Erica Takeuchi is a 24-year-old former retail manager who set off on a round-the-world trip in 2003, living out of her backpack.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2003
- Age at departure: 24
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Location: Out of my backpack.
- Occupation: None…previously retail manager
- Original budget: USD 11,000 (approximately USD 19,700 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: Oceania, Asia, Southeast Asia, Europe
The Route
In Their Words
Here's what Erica Takeuchi shared about their RTW journey:
Why did you decide to take this trip? What got you into this type of travel, and/or influenced you to go?
Originally wanted to revisit/live in Italy after studying there a few years ago…then I figured if I was going to be out anyway, might as well add a few things as well. Also, had never been to Asia before, except Japan (to visit family), which is definitely not a deep look at Asia.
What is your biggest fear about this trip?
Hmm…no fears. Just wish I had more money. Before I left, I was worried I didn’t have enough money.
What is your advice for people planning their own RTW trip?
Plan whatever makes you happy and just follow your interests – you’ll be sure to end up with a trip you love. And just remember – it’s a lot easier than you probably thought it would be.
What is the biggest myth that people have about round-the-world traveling?
Hmm…I think people believe RTW traveling is an incredibly lonely and solo type of traveling, but you really do meet a lot of people along the way – like I said earlier, every day is an adventure!
What are you packing? What do you consider your most indispensable item(s)?
Most indispensable…I guess my backpack. And my camera…oh yah, and I am really glad I have a really really great pair of comfy shoes.
If you had to sum up your thoughts/feelings about your round-the-world trip in one sentence, what would it be?
Every day is a new adventure.
2026 Context
- Budget inflation: This traveler's original budget of USD 11,000 would equate to approximately USD 19,700 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 79% inflation over the intervening years.