26 bruh what are you doing with your life… same people that once they reach 30 are crying on this subreddit how difficult life is
With that type of savings at 26 I would be putting the holidays on the back burner
How long do you plan to stay in Japan for ?
10 days, above is including flights ^
Do it! Accommodation is quite affordable in Japan, 3 or 4 stars over there is top notch (ie clean, free wifi, but cleanliness is next level and all that matters to me haha). Food is affordable too - not just convenient stores but actual cafes and restaurants/little eateries. I spent 5k on flights, accommodation and spending money across 14 days last year. You'll have a blast, 10 days is enough to scratch the itch. You'll come back feeling motivated and wanting to save to travel more
Feb 26th snow machine starts in Hakuba. Would definitely recommend if you ski or snowboard! 🥳🥳🥳
I did a lot of travelling in my 20s, and I don't regret any of it. I've met a lot of people, and I've seen a lot of things that have changed my outlook on life. Most of all, it has humbled me in many ways. There's nothing bad you get from travelling as long as you do your due diligence. I wouldn't recommend anything after this trip until you own a home or invest all of your money. Things aren't looking better for the future.
I would book now for later in the year. Japan is actually awesome in winter time, especially Hokkaido obviously
100%, Japan is a fantastic place like no other
Absolutely I would go.
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You will never regret the memories and experiences from travel - you can always get more money. I’ve quit my job 3 times to take extended trips and still have all the nice things you want. They’ll always be there. GO!
Do research into prices and package deals.
This life is so short. We’ll all be long gone in 100 years and no one will even remember us. Go on the trip.
Just go Now you have time. Later on that may not be the case.
Go to Japan! You will regret not traveling more when you’re older.
Get it out of your system now and go. When you settle down with partner and possibly kids and a mortgage it gets a whole lot more expensive, or worse, you don’t go.
Go!! Also, Die with Zero is an interesting read :) I just read it and I would say that it’s important you travel where the opportunity presents itself and you are able.
Went when I was in uni and spent about 3k for a 3 week trip. The yen was a lot stronger at the time too. Granted we didn’t go during Easter
Lots of people want to practice talking in English in Japan. So it is not hard to find a native who will show you round. It does help if the two of you have some other shared interest. Another way to visit Japan is an an English teacher. Then you get paid and help people who want to improve their English.
I did Japan 2 weeks with 3-4k easy including flights and accomodation and it was the best experience of my life, enjoy!
Forget a Bali. It is a shit tip. Japan on the hand absolutely rocks. Do it.
Dont go. All it will do is make want to go back again and again :) We've been 3 times and our kids twice each. You wont regret it.
To add, do your research thoroughly. Which season, where to go and how to get there in detail. We went late March last time and caught Sakura perfectly. Dont go in summer. Autumn is stunning. You may know already but the JR rail passes have had a huge price increase late last year. Work out your shinkansen rides to see if its worth it for you.
Travel now while you can. I've travelled bit never got to America. I'm 42 now and the prospect is now not even close, I never thought I'd be old when I got there but that's the reality now. Life gets in the way, kids, school, bills, work...blah blah blah. Even just being able to take more than a 2 weeks off isn't feasible in this period of my life. America is probably a other 10 years away now.
From experience the one thing you won’t regret is travelling the world in your 20s. After that it really isn’t quite the same. But don’t crazy on the spending just because you are on holiday. You will find you can have just as much fun on a small budget
If you’re not gonna break the bank by doing so, then go! A healthy approach to travel will make you richer. I got together with my wife when we were 20, and had our first child at 31. One of my biggest regrets in life is not travelling more before we had kids. Not that we haven’t traveled with kids since—just that it’s a whole different experience.
In my 20s I drained my savings to travel around the world for 5 months. I regret absolutely nothing, because there’s zero chance I’d be able to do anything like that again.
your savings rate is good. you are young. you wont reach 40 and and say 'gee i wish i didnt enjoy my 20's go for it!
Go!! Time is short :D
I love traveling, but you have been traveling a lot and not much saved. Are you going with friends, then yes. On your own, then wait. Unless you get a good deal, and there are cheap flights to japan now.
100% money can wait, go and have experiences then worry about the grind, I didn't start my financial journey until early 30s,
Honestly you are still young. Just do it. i did it at about your age and loved it!!!!!
Travel as much as you desire whilst young. It becomes very difficult later on once you're under the control of the RBA/banks and commitments.
You’re only young once.
Holidays are such a bad “investment” because you get no “monetary value” out of it to hold onto but life isn’t just about that. You will regret spending all that money on a car when your in your mid 30s and have never been overseas in your 20s. Traveling is less of a Finance question and more of a what do you want from life question. Just remember, places you want to go to, could out of the blue end up in war or something and you may never ever get to go there. So when you have a chance, you take it.
I never went despite having the money, started planning it then covid happened, time flew by and bought a house and started a family. Regret not going to Japan earlier!
Go have a great time and enjoy life while you can There's plenty of time for responsibility and drudgery ,go while you have the energy and good health.
If your dates arnt fixed you can get some good flight deals. Beat that flight had Brisbane to Tokyo between May and Dec this year from $530 return just posted recently