Nicholas Jones – Around-the-World Traveler

Nicholas Jones is a 21-year-old student from California, USA, who set off on an overland trip from California to the tip of South America in 2003.

I have always loved Latin America. In 2001 I spent 6 months studying abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina. I had an extraordinary time, but I regretted the fact that my obligations as a student kept me stationary in one place. I longed to get out and explore. So now, that’s just what I’m gonna do.

The Snapshot

• Departure: 2003
• Age at departure: 21
• Nationality: USA
• Location: California, USA
• Duration: 6-12 months
• Occupation: Student
• Original budget: USD 3,000 (approximately USD 5,400 in 2026 dollars)
• Regions: North America, Central America, South America

The Route

An overland road trip from Northern California to the tip of South America — through Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, and finally Argentina, all the way to Tierra del Fuego.

In Their Words

Here's what Nicholas Jones shared about their RTW journey:

What is your advice for other travelers?

Let your soul ascend to the surface and let it guide your trip.

What are you packing? What do you consider your most indispensable item(s)?

I’m packing a LOT of stuff, you don’t want to hear the whole list right now. However, some items that I think are going to be important are: water purifier, tent/camping stuff, books, car supplies (extra gas, spare tire, etc.).

2026 Context

• Budget inflation: This traveler's original budget of USD 3,000 would equate to approximately USD 5,400 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 80% inflation over the intervening years.