travel or travelling as hobby

Traveling As a Hobby? [A Detailed Guide]

If you’re the adventurous type that is excited to explore the unknown, then you should try traveling. Read on to learn more about traveling as a hobby.

We live in a big world, full of many unknowns. Unfortunately, we only live one life, and with the benefits that traveling has to offer, it’s in everyone’s best interest to consider making it a hobby.

Whether it is exploring new destinations, tasting new foods, learning about new cultures, or getting out of your comfort zone, there are numerous reasons to travel, and even more so if you make it a hobby. 

This comprehensive read will cover traveling as a hobby, reasons to engage, and how to go about it. 

What is Traveling?

Traveling is simply defined as the act of moving from one place to another. In this regard, it’s going from one destination to the next. 

Can Traveling Be a Hobby?

Yes! A quick Google search will tell you that a hobby is any activity that’s done for enjoyment. As with any other individual endeavor, traveling can also be considered a hobby. 

What Types of People Like Traveling? 

With the numerous types of travel and reasons to travel, it’s no surprise there are multiple types of travelers. Here are the most common types of travel personalities:

1. Adventurous

Traveling usually involves venturing into the unknown, engaging in new experiences, and meeting new people. Most travelers naturally have an adventurous spirit. 

2. Empathetic

The diverse cultures and experiences are often a drive for empathetic people to become travelers. 

3. Soul Searchers

If you are looking to find yourself, then traveling is highly likely to become your hobby. 

4. Typical Traveler

These people would rather visit a place with a tourist guide as they prefer when everything is well-planned and structured. 

Benefits: Why Traveling Could Be a Good Hobby

The world is vast, with numerous sites and experiences to provide. Here are some of the common reasons people make traveling a hobby:

1. Discover What Makes You Tick

If you have been feeling like life has just been rumbling along without a passion, then picking traveling as a hobby may help open up the world in new and amazing ways. This will allow you to try new things and figure out what you love. 

Traveling is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in culture, languages, history, biology, geography, etc. It enriches your mind and educates you far beyond any book or travel guide.

You not only learn about different lifestyles, languages and landscapes, know amazing facts about animals in their natural habitats, and taste local cuisines but also learn about yourself along the journey. 

3. Delve into Different Cuisines

The world is full of different people and cultures, and as a result, varying and interesting cuisines. Food is one of the primary reasons people take traveling as a hobby as it presents a unique way to experience different destinations. 

4. Take a Break from Work

We live in a world where everyone has hectic schedules with the aim to survive. Taking a step away from work, however, is advisable for your physical and mental health as well as work. By traveling, you get to see the bigger picture and build a stronger team at the end of the trip. 

5. Admire Nature

Travel presents the opportunity to see how small we are compared to the vast beauty of Mother Nature. From lush greenery to crystal blue waters and pink sands, our planet is packed with sites, sights, colors, and sounds that no computer screen can replicate. 

6. Learn About Other Cultures

Each destination in the world has a unique style and history. With proper guidance, you will be able to immerse yourself in a world that is entirely different from what you are used to. 

7. Strengthen Relationships

There’s just something about sharing travel experiences that brings people together. Whether it’s a family vacation, a weekend trip with your significant other, or a trip with your friends, chances are you’ll build a lifelong bond. 

Are There Drawbacks to Choosing Traveling as a Hobby?

1. travel is expensive.

One of the apparent downsides to traveling is the issue of money. Traveling, especially to faraway destinations for long, can quickly become expensive. And while traveling on a budget is possible, the pressure that the endeavor puts on your pockets cannot be overlooked. 

2. The Fear of the Unknown

If you knew precisely what you would come across in a location, it would hardly be worth visiting. On the flip side, however, venturing into new places can be scary.

We all fear being lost and stranded, robbed, hungry, tired, cold, etc. And when things begin to go south, fears are magnified to a point where they become overwhelming. 

3. Adjusting to Different Social Norms and Customs

Until you’ve amassed enough experience to immerse yourself in a different culture, it can be challenging to understand what’s normal for you may not be perceived the same way in other places. Things you take for granted in your country may be offensive or amusing in other places. 

4. Homesickness

As with most travelers, you’re bound to feel homesick. When you’re constantly surrounded by new experiences, it becomes easy to miss what you had back home, regardless of the monotony you experienced.

Sometimes it is hard to replace your old friends and family, especially when you need them the most.

How to Start Traveling as a Hobby

Compared to most hobbies, you don’t need a lot to begin traveling as a hobby. 

Equipment Required

It goes without saying that you need to be well-equipped in order to enjoy any trip. Some of the essential gear needed for traveling include:

• First Aid Kit – While traveling is amazing, it comes with its fair share of bumps and bruises. As such, it is best to have a well-stocked first aid kit in case you fall during a hike, become dehydrated, or have to deal with mosquitos. Ensure you include antiseptic cream, antihistamine tablets, plasters, bandages, painkillers, and the like. 
• Photocopies of Your Details – This is something that most travelers overlook, but losing your passport, travel insurance, driving license, and other important documents can easily make your trip a nightmare. 
• Portable Battery – Having a portable battery is essential in keeping your phone, laptop, camera, and other devices juiced up when in new lands. 

Other important things include a flashlight, clothes, and toiletries.

Start-Up and Ongoing Costs

Traveling expenses all come down to the type of travel, destination, and duration. There’s no one-size-fits-all budget, and that’s why it is best to do your homework before visiting any destination. 

RELATED READING: Can Driving Be A Hobby?

Can You Make Money From Traveling?

Yes, this digital age has presented numerous ways to make money, including while traveling especially if you have a knack for vlogging or making documentaries. By posting travel videos on platforms like YouTube, you can monetize your content and even get brand deals to certain destinations.

In addition, you can make a website or blog and create content for people who like to travel and make money through advertisements and affiliate marketing. 

Similar Hobbies to Traveling

If you like traveling but want to venture into something different with a similar feeling, you can engage in similar hobbies like cycling, hiking , mountaineering, kitesurfing, and even photography.

Alternative Hobbies to Traveling

If you cannot afford to travel, no matter the reason, you can a pick a new hobby in yoga, videography, blogging, journaling, kayaking , wildlife watching, diving, language learning, music, stargazing, eating, cooking , wine tasting, collecting cool things, or drawing. 

Where You Can Learn More About Traveling

In this day and age, there are limitless places to learn about traveling. Excellent online resources include blogs, social media, forums, YouTube videos, and online classes or courses.

In addition, you will come across many books on Amazon that can teach you the basics and requirements of ideal traveling. Lastly, you can consult seasoned travelers for expert advice.

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Is Traveling a Hobby? Yes… Well, It Depends.

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Are you tired of the same old routine? Do you crave adventure and excitement in your life?

Let me tell you, it’s not just about going on trips and ticking off destinations from your bucket list. No, my friend, it’s so much more than that. Traveling can be a great interest and spare time activity.

But is traveling a hobby? Let’s dive in.

Well, Is It a Hobby?

Yes, traveling is widely regarded as a hobby. It involves exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and seeking adventures, making it a popular leisure activity for many people.

Benefits of Traveling as a Hobby

Broadening your perspective.

Traveling as a full-time hobby offers many benefits, and one of the most significant is the opportunity to start a new journey , broaden your perspective, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around you.

Experiencing different cultures, interacting with locals, and witnessing their customs and traditions firsthand can bring immense interest and pleasure.

It opens your eyes to diverse ways of life, beliefs, and values that may be vastly different from your own.

By exploring various cultures through travel, you develop a greater interest in and appreciation for diversity.

This travel hobby helps you become more tolerant, accepting, and open-minded, breaking down stereotypes and prejudices that may have been ingrained in your thinking.

Enhancing Personal Growth and Self-Discovery

Another reason why traveling is an excellent hobby is its ability to enhance personal growth and self-discovery.

Stepping out of your comfort zone allows you to push boundaries, challenge yourself, and discover hidden strengths within you.

As you navigate unfamiliar places, overcome obstacles, and adapt to new situations, you develop resilience and confidence in your abilities, which can further fuel your interest in traveling.

Travel experiences can also lead to profound self-reflection and pique your interest. Being away from the familiar surroundings gives you space for introspection.

You may find yourself questioning your values or reevaluating priorities when exposed to alternative lifestyles or witnessing social issues firsthand during your travels.

Moreover, traveling presents opportunities for self-discovery and personal growth.

It allows you to engage in activities or hobbies that spark your interest, such as learning a new language or trying adventure sports like scuba diving or hiking through challenging terrains. These experiences help uncover hidden passions and foster personal growth.

Developing Adaptability Skills

Few things compare to travel as a hobby. Navigating through unfamiliar territories forces you out of routines and comfort zones.

It sparks interest, as you learn to embrace uncertainty and become more flexible in dealing with unexpected situations.

While traveling, you may encounter language barriers, transportation issues, or cultural differences that require quick thinking and problem-solving skills.

These challenges provide an excellent opportunity to develop adaptability, resourcefulness, and the ability to think on your feet. They also spark interest in different cultures and languages.

Decision-making becomes a crucial skill when planning your travels, especially when it comes to choosing destinations and accommodations.

Every decision you make contributes to honing your ability to make informed choices efficiently, which is of great interest when it comes to spontaneous choices along the way.

Boosting Creativity

Traveling as a hobby can significantly boost your creativity by exposing you to diverse environments and people.

Whether it’s exploring vibrant cities or serene natural landscapes, each destination offers unique inspiration that can fuel your creative pursuits.

Experiencing different cultures exposes you to new art forms, architecture, music, cuisine, and ways of thinking.

This exposure broadens your creative horizons by introducing fresh perspectives and ideas that you may not have encountered otherwise. It allows you to break free from routine patterns of thought and encourages innovative thinking.

Furthermore, interacting with people from various backgrounds while traveling stimulates creativity through shared experiences and conversations.

Engaging with individuals who possess different viewpoints challenges your own assumptions and encourages you to think outside the box.

Reducing Stress Levels and Improving Mental Well-being

Traveling has long been recognized as a means of reducing stress levels and improving overall mental well-being.

Taking a break from daily routines allows you to unwind and recharge both physically and mentally.

When you travel as a hobby, you escape the pressures of work or personal responsibilities temporarily.

Instead of focusing on deadlines or obligations, you immerse yourself in relaxation or exploration. This change in environment helps alleviate stress by providing distance from everyday worries.

Moreover, travel offers an opportunity for self-care through activities like spa treatments or spending time in nature.

Engaging in these rejuvenating experiences promotes relaxation while boosting mood-enhancing hormones like serotonin and dopamine.

Building Resilience

One of the many reasons why traveling is a valuable hobby is its ability to build resilience. When you navigate unfamiliar situations during your travels, you develop adaptability and perseverance.

Whether it’s dealing with delayed flights, getting lost in a foreign city, or facing unexpected challenges – each hurdle strengthens your resilience muscles.

Determining the Nature of Travel: Hobby or Lifestyle?

Recognizing your perspective on travel.

Determining whether you view travel as a casual hobby or an integral part of your lifestyle is a philosophical question that requires self-reflection.

Take a moment to ponder how you perceive travel in relation to your life. Do you see it as a mere pastime, or does it hold deeper meaning for you?

Understanding your perspective will shed light on the role travel plays in your overall happiness and fulfillment.

Assessing Frequency and Significance

One way to gauge the nature of your relationship with travel is by assessing how frequently you engage in travel activities.

Consider the number of trips you take each year and the amount of time spent exploring new destinations.

If you find yourself constantly yearning for new adventures and planning upcoming trips, it may be an indication that travel holds significant importance in your life.

Travel can become more than just a hobby when it becomes intertwined with various aspects of our existence.

It is not merely about visiting new places; it becomes a way of life, shaping our worldview and enriching our experiences.

When we prioritize allocating time, resources, and energy towards traveling over other hobbies or commitments, we begin to realize that it has transcended the realm of a simple pastime.

Prioritizing Travel Over Other Commitments

Ask yourself if you consistently choose to allocate your limited resources towards traveling rather than other pursuits.

Are you willing to save up money specifically for trips? Do you forego certain luxuries or material possessions in order to fund your wanderlust?

Evaluating these choices can help determine whether travel has evolved into more than just a hobby for you.

For many individuals who consider travel as an integral part of their lifestyle, family commitments are also taken into account when planning trips.

They actively seek out opportunities to incorporate their loved ones into their adventures, recognizing that shared experiences create lasting memories.

Whether it’s embarking on a road trip with siblings or exploring a foreign land with children, family becomes an essential component of their travel philosophy.

Travel as an Intrinsic Part of Life

When travel becomes a lifestyle rather than a hobby, it permeates various aspects of our existence.

It goes beyond the act of visiting new places and transforms into a mindset that seeks out opportunities to explore and learn.

Those who embrace travel as an intrinsic part of life actively seek ways to incorporate it into different facets, such as work or relationships.

Incorporating travel into work can involve seeking job opportunities that allow for frequent trips or even pursuing careers in the tourism industry.

By intertwining their professional lives with their passion for exploration, these individuals find fulfillment in both realms. Similarly, they also prioritize building connections and friendships with fellow travelers, recognizing the value of shared experiences and the joy that comes from connecting with like-minded individuals.

Ultimately, determining whether traveling is merely a hobby or an integral part of your lifestyle requires introspection and honest evaluation.

By reflecting on how frequently you engage in travel activities, prioritizing it over other commitments, and actively seeking out opportunities to incorporate it into various aspects of your life, you will gain insight into the significance it holds for you.

Whether you define yourself as a casual traveler or someone whose entire life revolves around wanderlust is entirely up to you – there is no right or wrong answer.

Tips for Making Travel a Hobby

Setting specific goals.

One of the first tips for making travel a hobby is to set specific goals for your adventures. By having clear objectives in mind, you can make your travel experiences more meaningful and purposeful.

Consider setting goals such as visiting a certain number of countries or continents within a given timeframe.

This will give you something to work towards and provide a sense of accomplishment when you achieve these milestones.

Researching Destinations

To truly make travel a hobby, it’s important to research various destinations that align with your interests and preferences.

Whether you’re passionate about history, nature, or food, there are countless places around the world waiting to be explored.

Take the time to delve into guidebooks, online resources, and travel blogs to discover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations that cater to your specific interests.

Effective Budgeting

Budgeting effectively is crucial. You want to ensure that you can afford regular trips without compromising other financial responsibilities.

Start by creating a dedicated travel fund and contribute to it regularly. Look for ways to cut back on unnecessary expenses in your daily life so that you have more money available for your travels.

Consider using budgeting apps or spreadsheets to keep track of your expenses and identify areas where you can save.

Maximizing Loyalty Programs

Taking advantage of loyalty programs offered by airlines, hotels, or credit cards can significantly enhance your travel experiences while saving you money in the long run.

Sign up for frequent flyer programs and hotel rewards programs to earn points or miles with every trip.

These loyalty programs often offer perks such as free upgrades, access to exclusive lounges, and discounted rates on future bookings. Make sure to compare different programs and choose ones that align with your travel preferences.

Balancing Time Management

Balancing work, personal life commitments, and travel aspirations is essential for making travel a hobby. It’s important to prioritize time management skills to ensure that you can dedicate enough time to your travels without neglecting other aspects of your life.

Plan your trips well in advance and coordinate with your work schedule to avoid conflicts. Look for opportunities to combine business trips with personal travel or take advantage of long weekends and holidays to fit in shorter getaways.

Making Travel Affordable

Traveling doesn’t have to break the bank, especially if you’re looking to make it a hobby. There are several ways to make travel more affordable.

Consider opting for budget accommodations such as hostels or vacation rentals instead of expensive hotels.

Research low-cost transportation options like budget airlines or public transportation systems in your destination. Be flexible with your travel dates and destinations, as this can often lead to significant savings.

Exploring Traveling in Relation to Other Hobbies

Enhancing your overall experience.

Combining travel with hobbies such as photography, hiking, or cooking can greatly enhance your overall experience.

Imagine capturing breathtaking landscapes through the lens of your camera, immersing yourself in nature while hiking through scenic trails, or indulging in local cuisines and learning authentic recipes during your travels.

By incorporating these activities into your trips, you not only get to explore new destinations but also engage in meaningful experiences that align with your interests.

Photography is a popular hobby that pairs perfectly with traveling. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, there’s always something captivating about capturing the essence of a place through photographs.

From iconic landmarks to hidden gems off the beaten path, each destination offers unique opportunities for you to hone your skills and create lasting memories.

Researching the best spots for photography beforehand allows you to plan your itinerary accordingly and make the most out of every shot.

Similarly, if hiking is one of your favorite pastimes, exploring new trails and landscapes around the world can be an exhilarating adventure.

From majestic mountains to lush forests and coastal paths, there are endless possibilities for hikers of all levels. Prioritize researching popular hiking routes and ensure you have the necessary equipment before embarking on any journey.

Connecting with local hiking communities or joining guided tours can provide valuable insights and enhance safety during your hikes.

For those who enjoy cooking or trying different cuisines, traveling opens up a world of flavors and culinary traditions.

Seek out destinations known for their gastronomic delights and immerse yourself in local food culture by participating in cooking classes or food tours.

You’ll not only learn new recipes but also gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history and traditions through its cuisine.

Seeking Out Destination-Specific Opportunities

One exciting approach is seeking out destinations that offer specific opportunities aligned with your interests.

For example, if you’re a scuba diving enthusiast , tropical locations with vibrant marine life and clear waters are ideal destinations to explore.

Imagine diving among colorful coral reefs in the Maldives or encountering exotic sea creatures in the Great Barrier Reef. Researching dive sites, local regulations, and reputable dive operators beforehand ensures a safe and unforgettable experience.

On the other hand, if skiing is your passion, mountainous regions with snowy slopes become your playground during winter months.

From world-renowned ski resorts in the Swiss Alps to hidden gems in Canada or Japan, there’s no shortage of options for avid skiers.

Consider factors such as snow conditions, difficulty levels, and après-ski activities when choosing your destination. Planning ahead allows you to make the most of your time on the slopes and enjoy a well-rounded skiing vacation.

Connecting with Like-Minded Individuals

Traveling alone can be a wonderful opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth.

However, joining travel groups or communities centered around shared hobbies can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your trips.

Interacting with like-minded individuals who share similar interests creates opportunities for camaraderie and memorable experiences.

Whether it’s joining a photography club that organizes group photo walks in different cities or connecting with hiking enthusiasts through online forums, these communities offer valuable insights and companionship during your travels.

You can exchange tips and recommendations, share stories from your adventures, or even plan group trips together.

Incorporating Local Cultural Activities

While pursuing our hobbies during travel is important, it’s equally essential to immerse ourselves in local cultural activities related to our interests.

Engaging with local traditions not only enriches our understanding of the destination but also provides unique perspectives on our hobbies.

For instance, if you’re passionate about photography while visiting India, exploring ancient temples adorned with intricate carvings or capturing vibrant street scenes during traditional festivals like Holi can offer unparalleled opportunities for creative expression.

Similarly, if you’re a food lover visiting Thailand, learning to cook authentic Thai dishes or participating in local food markets can deepen your appreciation for the country’s culinary heritage.

Filling Leisure Time with Fulfilling Travel Experiences

Making the most of limited leisure time.

We all strive to make the most of it.

Whether it’s a few hours on the weekend or a short break during the workweek, planning weekend getaways or short trips can be an excellent way to fill your spare time with fulfilling travel experiences.

Instead of letting those precious moments slip away, why not embark on an adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime?

One effective strategy is to utilize public holidays and vacation days strategically throughout the year.

By aligning your time off with long weekends or festive occasions, you can maximize your travel opportunities without sacrificing too much from your regular routine.

It’s like hitting two birds with one stone – you get to enjoy some well-deserved relaxation while exploring new destinations.

Exploring Nearby Attractions and Hidden Gems

Travel doesn’t always have to involve crossing borders or embarking on long journeys.

When time is limited, exploring nearby attractions and hidden gems within your own region can be just as rewarding.

You’d be surprised by what you might find right in your backyard! From charming small towns and picturesque landscapes to historical sites and ancient ruins, there’s plenty to discover if you look closely enough.

By focusing on the beauty of your immediate surroundings, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for where you live while satisfying your wanderlust cravings.

Plus, these shorter trips allow for more flexibility in terms of planning since they don’t require extensive time commitments. So grab a map, do some research, and set out on an adventure that lies just around the corner!

Engaging in Slow Travel for Immersion

Sometimes, instead of rushing from one tourist spot to another, it’s worth slowing down and immersing yourself fully in a destination’s culture and lifestyle.

This is where slow travel comes into play – staying longer in one place allows you to experience it on a more profound level.

Rather than merely scratching the surface, you can dive deep into the local traditions, cuisine, and way of life.

Imagine waking up in a cozy apartment in Paris and spending your days strolling along the Seine, savoring croissants at a nearby café, and getting lost in the narrow streets of Montmartre.

By embracing slow travel, you can truly live like a local and create meaningful connections with the people and places around you. So why rush when you can take your time and let every moment sink in?

Prioritizing Quality over Quantity

In our fast-paced world where ticking off bucket lists seems to be the norm, it’s essential to remember that travel is not just about quantity but also about quality.

Instead of trying to visit as many destinations as possible within a limited timeframe, consider focusing on meaningful experiences that leave a lasting impact.

Rather than rushing through popular tourist spots just for the sake of saying you’ve been there, take the time to truly connect with each place you visit.

Engage with locals, try authentic cuisine, participate in cultural activities – these are the moments that will stay with you long after your trip is over.

Remember, it’s not about how many places you’ve seen; it’s about how deeply those places have touched your heart.

Questions to Ask about Traveling as a Hobby

How can i afford frequent travels without breaking the bank.

Traveling doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With some smart planning and budgeting, you can make your wanderlust dreams a reality without going broke.

Here are a few tips to help you afford frequent travels:

• Set a travel budget : Determine how much money you can allocate towards your trips each month or year. This will give you a clear idea of what you can afford and help you prioritize your spending.
• Save strategically : Cut back on unnecessary expenses in your daily life and redirect those savings towards your travel fund. Consider packing lunch instead of eating out, canceling unused subscriptions, or opting for public transportation instead of driving.
• Be flexible with dates and destinations : Travel during off-peak seasons or look for last-minute deals to score cheaper flights and accommodations. Also, consider visiting destinations where the cost of living is relatively lower.
• Embrace alternative accommodations : Instead of always staying in hotels, explore options like hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals through platforms like Airbnb. These alternatives often offer more affordable rates while providing unique experiences.
• Maximize rewards points and loyalty programs : Take advantage of credit card rewards programs that offer points for travel-related expenses like flights and hotel stays. Join loyalty programs offered by airlines and hotels to earn perks and discounts.
• Travel locally : Exploring nearby cities or towns can be just as exciting as traveling abroad but at a fraction of the cost. Discover hidden gems in your own backyard by planning weekend getaways or day trips.

Remember that traveling on a budget requires some sacrifices, but it’s all worth it when you get to experience new cultures, meet interesting people, and create lifelong memories.

Is it possible to balance a full-time job with regular travel adventures?

Absolutely! Many people successfully balance their full-time jobs with regular travel adventures. It may require some planning and flexibility, but with the right approach, you can make it work.

Here are a few strategies to help you achieve this:

• Utilize your vacation days wisely : Plan your trips around long weekends or public holidays to maximize your time off work. By strategically using your vacation days, you can extend your travels without taking additional time off.
• Negotiate remote work options : If your job allows for remote work, consider negotiating a flexible schedule that allows you to work remotely while traveling. This way, you can explore new destinations during evenings and weekends without sacrificing your professional commitments.
• Take advantage of business trips : If your job involves occasional business travel, try to extend those trips by a few days to explore the destination on your own dime. This way, you get the best of both worlds – work and leisure.
• Plan shorter but frequent trips : Instead of taking one long vacation per year, plan several shorter trips throughout the year. This way, you can satisfy your wanderlust without being away from work for an extended period.
• Prioritize efficient packing and planning : Streamline your packing process to save time and reduce stress before each trip. Create checklists, pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched easily, and use packing cubes or organizers to optimize space in your luggage.

Remember that finding a balance between work and travel requires effective time management and open communication with your employer or colleagues. With proper planning and a positive mindset, it is indeed possible to embark on exciting adventures while maintaining a successful career.

What are some safety precautions I should take while traveling alone?

Traveling alone can be an incredibly rewarding experience; however, it’s important to prioritize safety when exploring unfamiliar territories solo. Here are some essential safety precautions to keep in mind:

• Research destinations in advance : Before traveling to a new place, research the local customs, laws, and potential safety concerns. Familiarize yourself with common scams or areas to avoid.
• Share your itinerary : Inform a trusted friend or family member about your travel plans, including details of your accommodation and any activities you have planned. Regularly check-in with them during your trip to keep them updated on your whereabouts.
• Stay aware of your surroundings : Pay attention to your surroundings at all times and trust your instincts. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and be cautious when interacting with strangers.

Defining Traveling as a Hobby

Recognizing the essence of traveling as a hobby.

