Two years… 😮
That’s how long it’s been since I packed up my life in the UK, waved goodbye to the nine-to-five, and jumped headfirst into this wild, wonderful adventure of long-term travel.
I’ve seen beaches that look like postcards, cities that never sleep, volcanoes that nearly broke my knees, and made friends with people I would NEVER have crossed paths with in my old life. But more than the places, it’s the lessons that have shaped me.
So, here we go. 24 things I’ve learned in 24 months of travelling around the world as a single woman in her thirties…
1. Don’t panic-pack
Whatever you think you must bring… you can buy it abroad. Serum, tampons, protein powder, your fave lip balm. Honestly, you’ll find it (or something close enough).
2. People will surprise you
Don’t just stick to the people you’d normally vibe with. Some of the best conversations (and best nights out) I’ve had have been with people I’d never cross paths with back home. Stay open!
3. Bollocks to backpacks
I said it. If you’re travelling long-term, get something with wheels that can also be worn as a backpack if you really need it. My spine thanks me daily. (I use the Osprey Sojourn)
4. Stop listening to people who’ve never been
“Oh, that country is sooo dangerous.” Cheers, Karen, you’ve never even left Slough. Don’t let people scaremonger you – do your research, listen to actual travellers, and use your common sense.
5. Friends for a season
You’ll meet people who feel like family for a week, and then you’ll never speak again. Others stick forever. Both are okay. That’s travel!
6. Earplugs and an eye mask are ESSENTIAL
Hostel dorms. No explanation needed.
7. A little romance never hurt anyone
Flings on the road are fun, freeing, and you’re not looking for “the one.” Sometimes it’s just about enjoying the moment. Like trying desserts from all around the world- you might find something you never knew you liked!
8. In LATAM, thongs are life
Seriously. If you wear full knicker bikini bottoms, you’ll look like someone’s nan. Get those cheeks out!
9. Ride safe
Want to moped around Asia or South America? Get an international driving permit. Maybe even a quick moped lesson. And wear a bloody helmet. Don’t be a knob- your skull is precious.
10. Plans vs no plans
Some days, winging it is magical. Other times, your brain just needs a booked bed so you can stop stressing. Both are fine.
11. Cold weather hack
Travelling hot countries, then suddenly fancy some time in the mountains? Just buy second-hand clothes when you arrive, then re-donate when you leave.
12. Home will wait
Yes, you’ll miss your people, and there will be occasions that you miss out on. But, honestly, nothing really changes. They’ll be there when you get back!
13. Talk to locals
Learn a few words in their language. Ask questions. Don’t just orbit around other travellers. Locals will give you stories you’ll never find in a guidebook!
14. Age is irrelevant
I’ve met 18-year-olds just starting life and 65-year-olds smashing it as nomads. Travel is for everyone. You’re never too old!
15. All bags are liars
No matter how much stuff you take out of your bag to lighten the load, it still won’t bloody zip up. Why???
16. Don’t sacrifice the supplements
If you travel with 400 supplements like me, ditch the jars. Labelled baggies will save you so much space!
17. Shit that once mattered… doesn’t
That breakup I thought would destroy me? My “stuff” in storage? I barely think about it. Life feels so much bigger now.
18. Book smart
If there’s free cancellation, lock things in early for good prices. Just set reminders to cancel if plans change!
19. Don’t commit too soon
Never book months in one place unless you know you’ll like it. Otherwise you might be stuck in a shithole, with a fat bill, dreaming of escape.
20. Safety tricks for solo gals
Get yourself a door jammer. Cheap, tiny, life-saving if you’re in a sketchy Airbnb! It will just give you that peace of mind that no creep is going to let himself in while you’re sleeping.
21. Travel is not a holiday
Yes, eat the tacos and drink the wine. But also move your body, join a gym, and go for walks. Long-term travel is life, not one giant holiday- start as you mean to go on, or you will just make things harder for yourself later down the line!
22. Twats are everywhere
You’ll meet them. Don’t waste energy! Better people are everywhere.
23. You don’t have to do it all
Every monument, every tour, every sunrise hike… no. Pick and choose. You can always come back. And sometimes staying in with Netflix is what you need.
24. Take the damn photo
Ask the stranger. Pose awkwardly. Get the video. One day you’ll look back and be so glad you did. Fuck what anyone else thinks! These are YOUR memories!
Two years down, forever to go 🌎
Travel has changed me in ways I couldn’t have imagined. It’s given me confidence, clarity, resilience, and more stories than I can ever write down!
The biggest lesson of all? Trust yourself. You’re so much more capable than you give yourself credit for. When challenges hit, you will find a way through – because you always do.
We’re not built to live in constant comfort. A little discomfort shakes us up, resets us, and reminds us what to be grateful for.
And honestly? Things have a funny way of working out in the end. Always.
Here’s to the next 24 months – and whatever lessons they throw my way.
