I'm not sure if this is the right place to post this but I do feel like it relates directly to frugality because I'm making a decision on whether to save or spend a significant amount of money vs opportunity cost. I got a job offer across the country and I have the option to start in either June or July after graduating college in May. A lot of people have been advising me to take the extra month and travel or just relax before starting, because this is the "most flexible" time in my life and I'll regret not taking the break, but I'm not sure this is the best choice given my situation.
For example, my best friend graduated early in December and saved up in advance to spend an entire semester traveling, and she's had a great time, but I haven't been able to save up as much as her due to some recent emergency expenses. Although my company is covering approved relocation expenses, I'm still expecting to need most of my short-term savings (around 5k) for other upfront costs like my security deposit, first month's rent, furniture, etc.
I love travel and I see the appeal of traveling now, but I honestly think I would prefer to wait until I can save up and plan more in advance to travel on PTO (I'll get 2 weeks of vacation my first year, increasing by 3 days each year after that, with separate personal time and sick leave), and starting my job a month earlier would mean I can earn an extra month's pay (but also pay an extra month's rent). I'll be earning a good income and plan to save by living frugally, and I have no debt, but my job is in a high COL area so my saving potential is somewhat limited. I would really appreciate any advice or perspective from those with experience on either side, regrets or no regrets. Thank you!
April 21, 2022 at 12:47AM