Have you ever wondered if traveling can be considered more than just a means to get from one place to another?

Well, if you are someone who actively seeks out new destinations and experiences beyond necessity or obligation, then traveling definitely qualifies as a hobby for you.

Unlike occasional or mandatory travel, engaging in regular trips for personal enjoyment distinguishes it as something more profound.

When we talk about traveling as a hobby, we delve into the realm of passion and adventure. It goes beyond simply fulfilling our basic needs; it becomes an intrinsic part of who we are.

People with this hobby invest their time, effort, and resources into planning and executing trips that ignite their sense of wanderlust.

They meticulously research destinations, create detailed itineraries, and eagerly anticipate the joy that awaits them on each journey.

The Driving Force Behind Traveling as a Hobby

What motivates individuals to pursue traveling as a hobby? The answer lies in their insatiable curiosity and desire to explore new places and cultures.

For them, stepping foot in unfamiliar territory is akin to embarking on an exhilarating treasure hunt.

Each destination offers unique experiences waiting to be discovered – from tasting exotic cuisines to immersing themselves in vibrant local traditions.

Traveling enthusiasts thrive on the thrill of discovering hidden gems off the beaten path.

They seek out breathtaking landscapes that leave them awestruck, encounter diverse communities that broaden their perspectives, and collect memories that become cherished stories shared with friends and family back home. Their passion for exploration fuels their constant quest for new adventures.

Embracing the Journey

When you consider traveling solely as a means of transportation or fulfilling obligations, you miss out on the true essence of this remarkable hobby.

It’s not just about reaching your destination; it’s about embracing every step along the way – from planning your itinerary meticulously to immersing yourself in the local culture and connecting with fellow travelers.

As a hobby, traveling offers endless possibilities for personal growth and self-discovery.

It pushes you out of your comfort zone, challenges your preconceived notions, and exposes you to diverse perspectives. Each trip becomes an opportunity to learn, adapt, and broaden your horizons.

Moreover, traveling as a hobby allows you to create lasting memories that enrich your life.

Whether it’s hiking through lush rainforests or strolling along ancient cobblestone streets, every experience contributes to the tapestry of your personal journey. These moments become cherished souvenirs that evoke joy and nostalgia long after the trip has ended.

Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone through Travel

Expanding your culinary horizons.

Have you ever tried a dish so unique and delicious that it transported you to a different world?

When you travel, one of the best ways to step out of your comfort zone is by trying local cuisine or participating in cooking classes.

By indulging in new flavors and culinary experiences, you not only expand your palate but also gain a deeper understanding of the culture and traditions of the place you are visiting.

Imagine yourself strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok, Thailand. As you pass by food stalls filled with aromatic spices and sizzling pans, your senses come alive.

You decide to try Pad Thai, a popular street food dish. The combination of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors dances on your tongue, leaving an indelible mark on your taste buds.

By embracing this culinary adventure, you not only satisfy your hunger but also create lasting memories.

In addition to trying local delicacies, participating in cooking classes can be an enriching experience. Imagine yourself learning how to make homemade pasta in Italy or mastering the art of sushi-making in Japan.

These hands-on experiences allow you to learn from experts while immersing yourself in the local culture. As you chop ingredients and mix flavors under their guidance, you gain valuable insights into traditional cooking techniques and ingredients unique to each region.

Embracing New Challenges through Adventure Activities

Are you someone who seeks thrill and excitement?

If stepping out of your comfort zone means conquering fears and embracing new challenges for you, then engaging in adventure activities during your travels is a must.

Picture yourself standing on a towering cliff overlooking Queenstown, New Zealand—the adrenaline capital of the world.

The wind tugs at your hair as bungee jumpers leap off the platform above. Despite feeling nervousness creeping up within you, something inside pushes you forward—a desire to conquer fear and experience something extraordinary.

With a deep breath, you take the plunge, hurtling towards the ground before bouncing back up with an overwhelming sense of accomplishment.

Paragliding is another adventure activity that can push you out of your comfort zone. Imagine yourself soaring through the sky like a bird, taking in breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps or the picturesque landscapes of Nepal.

The initial hesitation gives way to a rush of exhilaration as you glide through the air, defying gravity and embracing the unknown. These adrenaline-pumping experiences not only provide unforgettable memories but also empower you to overcome self-imposed limitations.

Learning from Locals and Immersing Yourself in New Cultures

Traveling offers a unique opportunity to interact with locals and gain insights into their customs, traditions, and way of life.

Stepping out of your comfort zone means venturing beyond tourist hotspots and seeking authentic connections with people from different countries.

Imagine finding yourself in a bustling market in Marrakech, Morocco. As you navigate through narrow alleyways lined with vibrant stalls selling spices, textiles, and handicrafts, friendly locals approach you with warm smiles.

Engaging in conversations with them allows you to learn about their daily lives, cultural practices, and historical anecdotes that may not be found in guidebooks.

By connecting with locals on social media platforms or attending community events during your travels, you can foster meaningful relationships that go beyond surface-level interactions.

These connections enable you to gain insider knowledge about hidden gems within a destination—off-the-beaten-path locations that offer unique experiences away from the typical tourist crowds.

Venturing into Unfamiliar Territories

Stepping out of your comfort zone often involves exploring destinations outside your usual travel preferences or familiar territories.

While it’s tempting to stick to what we know best or feel comfortable with, embracing unfamiliar places can lead to unexpected discoveries and personal growth.

For instance, if beach vacations have been your go-to choice, why not plan a trip to the mountains or a bustling city instead?

By immersing yourself in new environments, you expose yourself to different cultures, landscapes, and ways of life. This exposure broadens your perspective and challenges preconceived notions you may have held.

To take it a step further, embracing spontaneity during your travels can lead to unforgettable experiences.

While planning is essential for a smooth journey, allowing room for unexpected opportunities can add an element of surprise and excitement. Say yes to that local festival you stumble upon or join a group of fellow travelers on an impromptu hike.

These unplanned adventures often become cherished memories that remind us of the beauty of living in the present moment.

Language Learning and Travel: Expanding Linguistic Skills

Immersion in foreign language environments: enhancing language learning abilities while traveling.

Imagine strolling through the vibrant streets of Paris, hearing the melodic sounds of French being spoken all around you.

Or perhaps you find yourself wandering through bustling markets in Tokyo, surrounded by a symphony of Japanese conversations.

Traveling provides an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in foreign language environments, allowing you to enhance your language learning abilities.

When you travel to a country where the primary language is different from your own, you are presented with a unique chance to fully immerse yourself in that language.

By constantly hearing and engaging with native speakers, your ears become attuned to the nuances of pronunciation, intonation, and cadence.

This immersion experience helps train your brain to understand and process the new language more effectively.

To make the most of this immersive environment, it can be beneficial to supplement your experiences with formal language learning methods.

Consider enrolling in local language courses or hiring tutors who can provide personalized instruction based on your proficiency level and specific goals.

These experts can guide you through grammar rules, vocabulary expansion exercises, and conversational practice sessions tailored to your needs.

Practical Steps for Improving Proficiency: Taking Language Courses and Hiring Local Tutors

Taking formal language courses while traveling offers a structured approach to improving proficiency in specific languages.

Many cities around the world have reputable institutions that offer short-term courses designed for travelers seeking rapid progress.

These programs often focus on practical communication skills relevant to everyday situations such as ordering food at restaurants or asking for directions.

Hiring local tutors can be an excellent way to accelerate your language learning journey during trips abroad.

These tutors possess intimate knowledge of their native languages and cultures, enabling them to provide valuable insights beyond what textbooks or online resources may offer.

They can help refine your pronunciation, correct grammatical errors, and introduce colloquial expressions that add authenticity to your language skills.

Conversational Practice: Gaining Practical Experience in Using a Foreign Language Effectively

While formal language courses and tutoring sessions are essential, nothing compares to the practical experience gained through conversing with locals.

Engaging in conversations with native speakers allows you to put your newfound language skills into practice, building confidence and fluency.

It also provides an opportunity to learn about different cultures firsthand, as language is intricately intertwined with a society’s customs and traditions.

Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with locals whenever possible. Start by practicing basic greetings and simple phrases, gradually progressing to more complex discussions.

Locals are often delighted when visitors make an effort to communicate in their native tongue, and they may even offer valuable tips or corrections along the way.

Language-Learning Apps and Online Resources: Tailored for Travelers Seeking Basic Communication Skills

In today’s digital age, language-learning apps and online resources have become invaluable tools for travelers seeking basic communication skills in various languages.

These resources provide convenient access to lessons, vocabulary lists, pronunciation guides, and interactive exercises that can be accessed anytime, anywhere.

Popular language-learning apps such as Duolingo or Babbel offer gamified experiences that make learning feel like a fun challenge rather than a tedious task.

They allow you to set goals, track progress, and engage in bite-sized lessons ideal for those on the go. Online platforms like YouTube or podcasts provide authentic content created by native speakers that expose you to real-life conversations and cultural insights.

By incorporating these apps and online resources into your travel routine, you can maximize your language learning potential even during moments of downtime or while commuting between destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions about is Traveling a Hobby?

How can i afford to travel frequently.

Traveling doesn’t have to break the bank. Start by setting aside a portion of your income specifically for travel expenses. Look for budget-friendly destinations and accommodations, take advantage of travel deals and discounts, and consider alternative options like house-sitting or volunteering abroad.

Is it safe to travel alone?

While safety should always be a priority when traveling alone, taking necessary precautions can ensure a secure journey. Research your destination beforehand, stay alert in unfamiliar surroundings, inform someone trustworthy about your itinerary, and trust your instincts throughout the trip.

Can I still pursue other hobbies while traveling?

Absolutely! Traveling doesn’t mean giving up other hobbies; it means finding ways to incorporate them into your journeys. Whether it’s painting landscapes on the go or practicing yoga amidst breathtaking scenery, there are endless opportunities to merge your passions with travel.

How do I overcome language barriers while traveling?

Language barriers need not hinder your travel experiences. Learning basic phrases in the local language can go a long way in communicating with locals. Technology offers translation apps that can help bridge any communication gaps.

What if I don’t have much time for extensive trips?

Even if you have limited time, there are still ways to make travel a hobby. Consider shorter weekend getaways or exploring nearby destinations. The key is to prioritize and make the most of the time available to you.

Traveling as a hobby goes beyond mere sightseeing; it becomes an integral part of your lifestyle and personal growth. It’s about embracing new experiences, discovering yourself in unfamiliar settings, and continuously seeking adventures that ignite your passion for exploration.

Related Posts and Terminology for Travel Enthusiasts

For further inspiration and information on traveling as a hobby, check out our related blog posts and familiarize yourself with common travel terminology used by enthusiasts around the world. Dive into the vast community of travel lovers who share their experiences, tips, and recommendations.

Traveling pushes us beyond our comfort zones, encouraging personal growth and resilience. It challenges us to adapt to new environments, navigate unfamiliar situations, and embrace the unknown. By stepping out of your comfort zone through travel, you’ll discover strengths within yourself that you never knew existed.

One of the incredible benefits of traveling is the opportunity to learn new languages or improve existing linguistic skills. Immersing yourself in different cultures exposes you to diverse languages and dialects. Whether it’s ordering food in a local market or engaging in conversations with native speakers, language learning becomes an exciting part of your travel journey.

UponArriving

Is Travel A Hobby? (How To Make It One)

Is travel a hobby?

It’s a philosophical question that I’ve often thought about as I transitioned from someone who played around with travel blogging to becoming a full-time travel blogger.

Below, I’ll talk about what a hobby is and when I think travel qualifies as a hobby and when it does not. I’ll also talk about the differences between hobbies, interests, and lifestyles as they pertain to travel.

In the end, I think this question is more than just a pointless discussion because it can reveal some learnings that may improve your experiences as a traveler by getting you to re-think things like the frequency of you travels.

Table of Contents

What is a hobby?

Let’s start with a couple of widely accepted definitions of a hobby.

According to Oxford Languages a hobby is “an activity done regularly in one’s leisure time for pleasure.”

According to Merriam-Webster a hobby is “a pursuit outside one’s regular occupation engaged in especially for relaxation.”

Now that we have some framework for deciding if travel is a hobby, let’s break down the definitions and apply them to travel.

Activity or pursuit

No matter what hobby definition you use it’s clear there is a focus on taking action in an activity or pursuit.

And that is a key distinction between a hobby and an interest.

An interest is more of a curiosity that does not require active participation in an activity, while a hobby is all about active participation in an activity .

You may have a passion for basketball and enjoy learning more about the sport.

But that’s mostly an interest.

Now, if you’re playing pick-up games every weekend at Rucker Park or actively collecting NBA rookie cards, that’s more of a hobby.

Let’s put it in the context of travel.

If you never book a ticket, reserve a tour, step on a plane, or check into a hotel, but you love watching YouTube videos of people visiting places like the Eiffel Tower and Big Ben, that’s more of an interest in travel.

Because you are not actually engaging in travel activities.

Put another way, an interest is often more about consuming and observing to appease your curiosities.

Meanwhile, hobbies are more about actively participating in activities to satisfy desires purely for pleasure, fun, and relaxation.

Often times an interest will transform into a hobby and you may end up having both an interest and a hobby in something.

For example, you may have an interest in aviation and enjoy reading about the different types of aircraft and watching reviews of them.

After a few months you might start collecting plane models or even start flying just for fun. That’s when you begin to transition from interest to interest + hobby.

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Done regularly

The other key to a hobby is that it is done on a regular basis.

The frequency is important for a hobby because often times a hobby is a type of skill that you can build upon.

It’s a pursuit that takes consistent commitment.

For example, learning a new language or learning a new instrument is often someone’s hobby and they get better at it so long as they practice it on a regular basis. There is a certain confidence and comfort level that grows along with regular practice.

When something is an interest you may still build upon your expertise the more you engage with your interest on a regular basis. But often times an interest can go dormant for an extended amount of time and resurface without any major negative consequences.

Plenty of people who have an interest in basketball don’t follow the off-season super close but when the next season rolls around they are instantly back into the sport on the same level of interest they were the year before.

But if you were to drop your French lessons for six months and then try to hop back into it, the amount of enjoyment you would get out of it would probably have dropped significantly because you would have lost a lot of progress due to in action .

When it comes to travel you actually can become a more skilled traveler with regular trips.

When I was grounded for several months during the pandemic and finally got back to traveling I noticed I was pretty rusty. Packing did not come as natural and I just did not feel as comfortable getting through security, boarding, figuring out public transport, etc.

So I definitely feel like there can be a drop in skill level when you stop traveling for a while, similar to other more traditional hobbies.

As far as what constitutes a “regular basis,” that is honestly just up to a subjective determination and could vary based on the type of hobby.

Some hobbies have multiple components to them so that you do engage in them on a regular basis but just in different forms.

Let’s consider travel.

Unless you have some really good friends and took some really good plane candies, you don’t typically just wake up in a foreign country.

Instead, you start planning out your trip weeks or months (or in some cases even years) in advance for the most part.

You have to research flights, hotels, public transportation, local scams, visa requirements, things to do, and that is all after you finally set on your destination.

In some cases, you might even try to pick up a new language which requires an insane amount of regular practice (and could be its own hobby).

For many, there are all of those hours spent day dreaming about your globetrotting until it is time to start packing.

Then there is the actual travel and after that the unpacking of belongings and unpacking of experience, which involves going through hundreds of your photos, editing them, sharing them, reflecting on them, etc.

This process sometimes goes on for weeks — at least it does for me.

So one trip could involve weeks or months of regular travel related activities both before and after the trip. For this reason I don’t think you actually have to take tons of trips in a year to be a travel hobbyist.

Taking one to two trips per year could qualify as a hobby in the right circumstances.

Leisure time

Leisure time simply means “free time.”

So when you are not working or subject to some other type of obligation, are you traveling or engaging in some type of activity related to your travels?

This is a major difference between hobbies and interests.

Interests don’t require you to engage with them during your free time.

You could be a fanatic about the NBA and become a sports analyst where all you do is study statistics and keep up with team rosters as your full-time job.

Your interest is then your job/occupation and that is totally fine.

If you started to gain attention from the NBA during your weekend pick up games at the Rucker and you got drafted, basketball is no longer your hobby; it just became your occupation.

This is why I don’t think traveling can realistically be a hobby for someone like me who is a travel blogger.

It is my livelihood and a major source of income and that is just not compatible with hobby status.

You could say that it is an interest but more accurately it could be described as a lifestyle.

According to Merriam-Webster a lifestyle is the “the typical way of life of an individual, group, or culture.”

You start getting into travel as a lifestyle when you venture into travel blogging, digital nomad living, RVing, backpacking, etc.

Essentially, when the core of your existence revolves around traveling and your income is somehow tethered to travel, that’s more your “way of life” than something you do in your free time.

Travel could still be a hobby for someone like a digital nomad, but I would wager that it will trend more towards a lifestyle for most.

For pleasure or relaxation

The next big factor for a hobby is that you are doing it for pleasure or relaxation.

This factor is where there is plenty of overlap with a hobby and an interest since you could engage with both of those for pleasure and relaxation.

For example, it might relax you to watch sports on the weekend in the same way it would relax someone to book a boutique hotel in the country for a weekend.

As far as travel goes it’s easy to get a lot of pleasure from travel in a lot of different ways.

You could kick back at an all-inclusive resort and enjoy your pool time and unlimited drinks, admire the northern lights , go scuba diving, relax on a balcony with an amazing view of the beach, the list of pleasure opportunities in travel is seemingly infinite.

Travel can be a two-edged sword when it comes to relaxation, though.

Vacations like those in the Maldives can be ultra relaxing.

But travel can also be extremely stressful and taxing if things go wrong and I have been involved in plenty of those situations.

Even though travel can end up being chaotic I think it is more about your intention of seeking relaxation than the actual outcome.

This would be similar to someone practicing guitar as a hobby and having a bad practice session. The fact that a single session does not produce a lot of pleasure or relaxation does not mean that the continual practice of the hobby will not.

With that said, sometimes you go into a trip knowing that the experience may not be so relaxing and in those cases it’s more about the pleasure that comes from accomplishing the feat.

For example, you might visit a destination known for being a bit dangerous or shady to experience that yourself. Why? Because you would like to show yourself what you are capable of handling uncomfortable situations and settings and perhaps more mentally tough than you give yourself credit for.

The travel experience may be anything but relaxing but by the end of it you’ll feel a great sense of pleasure based on the fact that you “survived.”

How to make travel a hobby

OK, so now you have an idea of when travel falls into the territory of a hobby.

But how can you turn travel into a hobby for yourself?

I’ve got two major recommendations.

Make sure you’re doing something as frequently as practical

A hobby is something that you do on a regular basis. So if you’re not traveling regularly it’s not technically qualifying as a hobby.

But there’s a more meaningful reason why you might want to travel often.

If you do not actually travel on a reasonably frequent basis you’re not going to be getting “better” at traveling. Why would you care about getting better at traveling?

The more you travel, the more comfortable and confident will become which will make it easier to enjoy your travels and relax. Pursuing enjoyment and relaxation are major components of a hobby and that’s why you want to keep traveling often — it’ll become easier to derive pleasure from your travels.

If you only travel once in a blue moon, you may not ever achieve the comfort level that a true travel hobbyist would have.

Don’t try to monetize your travels

As soon as you start to monetize something, the game changes. I’m not saying that you can’t have fun and monetize at the same time — they are not mutually exclusive. But monetizing something adds an additional pursuit.

You are no longer pursuing travel; you are pursuing travel plus monetization .

That can remove the “free time” aspect of your hobby and really start to reduce the pleasure and relaxation gained from your travel hobby.

I think there is debate about whether or not a hobby can be monetized on a low level. I would say that you can but it is just a very slippery slope because once you start making money doing something that you enjoy the natural tendency is to start doing that full-time which is exactly what happened with me and travel blogging.

For those who care about the philosophical question of whether or not travel is a hobby I would say that under the right circumstances travel can absolutely qualify as a hobby.

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

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9 Benefits of Travelling as a Hobby [+ Tips List]

There are many benefits of travelling as a hobby from seeing amazing new places and understanding different cultures to a personal feeling of accomplishment and even learning a new language.

Let’s start off with the basics though:

Is travelling a hobby?

100% it is.

The dictionary definition of hobby is ‘an activity someone does for pleasure when they are not working’.

So if you travel for pleasure whilst you are away from one, you can absolutely consider your travel as a hobby.

Bonus points for those who geek out on research, follow fellow travellers on social media and read travel books and stories in their spare time!

In this article, I’m going to cover some of the benefits of travelling as a hobby as well as linking to my favourite posts that contain great tips for helping you make the most out of your trips.

1. Understanding Different Cultures

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.” Mark Twain

One of my favourite reasons for having travel as a hobby is being able to immerse myself in different countries and cultures rather than seeing them on screen or reading about them in a book.

I’m not trying to claim for one second that spending a week in another country teaches you everything about the place (I’ve lived in Australia for two years now and have barely even scratched the surface) but I certainly feel it gives me more understanding and appreciation of a culture than never having visited.

When I can talk to people, live alongside them, shop in the places they do and feel out of my comfort zone in their world, it begins to help me realise some of what is important.

I often quickly realise how little difference there is when all is said and done, we all want a happy, healthy family, somewhere safe to live and a decent meal at the end of the day.

2. Seeing Amazing Places

“To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” Aldous Huxley

Whilst I don’t completely agree with the quote above ( see my commentary piece on Medium here ) I do agree that the only way to truly comprehend the amazing places on Earth is to see them with your own eyes.

It’s easy to be an armchair traveller or documentary discoverer, forming an ‘expert’ opinion based on books and photography, but the only way to really understand is to be there.

Flick through all the photos of Angkor Wat you want, but it’s not until you go that you appreciate its size, see the detail of the bas-reliefs, smell the incense blowing through ancient corridors or feel the humidity that the gets held inside the huge sandstone buildings.

So, maybe not everyone is wrong about other countries, but you simply won’t know until you visit for yourself,

3. Meeting New People

“A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.” Tim Cahill

My Instagram account is absolutely filled with people who I’ve briefly crossed paths with whilst travelling and my phone book has the numbers of a few that have become more than just people we’ve passed on the way.

Whilst most don’t become lifelong friends, the colourful characters we meet on the road become part of the stories we tell for a lifetime.

To the Thai teenager who quizzed my wife and I for nearly two hours as we all waited for a delayed train, asking us questions to help improve her English, including such killers as ‘why exactly do you love your wife?’ and ‘what is your favourite thing about her?’. Just a tad awkward.

To Clay, who we followed around the Thakhek Loop in Laos, sharing travel stories over an evening fire.

To Sara and Miguel, with whom we spent three hours doing a cooking course in Thailand and laughing so hard that it felt like we’d known each other for years.

To all of you, and the hundreds of others we’ve met, thank you.

4. Learning a New Language

“The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.” Ludwig Wittgenstein

Ok, so a straight up confession here, I speak one language, and that’s English…

…and there are some who would argue I haven’t exactly mastered that yet.

But, if you are someone who’s learning a new language, travelling as a hobby can really help you out by immersing yourself in exactly that language you’re hoping to learn.

A friend of mine has moved to Germany and it’s amazing how quickly he’s picked up the language now he’s surrounded by it. He does everything to accelerate his learning, from watching The Simpsons in German through to changing the instructions and menus on video games into the language.

I made a similar move abroad, but mine was to Australia , and whilst I’ve got really good at ‘how ya going’ and ‘too easy’ it’s not exactly a second language to add to the CV .

5. Self Reflection

“Not until we are lost do we begin to understand ourselves.” Henry David Thoreau

There is a lot of time for self reflection when travelling.

Being away from a normal routine and with ample time waiting at stations and confined to transport, the mind naturally spends time wandering.

Honestly though, rarely have my reflections been life-changing, more life-affirming. I feel like I understand myself better, think more clearly and have a desire to slow down. I reflect on how grateful I am for what I have, how much I often take my family and friends for granted and what I wonderful country I grew up in.

I know for some, they asay travelling has changed their life forever.

It never has for me.

As they say…

If an ass goes travelling, he’ll not come home a horse – Thomas Fuller

For me, the self-reflection of travel is more a renewal, a chance to think long and hard about things I don’t get the time to at home and come back fresh and ready to go again.

It’s why I prefer taking sabbaticals to quitting work completely, the time away invigorates me to carry on improving.

Read my full post on this topic: Reflections on a Sabbatical: 3 Months Later

6. Accomplishment

“A map says to you. Read me carefully, follow me closely, doubt me not… I am the earth in the palm of your hand.” Beryl Markham

I get a real sense of accomplishment from travel, in fact it’s probably the biggest thing that makes travelling a hobby for me.

Filling in the map, adding another country to the list , it really feeds my collecting and completion mentality.

That’s not to say I’m going JUST to fill in the map, but it is part of the reasons I choose to visit new places rather than go back to the same ones again and again. I want to try and see a bit of all of them.

It’s also the reason I tick off UNESCO World Heritage Sites as I travel . Not only do I know they are always incredible places to visit (in fact it’s one of my biggest tips for other travellers ) but I also love keeping a total of how many I’ve made it to.

