What we can learn from escapades

The 10 Lessons to Learn From Traveling

1) To be more patient

The biggest lesson I’ve learned through my travels and backpacking is that it’s okay to wait and have lag time, and if something happens to go wrong, to be patient when seeking help.

2) To leave your comfort zone

People don’t enjoy traveling because it means leaving behind what’s comfortable for them, whether it’s their group of friends, air-condition, their favorite foods, pets, the list goes on.

3) To be more curious

I recently listened to a TED Radio Hour podcast called “From Curiosity to Discovery” and I loved every second of it. Fully understanding something that was once just an idea makes traveling so worth while.

4) To appreciate other cultures

It’s easy to question and judge cultures that are different than yours. Traveling or living somewhere completely different gives you a new perspective that’s different from just hearing or reading about it.

5) To live simply

Believe it or not, you can survive with very, very little and get by just fine. Most people around the world do. Traveling extensively forces you to pack so lightly that you’ll go home overwhelmed by how much you actually own.

6) To make friends with strangers

If you’re traveling alone, you’ll be desperate for human interaction. And guess what? Every other traveler is too! I’ve found it extremely rare to come across another traveler who isn’t eager to hear your story, where you’ve been, for how long, and your opinions and advice.

7) ...but to also embrace your solo travel experience

Admittedly, traveling alone does get lonely. You’re constantly saying goodbye to new friends who are going to different places, having to leave a new place that you’ve mastered and made familiar and taking on new territory with minimal information, and sometimes no one to talk about the amazing day you had sightseeing with.

8) To try new things

We’re going to be forced to come out of our shells no matter what. Doing what we’re used to at home doesn’t always work when we travel so we have to adjust.

9) To think creatively

Sometimes it takes a little thinking outside of the box to get by. No wifi for directions? The restroom you entered is merely a hole in the ground? The buses to your next planned destination are all booked? There are always alternatives, and bumps in the road should never keep people from traveling.

AND LASTLY

10) To find beauty in small things

Returning from a trip, a study abroad experience, or a weekend away feels rejuvenating once we return. New perspective is gained. A home cooked meal will mean so much more to you because you missed it for so long.