Traveling long-term can be a life-changing experience, offering endless opportunities to explore new cultures, meet fascinating people, and discover more about yourself. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges and lessons. After spending significant time on the road, I’ve gained valuable insights that can help anyone considering a nomadic lifestyle. From the importance of staying connected to the reality of spending time alone, here are five key things I’ve learned from long-term travel.
1. A Phone with an Active Data Plan is Essential for Nomadic Travel
When traveling long-term, having a phone with an active data plan is a game-changer. Whether you’re searching for pharmacies, restaurants, grocery stores, hotels, attractions, or bus stops, a reliable map app will become your best friend. In many countries, you might walk around town and miss things right around the corner without it. Although only some businesses or hotels are on the map, more are added daily.
A key lesson I learned the hard way is virtual check-in. If you need to become more familiar with it, this is when a landlord sends you entry codes and checks you into your hotel online. Don’t make the mistake I did in Bucharest, Romania, where I had to hunt for free Wi-Fi to get into my hotel. Thank you, Starbucks, for saving the day.
Moreover, with apps like WhatsApp and an email account, staying in touch with friends and family back home is possible from almost anywhere in the world, as long as you have a basic data plan or access to Wi-Fi.
2. People Are Generally Nice and Want to Help You
The kindness of strangers has significantly enhanced my travel experiences. People worldwide have been beneficial and kind to me regardless of color, race, religion, or creed.
For instance, a fellow passenger acted as my interpreter during a bus trip, ensuring I understood every bus driver’s announcements so I wouldn’t miss any critical stops. In another instance, the children of a hotel operator walked me to a bus stop to ensure I went to the right place. And while tuk-tuk drivers in India may have charged me a bit extra—$2 or USD 3—they always got me where I needed to go.
3. Living in Hotels and Moving Weekly Isn’t for Everyone
A transient lifestyle comes with both perks and challenges. On the one hand, you can explore new places every week or so and do whatever you want each day. You’re the ruler of your time, whether you choose to do nothing or everything.
However, you’ll have to travel light, which means limited possessions. Even souvenirs can become burdensome as they take up space and add weight to your luggage.
4. You’ll Spend a Lot of Time by Yourself
Long-term travel often means a lot of alone time. You’ll eat, entertain, go to bed, and wake up by yourself. The language barrier can make things even more isolating, especially since you’re usually in tourist areas designed for quick visitor turnover.
Developing relationships is more challenging when you’re only in town for a short stay, like ten days every few years. While living in hotels, you’ll meet other travelers and hotel staff, but beyond that, meeting people is up to you. Remember, any connections you make are temporary because, in a week, you’ll be moving on.
5. Most People Under 30 Speak English, But People My Age, 64, Don’t
Language is one of the most significant barriers to meeting people my age. It isn’t easy to have a brief conversation in passing or waiting in line. Although people are generally willing to help, it’s challenging to connect with someone of the opposite sex when you’re 64, and the language barrier is in the way.
Long-term travel is a journey of personal growth filled with highs and lows. While it offers the thrill of constant discovery and adventure, it also requires adaptability and resilience. Whether you’re planning your extended trip or simply curious about the realities of life on the road, I hope these insights give you a clearer picture of what to expect. Embrace the challenges, cherish the moments, and remember that every experience, good or bad, adds to the richness of your travel story.
Till next time, enjoy life’s journey.
Joseph O’Brien