READ MORE ON THIS TOPIC: – My Personal Country Total – – How Many Countries Are There To Visit? (It Might Not Be What You Think) –

7. Becoming Comfortable Being Uncomfortable

“I dislike feeling at home when I am abroad.” George Bernard Shaw

“When you travel remember that a country is not designed to make you comfortable, it’s designed to make its own people comfortable.” Clifton Fadiman

We only learn when we are stretched, when we are at the edges of what we feel comfortable doing.

And one of the biggest things I’ve learned from my travelling hobby is how to feel comfortable being uncomfortable and how to worry less about things that are out of my control.

The feeling of being in a new country where you don’t speak the language, don’t know anyone, don’t have anywhere to stay or any idea where or when you’re going to eat.

That’s uncomfortable.

But it’s also strangely liberating.

Weirdly, when life is cut back to the real basic human needs, all the more complex worries of emails piling up, deadlines that need meeting and workplace conflict seem so small and unimportant.

As someone who’s suffered with anxiety all my life, the anxieties of surviving in a new country seem far less than the more trivial problems I experience every day at work.

My body and brain adapt, I keep occupied and quickly learn how to survive outside my comfort zone.

8. Keeping a Record

“I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read in the train.” Oscar Wilde

We’ve already spoken about filling in a map, but there are other ways of keeping a record if you travel as a hobby.

Some keep a beautiful journal or travel diary, others take photographs and put together big glossy books when they get home.

I like to buy a Lonely Planet guide and bring home a wooden carving from each place we go to. We have a wooden bear from Croatia, a wooden shark from Seychelles and even a wooden ribbiting frog from South Africa

If you want to go to even more extreme measures, you can even start a travel blog like I did.

It’s a lot of work, but I love it and it forms a permanent record of our travels around the world and brings in some extra income.

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9. Re-Appreciating Your Home Country

“The whole object of travel is not to set foot on foreign land; it is at last to set foot on one’s own country as a foreign land.” G.K. Chesterton

The quote above says it far more articulately than I ever could.

One of the things I get most from travel is that, on my return, I have a new-found appreciation for my home country.

The longer I’m away, the more I feel like a tourist in my own land when I return, the more I notice the buildings and landscape I’d gone past hundreds or times before without noticing and the more I appreciate everything from local pubs to my friendly corner-shop owner.

If a hobby is an activity done for enjoyment, than travelling as a hobby gives a dual benefit – the enjoyment of travel itself and then the enjoyment in a new-found love of your home country.

BONUS: Travelling as a Hobby: Tips to Make the Most of Your Trips

Below I are links to some of my favourite articles that will help you to make the most of travel as a hobby:

• 100+ Incredible Travel Tools (For Simple & Cheap Travel)
• 35 Jobs You Need to Do Before You Go Travelling
• 4 Ways to Quickly Learn a Language Before You Travel
• 13 Alternative Travel Tips and Tricks I Use on Every Trip
• 8 Basic Yoga Poses to Keep You Flexible While Travelling
• A Simple Technique to Shrink You Packing Time

Related posts:

• 14 Short, Funny Travel Stories Guaranteed To Cheer You Up
• Travel Is the Only Thing You Buy That Makes You Richer
• Can You Bring Glass on a Plane? [Yes, Here’s the Rules]
• Can I Bring Flowers on a Plane?
• Can You Bring Cologne on a Plane? [Official Response]

AUTHOR – BEN REEVE

Reeves Roam , is a first-hand travel blog. The Reeves have lived in the UK, South Africa and Australia and have travelled extensively in Europe and Southeast Asia.

Booking your trip via the links on this page earns us a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

You can also buy us a coffee . 

Thanks – Ben, Becca and Gracie

Is Traveling A Hobby? Here Are The Answers You Might Be Looking For

Is traveling a hobby? If you’ve been asking yourself this question, then you’re in the right place! I’ll share with you various arguments to help you answer that question!

A few weeks ago I had a heated discussion with a group of friends on whether traveling is a hobby or not!

It all stemmed from one person asking a newbie in the group what their hobbies are and she said it was traveling, and what followed was a 2 hours discussion on why she was right or wrong!

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And what was our conclusion? You’ll be surprised! Part of the group agreed that indeed traveling is a hobby while the other said it’s not and each side came up with valid reasons to support their belief!

If you’re reading this article, you’re probably also here to determine if traveling is a hobby, and my hope is that I will provide you with the relevant info you need to decide on the right answer! 

Is Traveling A Hobby Or Interest?

Is travel a hobby? This seemingly simple question might stir up a lot more debate than expected.

To properly address this query, it is crucial to first understand what we mean by “hobby”.

A hobby, by definition, is a regular activity done for pleasure or relaxation, typically during one’s leisure time. So, does traveling fit into this category? Let’s find out!

What is Traveling?

According to Wikipedia , travel, in its most basic form is the movement of people between distant geographical locations whether it’s for pleasure, business, or necessity regardless of how they get there, be it on foot, bus, train, or airplane!

The concept of travel has evolved considerably over time, from the dangerous and lengthy journeys of ancient times to modern airplane travel that can transport us across continents in a matter of hours.

So now that you know what a hobby and travel are, let’s discuss if travel is a hobby!

As per the discussion we had with my friends, the best way to come up with an answer is to look at both arguments, i.e. traveling is a hobby and traveling is not a hobby!

Is Traveling a Hobby?: The Arguments

To fully understand if traveling is a hobby or not, here is a detailed discussion!

Arguments for Traveling as a Hobby

Here are the points that prove that traveling is a hobby!

Traveling Brings Pleasure

One of the defining characteristics of a hobby is that it provides pleasure to the individual, and travel often fits this description perfectly.

For many people like me, traveling is not merely about reaching a destination, but about the experiences we gather along the way.

Whether it’s the scenic beauty of a tranquil beach, the hustle and bustle of a vibrant city, or the peace of a remote countryside, the pleasure derived from these experiences can be immense and deeply personal.

This pleasure is the driving force that prompts us to save money, take time off work, and embark on journeys that may often be arduous.

Skill Acquisition and Development

Like any hobby (e.g. painting, cooking, reading, etc), travel also involves a learning curve and skill development. I know the way I travel is different from my first international trip , thanks to all the experiences and skills I’ve learned along the way.

This could range from learning to communicate in a new language, understanding and adapting to cultural norms, to becoming adept at navigating new and unfamiliar places.

These skills can enhance your personal and professional life, just as mastering a musical instrument or photography would.

Consistency and Dedication

Many people travel regularly and consistently, demonstrating a level of commitment and dedication associated with traditional hobbies.

They spend considerable amounts of time planning their trips, researching destinations, accommodations, local customs, and attractions.

This engagement goes beyond the actual travel period, extending before and after the trip, similar to how a hobbyist would invest time in their hobby even when not actively engaged in it.

Investment of Time and Resources

The commitment to travel often requires a substantial investment of time and resources.

Much like an artist investing in high-quality materials, we travelers save money for months or years for our trips.

The planning process, which could include creating itineraries or learning about the history and culture of the destination is a significant time investment that further strengthens the case for travel as a hobby.

Personal Fulfillment and Satisfaction

Travel often provides a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction that mirrors that of a hobby.

Reaching a mountain’s peak after a grueling hike, successfully negotiating a transaction in a foreign language, or finding your way in a new city can bring about a sense of accomplishment.

This satisfaction is akin to the feeling a hobbyist might get when completing a complex piece of art or improving their performance in a sport.

Arguments against Traveling as a Hobby

Here are some arguments that support the idea that traveling is not a hobby.

Inaccessibility and Privilege

The argument against travel being a hobby often begins with the issue of accessibility and privilege.

Unlike hobbies such as reading, drawing, or cycling which are largely accessible to anyone regardless of their socio-economic status, traveling often requires a substantial financial investment that many people cannot afford.

This economic barrier makes it difficult to classify travel as a hobby, a category that traditionally includes activities accessible to a wide range of people.

Infrequency

Hobbies are typically activities that individuals regularly engage in during their leisure time.

However, due to its high cost and the time commitment involved, most people do not travel frequently.

Many save up for one or two trips a year, which is a considerably less frequent engagement compared to most other hobbies we know.

The purpose of travel also plays a significant role in this debate. There’s a distinction between traveling for leisure, for business, or out of necessity. Not all forms of travel can be classified as a hobby.

While a business trip might involve elements of sightseeing and personal pleasure, its primary purpose is work.

Similarly, travel out of necessity, such as for medical treatment or to care for a loved one is far removed from the concept of a hobby.

Environmental Impact

With the growing awareness of environmental sustainability, the ethics of frequent traveling have come under scrutiny.

The carbon footprint of frequent flying coupled with the environmental impact of tourism in certain areas has raised questions about the sustainability of travel as a hobby.

For some, the environmental cost overshadows the personal benefits derived from travel making it a less desirable hobby, especially when compared to more eco-friendly hobbies like gardening, crafting, or bird-watching.

In fact, the environmental impact is one of the main disadvantages of traveling .

Dependence on External Factors

Unlike many hobbies that can be pursued regardless of external circumstances, traveling is heavily dependent on numerous factors outside an individual’s control.

Factors such as political stability, health safety (as the COV*D-19 p*ndemic showed us in previous years), visa policies, and more can severely affect a person’s ability to travel.

These external dependencies can make it hard for travel to be considered a hobby in the traditional sense.

Is Traveling a Hobby: The Verdict

As I told you earlier, even in my group discussion, we didn’t fully conclude whether traveling is a hobby or not!

Instead, we agreed that traveling can be a hobby or not depending on how you look at it and the factors involved. So are you a travel hobbyist or not? Here are some pointers to help you decide.

Traveling is Your Hobby If:

You travel for pleasure.

Travel is likely your hobby if you do it primarily for enjoyment and relaxation. You look forward to your trips as opportunities to unwind, explore new cultures, and experience different environments.

You Dedicate Time and Resources

If you spend significant time and resources planning your trips, learning about destinations, and saving money for your travel goals, these are clear indications that travel is more than just a sporadic interest to you but rather a hobby.

You Continually Seek Learning Opportunities

If you relish the opportunity to learn a new language, understand a foreign culture, or navigate unfamiliar terrain, travel might be your hobby. The desire to learn and grow is a characteristic shared by most hobbyists.

You Travel Regularly

If you travel multiple times a year or have a consistent schedule for exploring new places, this consistency suggests that travel could indeed be your hobby.

You Experience Personal Fulfillment

If your travels give you a sense of personal accomplishment, satisfaction, and fulfillment, mirroring the feelings hobbyists often get from their pursuits, it’s likely that travel is your hobby.

Traveling is Not Your Hobby If:

You travel only out of necessity.

If your primary reason for traveling is for work, medical treatment, or other necessities rather than pleasure or interest, travel is probably not your hobby.

It may be an essential part of your life, but it doesn’t fulfill the criteria of being done for relaxation or pleasure.

You Don’t Dedicate Time and Resources Outside the Trip

If your involvement with travel starts with boarding the plane and ends with reaching your destination without any time or resources dedicated to planning or learning about the place, travel may not be your hobby.

You Travel Infrequently

If your travels are sporadic or infrequent — say, only every few years or so, it’s less likely that travel qualifies as a hobby for you. A hobby typically involves regular and consistent engagement.

You’re Indifferent to Learning Opportunities

If you’re not interested in learning new languages, understanding cultures, or adapting to new environments during your travels, this lack of interest in learning suggests that travel may not be your hobby.

You Do Not Find Personal Fulfillment

If you view travel as more of a chore than an activity that brings satisfaction and fulfillment, it’s unlikely that it is your hobby.

Hobbies are activities that bring us joy, relaxation, and a sense of personal achievement.

Is Traveling My Hobby?

Even after giving you both sides of this argument, you may wonder whether traveling is MY hobby!

Yes, traveling is my hobby! Even as a travel blogger who writes about places I visit, I still consider travel a hobby!

Yes, it brings along professional gains because I take pictures you see on the blog and my social media, and get insights I share on the blog, but I completely enjoy all the aspects of traveling as a hobby.

I plan my trips based on the places I genuinely want to see not because they’ll be great for my blog! I dedicate a great amount of resources (time and money) to traveling, and the joy and fulfillment I get from it are immeasurable.

So, yes, I consider traveling my hobby and I am not ashamed to mention it when someone asks what my hobbies are!

Final Thoughts on The Arguments: Is Traveling A Hobby Or Not

Is traveling a hobby? Truth be told is that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question.

It ultimately depends on personal perspectives, experiences, and socioeconomic factors.

However, what is undeniable is the passion that many travelers share; a passion that is remarkably similar to those who pursue other activities defined as hobbies.

Whether or not we officially classify travel as a hobby, it will undoubtedly remain a meaningful and significant part of many people’s lives.

More Travel tips to help you travel better.

• Tips on how to travel on a budget
• Tips for packing light
• Weekend packing list
• Tips for first-time flyers
• How to survive a long flight
• How to make friends when traveling solo
• Tips for staying in a hostel for the first time

Was this post on whether traveling is a hobby or not helpful? Then consider sharing it with others.

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Is Traveling a Hobby? (The Definitive Guide)

Is Traveling Considered a Hobby?

When you think of hobbies, what comes to mind? Maybe you think of knitting, golfing, or reading. But what about traveling? Is traveling a hobby?

The answer to that question is a bit complicated. On the one hand, traveling can certainly be a fun and enjoyable activity that people do in their free time. It can also be a way to learn about new cultures and experiences, and to meet new people.

On the other hand, traveling can also be expensive and time-consuming. It can also be stressful, especially if you’re not used to being in unfamiliar places.

So, is traveling a hobby? Ultimately, that’s up to each individual to decide. But there are a few things to consider if you’re trying to decide whether or not traveling is a hobby for you.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the question of whether or not traveling is a hobby. We’ll discuss the benefits of traveling, the challenges of traveling, and whether or not traveling can be considered a hobby.

We’ll also provide some tips for traveling if you’re thinking of making it a hobby.

What is a hobby?

A hobby is an activity done regularly in one’s leisure time for pleasure. Hobbies can be anything from collecting stamps to playing video games. They can be solitary or social, and they can be expensive or inexpensive.

Hobbies are often seen as a way to relax and de-stress. They can also be a way to learn new things, meet new people, and make friends. For some people, hobbies can even be a way to make money.

No matter what your interests are, there is likely a hobby out there for you. If you are looking for a way to add more excitement and enjoyment to your life, consider taking up a hobby.

What are the benefits of traveling?

Traveling can have a number of benefits for both the individual and society as a whole.

For the individual, traveling can:

• Broaden one’s horizons.
• Help people learn about different cultures.
• Help people relax and de-stress.
• Help people make new friends.
• Improve mental health.
• Improve physical health.
• Boost creativity.
• Increase productivity.

For society as a whole, traveling can:

• Promote understanding between different cultures.
• Reduce prejudice and discrimination.
• Foster peace and cooperation.
• Boost the economy.

Is traveling considered a hobby?

There is no one definitive answer to this question. Some people would argue that traveling is a hobby, while others would say that it is not.

There are a few arguments in favor of considering traveling a hobby. First, traveling is often done in one’s leisure time. Second, traveling can be done for pleasure. Third, traveling can be something that people do regularly.

However, there are also some arguments against considering traveling a hobby. First, traveling can be expensive. Second, traveling can be time-consuming. Third, traveling can be stressful.

Ultimately, whether or not traveling is considered a hobby is a matter of personal opinion. There is no right or wrong answer.

Traveling can be a great way to learn new things, meet new people, and make new friends. It can also be a great way to relax and de-stress. Whether or not you consider traveling a hobby, it is definitely an activity that can benefit your life in many ways.

There is no one definitive answer to this question. Some people believe that traveling is a hobby, while others do not. Ultimately, whether or not traveling is considered a hobby is a matter of personal opinion.

There are a number of factors that can contribute to whether or not someone considers traveling to be a hobby. These factors include:

• The frequency of travel. If someone travels frequently, they may be more likely to consider it a hobby.
• The purpose of travel. If someone travels for pleasure, they may be more likely to consider it a hobby.
• The amount of money spent on travel. If someone spends a lot of money on travel, they may be more likely to consider it a hobby.
• The level of enjoyment derived from travel. If someone enjoys traveling, they may be more likely to consider it a hobby.

It is important to note that there is no right or wrong answer to the question of whether or not traveling is a hobby. Whether or not someone considers traveling to be a hobby is a personal decision.

Arguments for and against considering traveling a hobby

There are a number of arguments for and against considering traveling a hobby.

Arguments for:

• Traveling can be an enjoyable and rewarding activity. Traveling allows people to explore new places, meet new people, and learn about different cultures. It can also be a great way to relax and de-stress.
• Traveling can provide people with new experiences and perspectives. When people travel, they are exposed to different ways of life and different ways of thinking. This can help them to broaden their horizons and become more open-minded.
• Traveling can help people learn about different cultures. When people travel, they have the opportunity to learn about different cultures first-hand. This can help them to understand different perspectives and to become more tolerant of other people.

Arguments against:

• Traveling can be expensive. Traveling can be a costly hobby, especially if you are planning to travel to multiple destinations or if you are staying in expensive hotels.
• Traveling can be time-consuming. Traveling can take a lot of time, especially if you are planning to travel to multiple destinations. This can make it difficult to fit travel into your busy schedule.
• Traveling can be stressful. Traveling can be stressful, especially if you are traveling to a new place or if you are traveling alone. This can make it difficult to relax and enjoy your trip.

Ultimately, whether or not traveling is considered a hobby is a personal decision. There are a number of factors to consider, including the frequency of travel, the purpose of travel, the amount of money spent on travel, and the level of enjoyment derived from travel.

Whether or not traveling is considered a hobby is a matter of personal opinion. There are a number of factors to consider, including the frequency of travel, the purpose of travel, the amount of money spent on travel, and the level of enjoyment derived from travel. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to consider traveling a hobby is up to the individual.

Traveling can be considered a hobby if it is something you enjoy doing regularly and that brings you pleasure. Hobbies are activities that you do for fun, and travel can definitely fit into that category. Whether you’re taking weekend trips to explore your local area or planning long-term adventures to far-off destinations, traveling can be a great way to relax, learn new things, and make memories.

What are the benefits of traveling as a hobby?

There are many benefits to traveling as a hobby. Some of the most common benefits include:

• Relaxation: Traveling can be a great way to relax and de-stress. When you’re on vacation, you can take your mind off of your everyday stressors and focus on enjoying your surroundings.
• Exploration: Traveling is a great way to explore new places and cultures. You can learn about different religions, traditions, and cuisines. You can also meet new people and make new friends.
• Learning: Traveling can be a great way to learn new things. You can learn about different cultures, history, and geography. You can also learn new languages.
• Memory-making: Traveling is a great way to make memories. You can create lifelong memories with your family and friends. You can also document your travels through photos, videos, and journals.

How can I get started traveling as a hobby?

If you’re interested in getting started traveling as a hobby, there are a few things you can do. First, you need to decide what kind of travel you’re interested in. Do you want to go on weekend trips to explore your local area? Do you want to plan long-term adventures to far-off destinations? Once you know what kind of travel you’re interested in, you can start planning your trips.

There are many resources available to help you plan your travels. You can find travel guides, books, and websites. You can also talk to friends and family who have traveled to the places you’re interested in.

How much does it cost to travel as a hobby?

The cost of traveling can vary depending on the destinations you choose, the length of your trips, and your travel style. However, there are many ways to travel on a budget. You can stay in hostels, cook your own meals, and use public transportation. You can also look for deals on flights and hotels.

Is traveling safe?

Traveling can be safe if you take precautions. You should be aware of the risks of travel and take steps to mitigate them. Some of the things you can do to stay safe while traveling include:

• Staying informed: Be aware of the current travel advisories for the countries you’re planning to visit.
• Getting vaccinated: Make sure you’re up-to-date on your vaccinations for the countries you’re planning to visit.
• Taking precautions: Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to stay safe. This includes staying in well-lit areas, avoiding walking alone at night, and not accepting drinks from strangers.

What are some common challenges of traveling as a hobby?

There are a few common challenges that people face when traveling as a hobby. Some of the most common challenges include:

• Cost: Traveling can be expensive, especially if you’re planning long-term adventures to far-off destinations.
• Time: Traveling can take a lot of time, especially if you’re planning long-term adventures.
• Culture shock: Traveling to new places can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to different cultures.
• Homesickness: It’s common to feel homesick when you’re traveling for long periods of time.

How can I overcome the challenges of traveling as a hobby?

There are a few things you can do to overcome the challenges of traveling as a hobby. Some of the most common things people do include:

• Budgeting: Creating a budget and sticking to it can help you save money on your travels.
• Planning: Planning your trips in advance can help you save time and avoid unexpected challenges.
• Researching: Learning about the cultures you’re visiting can help you prepare for culture shock.
• Staying connected: Staying connected with friends and family back home can help you combat homesickness.

Is traveling a good investment?

Traveling can be a great investment, both financially and personally. Financially, traveling can help you save money on your retirement, learn new skills, and network with people from different cultures. Personally, traveling can help you grow as a person, learn new things, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

there is no one definitive answer to the question of whether or not traveling is a hobby. It depends on the individual and how they view travel. For some, it is a way to escape the everyday grind and experience new things. For others, it is a way to learn about different cultures and history. And for still others, it is a way to challenge themselves physically and mentally. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to consider travel a hobby is a personal one. However, there is no denying that travel can be a rewarding and enriching experience that can benefit people of all ages.

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Is Travelling A Hobby Or An Exciting New Way Of Life?

Is travelling a hobby? There are so many reasons why people travel the world. Find out if it’s a lifestyle or maybe just a hobby people do on the side.

Jade and I  have been travelling for over 3 years now. This includes long stints in China and Australia but the fact that we were in a far away country remained the same.

Very soon we will be taking another huge step, we won’t have access to a home base anywhere in the world. We will be travelling full time with all of our possessions.

This got me thinking.

Is Travelling A Hobby At All?

I understand that we are in a minority, most people travel when they have a holiday from work or just whenever they have the time. You only have to look at the other top posts in google for ‘is travelling a hobby?’ and you will see that the general consensus is that it is.

On the other hand, full-time travellers are growing at a phenomenal rate. You would be very surprised about the number of people we meet that are years into a ‘sabbatical’.

The more you research and read, the more you realise that the opportunities to travel full time are actually quite numerous. The entire digital community can work remotely straight off the bat, and that’s just the start.

I’m writing this from a desk in a coliving complex in Bali. There are 8 rooms in this particular complex and you will be astounded at the jobs we have seen people do here.

There are some obvious ones;

• Software Engineers
• Digital Marketers
• Website Developers
• Translators
• Online English Teachers

Then there are some more obscure ones;

• Film Producer
• Fashion Designer
• Civil Engineer
• Online Casino Customer Service
• Game Developer

Companies don’t want to pay rent for big offices anymore and, with internet speeds across the world increasing at an alarming rate, they no longer have to. Soon you will be able to do basically any job from anywhere in the world, as long as you have a laptop and internet.

The people I am meeting all around me travel full time, they never stop. They don’t have a house back home, they don’t take leave to go to the beach, they don’t lose days if they want to go skiing for a month or two. They get on a plane, rent some accommodation and do what they want.

So, what I want to know is, is travelling a hobby when it’s your entire life? Is travelling full-time becoming something that everyone can quite easily achieve?

Is Travelling a Hobby? Yes.

Let’s have a look at the many arguments saying that travelling is a hobby. After all, a hobby is defined as something we do in our spare time.

Definition : Hobby – an activity done regularly in one’s leisure time for pleasure.

Travelling In Your Spare Time

By far, most people who travel do it in their spare time. This doesn’t just include from the airport and back. This includes every book, website and minute of research you do when planning your next trip. It includes everything you buy, all the people you talk to and all the tours you arrange.

The entire process of booking a trip until you unpack is addictive to so many and why wouldn’t it be? For so many people it’s the thing they look forward to when they work long hours for the majority of the year.

Travelling To Another Hobby

This one goes without saying, if you are travelling from one place to another because of a hobby you already have, then travelling is part of your hobby.

For example, if you are really into comics then there are Comicon events all over the world. If you travel the world in order to go to these events then this is a part of your comic hobby.

Travelling For Another Hobby

If you are massively into history then you may find yourself travelling to experience and learn about history in different cultures and countries. It really starts to ask the question though, is travelling part of your hobby?

Or is it simply a byproduct?

Benefits of Travelling As A Hobby

The benefits of travelling as a hobby may outweigh the negatives for a lot of people. Firstly, starting a family is so much easier if you have a home base to go back to.

Every family that I have read about, that travel a crazy amount, has a home base that they can go back to.  I think as soon as you children then it becomes significantly harder to travel full time.

You’ll see your family and friends much more. You won’t be missing weddings, births and big events back at home. We have already missed 3 weddings and our nephew is growing up without us. It can be very difficult for some people not to have that stability, of close friends and family, in their life.

