Right now, rates of travel are through the roof. It’s not hard to see why. During the coronavirus and Covid-19 pandemic, most of us found ourselves cooped up in our homes for months on end. By the time restrictions were reduced and countries began opening their borders, many of us were itching to get away. Of course, holidays and vacations are a great way to escape the routine of day-to-day life, get out there and explore somewhere new. But for some of us, something bigger and even more immersive calls. This is worldwide travel. Upping and leaving your home and spending months or even longer exploring the wider world. Of course, this is an alternative lifestyle and might not be suitable for everyone. But if you’re considering something more than a vacation and are interested in worldwide travel, here’s some more information that should help to guide your adventure!
Is Worldwide Travel for You?
The first question that you may be asking yourself is whether worldwide travel is for you. The answer will depend entirely on your individual circumstances. If you are someone who has dependents, such as children, elderly relatives, disabled friends or family, or pets who depend on you, chances are, you’re not going to be able to just up and leave for months at a time. However, if you are committed and responsibility free, this may be an option for you.
Who to Travel With
Another question that many people ask is who they can travel with. Again, this is an entirely personal decision based on your individual character and your relationships with others. If you have a partner, you may choose to travel together. You may have a friend or sibling who wants to travel with you. But remember you can also try out solo travel, heading out on your own and meeting people along the way. It’s important to know your own needs and comfort before traveling at all. If traveling with someone, you need to ensure that you get on well enough to spend long periods of time together in situations where you may not know anyone else around you. If you travel solo, you need to make sure that you are comfortable with your own company and spending periods of time alone. Of course, you can always meet more people once you’re out on your trip, but it’s important to be comfortable with periods where others may not be around too.
How to Afford Worldwide Travel
Next up, we have the topic of finances. How do you afford worldwide travel? There are a few options here. Some people will save, quit their job and go traveling for as long as their funds last them. Some people will find remote work that they can complete anywhere in the world, earning money as they go, the same as they would at home. Others will head away and find work in the destination that they choose – often roles such as bar work, farming, or other highly available positions. It’s important to make sure that regardless of the option you choose, you do have sufficient savings to tide you over during times you may not be earning as much and to ensure that you have enough to take a flight home if you need. If you are planning on working overseas, you also need to make sure that you get the correct and relevant visa.
Moving Out
Depending on your living situation at home and how long you’re planning on being away, you may find that you need to make big decisions regarding your accommodation at home. Some people have mortgages and will leave their property empty or lease it to someone while they are away. If you’re renting, chances are, you’ll be financially better off ending your contract, selling belongings such as appliances and furniture that you don’t need and putting those that you do want to keep in storage. This will be a lower cost than paying rent the entire time that you’re away. If you have a car, you need to take this into consideration too. Do you have somewhere to safely park it while you’re away? Would it be more cost-effective to sell it and buy a new car when you return? These are all circumstantial decisions that only you will know the answer to.
Locations
If you decide to go ahead with all of this, it’s time to start doing some research and deciding where you’re going to actually go. The world is your oyster and you can choose almost anywhere you, please. Research is key here. Consider what you actually like doing. How far do you want to go? Where will be within your budget? What kind of climate and temperatures are you looking for? Are there any specific sights or cultural attractions you want to see? What season or time of year is best to go? Be aware of hurricane seasons, monsoon seasons, and rainy seasons. You will be able to bring together your own itinerary as you learn more and decide which places you’d like to prioritize.
Passports and VISAs
Next up, are passports and VISAs. You need to start this process as soon as possible to make sure that you have all the required travel documentation ready in time for your trip. Different countries have different VISA requirements for different citizens and different reasons for travel. Make sure to do all of your research well in advance to make sure that you get everything you need in time.
Travel Vaccinations
Be aware that some locations require, or highly recommend, that you have certain vaccinations before visiting. This could range from regulations regarding covid vaccines to specific travel vaccines such as cholera, Diptheria, rabies, Japanese encephalitis, hepatitis A and B, and more. You may also need to have a course of malaria tablets if you are visiting a location where malaria is prevalent.
Of course, this is going to be a big decision to make, so take your time and ensure that you’re doing what’s right for you!
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