Travelling Without Any Travel Plans

Travelling Without Any Travel Plans

Article by Steve Elefante

Everyone wants to get something different out of their travel time. Some people insist on planning out every minute of the trip from the time to pack up clothing and supplies to knowing exactly where they will spend every night. Other people can’t handle that kind of structure when they travel from place to place and insist on a more open approach to their journey. The question is: is this a good way to travel?

When you don’t have a final destination in mind, things can get out of hand. This isn’t a travel method for everyone. A lot of things can go wrong while you’re out on your own, and that’s why so many people are far more comfortable when they have a set itinerary they can follow.

A spontaneous trip though, can give you a certain sense of adventure that you miss out on when every step of a journey is planned out in advance. Staying open to the numerous possibilities on the road can lead to some really memorable experiences.

If you decide to travel without setting down any specific plans you should also be ready to cope with various difficulties. You might find yourself wandering from one full hotel to another. Or you could waste whole days lost in a city because you don’t know where exactly you are going. Most vacations have a very limited time span, and any wasted time can really hurt.

The good news, however, is that when you don’t have a specific itinerary then you can take all the time you want, and maybe, just maybe, getting lost in an unknown city can lead you into some surprising experiences. Road tripping this way can create some completely new experiences.

For example, if you travel more spontaneously you simply pick a direction and start going. Different cities and states have a wide range of landmarks and tourist attractions; some more well known than others. The only way to find them is to take your time and explore and see what they have to offer. If nothing catches your eye, you can just keep moving.

Not everyone will want to travel this way. In order to do it successfully you will have to strictly budget your trip as you go. If you run out of money on the road you’re going to be in a lot of trouble. Suddenly going home, feeding yourself, and finding lodgings will be next to impossible. Living off the land looks fun in the movies, but it’s more difficult than it looks.

Travelling without travel plans gives you the chance to be spontaneous and discover some exciting possibilities. In order to get the most out of your trip, though, you have to be able to control your spending and look for opportunities where you normally wouldn’t.

About the Author

Steve Elefante is a professional author and speaker who specializes in native traveling, the concept of having a fulfilling travel experience through planned flexibility, not itineraries. Read more of his travel articles for information on how to do this.