There are some industries and jobs that simply cannot become remote, if you are set on becoming a firefighter or a carpenter then you won’t be able to do that whilst travelling full time. Staying at home and travelling as a hobby in your spare time is the only option available.

Negatives of Travelling As A Hobby

Travelling comes at a cost. If you start going three or four times a year, then you’ll notice the financial commitment you have to your new hobby.

Some people argue that you don’t really experience a country or culture if you don’t go for a considerable amount of time. If you are going for a week or two then you may not actually experience the small differences that can really enlighten you to a different kind of people or land.

This is completely subjective though, if you travel because you want to lie on a beach then who cares about the small intricacies, slap on the sun cream and soak up some rays!

Back to Top

Is Travelling A Hobby? No

The following scenarios are situations which travelling can be considered to no longer be a hobby.

Working Remotely

I really do believe that the world is changing and that industries are becoming more and more willing to accept people working remotely. If you can get a job you enjoy and travel the world all the time then why the hell not!

Is travelling a hobby when it’s full time though?

This is a difficult question. People say that it becomes a lifestyle after a certain amount of time doing it. At the same time, if I play video games 12 hours a day every day, is playing video games suddenly my lifestyle and no longer just a hobby?

Working remotely gives you access to a much larger amount of time to travel but it may still just be a hobby that you do more often.

Benefits of Travelling As A Lifestyle

You will see and experience so much more than you ever would travelling in your spare time. You will get a much better appreciation for a country’s people and culture as you will spend a lot more time there.

If you are the sort of person that gets bored easily in your job, then this is the lifestyle for you. Your job is suddenly the secondary part of your life, it’s not the be-all and end all of your weeks. Yes, you will still have a job and still work as many hours but each day can be spent doing something different and waking up in a new place.

Negatives of Travelling As A Lifestyle

The world is not quite 100% ready to embrace remote working and permanent travel.

Let’s say for example that you;

• Become a remote customer service agent and you explore the world with your laptop and for some reason, you lose your job.
• You travel for a while with your laptop in hand and you decide that the travelling life isn’t for you.

You come back home and try to get a job in an office, or equivalent. Employers still don’t like to employ people who don’t have a stable location history.

They may not want to employ someone who has a tendency to jump on a plane and disappear for months at a time. It is a risk to employ someone who might get the travel bug again and disappear.

Is Travelling Escapism?

It completely depends! For me sure it is. Do I want to go home right now and get a 9-5 job in an office? Do I want to settle down, buy a house and have a family? No, I don’t. And the longer I am travelling and am not in the UK the less I think about it.

Does it mean I never want to do those things? Hell no. Just not right now.

I think if you travel as more of a hobby it’s slightly harder to know – are you travelling to get away or are you travelling because you just love it? For me, it’s both.

What Should You Do?

Travelling is such a personal experience. Everybody does it for different reasons and everyone puts a different amount of their time into it.

I’m a big believer in not taking notice of inspirational videos that make you feel like you are wasting your life behind a screen or career. Many of my friends just aren’t interested in seeing the world. They want stability and a family.

However, if you are reading this then the chances are you’re not that way inclined.

There are so many ways in which to explore. My sister works for Doctors Without Borders and has been to Rwanda and Macedonia with her work. She’s walked with great apes and stared into volcanoes. All this whilst advancing her career and future prospects.

There is literally no right way to travel!

Think about what you want to get out of it. Think about how much you are willing to sacrifice; financially, socially and time. Then start researching exactly how you can make it happen.

Why You Should Travel

This is a much more important question than people think. If you’re looking for inspiration then type travel inspiration into google and have some fun listening and reading why it’s the best thing you can ever do.

I have even read certain opinions that suggest that it is our responsibility to travel, it’s not my opinion but it’s out there.

My biggest piece of advice would be to not listen to these people, you don’t need to be told to travel. Researching the best locations, the best things to do or a brilliant itinerary are really good things to look into, but listening to someone politely saying your life is rubbish if you don’t climb a mountain is unhealthy. It might cause you to make a rash decision without really thinking about it.

I am going to list some great reasons why you should travel, and they might not be ones you have heard before.

Do you like; sunbathing on a beach, clambering through ancient ruins, buying food from a cart, walking on white sand, or trekking in the mountains?

Travelling gives you opportunities to do any of these things. Not many of us come from a country where you can do everything without crossing the border, the UK is definitely not one of those places. If you want to try things that you can’t back home then travelling is the only way.

Make A Change

Many people are happy in their normal office job, and friends of mine have no aspiration to travel whatsoever. However, if you are sitting there, day in and day out, waiting for the clock to strike 5:30, if you’re the type of person who constantly puts a meme up on Friday about how happy you are it’s the weekend, then maybe you need to make a change.

It might not necessarily be travelling, you may just need to change your job. But it’s something to consider if you feel like you’re in a rut and need something to spice up your life.

Because You Want To

Do you want to travel? Do you feel the need to get out and explore different cultures, change your opinions of the world and experience something else? Then just do it. I have given so many avenues for you to be able to.

• Work hard and save money to travel in your spare time.
• Get a job working remotely and travel full time.
• Start your own business in the digital sector and work from your laptop.
• Teach English in a foreign country and use that country as a hub to travel.

You don’t need a degree or an education to do any of those things. We heard someone talking about how he sells vintage shoes on his website, use your interests and find a way.

What NOT To Do

If you decide that long-term travel is for you, plan the hell out of it . You have the rest of your life to make the most out of your decision but if you don’t plan it well then you’ll be back home before you can blink.

I have seen grown adults not be able to cope with the culture shock of moving to certain countries. Find out what you will be expecting in the places you want to see. If you are someone who may get homesick or struggle with too much change, then going to a country that has a welcoming tourist atmosphere, like Thailand, would be better than China.

If you don’t research and plan then you run the risk of hating your first experience and never travelling again.

My Personal Opinion

I have gone on quite a tangent whilst writing this post. Hopefully, I have been able to make you realise that it really doesn’t matter if travelling is a hobby or not. I was very surprised by the number of people searching for that very question.

Packing List Essentials

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Travel Camera

Panasonic ZS70K

Action Camera

Go Pro Hero 9

Osprey Arcane

Wrangler 20″

Hold Luggage

Coolife 28″

XL Backpack

Osprey Renn 50L

Multi Adapter

EPIKA Worldwide

Anker 10,000mAh

If I had to answer then I would say that it depends on why you are travelling, for example; work or pleasure. I also think that, if you travel full time then this has then become your lifestyle, travelling is still your hobby but it’s a major part of your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should i travel.

If you want to travel and you have the opportunity to travel then yes.

Is Travelling a Hobby?

I think travelling is a hobby, it can also be a lifestyle depending on how much of your time is spent travelling but it is always a hobby if you are doing it for pleasure. If you are doing it for work-related reasons then it travelling is just a byproduct of your job.

How can I travel Full Time?

Find yourself a job that you can work remotely, do digital contract work, start a business you can control online, work abroad and travel whilst you work. You could even start a travel blog… I don’t recommend it.

Is travelling a hobby? Is travelling a lifestyle? Who cares? Do what you want and enjoy every second of it!

Click on the image below to repin this post!

Interesting perspective.

Whenever I post on Facebook something related to my travels, people say I’m rich and lucky to be ‘always on holiday’. But I tell them, nope, I also work, I don’t just go sightseeing everyday. Most people think that when you’re off exploring a new place, it’s a ‘vacation’ or a holiday. For me, it’s a lifestyle 🙂

Exactly – I think people forget that no one posts the boring parts of travelling on social media so it’s easy to assume they are just sunbathing every day!

Nice Post thanks for sharing.

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Is Travel a Hobby? Exploring the Benefits of Becoming an Adventurer

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Most people enjoy going on vacation and exploring new places, but is travel a hobby? If you are doing it regularly in your leisure time for pleasure, then it is a hobby according to the definition of the word ‘hobby’.

For some people, traveling may be a hobby because they enjoy experiencing new places, trying new things, and meeting new people. They may enjoy planning and organizing their own trips, researching destinations, and exploring new cultures. They may also enjoy taking pictures, writing about their experiences, or sharing their travels with others.

Whether or not travel is considered a hobby will depend on the individual and how they engage with it. Some people may only travel occasionally and may not consider it a hobby, while others may make it a regular part of their lives and may consider it one of their main hobbies. Ultimately, the definition of a hobby is subjective and will vary from person to person.

To understand why it is important to explore the world and what makes travel so enjoyable, let’s look at the benefits travel as a hobby can give you.

Travel is Fun and Relaxing

One key aspect that makes travel similar to other hobbies is that it is fun and relaxing. 

Whether you are visiting another country or just visiting someplace you have never been before, the thrill of experiencing something new can be exhilarating. The excitement of learning about different cultures and meeting people from around the globe can make travel feel more like an adventure than a chore. 

Plus, taking time away from work and home life to explore new places can be extremely refreshing and invigorating.

Travel Expands Your Horizons

Another benefit of traveling is that it encourages you to expand your horizons. By experiencing different areas, cultures, and people, you can gain insight into different perspectives while also broadening your view of the world. 

It’s easy to get stuck in our own routines when we stay in one place for too long; however, with travel experience comes the understanding of different values, attitudes, beliefs, customs, etc., which helps us become more open-minded individuals.

Travel Builds Lifelong Memories

Traveling builds memories that last forever. Going on trips with family or friends creates amazing bonding experiences that will always remain close to our hearts. Even solo trips create memories that will last forever! 

Being able to experience unique activities such as zip lining through jungles or dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant allows for exciting stories to tell for years to come—stories that no one else has experienced quite as you did!

Travel Teaches You New Skills

Traveling is an incredibly fulfilling hobby. When you visit different places, you not only gain new experiences that may forever change you – but also pick up new skills! 

Think of it this way: when you travel, you become a different person – one who is brave enough to try something different. You interact with different cultures and environments, and in the process learn to adapt to different situations and possibly even languages, making different parts of the world feel all the more familiar. 

So why not go out there and explore different countries? Who knows — maybe you will come back as a completely different person with a whole bunch of nifty skills!

Travel Brings You Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Are you stuck in a rut at home and feel like you need to get out of your comfort zone? If so, travel could be the hobby for you! 

Your travels might even allow you to gain new perspectives on your home country, helping to open your mind and create empathy for others. 

Best of all, with the countless new thrills that travel has to offer, it won’t take long for this hobby to zap away feelings of boredom and monotony!

Travel Fills the Leisure Time With Fulfilling Experiences

For those out there that have an overwhelming passion for different cultures, beautiful places, and plenty of spare time, travel might be the perfect hobby. 

An avid traveler sees the world as a blank canvas waiting to be explored and takes complete advantage. Exploring different cultures is not only enjoyable but also incredibly informative. Not to mention it’s a great way to make unforgettable memories. 

There’s nothing quite like being on the other side of the globe from home, experiencing new places every day, and taking part in different traditions that are unlike your own. 

Filling spare time with experiences like these can truly open one up to different perspectives and means of living, leaving them invigorated, inspired, and ready to explore more!

Travel Makes You Better at Planning

For seasoned travelers and road-trip veterans, planning is a breeze. Traveling as a hobby has given these adventure-seekers the ability to plan for any situation, no matter how outrageous or unexpected. 

The seasoned traveler knows that planning ahead of time can be the difference between getting their passport and tickets in time or making them miss their flight. 

Such planners also have an eye for the unexpected, allowing them to turn the most unplanned activity into a truly unique experience.

Travel Can Become a Side-Hustle

Traveling can be an incredibly fulfilling hobby, but it can also become a source of income if you let it! 

Now more than ever digital nomads are taking their globetrotting lifestyle to the next level and using travel as a side hustle. 

Start by creating a travel blog and promoting it on your social media channels. Before you know it, you may no longer consider traveling just a hobby, but rather, a fruitful venture in its own right!

Is traveling a hobby in a resume?

In general, a resume should focus on your skills, experiences, and accomplishments that are most relevant to the job you are applying for. Whether or not traveling is a hobby that you include on your resume depends on how it relates to the position you are applying for and the relevance it has to your professional experiences.

For example, if you are applying for a job that involves international travel or working with people from different cultures, you may want to mention your interest in traveling and any relevant experiences you have had, such as studying abroad or volunteering in a foreign country. This can show that you are comfortable with travel and have experience adapting to different environments, which can be valuable skills for the job.

On the other hand, if the job you are applying for does not involve travel and your interest in traveling is not directly relevant to your professional experiences, you may not want to include it on your resume. Instead, you can save it for the personal interests section of your resume, or mention it during an interview as a way to show your personality and interests outside of work.

Overall, the most important thing is to focus on the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job you are applying for and that will help you stand out as a qualified candidate.

Is traveling a skill?

Traveling in and of itself is not typically considered a skill, as it is something that most people do at some point in their lives. However, traveling can involve a variety of skills, such as planning and budgeting, navigating unfamiliar environments, adapting to different cultures, and communicating with people from different backgrounds.

For example, if you have traveled extensively and have experience planning and organizing your own trips, you may have developed skills in time management, decision making, and problem solving. If you have traveled to different countries and have experience navigating unfamiliar environments and adapting to new cultures, you may have developed skills in cultural awareness, adaptability, and communication.

In general, whether or not traveling is considered a skill will depend on the specific context and how it relates to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a job that involves international travel or working with people from different cultures, you may want to mention your travel experiences and any relevant skills you have developed in your resume and during an interview. This can show that you are comfortable with travel and have experience adapting to different environments, which can be valuable skills for the job.

In conclusion, traveling is an amazing hobby because it offers many benefits such as relaxation, expanding your horizons, and creating lifelong memories. 

But be careful not to turn travel into work or something that you just have to do because that’s what is expected in a vacation. That takes some magic out of the whole experience.

So if you’re looking for something fun and rewarding to do this summer (or any time!), consider exploring the world with travel!

Travel tips and tricks:

• Save big on flights with Skyscanner.com – This incredible tool lets you find the most affordable airfare to your dream destination. You’ll love their “Whole Month” feature, which displays the best prices for the entire month. If you’re flexible with travel dates, this is a game-changer for scoring the cheapest tickets.
• Stay in the heart of the action – I always find the perfect accommodation on Booking.com . Their map view lets me filter hotels by my budget and select ones that are right in the center of it all. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this easy way to book your ideal stay!
• Go beyond the resort – I’m all about making the most of my trips, and GetYourGuide.com has been a lifesaver for booking unforgettable tours and day trips. It’s the most hassle-free way to dive into the local culture and explore the hidden gems in every new place.
• Hit the road with DiscoverCars.com – There’s no better way to explore your destination than by car! Renting a vehicle has never been easier, and with their competitive prices, you’ll have the freedom to create your own adventures.

I highly recommend trying these tools for yourself – not only will you save money, but you’ll also create memories that last a lifetime. Happy travels!

1 thought on “Is Travel a Hobby? Exploring the Benefits of Becoming an Adventurer”

I totally agree with you that travel gets you outside your comfort zone and if you are constantly out of your comfort zone it makes it easier to do that in every aspect of your life and therefore you are likely to see progress in your life as nothing of significance ever happens inside our comfort zone.

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Embracing Travel as a Pastime: 21 Unique Benefits of Traveling as a Hobby!

Last Updated on February 14, 2024 by Lifevif Team and JC Franco

When you think about taking up a hobby, you probably think about gardening, running, painting, or something along those lines. Have you ever thought about choosing to travel as a hobby? There was a point in time, where my need for a hobby and my interest in adventure collided. And what was born was one of the most beautifully rewarding hobbies of my entire life: traveling.

Through all my years of traveling, I have discovered many reasons why traveling is a beneficial hobby, and, today, I would love to share some of them with you.

With that in mind, I have encountered many people who have questioned me when I tell them that my favorite hobby is traveling. To clarify things a bit, the Oxford Dictionary definition of the word “hobby” is: “ an activity done regularly in one’s leisure time for pleasure ”. In terms of this definition, that is precisely what travel is to me. If you want to learn about the 21 benefits of traveling as a hobby, read on below to see how I have unpacked each point for you.

These are 21 benefits and advantages of choosing travel as a hobby:

Table of Content

1. Your overall health improves.

Yup, it’s true. Travel improves your  health . “How?” you might ask. Well, travel reduces  stress , eliminates daily anxieties, lowers blood pressure, and boosts  mental health  by taking your mind off the worries of your regular life.

2. You get to disconnect from your everyday life.

Hobbies are designed to help people disconnect from all that is happening in their life and take some time out to just relax, regroup, and find new strength to keep going. 

3. It opens your mind and increases your horizons.

Having an open mind is what helps people get further in life. When you are in a foreign country and surrounded by all that is strange, you learn a lot, your mind becomes more open to unusual things, and you start to think beyond the confines of your desk and the four walls of your home. 

4. You get to practice mindfulness.

Mindfulness  is all about being 100% in the current moment, truly experiencing it, without your mind wandering onto other things. While traveling, it is hard to think about the worries from back home. You get to truly live in the moment. 

5. You distance yourself from social dramas/ruts.

While at home, socializing with your “regular crowd”, you tend to get caught up in all the unnecessary and inconsequential drama and ruts. When you travel , you remove yourself from that type of scenario and when you return, you will be less prone to get involved or caught up in such behavior (of course, your mind will be too busy thinking about your next trip).

6. Your confidence and self-esteem improve.

When traveling , you will meet so many different types of people and cultures that you will realize that there is value in being who you are. People will be interested in you, just as you are in them. As a result, self-confidence and self-esteem improve. 

7. You develop empathy and compassion.

Some of the destinations I have traveled to have been beautiful, yet poverty-stricken. You start to realize just how hard life can be, even if you are in an “idyllic” part of the world. As I started to realize the plight of others less fortunate than me, I found myself becoming more compassionate and empathetic. 

8. You get to develop cultural awareness.

When you stay in one place your whole life, you don’t get much exposure to other cultures. Lack of understanding can often lead to the persecution and mistreatment of others, or confusion about the values of others. While traveling, I have learned so much about different cultures that it has made me more aware and  open-minded  to the differences of other people and  why  they might be different to me. It’s truly a transcendent experience.

9. Your self-awareness improves.

Knowing yourself, who you are, what you want, and what you like (or don’t like) is essential. With the lifestyles we lead, it’s often hard to figure these things out. Some people don’t figure it out over an entire lifetime. When you are traveling , you quickly learn about yourself and can become more self-aware.

10. You get to meet new people & develop existing relationships.

Many people take up hobbies such as cooking classes and pottery so that they can meet new people while learning a fun, new skill. Traveling is just the same. While traveling, you will meet many people along the way. I have made friends in bars, yes, but also while hiking, doing touristy activities, trying local food, and strolling through markets – you will too!

11. You are challenged to grow as a person.

Not all travel destinations will be as you imagined them to be. This is one of my favorite reasons why travel is a great hobby. When you travel to a destination on your bucket list, you get to see the place through new eyes – realistic eyes. Some of the adventures will be smooth sailing, but some won’t – and that’s where the challenge comes in.

For me, tropical destinations were first on my travel hit list. I envisioned sipping cocktails on the beach, tanning to a golden brown, island hopping, and attending moon parties at night. In reality, all of those things did happen, except I had unexpected seasickness, which isn’t great when you are slow-boating from one island to the next. It was outrageously challenging, and I can honestly say that I grew as a person!

12. You get to try new things.

Everyday life can become quite monotonous. Life becomes interesting when you personally add some new activities to it. If you find that you spend a lot of time on the TV, phone or computer, get off your comfort zone and start planning a trip. While traveling, you will eat strange foods, see unusual things, gaze out at the most beautiful scenes, see things that quite frankly shock you, and maybe even learn a new skill along the way. 

Learning new things is quite an important part of choosing a hobby, which makes travel a great choice.

13. You create lifelong memories.

One day, hopefully far in the future, you’ll look back on your life and all the trips you have been, and realize that it was a life well spent. Memories are all we are really left with at the end of the day. Absolutely nothing else lasts forever.

14. You can combine travel with other hobbies.

Traveling as a hobby for me is great as I get to combine it with other hobbies that I thoroughly enjoy. For instance, I have a pretty good camera that I put to the test on each trip. Travel photography is a highly enjoyable hobby. You could also plan activities in each travel destination that align with your current hobbies. For instance, you can attend cooking classes, practice yoga with other yogis, go to a painting course, surf – whatever your additional hobbies may be, you can celebrate and enjoy them anywhere in the world.

15. Your creativity gets a good boost.

While being exposed to so many things that are out of the norm while traveling, you are sure to get a  creativity  boost. Your mind starts to realize that the way you have always thought and done things is not the  only  way and that’s a great way to start thinking out of the box. 

16. You get to have pure fun.

When you’re at home, having fun can often be tainted by the responsibilities that await you. Perhaps it’s cooking for the family, work the next day, a messy house to clean, and so on. While you are on holiday, there’s nothing else for you to do but have fun. And you will. 

17. You learn the value of solitude and self-care.

I have traveled  alone  on many occasions and truly found the experiences rewarding. Transferring through airports isn’t fun alone; neither is waiting for flights or running into transport issues while trying to get from one attraction to the next. What is fun is being able to do everything you want to do without having to worry about someone else. It’s quite a freeing feeling. It allows you to practice self-care by doing what you want to do and actually spoiling just yourself for a change.

18. You gather interesting stories to tell.

Have you ever sat listening to someone talking at a social gathering and thought “wow, that person is interesting”? Well, now you can be that interesting person. Your travel adventures will definitely change your conversations from small talk to entertaining story-telling. 

19. There is always a new adventure to look forward to.

Often in life we stagnate. Even our hobbies stagnate. You might find yourself doing less gardening or finding less time to head out to that evening pottery class. This is where traveling is a different type of hobby. You will always have an adventure to look forward to and once the travel bug bites, you certainly won’t want to, or allow yourself to stagnate.

20. You learn the value of authentic experiences.

I’m the type of traveler who avoids expensive deals and books things separately. This means that I don’t spend my trip in a luxury resort. I get out there and experience things. When you are driving with a local in a rickety car or sitting in a truly local (not tourist -aimed) restaurant/pub and meeting genuine people, you learn to appreciate the true, realistic things in life. And there’s great value in that.

21. You return feeling refreshed and ready to “go” .

One of the greatest rewards of traveling as a hobby is that you get home feeling refreshed, relaxed, and ready to work because you know that there is another trip coming up in the near future.

After reading through these benefits of traveling as a hobby, how do you feel about it? Are you ready to begin booking your next trip? I think you are!

Lifevif Team

This article was co-authored by our team of in-house and freelance writers, and reviewed by our editors, who share their experiences and knowledge about the "Seven F's of Life".

• Lifevif Team https://www.lifevif.com/author/fj-b7-e-bm-ya_p-d-onxn-tmh-u-hivz/ Your First Tai Chi Class: 10 Key Insights for Beginners
• Lifevif Team https://www.lifevif.com/author/fj-b7-e-bm-ya_p-d-onxn-tmh-u-hivz/ 14 Real Disadvantages and Downsides of Having Neighbors (Problems…)
• Lifevif Team https://www.lifevif.com/author/fj-b7-e-bm-ya_p-d-onxn-tmh-u-hivz/ 16 Benefits / Advantages of Extended Family (#9 is so true!)
• Lifevif Team https://www.lifevif.com/author/fj-b7-e-bm-ya_p-d-onxn-tmh-u-hivz/ Living in Your Car: 16 Compelling Benefits and Advantages

JC Franco is a New York-based editor for Lifevif. He mainly focuses on content about faith, spirituality, personal growth, finance, and sports. He graduated from Mercyhurst University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business, majoring in Marketing. He is a certified tennis instructor who teaches in the New York City Metropolitan area. In terms of finance, he has passed the Level I exam of the CFA program.

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• JC Franco #molongui-disabled-link 16 Benefits / Advantages of Extended Family (#9 is so true!)
• JC Franco #molongui-disabled-link Living in Your Car: 16 Compelling Benefits and Advantages

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IS TRAVEL A HOBBY? The Answer COULD Surprise You!

It is a debate that has raged for a long time. Years, decades, centuries probably. Even recently, people are STILL asking the same question. Is Travel a Hobby?

If you Google the answer, you will come up with a LOT of differing opinions. Many people are very much against the thought of travel being a hobby. There are just as many that claim the total opposite. For mine, I prefer to look at the question of “Is Travel a Hobby?” more logically.

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Table of Contents

Let’s check the definition, travel might be your hobby if…, travel might not be your hobby if…, is travel a hobby the benefits, is travel a hobby the downside, travel is definitely not my hobby, final thoughts.

The best place to begin with a debate such as this is to look at the official definition. So for that, I have gone to the trusty source of Google, and checked the dictionary. The result is this.

Hobby – “an activity done regularly in one’s leisure time for pleasure.”

To me, this seems cut and dried. Is travel a hobby? By the official definition, it certainly seems so.

On the surface.

There are many reasons, though, that it MAY not be. And therein, I believe, lay the conflicting opinions.

