5 travel myths that will stop you from long-term travel

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17 Jan. 2024

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5 travel myths that will stop you from long-term travel

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5 travel myths that will stop you from long-term travel

There are so many misconceptions about travel that keep people from ever leaving their home country. These myths can be about cost, safety, travelling with children, and more. Learn more about the most common myths about long-term travel and how to combat these misconceptions

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Planning a holiday is many people's favourite part of travelling. Unfortunately, there are many myths that can cause stress while preparing for your adventure. Instead of enjoying your upcoming trip, you will be in a state of constant anxiety. We'll dispel the most common travel myths so you can plan your next dream holiday with peace of mind. Forget about stereotypes and enjoy every stage of your trip, from the initial planning to incredible experiences in faraway places.

Myth 1. I don't have time to travel

Travelling is a unique, life-changing opportunity, but time is a key factor in whether you can take a break from your daily routine and travel the world.

Everyone can find the right time to travel, whether it's a short holiday or a long-term trip. Travelling can affect you just as profoundly, even if you only go for a short time. The myth that travelling has to be long is not true. There are travellers who spend years travelling, but some tourists discover the world in a few weeks. There is no one magic schedule for travelling, and everyone can find their own way.

A country's culture can also influence the acceptance of long-term travel ideas. Some countries promote career breaks and sabbaticals, recognizing the importance of rest and personal development. In the United States, for example, there are organizations such as Meet, Plan, Go! that support sabbatical and sabbatical initiatives. There are also options for those in countries where long-term travel may not be widely recognized. Ask about unpaid leave or remote work.

Try to look at the issue from a different perspective. Your job or career may last for decades, but the experience you gain while travelling will stay with you forever. This is a real chance to open up new perspectives, find a favourite hobby, or even change your life.

Take a break from your routine by immersing yourself in the world of travel. You will get not only incredible impressions, but also the opportunity to rethink your life, find new hobbies and expand your horizons.

Myth 2: I can't afford such a trip

Travelling around the world can be much more affordable than it seems at first glance. It all depends on your priorities and ability to manage your finances wisely. The cost of travelling consists of three main parts: food, accommodation, and transportation.

In many regions, such as Southeast Asia, India, and the Middle East, the cost of food can be very low, especially if you choose local markets. Accommodation can also be affordable, especially in guest houses and hostels. An important element of saving money on accommodation is the couch-surfing community, which allows you not only to save money, but also to see the city through the eyes of locals.

Airfare usually accounts for the largest portion of travel expenses, but it can be as low as $2,000. Local transportation, such as buses, trains, and boats, provides affordable and unique ways to get around, allowing you to see the country through the eyes of the locals.

If travelling around the world is a priority for you, and you manage your finances wisely, it is absolutely achievable. Travelling around the world not only introduces tourists to new cultures, but also provides valuable experience that cannot be gained in other settings.

Myth 3. Too much planning

Planning a trip is a key step, but it is important to know the right amount. In countries where life does not follow a strict schedule, such as India or Bangladesh, the course of a trip can be unpredictable. Recommendations include researching the places you plan to visit, but don't overbook yourself - leave room for spontaneity. Identify the main points of the route, but allow yourself to relax and enjoy the journey.

Travelling by plane is quite expensive, but it is important to consider the type of ticket. Options include RTW or point-to-point tickets. With the tools for booking international flights with many connections, you can choose the best options.

Talking to travellers, you can find that their approaches to planning vary significantly. Some people prepare in detail, studying everything to the smallest detail, while others go on a trip with a packed suitcase and a ticket. Even if you have a basic idea of where you are going, give yourself the opportunity to enjoy the adventure, leaving room for the unexpected.

Myth 4. It is impossible to fit everything you need in one suitcase

Before a long trip, it is important to carefully plan what you really need. Many travellers make the mistake of overloading their suitcases with all sorts of unnecessary gizmos, from self-inflating pillows to reusable toilet paper. It's important to remember that the key to a successful trip is planning and making a deliberate choice of the things you need.

One of the most common mistakes newcomers to long trips make is to plan everything to the last detail. It's important to take only what you need and buy what you know you'll need on your trip. People in other parts of the world need the same things as we do, so you shouldn't overestimate your needs.

This also applies to clothing. You can usually easily find affordable clothes in other countries as well, which can make great souvenirs. Remember that your suitcase should not be overcrowded, otherwise you will face unnecessary difficulties when moving around.

Light luggage will make you feel more comfortable while travelling. Many countries offer affordable laundry services, so there's no need to bring a lot of clothes with you. A light backpack makes your travels more pleasant and efficient. Remember that travelling is an adventure, and a simplified approach to packing will make your experience more comfortable.

Myth 5. You can't eat food or drink water without getting sick

Residents of exotic regions have to meet their basic needs for food and water, so everything cannot be so critical. However, there are risks that are important to keep in mind and be careful of. Especially where the water may not be safe to drink. Paradoxically, this often applies to bottled water, which, despite its availability, can be unreliable.

When it comes to food, common sense is the key. Street food and market food are very popular in different parts of the world, especially in Southeast Asia. Not only are they affordable, often costing less than a dollar, but they also taste amazing. You should be as careful when choosing a place to eat as you would in any restaurant. If many locals choose a particular cart or market vendor, and it's clean and tidy, it's likely to be safe.

Although your stomach may take a little while to adapt to new flavours and spices, being careful and choosing carefully will keep you healthy. However, you should remember that the risk of poisoning or illness from a particular product is possible both at home and while travelling.

If you are planning a long trip to exotic countries, be sure to use a health insurance policy, as it guarantees high-quality medical care anywhere in the world and can protect you from unnecessary expenses while travelling. You can buy insurance from trusted agents on the Visit World portal. Follow the link, choose your citizenship and country of destination, and look for a policy that meets your specific requirements.

So, long trips around the world are a real step into the unknown. But they will also give you incredible emotions and unforgettable experiences. Don't overwhelm yourself with excessive planning or ridiculous stereotypes. Leave stress and anxiety at home and just enjoy this unique opportunity!

Daria Rogova, Head of Insurance at Visit World

To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need travel insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Travel guide for 200 countries;

Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;

Travel insurance around the world (please select the country of interest and citizenship to receive services);

Medical insurance all over the world.