Traveling Without Working: A Guide To Doing Nothing

Traveling the world is a dream for many, but it's not always as glamorous as it seems. While some people choose to quit their jobs to travel, others try to balance work and travel simultaneously. Either way, it's important to prepare yourself mentally and financially for the challenges that lie ahead.

For those who decide to quit their jobs, it's crucial to have a plan for supporting yourself financially. This could involve finding remote work, freelancing, or starting an online business. It's also essential to be realistic about the emotional challenges of leaving a stable job and facing the unknown.

On the other hand, those who wish to work and travel simultaneously need to ensure they have their employer's permission and can maintain a healthy work-life balance. It's all about finding the right mix of work and exploration to avoid burnout.

Whether you choose to quit your job or work remotely, traveling can be exhausting and may lead to feelings of loneliness and homesickness. It's important to be aware of these potential challenges and take steps to mitigate them.

Ultimately, traveling the world without working, or working while traveling, requires careful planning, adaptability, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone.

Ask your boss for permission to work remotely

Asking your boss for permission to work remotely can be a delicate conversation. Here are some tips to help you prepare for it:

Do Your Research

Before initiating the conversation, it's important to understand the landscape of remote work in your industry and organization. Find out how common remote work is in your field and whether your organization's competitors offer remote work arrangements. This information will help you show your boss that remote work is more common than they may realize and provide concrete examples of how it has worked in similar contexts.

Address Concerns and Present Solutions

When making your request, be prepared to address any concerns your boss may have. Outline how you plan to maintain productivity and fulfill your responsibilities when working remotely. Present solutions to potential issues, such as information security, communication, and collaboration with colleagues. For example, suggest the use of video calls, email, phone calls, or chat programs to stay connected.

Highlight the Benefits for the Company

Emphasize the benefits of remote work for the company, rather than just the personal benefits. Cite statistics and research that show how remote work can lead to improved productivity, cost savings, and increased employee morale. For example, mention how you could shift your workday to be available to clients earlier or later without a commute.

Create a Detailed Proposal

Prepare a written proposal outlining your request to work remotely. Include your proposed schedule, the benefits for the company, and how you plan to accomplish your job responsibilities remotely. Describe your home office setup, ensuring it is quiet and conducive to productivity. Also, address any potential challenges and provide solutions to reassure your boss that you have thought through the logistics.

Practice and Be Confident

Don't wing this discussion. Practice what you want to say and deliver your message with confidence. Break down your daily tasks and explain how each can be performed remotely. Remind your boss of your track record with the company, including positive performance reviews and examples of successful time management and meeting deadlines.

Be Flexible and Open to Negotiation

If your boss seems reluctant to agree to a permanent remote work arrangement, offer a trial period. For example, suggest working from home a few days a week or trying a full-time remote arrangement for a set number of weeks. Be open to negotiating the specifics of the arrangement to find a solution that works for both parties.

Balance work with sightseeing

Balancing work with sightseeing is a challenging task, but with careful planning and consideration, it can be achieved. Here are some strategies to help you balance work and sightseeing while travelling:

• Choose the right career: Opt for a career that supports a nomadic lifestyle and remote work. Look for opportunities that do not require frequent client meetings or a fixed office space. This could be freelance work or a remote position with a company.
• Create a mobile office: Invest in a reliable laptop and smartphone to stay connected and organised while on the move. Headphones, planners, and notepads are also useful tools for your mobile office setup.
• Balance travel and work time: Allocate specific days or time slots for work and exploration. Be mindful of your work commitments and reliable internet access when planning your schedule.
• Slow travel: Instead of rushing through destinations, consider slow travel, staying longer in each place. This can reduce the pressure of balancing work and sightseeing, as you will have more time to explore and work without feeling rushed.
• Stay connected: Take advantage of technology to stay connected with your loved ones back home. Use video calls, messaging apps, and social media to maintain your relationships while travelling.
• Plan ahead: Research your destinations and create a flexible itinerary. Look for work exchanges or volunteer opportunities that can provide accommodation and food in exchange for your skills and services.
• Immersive experiences: Prioritise immersive experiences over simply ticking items off your bucket list. Engage with locals, try local cuisine, and participate in cultural activities to gain a deeper understanding of the places you visit.
• Self-care: Listen to your body and make time for self-care. Take breaks from work and sightseeing to rest and recharge. This can help you stay energised and avoid burnout.

How to deal with time differences

Dealing with time differences when travelling can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can use to minimise the impact on your body and adjust to the new time zone effectively. Here are some detailed tips to help you deal with time differences when travelling:

Plan Ahead

Before your trip, calculate the time difference between your current location and your destination. Figure out how much you need to shift your sleep and wake times to align with the new time zone. Start adjusting your sleep schedule gradually, moving it earlier or later each day, depending on the direction of your travel. This will help your body get used to the new time zone even before you arrive.

Stay Awake

If possible, try to stay awake during the flight and upon arrival. Fight the urge to nap and stay awake until your usual bedtime according to the local time. This will help reset your body clock and reinforce the new sleep-wake cycle.

Maximise Sun Exposure

Sunlight is the most crucial factor in resetting your body clock. Expose yourself to natural light, especially during the morning hours after waking up. Aim for 15 to 30 minutes of direct sunlight. Go for a walk, eat outside, or sit in the sun. This will help signal to your body that it's time to be awake and active.