There are many reasons that I believe travel would fall into the “hobby” category for many people. Basically, I think that if you regularly plan and book holidays simply for leisure, then travel is a hobby for you. It may not be your MAIN hobby, but it would definitely fit under the category.

Because you are doing it regularly away from your normal place of employment for reasons of pleasure.

Let’s look at it a bit further though. Do you constantly scan travel websites? Do you follow travel blogs? Is your social media crammed with travel photos? Then I have news for you.

Travel is DEFINITELY your hobby!

I know that before I became a full time travel blogger , that was the exact life I was living. I was constantly on Instagram scrolling through amazing travel photos. I was always googling the best places to visit in remote countries on the other side of the world. Every spare minute, travel and travel related topics filled my head.

If this is YOU, then yes, travel IS your hobby.

There is plenty to this side of the debate. For example, I believe that I personally fall squarely into this department.

You see, travel is my profession. I am a travel blogger. Back when I worked full time in an office, received monthly paychecks and travel was only available to me on weekends and holidays, then it was different. Back then, travel was my hobby. Now, it is my profession, and even though I LOVE it and and don’t really see it as a job, the fact remains that it actually is.

I am not the only one in this situation though. So let’s look at a few of the reasons travel might NOT be your hobby.

• Travel is your profession – IE – travel blogger, airline pilot, flight attendant, bus driver, tour guide.
• You Travel for work – Do you fly in fly out to your workplace? Do you work remote? Then THAT travel is definetely NOT a hobby.
• You regularly move around as part of your job – IE – You are an athlete, international businessman, politician. These professions see you on a plane traveling around the world. It is travel for business, not for fun.
• You live a nomadic lifestyle – This one depends upon WHY you live that lifestyle. If you chose it because you love travel, then it could be that travel IS a hobby for you. But in most circumstances, travel has simply become a lifestyle choice.
• You travel as part of another hobby – Are you a stamp collector that travels to conferences and exhibitions? Or another type of collector, and you visit museums as a part of that past time? A hiker that travels to remote regions to climb mountains?

There is no question as to why the question “Is travel a hobby?” causes so much debate. Think about THIS for a minute.

IF you travel as a profession, then what do you do in your spare time? Do you go on holiday? If so, then travel moves from profession INTO a hobby for that period.

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If you do travel as a hobby, then what are the benefits? Certainly there would be a lot of them, as there are many benefits to traveling. Let’s take a look.

• Travel would be an easy Hobby to get into – Think about hobbies, and how hard it is to get started. You can work at many hobbies for years before you see results. With travel, you just book and go!
• You learn a lot – How many hobbies can teach you about other cultures? Other languages?
• You can disconnect – Many people travel on their annual vacations, just so they can get away. Sometimes it is hard to disconnect from your busy lives by staying at home.
• Travel is a great stress reliever – Similar to disconnecting, travel is great for destressing. Get away, leave your problems at home, and lay on a tropical beach drinking cocktails. Your problems can wait!
• Meeting likeminded people – Traveling allows you to meet other people and share experiences like nothing else can.

I could talk all day about how wonderful travel is. Since I left my full time job and began travel blogging , the stress has fallen off me. I am relaxed, and even though travel itself (especially now) is tough and can have its own stress, it is nothing like the stress of a nine to five working for a big, soul sucking corporation.

A downside to Travel? Well, in this day and age, if you can’t think of a downside to travel as a hobby, then you must be living under a rock. But, for your benefit, here are a few.

• Pandemics – Yes, we start with the obvious. With the period that the world has just experienced, there IS a downside to going overseas and being exposed to a virus. Not to mention a possibly expensive quarantine when you return!
• The Price – There are not too many hobbies that would be more expensive than travel. A simple weekend away can cost several hundred dollars. A week long holiday is usually up in the thousands!
• The Time Factor – You can only really actively pursue your hobby when you have annual holidays, or on weekends. Compare this to other hobbies that you can do in your spare time around home.

I travel by choice, but I am also a travel blogger. THAT is the main reason that I travel. Even if I go somewhere for my own personal reasons, I will STILL blog about it. I am still working.

Travel was once my hobby. It is no longer my hobby, which is sad, in a way. I no longer think of traveling, or organize trips just because I want to relax and have fun. Now, everywhere I go and every decision that I make is made with the intention of blogging about that place. If I am going somewhere that I don’t need to blog about, then there must be some other major factor to WHY I am going there.

Travel IS a hobby!

I am certain that it is. But every person would have their own individual ways, means, and intentions when they travel. Weigh these up to assess whether you travel as a hobby, lifestyle, or as your career.

What do YOU think? Let me know in the comments below.

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Is Traveling Really A Hobby?

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 4, 2023 | Living Abroad , Travel Tips

Is traveling a hobby ? Or is it a reward? A lifestyle?

Many travel lovers pick traveling as a hobby – and while this sounds great, we can all ask ourselves – is traveling really a hobby?

I’d say that it depends. For some people, traveling can be a hobby. Personally, I see it more as a lifestyle. That said, there are multiple reasons why one travels and those can influence the way we see traveling.

In this post, we’ll discuss what a hobby is, what traveling is, and then we’ll discover whether traveling is a hobby or not.

What’s A Hobby?

According to Wikipedia, a hobby is considered to be a “regular activity that is done for enjoyment, typically during one’s leisure time.” 

Playing sports, painting, gaming or reading are great examples of what a hobby is.

If we take a minute here to analyze whether traveling fits this definition, we can quickly realize that while traveling can be done for enjoyment, it isn’t a regular activity for most people.

What Is Traveling?

Traveling means going from one place to another – by car, train, plane, or ship. Usually, we travel for pleasure.

Here are some of the main reasons why one decides to travel.

Traveling With A Purpose

Many travelers are traveling to find themselves, build relationships with people around the world, and push the limits of their comfort zones.

This is often why many people take a sabbatical trip or go on a backpacking adventure across the world. They are looking for a challenge, something new.

This is exactly why I started traveling in the first place – I wanted to learn about other cultures, I wanted to connect with people from different countries and I wanted to challenge myself.

Traveling To Relax

Some people travel to relax and escape their routines. This is often the case for travelers who have a couple of holiday weeks every year. 

Usually, holidays are a reward or something to look forward to.

Traveling For A Hobby

Some people travel so that they can practice a hobby in a different destination. This can be the case for people traveling to attend sports events, music festivals, or simply admire paintings in an art museum.

So, as a result, traveling isn’t the main hobby here – the hobby becomes the reason why one travels.

Traveling For Work

Some people travel for work – whether they go on a business trip, for a speaking engagement or to create content as a travel creator.

When someone travels for work, they are busy working. That said, they aren’t traveling for leisure purposes.

Traveling As A Lifestyle

Finally, many digital nomads , remote workers, and expats decide to live and travel abroad for long periods. 

When I first started traveling, I had no idea I’d end up living abroad for so many years – but it just happened. 

Traveling is now part of my lifestyle – and I really can’t imagine my life in any other way.

People travel for different reasons – whether it’s for a permanent lifestyle, a sabbatical year, or as a reward for their hard work. There’s no right or wrong way to travel.

You can learn more about the digital nomad lifestyle on our blog Nomad Life 101 .

I don’t think traveling counts as a hobby. In my case, it’s part of my lifestyle. I’ve been living abroad and traveling abroad for several years now – and that’s just the way I love living my life. I’d say traveling is a passion.

If you’re reading this post thinking “but my hobby is traveling” – well – there’s no right or wrong here.

If you’re spending most of your free time looking for flights and researching destinations – yeah, you probably have a passion for traveling too and yes – this may be your hobby.

That said, traveling is more than just a quick leisure activity – it usually goes for several days and it’s not always just fun and pleasure, ha! (Thinking of you 24-hour bus ride!)

Final Thoughts On Traveling

Finally, it doesn’t really matter whether you think traveling is a hobby or not. I’d say that traveling is a beautiful thing – and I’m just happy we share this common interest.

At the end of the day, it’s a personal thing – you can decide for yourself. 

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How travelling as a hobby opens your mind.

Grab your bags and embark on an adventure that will open your mind and transform your perspective on life. Travelling as a hobby exposes you to different cultures, ways of living, and beliefs that expand your thinking in profound ways.

You gain exposure to diverse customs and norms that challenge your preconceptions. Interacting with locals and immersing yourself in another place teaches you life lessons you can't learn from books or screens. The thrill of exploring the unknown satiates your innate curiosity about the world. Let travel awaken your senses and ignite your passion for living.

Each trip adds a layer of depth and richness to your character that makes you appreciate life's beauty and your place within our shared human experience. Feed your inner wanderlust and become a global citizen - you won't regret where it takes you!

Travelling Teaches You New Perspectives

Travelling as a hobby is one of the best ways to open your mind to new perspectives. When you explore new places, you can't help but learn.

First, travelling exposes you to different ways of living. Staying in a village in the Tuscan countryside or an apartment in Tokyo shows you how daily life varies around the world.

You'll pick up on everything from how people greet each other to how they shop for groceries. These insights into cultural differences will stay with you long after the trip ends.

Second, you gain a deeper appreciation for humanity's shared experiences. Visiting ancient ruins in Greece or China, you feel connected to those who walked there centuries before. Religious sites like Angkor Wat or St. Peter's Basilica inspire awe at humanity's spiritual drive. Wherever you go, you'll find beauty, humour, and passion.

Third, travelling challenges your assumptions and pushes you outside your comfort zone. Eating unfamiliar food in Vietnam or bartering in an open-air market in Morocco, you adapt to new ways of doing things. With an open and curious mindset, you'll find yourself embracing the adventure and learning independence, flexibility and openness along the way.

In the end, travelling as a hobby is all about discovering the richness of human experience in all its diversity. It teaches you that there are many ways of living, believing and being, and they are all equally beautiful. Opening your mind through travel is a gift that keeps on giving.

Experiencing Different Cultures Opens Your Mind

Travelling as a hobby is one of the most mind-opening things you can do. Experiencing different cultures firsthand teaches you life lessons you can't learn any other way.

When you immerse yourself in another place, your eyes open to how people live differently. You see that there are many right ways to eat, dress, work and play. Your preconceptions and judgements start to melt away as you realise we share more similarities than differences.

Travelling teaches patience and adaptability. Things won't always go as planned, so you have to go with the flow. But that's part of the adventure! Each little challenge helps you grow and pushes you outside your comfort zone.

You discover interests and passions you never knew you had. Maybe you fall in love with exotic cuisines or learn a new skill like surfing or salsa dancing. Travelling fuels your curiosity about the world and all the wonder it contains.

Making connections across cultures teaches compassion. When you meet locals and other travellers, you bond over shared experiences. Though you come from different places, you realise how much you have in common. Those fleeting but meaningful connections change how you see yourself and others.

The experiences you gain from travelling shape how you think and feel in profound ways. Your eyes open to new perspectives, and you return home with a broader, brighter view of life. What could be more valuable than that? So get out there - a world of discovery awaits!

Travelling as a Hobby Inspires Wanderlust

Travelling as a hobby is one of the best ways to gain a whole new perspective on life. There's nothing quite like experiencing different cultures and ways of living to open your mind.

Discover Your Wanderlust

Have you felt the irresistible urge to explore the unknown? That restless spirit is your inner wanderlust calling you to adventure. Travelling feeds that desire for discovery in a way that inspires you to keep seeking out new places. Each trip you take will only increase your curiosity about the world around you.

Meet Interesting People

There are so many fascinating people out there living in ways you've never imagined. Travelling allows you to connect with people from all walks of life. Strike up a conversation with a local and you may gain insight into their daily experiences, values, and dreams - and also make a new friend. These meaningful interactions with people from diverse backgrounds help foster understanding and compassion.

Experience Natural Wonders

Our planet is filled with breathtaking natural beauty in all shapes and sizes. From the grandeur of massive mountains to the peacefulness of a secluded beach, travelling exposes you to the wonders of nature in a profoundly moving way. Exploring natural landscapes reminds us of the fragility of these spaces and our connection to the environment.

Learn Valuable Life Lessons

Travelling teaches you invaluable life lessons you can't learn from books. Dealing with the unexpected challenges of navigating a new place builds resilience and problem-solving skills. Witnessing different ways of life imparts wisdom about what really matters. The memories you make exploring the world will stay with you forever, shaping your perspective and priorities in life.

Let your wanderlust run free! Travelling as a hobby rewards you with a wealth of experience that cultivates an open and curious mind. The people you meet, the natural wonders you see and the life lessons you learn will inspire you to keep exploring. Pack your bags - adventure awaits!

The Thrill of Exploring the Unknown

The thrill of exploring the unknown is one of the greatest rewards of making travel a hobby. Who doesn't love discovering new places for the first time? There's something magical about wandering through a foreign city without an agenda, stumbling upon hidden gems around each corner.

As you venture into the unfamiliar, your mind opens to new possibilities. You start to see the world through a fresh set of eyes, gaining new perspectives that challenge your preconceptions. Travel teaches you that there are many ways to live and be happy. You realise that people everywhere share the same basic hopes, dreams and desires, even if they express them differently.

Exploring exotic destinations transports you to different times and cultures. You can immerse yourself in ancient history one day, then fast forward to experience tomorrow's modern architectural and technological wonders the next. Every trip adds richness and depth to your understanding of the world.

The thrill of spontaneous adventure is intoxicating. Go ahead, take that unplanned detour or side trip. Strike up a conversation with a local and get their recommendations for hidden gems. Accept those invitations from new friends to join in cultural experiences you might otherwise miss. Some of the best travel memories are unscripted.

Venturing into the unknown reawakens your sense of wonder and curiosity. You rediscover the excitement of trying new foods, learning bits of foreign languages, and navigating public transit in an unfamiliar city. Pushing yourself outside your comfort zone helps you grow as a person and gain confidence in yourself and your ability to adapt to change.

Travel as a hobby rewards you with a lifetime of meaningful experiences, relationships and treasured memories. The more you explore, the more you realise how much there is yet to discover. The thrill of exploring the unknown never gets old! Open your mind to new adventures, and the world will open its doors for you.

Valuable Life Lessons Learned Through Travel

Travelling as a hobby opens your mind in so many ways. It teaches you life lessons you can't learn from books or in a classroom. Here are some of the valuable life lessons you'll gain from frequent travel:

Adaptability

Travel exposes you to unfamiliar surroundings and the unexpected. You learn to go with the flow and adapt to different cultures and circumstances. Your problem-solving skills improve as you navigate language barriers, get lost, or have to make last minute changes to plans.

Open-mindedness

Experiencing different ways of living and perspectives challenges you to question your own assumptions and prejudices. You realise there are many right ways to live, and you become more tolerant and open-minded.

Facing the unknown during travel helps build your self-confidence and resilience. Whether it's trying exotic foods, meeting new people, or navigating a bustling foreign city, travel pushes you outside your comfort zone in a way that boosts your self-assurance.

Travel reminds you of how much you have to be grateful for. Seeing how little many people in the world live with gives you a greater appreciation for things you may take for granted like healthcare, infrastructure, and access to education. You return home with a sense of gratitude and contentment.

Life Purpose

Travel exposes you to different ways of living and being, which can help give you clarity on what's really important to you. You may find your life's purpose or make important life decisions after gaining a broader perspective from your journeys.

In summary, the life lessons you learn from frequent travel are invaluable. Travel truly is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer. So, get out there - your mind is waiting to be opened!

You owe it to yourself to make travelling a priority in your life. Open your mind to new experiences, embrace different cultures, and gain valuable life lessons along the way. Every trip, no matter how short or long, will teach you something about yourself and expand your perspective of the world. Don't wait for the perfect time or make excuses about responsibilities holding you back. Pack your bags, book that ticket, and just go. Adventure is out there, so what are you waiting for? The world has so much to offer, you simply have to take that first step out the door. Make travelling your hobby and open your mind to growth and possibility. Life is meant for exploring, so start exploring today!

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Is Traveling A Hobby? 10 Reasons Why It Is

Are you traveling as a hobby? Do you love to travel? Or do you just enjoy going places? Whatever the case, you should consider making travel a part of your lifestyle. There are many benefits to being able to travel as a hobby. Here are ten reasons why traveling as a hobby is awesome.

This article will explore the benefits of traveling as a hobby. We will also look at how to make travel a hobby that pays off.

Is Traveling A Hobby?

Traveling is a hobby for many people. But not everyone who travels does so because they’re passionate about travel. Some people need a break from work and routine life. Others travel to escape stress and boredom at home. Still, others travel to experience different cultures and lifestyles. Whatever the reason, traveling is a great hobby.

But there’s no doubt that traveling is expensive. So where should you go? The answer depends on whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation.

If you’re looking for adventure, consider visiting exotic locations like Africa, Asia, South America, Australia, Europe, and North America. These places offer unique experiences and sights you won’t find anywhere else. And you’ll be able to meet interesting locals along the way.

On the other hand, if you’re seeking relaxation, consider going somewhere warm and sunny. Places like Hawaii, Florida, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Thailand are ideal destinations for this purpose. They offer beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and plenty of sunshine.

Of course, you can combine these two approaches. For example, you may visit some tropical islands in the Caribbean during the winter months. Or you may spend spring vacation in the mountains of Colorado. Either way, you’ll have a memorable trip.

10 Benefits of Traveling as a Hobby

Traveling as a hobby is a fantastic opportunity to explore different cultures, meet new people and live a unique experience. But what are the benefits of traveling as a hobby? Let’s look at some reasons why travel is good as a hobby.

1. You Learn New Things

When you travel as a hobby, you go out there because you want to see something new. This allows you to discover new places, cities, countries, foods, arts, etc. When you travel, you become curious about everything around you and start learning new things. You try new dishes, listen to local music, read books written in foreign languages, etc. All these experiences help you grow as a person and make you smarter.

2. You Improve Your Knowledge

Traveling helps you develop your mind . By seeing how other people live, you better understand yourself. You realize where you stand regarding culture, politics, economy, etc. And you understand how others perceive you. If you want to know what people think about you, just travel.

3. You Appreciate Life and Its Beauty

You appreciate life when you travel. You enjoy every moment of your trip, and you feel happy while doing it. In addition, you find peace within yourself when you travel. You don’t worry about anything anymore; you just focus on enjoying the present moment.

4. Understanding Different Cultures

Traveling helps us understand other people better. When we travel, our brains are stimulated, and we start thinking differently about ourselves and others. This makes it easier for us to empathize and connect with different people.

We should always try to learn some new thing every day. Take a class if you don’t know how to speak another language. Or even just read a book. Learning something new every day will help you grow as a person.

Don’t let fear stop you from trying new things. There are many reasons why you might feel afraid to do something new. But there are ways to overcome those fears. You could join a club where you meet like-minded people. Or maybe you want to go skydiving but worry that you won’t make it down safely. Try practicing jumping off a cliff into the water. Once you master that skill, jumping out of a plane becomes much easier.

5. Seeing Amazing Places

Traveling is discovering that everyone else is wrong about another country. Seeing amazing places will change your perspective on life. You’ll never see the same place twice. And it does not just travel; seeing amazing things makes us appreciate everyday life even more.

We often look at photographs and assume we already know what they are like, but seeing them ourselves changes everything. Some people say that looking at photos doesn’t do anything for them. But I disagree. Looking at images helps me understand my surroundings better. When I’m traveling, I try to take lots of pictures because I want to remember every detail of my trip. Afterward, I go through them and choose the ones I like best. I always find something new in each one.

When you travel, you learn to appreciate the little things. You notice the colors, smells, sounds, tastes, and textures that make up your environment. You become aware of your surroundings and recognize the beauty around you.

I’ve been taking pictures since I was a kid. I used to love looking at old family albums and remembering my childhood. Now that I’m older, I still enjoy looking at old photos. They remind me of where I came from and help me connect with my parent’s generation.

If you haven’t traveled much, now might be a perfect time . There are many ways to spend less money while exploring the world. For example, you can use sites like Airbnb to rent rooms in someone’s home. Or, you could volunteer abroad. These experiences let you meet locals and experience culture firsthand.

You don’t have to save up tons of cash to travel. If you have a flexible schedule, there are plenty of low-cost options. You can check out cheap flights and hostels online. Once you arrive, you can explore local markets, museums, and monuments for free.

There are countless reasons why traveling is good for your health . First, it keeps you active. Second, it teaches you patience. Third, it opens your mind to different cultures. Fourth, it gives you a chance to relax and unwind. Fifth, it lets you escape stress. Sixth , it reminds you that you’re alive. Seventh, it strengthens relationships with friends and family. Lastly, it allows you to discover yourself.

6. Meeting New People

Traveling makes new friendships possible. You meet people from different places, cultures, and countries. This is why traveling is such a great way to make friends. When you travel, you are forced to interact with people you wouldn’t normally encounter. This is good because it opens up opportunities to develop relationships with people you might never otherwise meet.

Traveling teaches you how to talk to strangers. As we’ve mentioned, talking to strangers is one of the best ways to make new friends. Start chatting if you’re looking for someone to hang out with, go to a bar or club, or just sit down at a bus stop. Chances are there’s someone nearby that wants to chat too.

Travelling allows you to learn something new. There are so many things about the world that you don’t know. Whether it’s learning another language, trying new cuisine, or exploring a place you haven’t been before, traveling provides you with the chance to learn something new. And even though you’ll probably forget most of what you learned, it’s still a worthwhile experience.

7. Learning a New Language

Learning a language should be fun. And watching cartoons, listening to music, or playing video games will help you learn basic vocabulary quicker. But traveling abroad will accelerate your progress. You’ll meet people from different cultures, and it’s easy to connect with others when you speak their native tongue. Plus, it’s great practice for communicating with locals—and you’ll find yourself speaking much better English than before.

8. Self Reflection

Traveling gives us time to think about ourselves and how we are living. We can reflect on what we want out of life and how we can improve it. Traveling helps us renew and refresh our minds. We can learn something new every day. And traveling allows us to see the whole picture of the world.

Travelling is one of those things that you never really know whether you are doing right or wrong. You might go on a trip and come back a completely different person. But there is no doubt that traveling makes you a better version of yourself.

9. Accomplishment

Accomplishments are what we strive for throughout our lives. We work hard towards them and feel good when we achieve them. They give us a sense of pride and accomplishment. When we travel, it allows us to see the world and experience different cultures. This way, we can understand ourselves better .

10. Becoming Comfortable Being Uncomfortable

Traveling helps us grow mentally, physically, and emotionally. We can learn a lot about ourselves while traveling. If you don’t know what to do with your life, travel might help you figure out where you want to go next. You can also use travel to develop skills you didn’t think you had. And sometimes, you just need to step outside your comfort zone.

Is Traveling A Hobby? Conclusion

In conclusion, traveling is a hobby that everyone has the potential to become passionate about. There are countless places around the globe where you can visit, from the tropical beaches of Hawaii to the bustling cities of Asia. No matter which part of the world you choose to explore, you’ll never run out of exciting destinations to discover.

But whether you decide to travel solo or with a group, there are plenty of ways to maximize your experiences. For example, look for deals that include free nights or discounts on activities like tours and excursions instead of booking flights based solely on price. By doing so, you can save hundreds of dollars without sacrificing quality.

Another option is to book multiple trips during the same trip. This allows you to spend less overall because you won’t have to pay for each flight separately. Plus, you’ll have more flexibility than ever before. Instead of committing to a specific itinerary, you can choose your favorite spots along the way.

Finally, don’t overlook the power of social media. While Facebook and Twitter aren’t hobbies, they can help you connect with fellow travelers who share your interests. Many people use these sites to plan their entire vacations, including finding cheap flights and accommodations. So rather than spending hours searching for information online, you can post questions directly to other travelers. They’ll be able to provide you with insider knowledge and advice that you wouldn’t otherwise receive.

As you can see, there are endless opportunities for you to turn your travels into a lifelong passion. So what are you waiting for?! Get out there and start exploring!

About Skillabilly Editorial Staff

The Editorial Staff at Skillabilly is a team of Personal and professional experts in the education and career services industry led by Shalev Morag. We have been creating Skill guides and tutorials since 2022, and Skillabilly has become an impactful free skills and abilities resource site in the industry.

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Why you should take your hobby with you when traveling

Nov 12, 2019 • 6 min read

Taking a cooking class is a great way to get a deeper understanding of culture as well as meet other travelers © Anders Ryman / Getty Images

Pursuing a passion can be difficult when you’re frequently on the road. Schedules get disrupted, classes and events are missed. But the good news is that loving travel doesn’t mean you always have to choose between your wanderings and your hobby or side hustle. You might even discover a new one while you’re gone!

In addition to being a writer, I’m also an aerialist and aerial instructor. I fell in love with the world of aerial acrobatics several years ago thanks to a Groupon and an aversion to traditional fitness classes, and now I spend as much of my time as I can in the air. That said, the activity exercises muscles that aren’t always used in daily life, or even at the gym — hand grip, forearm strength, the ability to lift your legs above your head, etc. How do I stay on top of training when I’m away from home?

