Embarking on a trip around the world is a thrilling adventure that many dream of, but before you get to go on this journey, you have the plan a minimum ahead of time even if you're the most spontaneous kind of traveler. In this article, we unveil the top 5 insider tips about preparing for long time travel that you won't find in your typical travel guide.
In this article:
Do not underestimate the amount of time you will spend researching
Everyone will have an opinion about your trip and the list of countries you choose / not choose
You will have to review your budget several times before your trip and during your trip
Air Travel: The logical next destination is not necessarily the cheapest route
Do not underestimate the amount of time you will spend researching
If you are thinking about becoming a long-time traveler, you should not underestimate the extensive research required to plan the perfect itinerary tailored to your needs, limitations and goals. This process involves diving deep into visa requirements, understanding the nuances of local transportation options, finding accommodations that strike a balance between cost and comfort, and uncovering must-see destinations along with hidden gems. Additionally, researching local customs and etiquette, weather patterns, and health advisories can be time-consuming but crucial for a seamless experience. The investment in research time pays off in creating a well-rounded and enjoyable journey.
You don't need to do all this in-depth research for countries that you will visit much further down the line but an overview is necessary to make sure that said country will fit with your budget and visa requirements at least. I would also recommend checking for the weather and main celebrations / festivals you want to organize your countries the smart way possible.
Everyone will have an opinion about your trip and the list of countries you choose / skip
As you plan your long-term travel adventure, be prepared for everyone to have an opinion on your itinerary and the countries you decide to visit or skip. Embrace the diversity of perspectives, but remember, the ultimate decisions should reflect your own desires, interests, and safety considerations. Your journey is uniquely yours, so focus on crafting an experience that aligns with your personal goals and dreams, not the expectations of others.
You will have to review your budget several times before your trip and during your trip
It's crucial, in my opinion, to understand and remember that budgeting is an ongoing process, both in the planning stages and throughout your journey. Initially, your budget will be an estimate, based on research and assumptions about costs and you will have a more detailed view as you start planning 'for real' meaning as the money starts coming out of your wallet. You will also remember that your budget should include fixed costs like insurances and credit card fees for instance. These fixed costs are often overlooked until the bill comes your way and it's normal but it might force you to reconsider some countries or the length of your stay if you are on a tight budget.
Once you're on the road is when 'real-world expenses' start pilling up and they sometimes can differ significantly from what you've planned due to exchange rates or unexpected pic holiday time in said country etc. You'll find yourself reviewing and adjusting your budget to reflect actual spending habits, unforeseen costs, and changes in travel plans. Staying flexible and continuously monitoring your finances will be key to managing your budget effectively during your travels and will most likely prevent you from coming home earlier than wanted, it does happen to more people than you'd think.
Air Travel: The logical next destination is not necessarily the cheapest route
Transportation will be one of the biggest expenses in your overall budget especially for travelers planning on doing quite a bit of air travel. For that reason, it's important to keep in mind that the most logical next destination geographically speaking isn't always the most cost-effective route.
In fact, airfare prices are not necessarily influenced but the number of miles flown but by various factors including airline hubs, seasonal demand, how long in advance you book your seat and special promotions, meaning a seemingly indirect route can sometimes be cheaper. It's essential to compare different flight options and remain flexible with your travel plans to secure the best deals, potentially saving a significant portion of your travel budget.
Make sure you are not over insured
Most of the time, people and travel guides will tell you to get a travel insurance with great overage to ensure your safety and good care abroad if you happen to need it, this is 1000% true and should be done anyways even for short term travel and holidays. Where you need to be cautious though is that depending on your credit / debit card, public health care of your country of residency etc, you might already be covered for quite a few basic needs. Our recommendation here is to take the time to read in detail what you already have and then only take the additional insurances.
While having comprehensive coverage is crucial for peace of mind, paying for more coverage than you'll realistically use can unnecessarily inflate your travel expenses. Once you know what coverage you already have, analyze the specifics of your trip, consider the activities you'll engage in, and choose a policy that covers your essential needs without or with a minimum of duplicates. This balance will help optimize your budget while keeping you protected.
