With a particular cockiness and blind optimism of single men in their early thirties, I packed my rucksack for my own mental health. During my time traveling I mostly used my iPhone 5, Gopro session, and my D700 for the model shoot. Sometimes less is more. On my last night in my resent venture I met up with a model from St. Petersburg and created some great pictures in Fort Desoto, Florida. It was the first time in probably a year since I photographed anyone. Click HERE for her Model Mayhem page. Get out and do something. Traveling doesn't have to be an expensive endeavor. I slept in my car the whole time in Florida. So what if I slept in my car or on the beach. I was surrounded by paradise.

Travel tips

Take advantage of cheap flights. I use www.fly.com or www.priceline.com most of the time.
Look up talent in your destination like www.modelmayhem.com. Don't be cheap pay your subjects. The term starving artist is valid only if you create work.
Keep in touch with your friends abroad. Crash their couches. Sites like www.couchsurfing.com and www.bedandbreakfast.com, and local hostels are other cheap alternatives.
Pack according to your destination. In Key West it would've been helpful to bring my own snorkeling gear, and collapsible bicycle.
RECON YOUR AREA! Ask locals for the best places to eat. It's worth spending money on great food. The mahi tacos at Robbie's based in Islamorada, Florida brought me to my knees. www.robbies.com