I began seeking out aerial classes in the places I travel, and I’ve had some of my most wonderful experiences with the aerial community to date. Not only have I learned new skills in the air, but I’ve benefited from different teaching techniques and gotten chances to polish up my analytical skills in a different language. I took aerial hammock class in Paris , tested my acrobatic endurance in tropical heat in Mexico , learned aerial rope skills in one of London ’s railway arches and nerded out at the Montreál Cirque Festival — each destination felt even richer thanks to my time in the local circus community.

Passions and hobbies come in many forms — read the stories below and get inspired for your next trip.

Travel for the live music junkie

A few coworkers and I have music backgrounds, all playing instruments from hobby to professional level. When we are on the road for work, we always look for something music or arts related to break up the stress of work week. Being able to enjoy something we are passionate about brings the stress level down and brings me a level of joy that not much else can match. We have been to Voodoo Fest and all kinds of music venues in New Orleans , a metal concert in Pittsburgh , Phantom of the Opera in Baltimore , a steakhouse with live jazz music in Orlando to name a few.

Cassie Malmquist, Tennessee

Snuba, anyone?

[My husband] and I typically go on vacation near the ocean, and about six years ago we discovered an activity called Snuba – a cross between snorkeling and scuba that doesn’t require certification but allows the use of an oxygen tank to stay under water. I’m not a strong swimmer and found a scuba training session overwhelming, so it’s been a good in between for us! We’ve sought it out on all trips since. So far we’ve done snuba in Grand Cayman , St. Thomas, Maui , and the Great Barrier Reef !

Amanda Wahrer, Colorado

Find the stars

One of my hobbies is stargazing. I grew up under the New Mexico sky and my dad passed his love for astronomy on to me by always taking us out to look through his telescope when we were kids. When I moved to a big city, I realized how much I missed seeing the stars, because there is so much light pollution. I started incorporating stargazing purposefully into my travel plans just because it's something I can't really experience at home in London. Some of the best night skies I've had were in Central Asia – remote Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have some of the clearest, darkest, starriest skies on earth. I also made a pilgrimage to the Cosmic Campground in my home state – it's a dedicated dark-skies site with low light pollution and platforms for telescope setup. My interest in astronomy has also taken me on hunts for cool space-themed museums, one of the best of which was the Museum of Cosmonautics in Moscow , where you can see Belka and Strelka – the first two dogs to go into space – preserved in taxidermy for the world to pay tribute!

Megan Eaves, UK

Nature’s treasure hunt

My travel hobbies include looking for rocks and mushrooms. Since traveling out west [USA], I’ve been interested in the geology and the hidden ecology of the lands that I visit. The Tucson mountains have rocks with strands of mica, giving a beautiful sparkle under the desert sun to the earth tones amidst the saguaro cacti in Tanque Verde . Bryce Canyon in Utah amazes me with its hoodoos formed by temperature extremes. Snow Canyon is striated with black volcanic rock from ancient volcanoes. I like to hold the rocks in my hands and absorb the warmth of the sun. On a recent trip to Lake Saint Clair along the US/ Canada border, I looked for mushrooms in the woods, peeking under trees and leaves to see how many different varieties I could find. It’s like a scavenger hunt for small treasures that most of the time we’d pass by without noticing. This sort of exploring helps me learn about the natural history, to connect to and feel grounded in the places I visit.

Christy Rose, Tennessee

Cook up new experiences

I am passionate about cooking and improving my kitchen skills at home everyday. So, each time I travel, I try to find a local cooking class and I always learn so much more than I could by following a recipe. Peruvian ceviche. Pasta in Italy . Paprikash in Hungary . Krapo in Thailand . The best part, though, is meeting the chefs and other students from around the world.  

Jon Phillips, Illinois

Hit the dance floor with new friends

My two passions apart from my job are dancing and traveling, so why not mix them up together? I do many styles of dances: salsa, bachata, merengue, kizomba, Argentine tango, swing, contra dancing, waltz, a little bit of flamenco – I try pretty much anything “danceable.” I have danced in Colombia , Mexico, Spain and the United States , and I had incredible experiences in cities like Salento, Medellín, Oaxaca, Ciudad de México, Boston, New Orleans and Seville. I travel solo a lot, and dancing has been a fantastic way to meet people, to discover different [dance] styles, and, of course, feel fulfilled. I feel like dancers in general are pretty open and social, and I usually find friends to share experiences with, which makes my trips super special! 

Lucía Fraile, Kentucky

I enjoy reading local books while on location, attending readings and joining a local book club, if I can. Sites like Meetup help you find local book clubs you can join, while bookstores are great places to learn about readings and sign up for clubs. I've done it in the Virgin Islands, France , Iceland , Ireland , and Mexico; Shakespeare and Company in Paris, for instance, hosts the Feminist Book Club every 3rd Sunday of the month and anyone can join. Reading is a strong way of immersing in another culture and way of thinking. You are able to discuss different subjects with locals and understand how they experience life. Travel is a great way of widening our perspectives, of being more aware of how others live, and books are, to me, cultural and social barometers we can use to see a place beyond the surface.

Melissa Alvarado Sierra, Puerto Rico 

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• Is Traveling a Hobby? (Learn About Travelling as a Hobby)

by Hammad Ur Rehman | Apr 16, 2023 | Travel Guide | 3 comments

Whether you are a seasoned traveler or just starting out, it is hard to deny that traveling has been a big part of your life. Traveling can be a huge source of enjoyment, but sometimes it can also be a bit stressful and overwhelming . In this article, we will look at what traveling is all about, and how to make sure you can enjoy the journey without getting overwhelmed.

Do you love to travel? Do you want to turn your passion into a profession? If so, read on to learn about the ins and outs of traveling as a career or hobby.

 Is Traveling a Hobby: Let’s Learn All About Traveling as A Hobby

Some people might say yes, while others might disagree. For some, it’s a go-to activity when they have free time and are looking for an adventure. They enjoy packing their bags and exploring new places. And for others, it can be a way to relax and explore new cultures. Also for some people, it’s not their cup of tea. They prefer to stay at home. But there are many benefits to taking some time away from home . Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply want to relax, travel can be just what you need. Also, whether or not traveling is considered a hobby, it’s definitely something that many people enjoy.

Traveling As a Hobby

Some people like to travel because they want to see different cultures and experience new things. For others, it’s a way to relax and escape the everyday grind. And then there are those who travel as a hobby.

If you’re the latter, then you probably have a passion for planning trips, researching destinations, and finding the best deals. You might even have a blog or vlog where you share your travel experiences with others.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or you like to travel with a group, there are plenty of ways to turn your passion for travel into a hobby. Here are a few ideas:

1. Join A Travel Club or Group.

This is a great way to meet other like-minded travelers and swap tips, advice, and stories. There are clubs and groups for all kinds of travelers, from budget-minded backpackers to luxury lovers.

2. Start Planning Your Dream Trip.

If you’ve always wanted to visit a certain destination or see a certain sight, start planning your trip. Research flights, accommodation, and things to do. Create a budget and start saving. The more you plan, the more excited you’ll get – and the closer you’ll be to making your dream trip a reality.

3. Volunteer with A Travel Organization.

Many organizations offer volunteer opportunities abroad, from teaching English to helping with conservation projects. Not only will you get to travel to some amazing places, but you’ll also be making a difference in the lives of others.

4. Get A Job In The Travel Industry.

If you want to make a career out of your love of travel, there are plenty of options. You could work as a travel agent, a tour guide, or in customer service for an airline or hotel. There are also many jobs in the tourism industry, from marketing and PR to event planning.

5. Write About Your Travels.

If you’re a good writer, why not share your travel experiences with the world? Start a blog or write for online travel magazines. You could even compile your best stories into a book.

6. Take Photos or Make Videos of Your Travels.

If you’re a creative type, you might enjoy documenting your travels through photography or video. You could start a travel blog or YouTube channel, or even sell your photos or videos online.

7. Collect Souvenirs from Your Travels.

Souvenirs are a great way to remember your travels and share your experiences with others. You could start a collection of keychains, magnets, postcards, or anything else that catches your eye.

8. Learn About Different Cultures.

If you’re interested in learning about different cultures, why not focus your travels on visiting different countries? You could learn about the history, religion, and traditions of each place you visit. Or, if you’re more of a foodie, you could try different cuisines from around the world .

9. Help Others Plan Their Trips.

If you’re a seasoned traveler with plenty of tips and advice to share, you could help others plan their own trips. You could start a travel planning business, or even offer your services for free to family and friends.

10. Give Back to The Places You Visit.

If you’re looking for a way to give back to the places you visit, there are many options. You could volunteer at a local school or orphanage, or donate money or supplies to a worthy cause. Or, if you have a skill or trade, you could offer your services to help with community projects.

Conclusion 

As we learned in this post, there are many ways to turn your love of travel into a hobby. Whether you’re a solo traveler or you like to travel with a group, traveling is a great way to see the world, learn about different cultures, and make new friends.

If you love to travel, there are many ways to turn your passion into a hobby. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next trip today!

Places to Visit in Melbourne

• Must have things for Hiking

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21 EPIC Travel Hobbies for Every Type of Traveler (2024)

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Most people think of hobbies as something you do at home. 

Playing guitar, woodworking, or painting — these are things you leave behind when you step on the plane, right?

Not so fast.

Many normal hobbies can be turned into travel hobbies.

Traveling hobbies make travel even more fun. And if you’re on the road long term, they can keep you sane. One of my backpacking hobbies even helped me meet my wife while abroad!

So, whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or are planning your very first trip, choose one of these awesome travel hobbies to take your adventure to the next level. 

Table of Contents

Creative travel hobby ideas 

Outdoor travel hobbies, cultural traveling hobbies , travel-related hobbies you can do at home , which traveling hobbies are right for you, epic travel hobbies for every type of traveler.

Most of the best travel hobbies can be broken down into four categories:

• Creative hobbies
• Adventurous hobbies
• Cultural hobbies
• Travel-related hobbies you can do at home

You can skip to the section that looks most interesting to you. Or better yet, choose one hobby to pick up from each category.

Travel is an excellent way to unleash your creative side. Best of all, most creative travel hobbies are easily portable, making them the perfect outlet to document your adventures.

1. Photography  

Let’s get the obvious one out of the way first. Everyone loves some fun holiday snaps, but if you really get into it, photography can change your entire travel experience.

You don’t need to invest loads in a fancy camera (unless you want to). Most recent smartphones are more than enough to get started. Use what you have, and don’t let a lack of professional equipment stop you from starting.

Youtube is a great resource to learn new photography skills. You can also take a bunch of awesome photography courses on this platform for free. 

2. Sketching

Sketching is like photography on steroids. 

Snapping a photo of a beautiful mountain is one thing. But enjoying its majesty for extended periods, focusing on all the details while carefully drawing the scenery—now that is a landscape you’ll never forget.

Don’t expect masterpieces as a beginner. Your first drawings probably won’t be anything to write home about. 

But even if they’re ugly, they’ll still be special. Plus, practice makes perfect.

When just starting, it can be tricky figuring out what to draw and how to practice. If you’re feeling “artist’s block”, search for drawing idea inspiration online. 

Start by carrying a simple pencil and sketchbook in your backpack. If you get hooked, you can upgrade to other art supplies.

Alternatively, you can carry an iPad (or other tablet) and make digital sketches.

3. Journaling

A journal is a traveler’s best friend.

Disciplining yourself to write every day isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. I like to quickly jot down the events of the day, but more importantly, write out my thoughts and feelings connected to those events.

Over the years, these memories start to fade. And if you have a journal full of all your adventures, you can relive them whenever you want.

You can up your travel journal game even further by adding in sketches, artwork, watercolors, and even unique souvenirs (e.g., boarding passes, postcards, etc.). 

In addition to my personal journal, I also carry around a “Friend’s I Meet” journal. Whenever I make a friend, I ask them to draw a picture of the memory we had together, then sign it. 

It’s one of my most prized possessions.

4. Videography and blogging

Videos capture the moment better than photos. There’s no question about it. 

In fact, that’s one of the reasons we started our Youtube channel . We were trapped on a remote Cambodian island during the pandemic, and we wanted a way to relive our adventures when we’re old and wrinkly.

One thing led to another, and now our channel earns a nice passive income each month — Win-win!

The same goes for this blog. It started as a hobby, and eventually morphed into an awesome travel-friendly job .

But even if you never earn a cent, you can use a blog like a versatile, virtual journal.

You can add images, videos, journal entries…whatever your heart desires (although you’ll want to leave out private details). And unlike a physical journal, you won’t have to worry about losing it or getting stuck in an unexpected rainstorm.

This definitely isn’t the most portable traveling hobby. But if you can cope with lugging a small musical instrument with you, it can certainly be one of the most sociable. 

If you’re musically inclined but aren’t keen on hauling around an instrument, you’ve got options. 

Why not hire a local music teacher to give you lessons on a traditional instrument from the region? This can be a fantastic way to immerse yourself in a culture and practice your language skills.

If playing music isn’t your thing, you can still turn music into a travel hobby. For example, when in Cali, Colombia — the Salsa Capital of the World — hit up a salsa show like Delirio. Or if you’re headed to Vienna, consider a night out at the opera. 

Look for opportunities to experience the local music scene wherever you go.

Got a taste for adventure? Whether you’re an adrenaline junky or simply love getting out in the fresh air, these outdoor travel hobby ideas will spice up your trip.

What could be simpler than going out for a walk? 

Even if your idea of a “hike” is just a stroll around the neighborhood you’re staying in, you’ll be surprised what jumps out at you when you’re exploring on your own two feet. 

But maybe a leisurely traipse through the local market doesn’t cut it for you. 

Some of us are crazy enough to spend hard-earned vacations sleeping on the ground out in the wild. There’s nothing quite like wondering whether every small noise you hear is a hungry animal looking to chew on a meaty hiker.

If you fall in love with hiking, it may turn into even more than a hobby. Many travelers plan their entire itineraries based on trekking opportunities. 

This is especially true in the United States, where there are an estimated 57.8 million active hikers . This is no surprise considering the vast hiking infrastructure and stunning national parks.

But international hiking trips are also popular with adventurous travelers.

We traveled to Chile with the sole purpose of hiking the O trek in Torres del Paine, Patagonia. Was it the most comfortable travel experience in the world? Definitely not.

We almost starved to death. My wife cried daily. And a stomach bacteria in the water gave me the squirts for three weeks.

Nevertheless, I wouldn’t trade that experience for the world. 

Tip: Don’t forget to download offline maps like Google maps and Maps.me before you go traveling. Google maps once saved me from getting lost in the desert! AllTrails is another must-have for hikers.

7. Kayaking

Kayaking is one of the most underrated travel hobbies. 

You obviously can’t pack a boat with you in your backpack. That’s silly.

But you can rent them near many touristic bodies of water.

It’s an awesome way to experience beautiful scenery from a different perspective. 

You can also choose different levels of adrenaline — from hardcore whitewater canoeing and kayaking to lazily floating around a calm lake.

If you’re lucky, you may even bump into some cool animals along the way.

8. Wildlife watching

I never appreciated wildlife watching until I started traveling.

Growing up, my only experience was school field trips to the zoo (which in retrospect is a little depressing). But spotting wild beasts in their natural environment is a whole different ball game. 

Whether you’re bird-watching in Colombia, safari-ing in Africa, or exploring untouched nature in the Galapagos Islands, mashing travel with animals is a great way to give purpose to your trip. 

You could even make a bucket list of all the animals you want to see in the wild, then choose your destinations based on where you can find them.

9. Diving 

Diving opens up a whole new world to explore when traveling — the underwater world. 

This is a traveling hobby I recommend everyone try. The longer you wait to get your diving certification, the more destinations you’ll miss where you could have gone scuba diving. 

Two of the top (AKA cheapest) to get certified are Koh Tao, Thailand and Roatán, Honduras. I did my Open and Advanced certifications back-to-back on Koh Tao, and I can’t recommend it enough. My travel partner loved it so much that she seriously considered switching career paths to become a scuba instructor.

So this hobby could potentially turn into a full-fledged travel job. 

You could also combine it with another hobby on this list — photography. Here are the world’s best dive destinations for underwater photography.

That said, it’s not for everyone — it can be a bit stressful for some people — but you’ll never know until you try. 

Just watch out for sharks (Kidding! …kind of).

If scuba diving intimidates you, you could also try your hand at snorkeling and free diving. Sometimes you don’t need to go deep to see awesome stuff.

10. Stargazing

Stargazing might well be the easiest hobby on this list. Ever looked up at the night sky? That’s it, you’re stargazing!

There’s more to it though. 

If you take the time to understand what you’re actually looking at, it’s pretty fascinating, especially for space nerds (myself included).

When you travel to different parts of the world, you see different constellations. To help you identify them, you can use free apps like Star Chart (there’s a bunch of similar apps as well).

To take it to the next level, travel to destinations known for little light pollution. Once you get an unpolluted glimpse of the Milky Way, it may even inspire you to try your hand at night photography. 

Cultural hobbies help you immerse yourself in the local culture. Instead of thinking of them as hobbies, think of them as a foundation for your travels (which begs the question, is traveling a hobby in and of itself? Hmm…). After all, if you don’t get a taste of the local culture, why bother traveling across the planet in the first place?

11. Language learning

If you can only choose one cultural hobby, this should be it.

Learning the basics of the local language is your portal to unique, unforgettable opportunities. 

Sure, you can probably survive with just English, but it’ll be a superficial cultural experience. 

Even the most broken attempt at speaking the local tongue will endear you to the locals. It allows you to venture to areas where English isn’t commonly understood, and that’s where the best travel memories are made.

Make it a goal to learn the basics wherever you go. Greetings, numbers, foods, directions, bartering skills (“That’s expensive! How about __?”), and of course, how to ask for the bathroom.

To learn even more, consider taking lessons in your destination. I once did a 5-week homestay with a local family in Guatemala while taking daily lessons. Immersing myself made my Spanish “click”, and it’s an experience I’ll never forget.

12. Dancing

Nowadays, this is my go-to travel hobby. I never expected it to be, but as I passed through Cali, Colombia, I figured it’d be a waste not to take a salsa class while in the Salsa Capital of the World.

That one class turned into two. Which turned into several hundred, property investments, and the love of my life.

Now we scope out the salsa scene wherever we travel. We’ve even started planning trips specifically to learn different dance styles (tango in Argentina, bachata in the Dominican Republic, etc.)

It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in a culture, make friends with locals, learn a new skill, and stay fit on the road.

Don’t be the traveler who flies across the globe just to eat the same chicken wings and pizza you can get at home (unless you’re in Italy, perhaps).

Eating traditional food from different countries can be your travel hobby.

In fact, many travelers have built successful blogs and Youtube channels doing exactly that — traveling to new places with the sole intent of tasting all the yummy foods.

And it’s not all about yumminess. It can also be an adventure.

Maybe you make it your travel goal to try all the most “exotic” foods — crickets, spiders, alligators, frogs. This obviously isn’t a vegetarian-friendly hobby, but these experiences always turn into crazy stories to share with friends and fam.

If you’re traveling with friends, it’s also fun to all choose something different from the menu without knowing what it is.

Eating at small local joints can feel intimidating, but they often have some of the best, most authentic food. Just make sure to choose a place where you see a lot of locals eating. If it’s empty, think twice. 

And if you’re not quite that adventurous, you can also find food tours that will take you to all the best spots — places you’d never find alone.

We tried a Bangkok street food tour and a tour to find the best food in Athens, Greece — and both were scrumptious.

14. Cooking

Cooking is one of the best backpacking hobbies — and you may even pick it up without even trying.

If you stay in hostels with communal kitchens for long enough, you’re guaranteed to meet travelers from all over the world with mad cooking skills.

When you see someone whipping up a delicious-looking dish, it’s the perfect excuse to introduce yourself. You’ll not only add a new recipe to your repertoire, but you’ll also add a new friend. 

Apart from hostels, you could also make it your hobby to take cooking classes in each country you visit. During my very first backpacking trip, I took a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai — and I’m still using some of those cooking skills six years later.

15. Collecting cool stuff

There’s nothing quite like trawling through the local markets and shops in different countries. You never know what you’re going to find. 

Souvenir hunting (in local markets) not only requires you to dip into local culture, but you’ll also come away with a cool travel do-dad that forever reminds you of your trip. 

You can visit markets without knowing what you’ll find. Or you can hunt for a specific type of item. For example, my wife used to always buy picture frames from each destination. Now we have nowhere to store hundreds of picture frames, so we switched to magnets. 

Another family member collects license plates from each destination, which make cool decorations. 

Unless you choose a small item, souvenir collecting is best for short trips. If you’re traveling long-term, it’s best to either (1) save your shopping until the end, or (2) give gifts to friends you meet along your journey.

16. Wine tasting

If you’ve got “finer tastes” (I’m not sure why people say that), you can mix wine and travel for a buzzing hobby.

I never really appreciated wine until visiting the Concha y Toro vineyard near Santiago, Chile. It was quite fascinating. 

And no two vineyards are the same. 

You can imbibe your way around the world, visiting top wine regions like France, Spain, New Zealand, California , and even South Africa . 

Then, whenever you buy a wine from a certain region, it’ll remind you of your trip.

The pandemic threw a wrench in many of our travel plans. Fortunately, there’s plenty of travel-related hobbies you can do at home to inspire and prepare you for your next adventure — whenever that may be. 

17. Scrapbooking 

It can be hard to throw away travel memorabilia like ticket stubs, receipts, and foreign money you forgot to exchange. Some people call it hoarding. I call it nostalgia. 

If you’re inundated with bits of random travel paper, scrapbooking might be your thing. 

It’s an awesome hobby to unleash your creativity to design beautiful memory books of your adventures.

Nowadays, most people just have hard drives crammed full of pictures they rarely look at. But a scrapbook on your coffee table is a surefire way to keep your experiences fresh in your mind.

If you share them with house guests, you may even inspire them to take an adventure of their own. 

18. Reading

If you can’t go there just yet, reading about a destination is the next best thing. 

In fact, it’ll even enhance your experience once you are able to travel there. It allows you to experience a destination at a deeper level.

For example, when visiting Cambodia, I read a heartbreaking book about the Khmer Rouge genocide. 

Whenever we were traveling overland by bus, I looked out at the countryside and could imagine everything that happened there back in the 70s.

Whether you read history books or fictional tales based on a certain destination, it’s bound to inspire your next adventure.

19. Planning your next trip

What better way to get over the lockdown blues than planning your next trip? 

A recent study shows that travel planning during COVID lockdowns reduced stress and increased happiness among respondents. 

Even if the trip is a year away, simply the act of planning and anticipation can boost your mood.

Heck, you don’t even have to book anything. Simply researching different destinations and dreaming of the places you could go and the routes you could take can be enough to cheer you up.

That said, if you’re itching to get out of the house, a short getaway to a nearby town or attraction can give you the same feelings. You don’t have to jetset across the world for an adventure — there are plenty to be had in your own backyard.

20. Learning outdoor skills

You don’t need to go any further than your backyard to unleash your inner Bear Grylls.

Upgrading your camping chops is a great way to temporarily scratch the travel itch. And when you do finally get the chance to travel, you’ll be armed with skills for a new type of adventure. 

To get your feet wet, find a hiking trail near your house that allows backpacking. Stock up on outdoor gear — a lightweight tent, sleeping pad, cookware, etc. — and head out into nature for the night.

If you’ve never done anything like that before, it might be best to rent or borrow gear. Then if you like it, you can invest in your own and eventually work your way up to longer, multi-day treks all over the world. 

21. Meditation

Meditation is a hobby that will benefit anyone who tries it.

It’s the perfect antidote to the unpredictable times we live in. It also can enhance your travels. 

Meditation teaches you to be more mindful. It’s the practice of living and experiencing the moment.

So instead of going through the motions in life, you start to become more aware of each moment — the feel of the ground under your feet, the cool breeze on your forehead, the smell of fresh pine in the forest.

You can bring this new awareness into your next trip for a more fulfilling and memorable experience.

Odds are something in this list that stood out to you. 

If not, you may just be overwhelmed with options (or just hard to please). 

In that case, just choose one and get started. Sometimes you never know you love something until you try it.

That’s exactly what happened to me with salsa dancing. Before traveling to Colombia, I didn’t even know what salsa music sounded like. 

But after stepping out of my comfort zone and taking some classes, everything changed. I not only stumbled on a lifelong travel hobby I can do while traveling the world, but I also scored a smokin’ hot Colombian wife <3

If you’re stuck, just choose something your current destination is known for. If you’re in a hippy town, try meditation or yoga. If you’re on an island known for diving, grab your scuba certification. And if you’re ever in Cali, Colombia — hit me up so we can hit the dance floor.

Mitch is your typical nomadic backpacker. Or at least, he was . But after stopping in Colombia to take “one week” of salsa lessons, his life took a sharp left turn. He met a cute Colombian girl in dance class, fell in love, and got married. Over half a decade has passed since he left his career to travel the world as a digital nomad, and he’s never looked back.

Nowadays, he’s the blogger behind Project Untethered — where he runs an awesome email newsletter and Youtube channel teaching adventure-craved wanderlusters how to escape the rat race, earn money from anywhere, and build an “untethered life”.

