Susan Taylor is a 24-year-old IT support worker from England who took a round-the-world trip in 1995.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 1995
- Age at departure: 24
- Nationality: England
- Location: England
- Occupation: IT Support
- Original budget: GBP 6,500 (about USD 10,400; approximately USD 18,700 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: Southeast Asia, Oceania, North America
The Route
In Their Words
Here's what Susan Taylor 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?
My husband had always wanted to go backpacking round the world, so I agreed to go but had no idea what I was letting myself in for.
What is your advice for people planning their own RTW trip?
Don’t let anyone put you off of going. Even if you’ve got a mortgage, you can still go. Read as much as you can on a country and read other travellers’ travelogues to get an idea of what it will be like. I always carried a Lonely Planet guide to the country I was travelling through. Even the most boring places on paper can become the little gems you will always remember visiting.
What is the biggest myth that people have about round-the-world traveling?
That it is impossible to find a job on returning and that your career is ruined. A few female friends had trouble believing you could travel without hair products, a hair dryer, cosmetics, and a mirror – and not be bothered about it.
How did your round-the-world trip change your life? How did it affect and change you as a person?
I came back far more adventurous and broad-minded, and have spent the last three years saving up for the next trip.
If you had to sum up your round-the-world trip in one sentence, what would it be?
Way beyond my expectations.
2026 Context
- Budget inflation: This traveler's original budget of GBP 6,500 (about USD 10,400) would equate to approximately USD 18,700 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 80% inflation over the intervening years.