Are you eager to create a lifestyle that allows you the freedom to travel where and when you want? It’s a scenario that many dream of—and that is becoming a reality for more people all the time, it seems.
I’ve been thinking back over the steps that led me to the life I have today, and I thought I’d break it down to (hopefully!) show you that the lifestyle you want is within reach.
I’ve tried to keep the list simple, but I’ll be the first to acknowledge that although creating a life of travel is totally doable, it’s not always a walk in the park. Many of these things need to happen simultaneously, and each individual step has its own challenges. Some steps might take a lot longer than you’d like (believe me, I’ve been there).
My goal here is to provide a brief overview—and to have you correct me if I’ve forgotten anything! I’ll be going into more detail on each step in future posts.
1. Make a money plan: Save money and/or develop a solid plan for how you will make money while on the road.
2. Plot your escape: Pare down your possessions—everything you don’t get rid of will either need to go with you or be stored somewhere. If you’re renting, figure out when you’ll be able to move out, if you’ll need to break your lease, etc. If you’re a homeowner, decide if you want to sell your place, rent it out, or explore options like home exchange.
3. Sort out travel logistics: Decide where to go, research and buy plane tickets, buy travel insurance, etc. As your itinerary comes together, you’ll have a better sense of how much money you’ll need (see #1).
4. Start packing: Figure out what you’ll take with you, what luggage to use, and what equipment you’ll need if you’re planning to work on the road. Determine where you’ll leave anything you’re not taking with you.
5. Automate and disengage: Cancel, put on hold, or automate all your local expenses and accounts (gym membership, cell phone plan, banking, utilities). Find someone reliable to take care of your mail and any other business that might come up while you’re gone.
6. Prepare a soft landing: Arrange preliminary accommodations in your first destination, so you’ll know where you’re going when you first get there.
7. Hit the road!
What do you think? Did I miss any major steps in the process? Which part is most challenging for you?
Also check out:
Step 1: Make a Money Plan
(more steps coming soon!)
Love that photo! India is on my list for 2012!
Thanks, Ashley! I love it too (not mine, though). Great to hear India’s on the list! It’s an experience like no other. You might want to check out a book I edited, Wanderlust and Lipstick’s guide for women traveling to India. (Just Google “wanderlust and lipstick india”)
That’s as brief as it can be boiled down to in a post. Good summary, Amy
I think step 1 is the one that trips most people up. Saving, setting oneself for a location independent career, and working on minimizing possessions helps get over the mental hurdle. Setting a date for “go time” also helps.
-Rich
Thanks, Rich! Yes, step 1 is very daunting. As is writing about it! Still working on that one.
Setting a date definitely helps; then you have no choice but to get everything done in time!
Working on that as well
Hey great tips! Automate and disengage is one we probably don’t think about too often. Can’t wait to start a new life of travel one day (after all the steps are complete of course)