His advice has been featured in Forbes, USA Today, Yahoo, MSN, Reader’s Digest, Condé Nast Traveler, and more.

Mitch's Travel Recommendations: Travel Planning Resources - Everything you need to plan your trip on one convenient page. Going Cheap Flights Newsletter - Get flight deals from your airport up to 90% off sent straight to your inbox. Safetywing Insurance - This cheap travel insurance has saved me over $15,000 in medical bills. Booking.com - Book accommodation without adding your credit card (in case you need to cancel). Trusted House Sitters - Take care of pets in exchange for free (sometimes luxury) accommodation. Flexjobs - Find remote jobs without having to sift through crappy ones. Skillshare - Free trial to take unlimited classes that teach digital nomad skills. Wise - Send and receive money abroad cheaply (great for freelancers).

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Travel Hobby – Turn every adventure into a lifelong experience

Aug 14, 2023 | Feature | 0 comments

Are you longing for adventure but can’t find time to travel often? Are you looking for a way to stay connected with your love of exploring different cultures and landscapes? Do you want to turn your passion into a regular hobby?

Well, I am here to tell you that it is possible! It requires organisation, planning and commitment.

While a topic about travel hobby is unique, this blog post will cover why turning travel into an ongoing pursuit makes sense, how to optimise your trips , and helpful tips on ensuring the process goes smoothly.

Following these simple steps will make it more accessible than ever for travellers like us to have unique journeys while making it part of our everyday routine! Identify the type of adventure that inspires you and will give you a sense of accomplishment in the coming years. 

Travel Hobby – Make every adventure a lifelong experience when embracing cultures and visiting spectacular destinations.

What is a travel hobby?

A travel hobby combines two enjoyable pursuits – travel and recreation. It’s incorporating your interests and passions into your travel experiences to enrich and fulfil them.

Whether photography , hiking, cooking, bird-watching, or surfing, it can be anything you are passionate about and can pursue while travelling. Turning travel into a hobby helps to enhance your adventures, gives you a unique perspective, and makes your trips more personalised and memorable.

It’s not just about visiting a new place but about immersing yourself in an activity you love while experiencing its culture, history, and ambience.

So the Things about a Travel Hobby, Is Travelling for a Hobby a Realistic Expectation? 

Travelling as a hobby is a realistic expectation. The key is to prioritise and plan effectively. It’s important to remember that travel sometimes means venturing to far-off, exotic locations.

One can also explore local regions or nearby cities. Travelling as a hobby can be as simple as exploring a new hiking trail in your city, discovering a hidden gem in your hometown, or planning weekend getaways to nearby towns.

The essence of travel is the spirit of discovery and adventure. With proper planning and budgeting, one can make travel a regular and fulfilling hobby.

Do I need a lot of money to Prioritise travel as a hobby?

It depends on how enormous your demands are while travelling, of course. Budgeting is a crucial factor to consider when turning travel into a hobby.

Having an emergency fund and making sure you can save up enough money for your trips can help ensure that you don’t end up overspending or having to cut back on necessary expenses.

You can take advantage of discounts, special deals, budget airlines , or free stays with friends and family. Researching and planning ahead of time can keep your costs down while still enjoying the experience. 

What else should I do to make sure my travel hobby is successful?

Make sure you have clear goals before embarking on any trip. Decide what adventure you want to experience and what activities to pursue. Knowing your dreams means you can maximise your time and budget and ensure the trips are tailored to your interests.

Additionally, familiarising yourself with the local area before travelling can help you enjoy desirable attractions or experiences. Lastly, remember to savour each moment of your travels and document the journey so you can look back fondly. 

See the world in a new light, and live first, work second.

Travel Hobby – Turn every adventure into a lifelong experience.

Let’s continue with the. Rest of the article and discover the best advice to turn your world of adventure into a travel hobby. 

Identify the type of adventure that inspires you and will give you a sense of accomplishment. 

When it comes to seeking adventure, everyone has their preferences. For some, the thrill of scaling a mountain or bungee jumping off a bridge can spark their sense of accomplishment.

Travelling to new and exotic destinations ignites their spirit of adventure. As for me, there’s nothing like pursuing a new hobby to leave me with a sense of pride and satisfaction.

Whether it’s learning a new language, painting, or mastering a musical instrument, the challenge of pushing myself out of my comfort zone and diving into something new never fails to inspire me.

No matter which type of adventure we choose, the important thing is to step out and explore the world around us, one step at a time.

Make time for your trips – set aside specific days and times in your calendar to plan and prepare 

As someone who loves to travel, I understand the importance of making time for trips. It can be easy to get caught up in the busyness of everyday life and let vacation planning fall by the wayside.

Set aside specific days and times in your calendar to plan and prepare. Whether researching flights, booking accommodations , or creating a packing list, focusing on trip planning ensures you’ll make the getaway happen.

So if your hobby is travelling, commit to prioritising it by carving out dedicated time in your schedule. Your future self will thank you for it.

Keep your travel hobby juices flowing with short trips close to home for a night or two. 

With the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to feel like your travel bug is being suffocated. But what if I told you that you don’t have to go far to scratch that itch?

Short trips close to home can be just as exhilarating as an extended vacation abroad. In fact, by taking a night or two away, you can explore nearby destinations you may have never considered before.

You might uncover hidden gems in your backyard, catch a glimpse of a new culture, or enjoy some R&R closer to home. So, why keep those travel hobby juices flowing with a mini adventure? You’ll be amazed at its rejuvenating effect on your soul.

Research the places you want to visit – read reviews, talk to other travellers, and check out local websites. 

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of travelling to a new place, but with so many options, it can take time to decide where to go.

That’s why it’s so important to research ahead of time. Reading travel reviews from other travellers can give you a sense of what a place is like, while checking out local websites can help you discover hidden gems you might have missed otherwise.

And don’t forget to talk to other travellers, either in person or through online forums – they might have insights you wouldn’t have thought of on your own.

By taking the time to research the different places you want to visit thoroughly, you’ll be well on your way to planning an unforgettable adventure.

Invest in travel accessories that make your trips more accessible and enjoyable – a good backpack, comfortable shoes, etc. 

Investing in the right accessories can make all the difference for those considering travelling a hobby. A good backpack that distributes weight evenly, comfortable shoes that can withstand hours of walking, and a neck pillow that supports long flights are just a few accessories that make travelling more accessible and enjoyable.

It is essential to research and invest in high-quality items that will last, as they will enhance your travels and save you money in the long run. So next time you plan a trip, consider investing in these necessary travel accessories for a smoother, more enjoyable experience.

Adventure lies in every corner of the world and even close to home. Properly planning your trips can make your dreams of turning your travel hobby into a permanent reality come true.

Make time for adventure regularly and invest in the necessary tools and resources to help you explore the world safer and more innovative.

Don’t forget to keep a journal or blog that you can look back on when reminiscing about all of the beautiful memories and places you’ve been fortunate enough to experience.

Ultimately, with dedication and careful financial planning, turning your travel hobby into a regular passion is not out of reach. So start right today for an enjoyable tomorrow!

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Island Hopping is a great way to visit Thailand, explore the world, and begin a new hobby.

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Is Traveling A Hobby? The Ultimate Guide To An Exciting Way Of Life

When you search the internet for answers to the question ‘is traveling a hobby?’ you get all manner of responses. Some will say without a doubt that they think traveling is a hobby. Others will tell you that traveling is not a hobby at all. When you read a little closer, you will see that their answer depends on their worldview. They want to either classify traveling as a hobby or they don’t. But that’s not what we’re about here. We want to give you both sides of the story. Let’s cut to the chase. Traveling is an amazing thing. We all need more of it in our life. So, with that in mind, here is a list of reasons why traveling should become your favorite hobby –

1. The world is so much more accessible now

Get out there and experience it.

Only thirty years ago, air travel was expensive, and it took forever to get from place to place.

The air travel network wasn’t nearly as complicated as it is today .

But now you can get from one point on the planet to any other in pretty much under 24 hours.

Doesn’t that open up a whole world of possibilities?

Read: 23 Foods That Travel Well Without Refrigeration

2. Meeting new people is simply an amazing experience

They say that we’re the sum total of the five people we spend the most time with.

Well, how about spending time with the Māori people in New Zealand?

Or New Yorkers on a night out?

Or getting a guided tour of Shanghai from a local who knew the place when it was a small town?

New people and new experiences add a richness to your life.

Read: What Essential Oils Are Good For Travel?

3. Add some culture to your life

It’s absolutely true that we spend too much of our life glued to a phone screen.

Well, how about adding some cultural diversity to your Camera Roll by taking images of some of the brilliant sights this planet has to offer.

Eiffel Tower, anyone? Or the Taj Mahal?

Grand Canyon?

Chichen Itza?

Become more cultured and enjoy life!

Read: How To Save Money For Travel As A Student

4. Find out wat makes you tick

Ever felt like life just rumbles along? That you don’t get to fulfil your passions? Well, choosing traveling as a hobby can help open up the world in new ways.

You will be able to work out what you love when you go out there and try new things.

You might find a lifestyle, a climate or people that you want to spend the rest of your life with .

Now, isn’t that worth exploring?

5. Sample the food of the world

The cuisine of the planet is as diverse and interesting as the people.

Food is a great reason to make traveling your favorite hobby alone.

You fall in love with the cuisine of a place at the same time you fall in love with the place itself.

They say that music is the food of love.

Well, they haven’t tried the freshest oysters while sitting there watching the ships go by in Sydney Harbor.

6. Open your mind to new experiences

The mind is a muscle. And if you exercise it regularly then it becomes stronger.

Remember that saying from high school?

Well, it turns out the teachers were right – who’d have thought that?!

Well, experiencing new ways of life and new people opens up your mind to all the possibilities this planet has to offer .

An open mind is the absolute best way to approach life.

7. Refresh the soul

We all need a break from the daily grind every now and again.

Our soul is a delicate thing – and it needs balance.

Taking some time out to travel and experience the wonders of the planet helps keep our soul in a good place.

All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.

8. A voyage of discovery

This is one of the most exciting parts of traveling as a hobby.

We never know what’s on the other side of that train journey, that flight or even that cab ride.

Who knew that you could stand at the top of a waterfall and watch the power of Mother Nature simply rush past us?

It’s an amazing feeling that we don’t get on the daily commute, that’s for sure.

9. To inform others of what we’ve found

This is one of the most overlooked reasons that we take up traveling as a hobby.

Think about the first explorers.

They entertained their friends and families with their tales of discovery – what they found, who they met and what they did.

Their friends and family sat in wonder.

We now ‘show off’ our travels on our social feeds.

We let other people know where we’ve been and what we’ve done.

And it feels good – so good!

10. The feeling of freedom can’t be beaten

When we shake loose the shackles of our everyday life, we feel a freedom that we don’t get anywhere else.

Traveling as a hobby is great because it is different.

We no longer have to worry about being at work by nine .

We don’t stress about what the boss will say in our appraisal.

The most pressing thing in a traveling day is whether to have three beers or four.

Traveling As A Hobby: So, What’s It All About?

Regular readers of our blog will know the passion we have for traveling.

Whether it’s close to home or the far-flung corner of the world, we love to take in the experiences the world has to offer – as many of them as possible as much of the time available.

And you will know that experiences, cuisine, people and many more things are super important to us .

There is a big world out there.

And so many of us want to see as much of it as possible.

When we speak to people about traveling, they often ask – is traveling a hobby?

And this got us thinking.

If you travel all the time, then does it cease to be a hobby?

Or is it more a way of life?

Now, this can be looked at in many different ways – and believe me, we’re going to do that.

But let’s start with that question again – is traveling a hobby?

Well, for many people, they get a handful of weeks a year away from their 9-to-5 and use this to go on vacation.

It might be a road trip across their own country, visiting friends or family, or even going somewhere that’s always been on their bucket list.

And we suppose for them, traveling is something like a hobby.

It happens for a small period of time in pockets of their year.

They travel for fun.

It’s something that they look forward to all year long and then indulges in when they get the chance.

But, as you travel more, you will meet people who are just ‘traveling.’

They may not have a fixed place to live, aren’t constrained by international borders, and travel as a way of life .

And this sheds new light on the question – is traveling a hobby?

Well, we will start to break this question down in the next few sections.

Hopefully what you’ve read so far will have you raring to go.

All we need to do is answer the question we posed at the top of the piece.

The next question we should ask is – if traveling isn’t a hobby, then what else is it?

And we’ll get to that next…

What Is Traveling?

The Merriam-Webster dictionary describes the word in this way –

trav·​el·​ing | \ ˈtra-və-liŋ  , ˈtrav-liŋ \

variants: or traveling

Definition of traveling

1: going to different places instead of staying in one place

a traveling opera company

a traveling executive

Traveling merchants carried the caps to Mexico City, where tourists bought them.

Now, we understand that this is a quite loose definition.

There isn’t a great deal of detail here in terms of our question.

But we can add layers of detail as we go .

And, as with travel itself, the layers are what makes it interesting.

Firstly, it defines the word as ‘going to different places instead of staying in one place.’

The word ‘instead’ becomes the most interesting part here.

It shows that traveling is the opposite of staying.

And, with the examples, there is a kind of permanence in the act of traveling .

The traveling opera company, the traveling executive and the traveling merchants – none of these are doing this as a hobby.

They are doing this as part of their way of life.

And that does lean away from viewing it as a hobby .

But that isn’t the only answer we can come up with.

Reasons Why Traveling Is A Hobby

There are a handful of reasons you could view traveling as a hobby. Again, we’re going to start with a definition –

plural hobbies

Definition of hobby

: a pursuit outside one’s regular occupation engaged in especially for relaxation

Writing is just a hobby of his.

Her hobbies include gardening and birdwatching.

Now we’ve looked at the definition according to a dictionary, we need to break that down into a definition that means something to us in the real world. So, what would make traveling a hobby? Let’s take a look –

Traveling Is A Choice

One of the main reasons we view traveling as a hobby is because of the choice element.

The things we can’t choose (paying taxes, going to work, putting out the trash) are the chores we do to create the freedom to follow our dreams.

A hobby is something we do in this freedom time we create .

We choose where we want to go, who we want to go with, when we go and what we do when we’re there.

Now, if that isn’t inextricably linked to the definition of a hobby then we don’t know what is.

And, as with any choice , you can select to do something else instead.

You could stay at home, renovate your home, landscape your garden, spend time with others – the list goes on.

But you don’t.

You choose to travel.

This is what you do with your life.

The choice has been made. You’re traveling as a hobby.

Traveling Is A Passion

A hobby is something we chase with passion.

It is so different to what we do for work, every day of our life.

Traveling is a break from all of that .

It’s something different.

A hobby is also a break from that.

It is also something different.

The two definitions seem to fit really closely .

Traveling is a secondary activity – it’s not what we do with our main time.

It’s not what defines us. If someone asks –

“Who are you?”

“What do you do?”

then the likely response is –

“I’m a banker.”

“I paint people’s houses.”

It’s fairly unlikely that you’ll respond –

“I travel.”

So, you follow your passion, taking in the food, the culture, and the heritage of other places and the people that live in these places.

Traveling is a hobby because you do it to follow your passions.

We feel better, return home with a rejuvenated feeling , and don’t worry about the difficulties of life.

If that’s not a passion, then we don’t know what is!

Passion is life.

We live for our passions, work for our passions .

Have you heard the phrase, ‘work to live, not live to work?’

Well, this about sums it up perfectly as far as we’re concerned.

We’re not put on this planet to work.

But the work we do allows us to explore the earth .

Traveling In Your Spare Time

Most people who travel will do it in their spare time.

Before the 2019 pandemic, there were nearly 40 million flights a year.

And many of the seats on these flights were taken by hobbyists – people who do this traveling thing in their spare time.

Think about it.

For most people, the entire step by step process of a vacation is constructed in their spare time, including –

• Planning where to go
• Researching flights
• Researching accommodation
• Booking the vacation
• Researching what to do while there

And this is a strong signal that the act of traveling is a hobby.

A vacation is so much fun that people get a passion for it.

Seeing new things, gathering experiences , and meeting new people.

These are all elements that you will find in many hobbies.

There is an addiction in traveling that gets many people to start looking for their next trip on the way home from the one they’re on.

Traveling To Your Hobby

Bear with us on this one.

It’s best described with an example.

If you love comic books and everything about them , then there’s a fair chance that you will travel to a Comicon or two every year.

So, traveling become part of your hobby.

Your hobby isn’t necessarily traveling but traveling has become part of your hobby.

Many of us do this without thinking about it.

You can’t do one without the other.

Reasons Why Traveling Isn’t A Hobby

This can be more difficult to define in many ways. Let’s start by listing what it might be if it isn’t a hobby –

• A way of life
• It’s something you do to get to your hobby
• People don’t always like the traveling part of a vacation
• Travel is what sheeple do
• Some people just don’t feel it

And these are all valid points.

If everyone on the planet felt the same way and did the same things, then it would be a very boring place to live indeed.

So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at the reasons why traveling isn’t a hobby .

If you view travel as a lifestyle or a way of life, then the world truly is your oyster.

There is so much to see and do out there that you could travel every day for the rest of your life and still not see a fraction of what there is to see out there.

And you know what traveling is like – you might visit a place only to find things you missed the first time around .

And you’d probably need deep pockets or to work while you travel to make this happen.

The actual traveling part (the airport, the train station, the bus rides, the waiting) is often what people don’t like about going someplace.

So, in some ways, the traveling part isn’t their hobby.

It’s a necessary evil on the way to another place.

When they arrive at that other palace, this might be where they practice their hobby, even if that hobby is sunbathing.

So, in the eyes of these people, traveling isn’t a hobby, more of a way to get to their hobby.

And for some, they don’t have much desire to even leave home .

There are people who just want to spend their downtime at home – I know, hard to believe!

They just don’t feel it.

So, for them, traveling is definitely NOT a hobby.

It’s just something other people do.

Downsides Of Traveling As A Hobby

There are some downsides to traveling as a hobby.

When you look at it, traveling as a hobby generally means that you only get to do it in small pockets of time.

Not many of us, with the exception of the super-rich, get to spend massive chunks of their year pursuing their hobby and nothing else.

And that brings us to the first downside of traveling as a hobby.

Unlike many other hobbies, traveling is all-consuming.

You can’t travel for half an hour in your lunch break and then get back to work.

Sure, you can go for a walk in the locality where you work.

But that’s not quite the same as traveling.

Many hobbies you can fit into small timescales.

If you think about many camera clubs or photography classes, they last an hour to a few hours as a group of people get together to share their knowledge and experience as well as show off their work.

But you can’t do that with traveling.

You can’t fit it into a small pocket of time.

You need to set aside at least a day, often more.

In addition, traveling as a hobby can be quite an expensive thing.

Flights are getting more costly by the year as we realize the environmental impact of traveling the globe – more on this later.

The cost of traveling is much more than any other hobby.

You need to get from A to B, have somewhere to rest your head when you get there, and then you have the activities.

For example, anyone who wants to climb Mount Everest needs to come up with the princely sum of $44,500 .

And if you want the executive level then you can at least quadruple that figure.

Eyewatering.

And it isn’t just these high-end travel destinations that cost money.

Compare traveling to staying at home.

When you go from place to place, you need money for the journey itself.

But you will also more often than not need money for accommodation, three meals a day, activities and anything else that we take for granted at home.

This soon adds up.

Environmental factors come into play when we travel.

Have you ever been to Australia?

Do you know the strict rules they have regarding what you can and cannot bring into the country?

They protect their environment vigorously.

The impact that one person traveling from point A to point B on the planet could be tragic for the region.

People have taken diseases from place to place – just look at the exponential growth of the 2019 global pandemic.

Looking at how travel affects the environment isn’t just the carbon footprint, although that is a major factor.

It’s about what we do and see when we go there.

Uluru no longer allows people to walk on it.

The site has been sacred for the local people for tens of thousands of years.

Becoming a tourist attraction offended them.

And we can do that far too often.

We suggest reading up and being respectful whenever you travel.

It might be a hobby, but this is a shared planet where people have different values and concepts.

Embracing these is energizing.

Traveling isn’t a hobby because traveling cannot be done in isolation.

If all you want to do is travel, then you might as well sit on the Circle Line Underground in London and just spin in circles all day.

Traveling isn’t an activity that you just do.

You travel to enjoy, you travel to relax, you travel to experience.

And so, we don’t just travel.

We travel and then do a whole host of other things at the other end.

People Who Can Travel And Still Work

Once upon a time, in the not too distant past, you had to stop working to travel.

You took an extended leave from work, a gap year or did it in between jobs.

And if you needed extra cash while you were traveling (especially long term) then you took a job in a bar.

For example, back in the nineties, London’s bars were full of Australians, all working for a little extra cash to fund the next leg of their journey.

But now we don’t have to do this.

If the pandemic of last year taught us anything then it’s that Work From Home or WFH is here to stay.

And if you can work from home then it stands that you can work from pretty much anywhere on the planet.

The basic necessities are the internet and a phone signal.

Unless your travel plans include the deepest rainforest or the most remote part of Antarctica then you will get both of these wherever you go.

Problem solved.

But in terms of our discussion, this changes the narrative quite a bit.

If you spend an enormous chunk of your traveling time working, then is traveling a hobby?

And again, we guess that your answer entirely relies upon your world experience.

Does your employer require you to be nearby?

Or can you do your job from pretty much anywhere on the face of the globe?

I guess some of this depends on whether you need to be physically face-to-face with your customers or not.

Hobbies You Can Learn While You Travel

Just as an interesting side note, there are many hobbies that you can learn and practice while you travel.

A hobby is something that we get passionate about, building up our engagement levels until we become better and better at it.

Now, this can often take up a chunk of your time.

But when you travel, this isn’t as much of an issue.

Here are some exciting hobbies that you can learn while you travel –

• Photography – taking in all the amazing things you see while you travel.
• Drawing or sketching – again with the wonderful views as your inspiration.
• Running or hiking – let nature be your guide on your travels.
• Reading – a delightful book always feels better in a remarkable location.
• Writing – people will want to know all about your traveling experiences.
• Drone flying – not exactly traveling light but a fantastic way to explore too.
• Geocaching – a global phenomenon or an international Easter egg hunt!

If traveling isn’t a hobby in your eyes, then why not practice your favorite hobby (or develop a new one) while you’re on your travels?

It can really make traveling even more fun and open up your eyes to the wonders of the world.

So, if you fancy running along Bondi Beach, or hiking in the Himalayas, or even drawing the amazing splendor of Angkor Wat, then a hobby while traveling might be the ideal way to combine your favorite hobby with traveling.

Traveling is a wonderful thing.

And there are many different views on whether it can be counted as a hobby or not.

The different opinions have been stated in this article, allowing you to make your own mind up.

We know which side of the discussion we’re on.

So, we’ve looked at all elements of this question.

We now know what it is to travel as a hobby.

And we know who can do this successfully.

If you have any questions at all about traveling as a hobby, then we’d love to hear it.

Proud owner of https://travelyouman.com/

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2 thoughts on “Is Traveling A Hobby? The Ultimate Guide To An Exciting Way Of Life”

The ability to travel is especially missed by many in these first two years for the 2020s. Thanks to posts like yours, we can have the luxury of knowing that there’s still much to explore in our world. Thanks.

This is amazing and really made me want to travel. Unfortunately, I’m too broke for that 😭😭😭

Comments are closed.

Kinda Frugal

18 Things Guaranteed to Rub Travel Enthusiasts the Wrong Way

Posted: March 7, 2024 | Last updated: March 7, 2024

There’s nothing quite as exciting as visiting a new place. Taking a vacation whenever we have time off of work is one of the things people most look forward to. Traveling experiences can be very personal and subjective, but there will always be snobs who want to police how others explore the world. According to message board users, these are the top habits travel snobs will criticize anyone for.

Visiting Local Grocery Stores

Some self-proclaimed travel experts might say visiting grocery stores or local supermarkets is a waste of time and that you’re better off checking out restaurants and trying local cuisine, but many Reddit users disagree. Grocery stores can teach you a lot about a country, from the prices of products to household staples. They’re like a food museum, allowing travelers to check out snacks and dishes unique to that city or country.

Traveling as a Hobby—Not a Life-Altering Experience

Many globetrotters think of traveling as a life-altering, spiritual experience, which may very well be true. However, some message board users would argue that traveling doesn’t have to be that serious; it can simply be a hobby you do in your free time, which is a great point, too! It takes the pressure off of creating the perfect experience that will inspire or enlighten you. Instead, you can have fun and explore your destination!

Doing Nothing on Vacation

Traveling to another place often means doing touristy things and visiting 100 attractions daily, which is completely fine! But some travelers believe in the beauty of doing nothing. Now, this doesn’t mean holing up in your hotel for your whole trip, but it does mean skipping the popular landmarks and long lines and just doing simple things such as shopping, strolling, and, yes, a little bit of holing up in your room in your comfy bed!

