“We travel, some of us forever, to seek other places, other lives, other souls.” –
Anais Nin
Going for a round the world trip is no cakewalk and may seem to be an overwhelming process when you sit down to plan your journey. But once you have won over your anxieties and inhibitions, you couldwell be on your way to set foot on the trip of your lifetime.
Planning your trip may seem like an uphill task, simply going by the number of tasks that are ought to be done – but with a simple 6 Steps Guide, you can transform your dream into a reality by sailing through the entire process. Just keep these few things in mind and you are good to go.
Step 1: Why? When? Where? How? (Figure out all those intriguing unanswered questions)
Once you have made up your mind to go long-term, a million questions would come across your mind. You want answers to all of them and you want them fast. But if you take a step back to introspect the reasons you're doing this, you will realize over a period of time that all the dots would get connected and you will find the answers that you have been looking for. Dig deep and you will find your purpose. Dig further and you will realize your passions and longings. Look no further than yourself and you will slowly and steadily approach towards your goal of setting off for your trip. This step lays down the foundation of what lies ahead in store in your planning.
Step 2: Setting Expectations (Know yourself and set realistic goals for your trip)
It is important to accept the fact that you cannot see the world in a single trip. The world's too big a place to explore in one go, or even multiple trips. It is perfectly alright to go at a slow pace when it comes to the destinations on your bucket list. Just a do a little bit of time travel and envisage yourself at the middle of your trip. There is no point in yearning for more and trying to see 'everything' or too much on a single trip. Plan realistically and understand your limitations, whatever it may be. The key is to maintain a balance and let the flow set in.
Step 3: Start Planning (Keep a cool head and assemble your resources)
Your approach towards planning your round the world trip should be that of 'cool as cucumber'. Going by the sheer length of your trip, it may seem that there are innumerous tasks at hand that ought to be completed before you head out. Take each task step by step and you will be able to make tiny advances towards the finishing line well in time. Allocate your time and energy judiciously. Pay attention to not only the details of your trip but also to yourself. Taking good care of yourself will go a long way in ensuring you are in your senses in this crazy phase of planning.
Step 4: Manage Your Money (Set your budget before and during the trip)
Figuring out the amount of money that you need to shell out for long-term travel can be a nerve-racking experience. In fact, one of the biggest hindrances that one might come across for going around the world is the feeling that one doesn't have enough money to go and do things one wants to. The first phase would be decide on the places you want to go. Have a balance of destinations – expensive ones and the low-cost ones. Don't try to fit in too much of places in your itinerary. Cut down on your unnecessary expenses before you go. Start saving those bucks well in advance and you will have enough to go for the long haul.
Step 5: Gearing Up (Accumulate and pack your stuff wisely)
Once you get down to the phase of packing your stuff, the idea of what to pack and what to leave behind, can be an uphill task. It's all about priorities and making wise choices when it comes to stacking up your backpack. The weight of your backpack can make all the difference as it would be the definite companion for your trip. You would not want to feel as if you're carrying the burden of this world on your shoulders. Giving those non-essential items can be a game changer. If trekking or hiking is not your cup of tea, better to leave those sturdy boots. Make space for some travel-friendly items that would be handy while you are on the road.
Step 6: Getting Ready (Brace yourselves for unknown territories)
Anybody can easily get bogged down by the idea of having to get out of your comfort zone and go around the world for a long period. Charting unknown territories and avenues can give the chills, but here lies the catch – it can also give you the thrills. It can be one roller coaster ride that would stay with you for life. The only way to overcome such fears is to accept the fact it exists and to adjust yourself. It's all in the mind. The fear of not knowing what lies ahead brings along its share of uncertainties as well as opportunities. Just brace yourself and turn this into a thrilling experience. The world awaits you.
Going long-term, though a difficult proposition for some, is definitely a rewarding and life-changing experience. Getting over your fears and taking control of your life is all it takes and serves as a reminder that this can be done.
Have any other ideas to make your dreams come true of travelling long term? Let us know. Drop in your comments.
Nguyen An Tra My
Martin Wynn
