If you’re reading this post, you are one of the following: 

1. Considering Expedition.

2. Committed to Expedition

3. On Expedition

OR

4. None of the above, and you just happen to be subscribed to me. 
(If the latter, you can feel free to ignore this post, as it’s mostly geared toward future racers.
Alternatively, if you want a glimpse into a racer’s life from the inside, you can keep reading.)

 

CONGRATULATIONS! 

What you’ve decided to do (or are doing) is going to be the hardest and best year of your life, if you’re willing to stick with it.

I say that because there will be moments—possibly many—that you want to quit. I’ve had at least one serious “I want to go home” moment in each country, and, in some countries, those moments outweighed the good ones. 

Regardless, it’s worth it. I promise.

But that may not be enough for you, because right now you  feel overwhelmed. How can I ever raise enough money? What about my car/lease/belongings, etc.? 11 months out of only a BACKPACK?!

Let me pass on some wisdom from my dad: Just remember, millions of people have already done this, and if they can, so can you!

Okay, so there’s not millions of people who’ve gone on the race. But there are definitely thousands: girly-girls, thrill-seekers, neat-freaks, mountain-climbers, germaphobes, hippies, do-gooders, die-hards, people who have never been on a mission trip, left the country, or even flown on an airplane before, fat people, skinny people, tall people and short people. And if they can all do it, and do it successfully, then so can you. 

This blog is meant to be a hub for you as you navigate preparing and launching. I’ve included links below that encompass everything from before training camp to what to do while you’re on the actual Race. My hope is that this helps you, but there are a few very important things to remember as you read: 

 

1. THIS IS NOT THE ONLY WAY TO DO THINGS.

It is so easy to get caught up in packing lists and do’s and dont’s before you leave, but remember that these posts are a combination of suggestions! If you don’t do half the things on this list, you will be JUST FINE. There are a lot of things on this list that I or those on my squad didn’t do (If you don’t believe me, check the packing list) and we are thriving overseas!

 

2. Ultimately, YOU are the one on your Race.

I may be comfortable with things that you would never consider in a million years. I may take liberties that you don’t feel you need. Regardless, make sure you are doing things that you feel comfortable with and that you will actually use. For example, one post I saw recommended bringing baby wipes and key rings. (Why those things? Check out the packing list links below.) I took the key rings but not the baby wipes, because I didn’t anticipate using them and they were heavy. Meanwhile, my team leader brought the baby wipes but not the key rings. 

 

How to Survive an “Open” Month
aka: Help! I’m on Expedition and Training Camp only talked about normal racers! aka: Local Transportation, Finding Street Food, Anyone got a Room?, and Ministry

Personal Finances
aka: taxes, phone plan, car insurance, medical insurance, loans, and spending money 

Apps
Must-have apps for the world traveler

Expedition Packing List
What to pack for Expedition + reasons + tips + what NOT to pack