Travel Tactics: 7 Tips for Getting Your Life In Order Before Long-Term Travel

Whether you’re planning to backpack through Southeast Asia, try out the digital nomad lifestyle in Europe, or learn Spanish in South America, long-term travel offers unparalleled opportunities for personal growth and unforgettable experiences. Of course, if you want to make the most of your adventure, you must set your life in order before you set off. 

Here are seven tips from seasoned long-term travellers to help you do just that:

Minimise Your Possessions

Long-term travel often requires downsizing your belongings to the essentials. Take inventory of your possessions and decide what you truly need for your journey. Consider selling, donating, or storing items that won’t be essential while you’re away. You can generally find excellent deals on self storage in South Melbourne, Sydney, and other capital cities in Australia. These major hubs generally offer a range of storage sizes, from small lockers to large units, allowing you to keep items you can’t part with safe while you’re away. 

In terms of what you bring, opt for versatile, lightweight clothing. Pack strategically to maximise luggage space – less is often more when it comes to long-term travel.

Financial Planning

Budgeting is essential when you’re away from the safety net of home. To get started, calculate your anticipated expenses – including transportation, accommodation, food, and activities – and make sure you have enough savings to cover your travel costs. Consider setting up a separate travel fund to automate regular contributions into it and ensure you stay on track financially.

Health Check-Up

Your health is your most valuable asset, especially when embarking on an extended journey. Schedule a visit to your doctor for a comprehensive health check-up to address any underlying medical issues and ensure you’re up to date on vaccinations. Obtain any necessary prescriptions and stock up on essential medications, as access to healthcare may be limited in certain destinations.

Travel Insurance

Don’t underestimate the importance of travel insurance, particularly for long-term travel. Invest in a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. Read the fine print carefully to understand the extent of your coverage and choose a policy that meets your specific needs.

If you opt for a nomad travel insurance policy, be sure to check reviews and confirm whether the company offers Guarantee of Payment (GOP) in medical emergencies. The last thing you want is a policy that’s affordable but useless when you actually need it. 

Legal and Administrative Matters

Before you embark on your journey, take care of any pending legal or administrative tasks. This may include renewing your passport, obtaining visas or permits, and organising backup documentation of your identification, insurance policies, and emergency contacts. 

Notify Banks and Service Providers

Inform your bank and other financial institutions of your travel plans to avoid potential issues with your accounts. Set up online banking and payment alerts for added security and convenience. Additionally, notify service providers such as utility companies, landlords, and subscription services of your departure date and make arrangements to suspend or transfer services as necessary.

Emotional Preparedness

Take the time to mentally prepare yourself for the ups and downs of life on the road. Embrace the unknown with a positive attitude, but be realistic about the challenges you may encounter. Stay connected with friends and family back home for support, and be proactive about seeking out social connections and community while travelling.

Preparing for long-term travel involves more than just booking flights and packing bags. Don't forget to research and secure suitable accommodation to ensure a comfortable and stress-free stay during your travels. So, start planning now, follow the tips above, and you’ll soon be on your way to the journey of a lifetime!