Time Your Meals

Eating and digestion affect your body's circadian rhythm. Try to eat your meals, especially breakfast, at the usual times based on the local time. This will help reinforce the new schedule and aid in adjusting to the new time zone.

Use Sleep Remedies

Consider using sleep aids such as melatonin, lavender, or tart cherry juice to help you fall asleep at the appropriate local time. Melatonin is a natural hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and can be particularly effective in combating jet lag. Always consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.

Avoid Alcohol

While alcohol may help you fall asleep initially, it can disrupt your sleep quality and make it harder to adjust to the new time zone. It's best to avoid alcohol, especially before bedtime, when trying to reset your body clock.

Be Comfortable During Travel

Make sure to get comfortable on the plane to increase your chances of getting some rest during the flight. Use a pillow for neck support and wear loose, comfortable clothing. However, if you're arriving during the day, it might be better to stay awake during the flight to align with the local time.

Adjust Gradually

If you have a long trip or multiple destinations, give yourself time to adjust gradually. Your body needs time to acclimatise to the new time zone, and rushing the process can make jet lag worse. Allow yourself a few days to a few weeks to fully adjust, depending on the number of time zones crossed.

Remember that everyone's body is different, and you may need to experiment to find the strategies that work best for you. With a bit of planning and flexibility, you can effectively deal with time differences when travelling and make the most of your trip.

Should you join a remote-work program or go at it alone?

Remote work programs are a great way to travel the world while maintaining a productive work environment. These programs offer a range of benefits, from handling logistics and accommodations to providing community and networking opportunities.

On the other hand, going solo as a digital nomad can also be an appealing option for those who value their independence and want to design their own unconventional lives.

So, should you join a remote-work program or go at it alone? Let's explore the advantages of both options in more detail.

Advantages of Joining a Remote-Work Program:

• Community and Networking: Remote work programs bring together like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds and professions. This provides opportunities for networking, building connections, and fostering a sense of community. You can learn from and collaborate with others, enhancing your professional and personal growth.
• Logistics and Accommodations: Remote work programs handle the logistics of travel, accommodations, workspaces, and experiences. They simplify the travel experience by taking care of planning, housing, utilities, and even providing access to local communities and events. This allows you to focus on your work and explore new places without the stress of managing all the details.
• Structured Support: These programs often offer structured support, including mentoring, professional development opportunities, and social events. This can be especially beneficial for those new to remote work or seeking a more guided travel experience.

Advantages of Going at it Alone:

• Independence and Flexibility: Working independently allows you to design your own schedule and choose your destinations, and create a work environment that suits your unique needs and preferences. You have the freedom to explore and make decisions without being tied to a group or program structure.
• Unconventional Lifestyle: Going solo as a digital nomad empowers you to embrace an unconventional lifestyle. You can work remotely from anywhere in the world, set your own hours, and immerse yourself in new cultures. This option suits those who want to forge their own path and create a life that aligns with their values and interests.
• Personal Growth: Traveling and working alone can foster personal growth and self-discovery. You will navigate challenges, adapt to new environments, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you. This option allows you to step out of your comfort zone and build resilience and independence.

In conclusion, the decision to join a remote-work program or go at it alone depends on your personal preferences, work style, and goals. Remote-work programs offer community, structure, and logistical support, while going solo provides independence, flexibility, and the opportunity to design your own unique lifestyle. Consider your priorities and the benefits of each option to make an informed choice that aligns with your ideal work and travel experience.

You'll miss the job you quit to go travelling

It's easy to get swept up in the excitement of planning your trip and the prospect of leaving your job behind. But it's important to remember that you might end up missing your job more than you think.

The grass isn't always greener

Even if you don't like your job, it's worth considering whether you'll miss certain aspects of it when you're gone. For example, you might miss the sense of productivity and accomplishment that comes with checking things off your to-do list each day. Or perhaps you'll find yourself reminiscing about your old commute (as bizarre as that may seem!).

The reality of long-term travel

Long-term travel can be exhausting, and it's easy to romanticise the idea of quitting your job to travel. But the reality is that it's not all glamorous. It can be demanding and, at times, very challenging. Constantly meeting new people, adapting to new cultures, and dealing with the uncertainty of what each day will bring can be draining, especially if you're also worrying about money.

The financial burden

Unless you have a good passive income, there will likely come a time when you need to stop travelling and work to fund your next adventures. This may involve taking on jobs that you don't particularly enjoy, just to make ends meet. It's also worth noting that travel hacking your way to low-cost travel may not be feasible or aligned with your personal values.

The importance of planning

Quitting your job to travel may sound spontaneous, but it often involves a great deal of planning and financial preparation. This includes saving enough money to cover your expenses, both during your travels and when you return, as well as researching health insurance options and creating a budget for your trip.

The impact on relationships

Long-term travel can affect your relationships with family and friends back home. While they may be curious and excited about your adventures at first, as time goes on, you may notice a change. Some friendships may fade, and you may feel guilty about not being there for important events or when your loved ones need you.

So, before you take the leap and quit your job to travel, consider whether you're truly prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. It's important to go into this journey with your eyes open and a realistic understanding of what long-term travel entails.

Frequently asked questions