Elise Laing is preparing for an around-the-world journey starting in 2003. Ready to explore multiple continents and experience diverse cultures.
Snapshot
- Departure: 2003
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Age: 24
- Budget: AUD 10,000 (USD 6,500, or USD 11,700 in 2026 dollars)
- Location: Australia
- Occupation: Youth worker
The Route
you plan to visit?US (LA – Chicago)
Canda
Scotland
Singapore
Australia
In Their Words
Why did you decide to take this trip? What
got you into this type of travel, and/or influenced you to go?Always wanted to – parents took me travelling when younger.
What is your biggest fear about this
trip?Losing money – not having enough money.
What is your advice for people planning
their own RTW trip?Talk to as many people who have been as possible.
What is the biggest myth that people have
about round-the-world traveling?That it is dangerous.
What are you packing? What do you consider
your most indispensable item(s)?Rainbird Goretex jacket.
If you had to sum up your thoughts/feelings
about your round-the-world trip in one sentence, what would itbe?Very happy to be finally going…looking forward to seeing what is going to happen.
2026 Context
- European travel has become significantly more expensive, with accommodation and transport costs rising across the continent.
- Open borders within the Schengen area remain consistent, but Brexit has added complexity for UK travelers.
- Southeast Asia backpacker infrastructure has grown significantly, with better accommodation standards and higher prices than in the early 2000s.