Do you often return from a trip more tired than when you left, even though you were already smashed before you left? It’s time to leave this tiring travel behavior behind and get back to the basics of traveling. Ditch the modern ideas about travel, including the pursuit of Instagram likes and long to-do lists. Slow travel is all about experiencing life in the moment and living out more authentic experiences. Be sure to try it out and discover a completely new way of traveling. Maybe you are forced to travel slowly because of an illness or disability but you want to make the most of what is possible. In this post I’ll explain a bit more about what you can do and focus on.
What does slow travel actually mean?
Slow travel means that you connect with your environment without being distracted by superficial things such as making trendy posts on social media or working through a list of things you definitely should do. Instead, focus on what’s happening around you and fully immerse yourself in the environment. You’ll visit local communities, discover colorful cultures, sample local cuisines and, most importantly, be open to new cultural experiences. All this is done in a sustainable and responsible manner. Although it may sound like a hippie mentality, we and many others are completely convinced that this way of traveling will give you a more satisfying feeling.
The slow travel guide
To embark on a slow travel journey, you’ll only need a handful of key ingredients. Because it’s actually not that complicated. The first step is embracing the slow travel mindset and reshaping your perspective about exploration. While this shift may have its challenges, the rewards are worth your time. Learning to know what you need to make the best of your traveling is key in this process.
Make a list about what is most important for you
Lists are great for when you are traveling. Start by making a list of everything you want to do. Then write down the feeling you want to get when you get home. Now it’s time to change, add and trim. Learn more about how to do this.
Leave your phone behind
Of course I don’t mean that literally, but if you want to do that you can. As a travel blogger I take pictures and videos, but I am very conscious about when I take out my phone. Don’t be the person who doesn’t have time to enjoy the moment because you need to take that picture or video. Think about why you want to take that photo. Is it going to be a memory for you or do you take it to share and compare?
Stay in a one place longer
Of course it depends on what you want to do but try to stay longer in one place to get more out of the place you are at. Where most people rush by, you will have time to explore a bit more of your surroundings or have a restful morning, afternoon or evening.
Embrace local living
Opt for public transportation, pedal around on a bike, or wander around. You will see way more of the city or country than when you only use the plane or transfers. The slower you travel, the closer you’ll connect with local communities. Finding out about how to use public transport can have its challenges, but once you know you will become a pro.
Integrate it into your lifestyle
This is probably already something that is of interest for you so I’ll keep it short. Live day by day, slow down a little and focus on the things that are important for you.
Items I love while traveling
Feet hammock airplane
This airplane hammock for your feet is great for when you are traveling long flights. I love that it can be hung over the airplane table and I can rest my feet when I’m tired. It is adjustable and it is really comfortable.
Collapsible handheld fan
I don’t know about how you deal with heat but I need a bit of cooling down when I’m traveling. This easy (and cute) fan is my go to for when I am too hot. It can be charged with usb which is super practical.
Airplane pocket
Being organized always makes me happy and when I saw this amazing pocket for over your airplane table I was sold. You place it over the table (so you instantly have a clean table) and you can add all you need, when you have a long flight.