Should I, shouldn't I?

[indieanna86]

Hi all,

I have been asked to go travelling 'round Australia for 3-4 months next year, which I would love to do. The only trouble is, the idea scares me in so many ways. I had planned to leave home and get my own place next year, concentrate on my career and generally settle into an 'adult' life (I'm 21).
I would have to sell my car and leave my job, and the thought of coming home to no job/car/money terrifies me. I pay the rent on my parents house as they can't afford to, so how would it be payed while I'm away? I also have a bank loan to pay off before hand, so how I'm going to afford the travel is beyond me.
My heart is telling me to go and have an adventure, do it while I'm young etc, but my head is telling me its just not practical, like I'd be running away from reality I suppose.

I know I'd regret it if I didn't go, but there are so many reasons I shouldn't go....

What do you all think? Any advice would be great!

[tickledtrout]

If it was me in your situation I would put it off for another year. That way you would be able to sort out the loan and get a bit of money saved. I don't honestly think you would enjoy it if you are worrying about your family and future prospects.
I would'nt worry too much about your parents affording the rent if you had planned on moving out anyway but you would obviously have to talk to them.
Are you planning on working over there? A distant family member has been in Oz for just over 12 months and has had her visa extended. She has worked on oyster farms and in farm shops and loves every minute of it. I think she is the same age as you

[indieanna86]

Thanks for the answer, I agree the sensible thing would be to put it off for another year. Whether my pal would be able to wait is another matter, but she has debts to pay off too so it would be in her best interests.

If I left home I think there are benefits my parents could claim to help with the rent, whereas if I'm just travelling, I still technically live there so it would be up to me. It sucks, but I can't complain really.

Sometimes I think I just worry too much! :)

[tickledtrout]

Don't be to hard on yourself it is a big step, maybe you can get some ideas from organisations that arrange gap years for students, there must be others who are in a similar situation

[jno]

Much as I'd like to tell you to go follow your dream, I think your head's right. Another year's pay will help soften the blow before you leave, and it'll give you the chance to work out what to do about the house and to pay off the loan. Australia will still be there and you'll still be only 22. I think you're quite right to propose getting some travel out of your system while you're young, rather than spend the next 30 years regretting that you didn't. But no harm getting yourself on a good financial footing first - far better than spending your time abroad worrying about running out of money.

When you go - have a great time.

[Dee Sa]

Its obvious that your gut instinct is telling you no, if you are worrying now about what is going to happen on your return, imagine it getting ten times worse whilst you are there and it will spoil the whole thing not only for you but for your travelling companion also.
Explain to your friend that you are not ready both financially and mentally and give her plenty of time to find someone else, dont put it off until the last minute that would not be fair to her. Make plans for 2009, giving you more time to sort yourself out.

[MiniN]

just do it indieanna!

i went travelling around canada last year for 3months (i was also 21). to go i had to quit i job i really liked, and pay off some bills.

you'll regret it if you don't do it. only postpone your trip if you KNOW for certain that you will go. sometimes when you put things off they never happen.

as for your parents rent - they are the adults, they will have to find a way to pay THEIR bills when you leave home anyway, right?

forget everyone else, just think what is going to make YOU happy???

[LoftyLottie]

I agree with MiniM completely. You still have another year before going as you say the trip is planned for next year. Say yes and make your plans. At 21 you should be footloose and fancy free - plenty of time to be a responsible adult!!!!

[LoftyLottie]

Is the rental agreement in your name or your parents? If it is in their name and you leave then I feel sure they can claim benefits.

[Gromit]

My advice is to grow up first. Settle down, pay for a mortgage for 30 years, see your children through university first and then go to Australia for a fortnight to celebrate your 60th birthday.

It'll still be there in forty years you know.

[LoftyLottie]

But it might not be so much fun then Gromit! Although I am of a great age I am still ready to try things new, but I have to admit there are more limitations these days.

I presume your posting is tongue in cheek!