Chelsea Elder is a 22-year-old marketing supervisor from Los Angeles, USA, who set off on a round-the-world trip in 2006.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2006
- Age at departure: 22
- Nationality: USA
- Location: Los Angeles, USA
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Occupation: Marketing supervisor
- Original budget: $4,500 (approximately $7,400 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: Oceania, Southeast Asia, Europe
The Route
In Their Words
Here's what Chelsea Elder 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?
I graduated from culinary school and have always wanted to travel the world to experience and learn the cuisines of the world. I am at a place right now where I have no commitmets, no car, I moved back in with my mother so I’m not in a lease and I know if i don’t take this opportunity now, i will regret it
What is your biggest fear about this trip?
Money. Not having enough while I’m traveling and not knowing what I’ll do finnancially when I return home.
What is your advice for people planning their own RTW trip?
Save save save
If you had to sum up your thoughts/feelings about your round-the-world trip in one sentence, what would it be?
I’m so excited and overwhelmed with the opportunity that lies ahead words are hard to find.
What is the biggest myth that people have about round-the-world traveling?
Not sure…
Why do you like to travel?
I like to learn. Traveling is one of the best ways to learn in life.
2026 Context
- Budget inflation: This traveler's original budget of $4,500 would equate to approximately $7,400 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 64% inflation over the intervening years.