So you want to travel the world full time? Here are 5 things to keep in mind
Updated: Mar 21, 2023
The decision to embark on the life changing journey to explore and travel the world full time is a big one....while we can list thousands of reasons why you should do so we feel that it's important to also highlight the lesser talked about and more challenging aspects of this lifestyle choice to help you be better equipped.
These are our 5 top things to keep in mind before you travel full time... if you have any other suggestions please drop them in the comments below!
#1: Full Time Travel IS a Full Time job
So much goes into planning travels most especially if you are operating on a budget. So much research goes into finding adequate accommodations, places to stay, how to use the transportation systems, what neighbourhood is ideal for you to stay in and if it meets your monthly budget. Travel by air or train requires using different systems in different languages. Visa costs and length of stay. Finding excursions and affordable food and restaurants costs. Changing costs of living are dependent upon the country. Learning about the cultural customs of the country you are visiting. Anddd….then we do it all again the next month!
#2: The relationships and connections you lose may surprise you (however there are more to gain!)
Many people will not understand your need or choice to travel the world. You may be surprised by the people you lose as you travel but remember people can’t help but operate from a self-perspective. If they couldn’t imagine it or think it’s risky or selfish that is about them not you. People will miss you and what you bring to their lives. People may say that they will keep in touch but you may see the video calls become further apart. Time zone differences, busy schedules and the like can impact things. When you do return home after years or months of travel you may feel that you no longer fit in or better yet that you no longer want to.
#3: Make sure you can fund your travels NOW
Social media will lead you to believe that it’s as simple as selling your belongings and hitting the road! With a few steps of setting up a blog, filming a YouTube and creating a drop shipping company you can fund your travels. While these are great options and possibilities, like most things it takes time and dedication towards things for them to grow and prosper. We suggest that you have a solid financial plan that is stable before considering full time travel…while I fully believe in leap first and that the universe must respond I still think practicality is a good compliment to this!
#4: Can you let go of your creature comforts?
This one I think most people assume they can do no problem and then get surprised by the ebbs and flows of how this comes into play when travelling fulltime. Living out of one suitcase (full seasonal wardrobes) is quite the challenge. Especially if you plan to film videos and take many photos …you’ll be wearing much of the same clothing throughout (unless you plan to shop and change often which is a possibility but also another expense to keep in mind) It’s really difficult to get things shipped or delivered when you are moving frequently. Many countries postal systems are not up to par so it can be very difficult to receive care packages or even online shopping. Snacks and foods you love from home will be missed. Trust me when I say Doritos DO NOT taste the same through out the world nor do most of the major fast food chains that you were hoping to have a bite at for a small taste of home.
#5: Can you really be alone or full-time together with your travel person?
Spending a lot for time alone or with another person while travelling can easily lead to depression and anxiety both from loneliness and co-dependency. When traveling solo you need to remember you may not speak the language so communication and friendships can become very difficult. If you fall ill you won’t have a support system with you. When travelling with a partner you spend 24/7 together during high stress times and it’s not always easy to remain amicable when you are exhausted from travel or trying to overcome an obstacle or language barrier. It’s important to be very mindful of your mental health. Adequate sleep, diet and exercise and listening to your body is very important.
These points are not meant to discourage you from travel . We believe it is of high importance and value to see as much of the world as possible in whatever way possible! However like most things in life there are good and bad sides to everything. Be Bold. Be Brave. Do the thing…(with wisdom)