Buying a Magnet for Each Country

Some might find buying little souvenirs from other countries a little tacky. But if buying a fridge magnet from each place you visit makes you happy, who cares what the travel police think? It reminds you of where you’ve been and helps you keep special memories of your trips close to your heart.

Visiting Tourist Landmarks

“I am a tourist; I am going to see the tourist stuff. There’s a reason those are famous,” said one commenter. Lounging in your comfortable hotel room and staying away from the crowds might sound tempting, but you could miss out on your destination’s best parts. While giving yourself a day or two to relax is fine, some travelers prefer to spend the entirety of their trip exploring the country’s best offerings—the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Statue of Liberty in New York City, Big Ben in London, you name it! They believe not visiting at least one touristy landmark is a waste of a trip, especially since you won’t get to see these landmarks once you’re back home in your city.

Staying in a Nice Hotel—Not Hostels

As odd as it sounds, some travel snobs are even policing where you stay during your vacations. They often swear on dorms or hostels as the more affordable option; these accommodations often offer backpackers the chance to meet many fellow tourists and locals. However, the experience is not for everyone. If you like extravagant breakfast buffets, room service, private suites, and uninterrupted, peaceful surroundings, you’re better off staying in a hotel. Don’t let the snobs tell you otherwise!

Not Partaking in Nightlife

Exploring the nightlife of a new destination is often fun, especially with good company, but it is not necessary for a good trip. Many travel snobs like to think a vacation isn’t complete without a couple of drinks at a local bar, but that scene is not for everyone. That is fine if you prefer the comfort of your cozy blankets with room service and a good TV show to binge. You can have a quiet night and still have fun!

Not Traveling With All Your Friends

While many of our closest and dearest friends are the people we love spending time with, not all of them are people you’ll want to travel with. This could be due to several reasons: they sleep in while you like to start the day early, or they’d rather go to the airport hours ahead while you like to go at the last minute. Differences like these can make or break your whole trip. You want to make sure everyone will enjoy themselves and get to do what they want, so it’s best to go with like-minded friends. Don’t worry; you can bring your non-compatible friends a fridge magnet!

Eating in Cheap Restaurants

“Cheaper restaurants provide a more realistic view of a country’s food. Eat what the people actually eat, not 5-star restaurants,” a comment says, and they’re right! Tempting as it is to visit the most extravagant fine dining restaurants in a country, they don’t exactly represent the local cuisine, nor does it even ensure a filling, quality meal. If you want to try out foods proven and tested to be great, cheaper restaurants are the way to go. Not only will they save you money, but they’re also often what locals will swear by.

Not Choosing the Cheapest Deal

Though trying out local dishes at cheap restaurants is a great tip, there are some parts of your trip that you shouldn’t skimp on. Most of these involve your safety and security. If you’ve found a usually pricey activity for cheap, remember there must be a reason for that: lesser-quality harnesses, untrained staff, etc. Choosing to cheap out on skydiving, parasailing, scuba diving, and other life-risking experiences might cost you your life. Do in-depth research on these activities or choose the more expensive but safer option. Saving money is not worth your life!

Not Acting Like a Local

Self-proclaimed travel connoisseurs have decided that “real” travel means doing things like a local does. However, this message board thread reminds us that acting like a tourist is completely okay. Of course, locals know best, and perhaps visiting a few holes in the wall will enrich your trip, but spending all your energy acting like a local might leave you with regret. Take that corny jump shot by the city landmark, take out your map, and use your Google Translate—it’s better to be the tourist you are instead of missing out on what your destination has to offer just because you want to look cool.

Eating at the Same Restaurant More Than Once

Trying out all the dishes from a foreign cuisine is often what most of us look forward to on an out-of-country vacation. Enthusiastic foodies might even believe in not eating at the same place more than once. But what if you find a restaurant that makes a particular dish perfectly or whips up the best local breakfast in the city? There’s no shame in double-visiting a restaurant, especially if you’ve got a longer trip. After all, when’s the next time you’re going to visit that specific city or country? You might as well fill up on that new favorite dish!

Checking out Smaller Towns

“I try to take a trip to a particular beach town in the south of France every year. Not Nice, a much smaller one… Sometimes a girl just wants to eat a croissant for breakfast, go to the beach, and then have an ice cream sundae the size of her head in lieu of lunch,” reads one comment. While big cities such as Tokyo, Los Angeles, and Rome are must-visit destinations, smaller, lesser-known places deserve recognition, too. They often have just as beautiful attractions, with less of a tourist crowd to fight over them. Sounds like a good vacation to me!

Liking Airports

Most travelers hate the airport. It’s swamped and loud and often brings back memories of delayed flights and overpriced food. However, some prefer hanging around them for hours before their flights. Some like to take their time checking in, some like to people-watch, and some want to get a bit of work done at one of the coffee shops. As odd as this habit might seem to others, airports offer a kind of “limbo space,” as one user calls it, that gives people a sense of comfort and familiarity.

Booking the Tour Bus

As cringe-worthy as it may seem to some travelers, sometimes the best way to explore a new place is to book the hop-on, hop-off tour with the obnoxiously touristy bus and the well-informed guide with the loud microphone. While it may earn you and your fellow bus mates a few looks from the locals, it is often well worth it and helps you familiarize yourself with the lay of the land. The tour bus is an all-in experience that ensures you don’t miss a single popular landmark and even gives you a run-down on the city’s history and fun trivia facts that you can take home to your loved ones.

Having a Loose Itinerary

Listing out the places you want to see is a good tip for your vacation, but planning everything down to the second might be what ruins your trip. Especially if you’re traveling with company and they don’t like being restricted by a schedule. A loose itinerary is the key—a list of attractions, a wide berth per time slot to accommodate unexpected accidents or a more relaxed day, and some free time is the way to go!

Not Making New Friends

Travel snobs almost always expect to make new friends during their trips; this is exactly why they stay in accommodations with communal spaces instead of private rooms. However, this way of traveling is not for everyone. Some travelers like to visit other destinations to get away from people and spend time alone, and a new companion is counterproductive. It’s okay to go on solo trips and not make new friends; after all, you’ve got old friends waiting for you back home.

Not Having Local Cuisine for Every Meal

If you’re a foodie at heart, discovering new local dishes is most likely at the top of your list of travel goals. However, if you’re on a long trip somewhere foreign, there might be a few meals where you want to gobble up something familiar instead. And that’s completely okay! Let yourself get that comforting burger with fries to give your stomach and pallet a break from all the new flavors!

Source:  Reddit

14 Coastal Towns That Offer Affordable Retirement and Quality

Retirement is not just about taking a long-deserved break; it’s about embracing a new adventure in life’s next chapter. What better way to start this journey than in a coastal town, where the sea meets the sky in a harmony of tranquil living? This post sails through the 14 most enchanting seaside towns, handpicked for retirees who dream of quality living without breaking the bank. We’ve anchored downtowns that tick all the boxes for an ideal retirement haven – affordability, rich quality of life, top-notch healthcare, and delightful weather. So, let’s dive in and explore these seaside gems where your golden years can truly shine.

10 States Americans Are Leaving in Droves and 5 States They Are Moving To

Do you know what’s becoming as American as apple pie? Internal migration! People are packing up and moving from sea to shining sea, but why? Let’s dive into this great American shuffle; check out the top 10 states folks are abandoning and the top five they’re flocking toward. What motivates the movers? Is it the quest for better jobs, sunnier skies, or just a change of scenery? Buckle up as we hit the road to discover what’s pulling Americans in new directions!

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Climate Forward

Trains are cleaner than planes, right.

The surprising carbon footprint of an Amtrak trip across America.

By Hiroko Tabuchi

Recently, I did something I’ve long dreamed of. I took the train across America.

The views were majestic, particularly as we swayed through the West. The Wi-Fi was bad, and the food not much better. But I wanted to do it partly because trains are cleaner than flying.

But when I got back home and crunched the numbers, I discovered something surprising: it would have been less polluting for me to have flown.

As a climate journalist, I often fly to report my articles, but I’ve always worried about the climate cost. Flying in jets that burn a lot of fuel is probably one of the most polluting things we do. By taking a flight to report on a problem, I’m basically making that problem worse by causing tons of planet-warming emissions that are heating up our planet to dangerous extremes.

So when I started to work on a story that would involve spending time with two climate scientists at Stanford University — one who wants to rid the school of fossil fuel funding, the other fully funded by Exxon — I wondered whether I could try something different.

What if I traveled from New York to Stanford by train, a method of transportation that generally has a far smaller climate footprint ?

The most direct route was to take the Lake Shore Limited train to Chicago, then the California Zephyr from Chicago to Emeryville, Calif., just outside San Francisco.

That 3,400-mile journey would take a daunting 72 hours. But I convinced my editors to let me use a work day, plus a few vacation days, to take the trip.

I was set. And I was doing my part to save the planet. Right?

Wrong. In short, I took a train across America and ended up emitting more planet-warming emissions, not less. I’ll explain why in just a bit.

The journey itself was epic . I boarded a packed train at New York Penn Station and was quickly speeding along the Hudson River at sunset. After a train change in Chicago, and traversing Iowa and Nebraska, we reached the Colorado Rockies. Our ascent from the flat plains to the green forests, then through the snow-capped Rockies, the deserts of Utah and the panoramic Sierra Nevada, was nothing short of magical.

It was also a slog. A sleeper cabin would have cost more than $2,000, so I was in an upright seat the entire trip. (Compression socks helped.) That still cost $600, about the same price flying the same route would have cost during the holiday season. I’d heard that the dining car was expensive, so I brought along vegetable sticks, crackers, cheese, hummus, instant noodles and miso soup. I tried to work on the Lake Shore Limited, but the Wi-Fi was down. There was no internet at all on the California Zephyr.

But then I did the math on my emissions.

A nonstop flight from New York to San Francisco emits, on average, about 840 pounds of carbon dioxide per economy class passenger, according to Google Flights, whose data is independently reviewed . That’s equivalent to burning 420 pounds of coal, or more than the annual emissions of someone living in Cameroon. Air travel is wildly polluting.

But what about trains? I tracked down several estimates of carbon emissions per passenger-mile, including Amtrak’s official estimate. What I got back: My cross-country train journey had emitted somewhere from 950 to 1,133 pounds of carbon dioxide per passenger.

There are a few reasons for this result. Amtrak is far cleaner than flying where its tracks are electrified, along the Northeast Corridor, from Washington to Boston. But outside the Northeast, Amtrak trains run on diesel, a highly polluting fuel.

What’s more, Amtrak’s trains are decades old. (Its single-level Amfleet cars were built in the late 1970s.) Add to that generous seat pitches, large old-fashioned private rooms for longer-distance trains, a longer, winding route across the country and “per-passenger-mile emissions go through the roof,” said Justin Roczniak , a co-host of “Well There’s Your Problem,” a podcast about engineering.

Amtrak is still the more climate-friendly option for the vast majority of travelers, who on average travel 300 to 400 miles, said Olivia Irvin, a spokeswoman for the rail company. (That is, not many people are crazy enough to go cross-country by train.) A 2022 Department of Transportation study found that traveling by train from Los Angeles to San Diego generated less than half the emissions , per passenger, of flying, or driving. For Boston to New York, an electrified route, taking the train generated less than a fifth the emissions of flying or driving.

It’s when journeys start getting longer than about 700 miles that planes start to gain an advantage on trains. Planes burn the most fuel when they take off and climb to altitude. That makes short flights very inefficient — you’re burning all that fuel only to travel a short distance. (Some countries, like France and Spain , have tried to ban the shortest flights when rail alternatives are available.)

Longer flights also tend to use larger aircraft, which provide economies of scale. And aircraft have become more fuel-efficient over the years. But choosing flights with several connections, for example, can quickly add to your footprint, because you’re taking off and landing multiple times. Airplanes also emit other pollution like nitrogen oxides and soot, and form contrails , all of which warm the planet further.

And experts agree that aviation is going to be one of the hardest industries to decarbonize. With trains, electrification is already readily available. The technology is there. China, for example, has managed to electrify 70 percent of its train lines over the past decades and made them faster, too. And as the electric grid gets cleaner by adding more solar and wind, so will trains that run on electricity from that grid.

An electric, long-distance passenger plane is much further in our future.

Whether Amtrak will ever electrify outside of the Northeast corridor is another question, however. In America, tracks are owned by freight companies, which have resisted electrification. (Freight trains are also why some Amtrak trains stop frequently to make way. And all that stopping and starting makes America’s passenger trains even less energy-efficient.) Amtrak is currently updating its fleet with newer diesel trains, albeit ones that are less polluting and slightly faster.

One thing I did learn during my cross-country train journey: There are still a lot of Americans who love trains. The trains I took were booked solid. Among my fellow travelers were a college student traveling to see her long-distance boyfriend, and grandparents on a family trip (but they didn’t want to travel by car with their grandchildren).

But would I travel cross-country by train again? Probably not, unless Amtrak electrified the route. We can only dream.

More climate news

Only 57 oil, gas, coal and cement producers accounted for 80 percent of global fossil fuel carbon emissions in the last decade, a new report reviewed by Axios shows .

The Biden administration’s $7.5 billion investment in electric car charging has only produced seven stations in two years, The Washington Post reports .

Most of the European Union’s embattled farming subsidies go to meat and dairy products, researchers reported in The Conservation .

An earlier version of this newsletter stated incorrectly the train’s route after leaving Chicago. It traversed Iowa and Nebraska, not Indiana and Nebraska.

An earlier version of this newsletter also described incorrectly the pollution from airplanes. It contains nitrogen oxides, not nitrogen.

How we handle corrections

Hiroko Tabuchi covers the intersection of business and climate for The Times. She has been a journalist for more than 20 years in Tokyo and New York. More about Hiroko Tabuchi

Learn More About Climate Change

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States issue travel warnings about eclipse-related traffic and tips for visitors

Here’s what you should know before traveling into the path of totality.

By Alyssa Bradford

On Monday, a total solar eclipse will occur, and multiple states in the United States with be in the path of totality.

According to Forbes , up to 3.7 million people are expected to travel for the event.

If you’re considering a trip to the path of totality, consider these travel warnings from leaders of the affected states.

Airport travel warnings

In a press release , the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said it’s expecting 40,000 to 50,000 flights per day over the next few days, due to a surge in travel related to spring break and the eclipse.

“Travelers flying along the eclipse path may encounter limited parking and potential delays at airports due to the high volume of aircraft and drones attempting to witness the total solar eclipse,” the press release said.

According to the United States Department of Transportation (DOT), states that can see some of their airports affected by eclipse travel include:

• New Hampshire.
• Pennsylvania.

This is incredible. From @Jamie_Lane where AirBnBs are fully booked next week. pic.twitter.com/ITKZJaGfY8 — Mike Simonsen 🐉 (@mikesimonsen) April 4, 2024

States with travel warnings

Traffic is expected to be heavy and “potentially deadly” in and near the path of totality, according to USA Today .

The situation will be especially hazardous right when the eclipse ends, since most eclipse travelers plan to head home right away, the article said.

Take care if you’re visiting one of these states:

The Arkansas Department of Public Safety hosted training exercises earlier this year to prepare public safety officers for the potential chaos of the eclipse event.

“Several scenarios, such as severe weather, transportation and traffic management issues, and potential fuel shortages, may impact Arkansans during the solar eclipse,” a Feb. 15 press release said.

Arkansas’ DOT has issued warnings about wearing proper eye protection.

For a map of expected high traffic areas, visit the state’s 2024 Solar Eclipse Traffic Management Plan .

Illinois’ DOT has offered these travel tips:

• Anticipate significant traffic congestion on all routes leading in and out of the region immediately following the eclipse.
• Have your car headlights on during the eclipse.
• Don’t take photos, videos or wear eclipse glasses while driving.
• Exit the roadway and park in a safe area before viewing the eclipse.

Travel conditions the day of the event can be found on Getting Around Illinois .

Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb declared a statewide disaster emergency as part of his effort to prepare the state of an influx of hundreds of thousands of visitors.

Visit Indiana offers these tips for residents of and visitors to the state:

• Have a full tank of gas.
• Bring a couple of gallons of water.
• Bring shelf-stable snacks.
• Use correct eclipse glasses.
• Bring backup auto fluids.
• Bring a phone and car charger.
• Bring a physical or paper map.
• Bring cash.
• Bring extra medication.
• Pack a first-aid kit.
• Keep a basic toolkit on hand.
• Have jumper cables in the car.
• Have a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries.
• Keep a spare tire or flat tire kit.
• Pack emergency flares ore reflectors.

Per WCLU Radio , the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has advised travelers to:

• Stay informed about congested roadways.
• Be patient while driving.
• Carry essentials such as water, snacks, first-aid kits and sunscreen.
• Carpool or use public transportation.
• Respect local communities.

According to Maine.gov , Maine Gov. Janet Mills and other state leaders have worked together to make a plan for the eclipse. Their recommendations for residents and visitors include:

• Wearing eclipse glasses during the eclipse but not while you’re driving.
• Planning out travel routes in advance.
• Bringing safety-related supplies: Paper maps, emergency car kit and water.
• Having a full tank of gas.
• Avoiding dirt roads.

Missouri’s Department of Transportation offers that following highway safety tips:

• Do not stop on any major road or shoulder.
• Exit the highway before taking a picture of the eclipse. Make sure to stop before taking a photo.
• Turn on headlights when the sky goes dark.
• Watch out for pedestrians on roads.
• Prepare for congestion on roads.
• Avoid travel during the eclipse if possible.

Traffic conditions for Missouri can be found on the Department of Transportation’s website .

New Hampshire

New Hampshire leaders are expecting heavy and potentially dangerous traffic in Coos County on April 8.

The state is encouraging visitors to stay on state highways since “some secondary highways and local roads were not designed to handle large volumes of traffic, and springtime in the north country can bring frost heaves and very soft shoulders,” according to a travel advisory .

In a YouTube video the commissioner of the New York State Department of Health, James McDonald, shared these tips for eclipse travelers:

• Use certified eclipse glasses.
• Be prepared for the outdoors: New York weather may include snow, rain or sun, sometimes all in the same day.
• Allow for extra time if traveling because many other individuals will be traveling, too.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed an executive order as part of his effort to prepare the state for the solar eclipse.

Among other things, the order instructs law enforcement agencies across the state to be ready to assist local law enforcement and respond to emergencies.

In a video published by the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security , Gov. Kevin Stitt and state authorities discussed the state’s plan for eclipse traffic.

Oklahoma will be:

• Suspending oversized load traffic Sunday and Monday for specific roadways to guard against traffic congestion.
• Having the Oklahoma National Guard prepared to deploy to southeast Oklahoma.
• Reminding travelers to not stop on the roadway during the eclipse and to watch out for pedestrians.

Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has a safety page on its website with warnings for visitors.

Among other things, it encourages travelers to plan ahead and put down their phone while driving.

According to Fox 4 , Dallas officials have taken the following steps to promote safety:

• Dallas fire rescue is working on staff and staging plans for potential increases in emergencies.
• The Dallas police chief says all time off for the police force is canceled to make sure they have people on duty.
• There will be no trash pickup on Monday.
• The office of emergency management is ready if severe weather is an issue.

Texas’ Department of Transportation shared these safety tips for the solar eclipse:

• Expect heavy traffic.
• Watch out for pedestrians.
• Keep headlights on, even in the daylight.
• Keep your eyes on the road if you’re in the car during the eclipse.
• Park away from traffic to view the eclipse.

The Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles has issued a commercial vehicle traffic advisory for April 8. The state urges drivers to consider alternative routes to avoid traffic.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Thinking of taking a last-minute drive to see the eclipse here's what to know.

Geoff Brumfiel

RV traffic sits at a standstill along a two-lane road near Madras, Ore., a few days before the 2017 total solar eclipse. Experts say traffic could be heavy, but eclipse watchers shouldn't necessarily be deterred. AFP Contributor/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

RV traffic sits at a standstill along a two-lane road near Madras, Ore., a few days before the 2017 total solar eclipse. Experts say traffic could be heavy, but eclipse watchers shouldn't necessarily be deterred.

NASA says that roughly 31.6 million people live in the path of this year's total solar eclipse, and a little under half of the U.S. population lives within 200 miles driving distance of the path of totality .

That could mean many millions of Americans will hit the road to get a better view on April 8. If you're still pondering whether or not you want to make the journey, here's what to consider.

Have some destinations in mind, and check the weather and cloud cover forecasts in advance

It's a good idea to scout out one or more locations within driving distance, so that you have some flexibility if traffic or weather is threatening your plans, says Jonathan Upchurch, a professor emeritus of civil engineering at Arizona State University who has studied travel around solar eclipses.

There are several interactive tools that show the path of totality, including Eclipse2024.org and the National Solar Observatory . You can use them to figure out what sites might work best for you.

In terms of weather, check not just the weather forecast, but also the cloud cover forecast. Some websites, such as Windy.com will predict cloud cover ahead of time, giving you a sense of whether you'll actually be able to see the eclipse in all its glory.

Everything you need to know about solar eclipse glasses before April 8

During the total solar eclipse in 2017, Upchurch says he chose to go to Idaho "because there were some great chances of having sunny skies, and I had the opportunity to be nimble and relocate if I wanted to."

Before driving into the path of totality, make sure your gas tank is full and that you've got everything you need

During the last total solar eclipse in 2017, it's estimated some 5 million people took to the roads, and those numbers will potentially be much higher this year.

Given all that, Upchurch says it's important to make sure you're taking what you need into the path of totality. You should make sure your car is gassed or charged up, and that you have plenty of snacks and water with you in case you get stranded for a while, especially when trying to leave.

Solar Eclipse 2024: Totality stretches from Texas to Maine

Simple tips to safely photograph the eclipse with your cellphone.

Also don't forget to bring eclipse glasses, which must be worn anytime you're looking at the sun, except for the few minutes when it is completely blocked by the moon.

Some state emergency planners also recommend bringing a paper map or road atlas in case cellular networks become overloaded with visitors seeking directions from their phones.

Don't forget your eclipse glasses everyone! Erika Goldring/FilmMagic hide caption

Don't forget your eclipse glasses everyone!

Arrive early and stay late

Once you figure out where you're going to watch the eclipse, and you've got your supplies, try to get there early. Although traffic is likely to be heavier than normal on the morning of eclipse day, it still should be possible to reach many destinations without too much hassle, says Upchurch.

"Leaving is definitely going to be more of a problem," he says. As the eclipse concludes, people will take to the roads all at once to try and get home as fast as they can. In 2017, that led to traffic jams that lasted many hours in some areas. If possible, Upchurch says, people should stay put for a while to try and avoid the worst of the post-eclipse rush, which in 2017 stretched even into the following day in some parts of the country.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

And one more thing: If you do find yourself on the move near the time of the eclipse, state officials stress that you should not simply pull over to the side of the road or highway you're driving on. It's important to be parked legally and safely at the moment of totality.

If you're already in the path of totality: Relax and enjoy!

Several major metropolitan areas including Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland and Buffalo are already inside the path of totality, so there's no need to seek a better view, Upchurch says. You'll probably have the most fun simply staying where you are.

Shots - Health News

Watching a solar eclipse without the right filters can cause eye damage. here's why.

If you're on the edge of the path of totality, however, you might consider making a short trip to get closer to the center of the eclipse's path.

"If you're within about 40 miles of the center line, you'll have two-and-a-half minutes or more" of complete totality, Upchurch says. It's up to you to decide whether it's worth making the trip to a more central location.

Despite studying the potential hassles of traveling extensively, Upchurch says he's still looking forward to seeing the 2024 eclipse, which he plans to watch from Texas.

"Totality is absolutely spectacular," he says. "If you have a chance to witness it, I would do it."

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Watch CBS News

Flying with pets? Here's what to know.

By Anne Marie Lee

Edited By Alain Sherter

Updated on: April 6, 2024 / 10:08 AM EDT / CBS News

Thinking of taking your dog or cat with you the next time you fly? For a growing percentage of the 90.5 million pet owners in the U.S., the answer is yes. But while the notion of boarding a plane with your pet may seem simple, the rules and restrictions around traveling with an animal can be confusing. 

Eight major U.S. airlines allow pets to fly in-cabin as carry-ons. But flying with your pet takes research and planning, as pet policies vary from airline to airline, are steeped in restrictions, and are limited to specific countries and cities. You'll also have to pay an extra fee for your pet ranging from $95 to $200, depending on the airline and where you're flying. And restrictions often change.

For example, American Airlines  recently revised its policies  so passengers flying with pets may also bring one full-size carry-on or personal item. But the carrier prohibits carry-on pets on transatlantic and transpacific flights. Here's what you need to know when considering taking your fur baby with you on a plane.

Cargo, check-in or carry-on?

Most airlines offer three options for transporting animals: cargo, check-in or carry-on. But if your pet is larger than a bread box, your options are limited to the cargo or baggage check-in options, with very few exceptions. 

Given that large canine breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are among the most popular dogs in the country, the size restriction for in-cabin pet travel can be a major frustration for those who would rather not fly at all if that means putting their pet in cargo. 

A 2023 Forbes Adviser survey of 10,000 U.S. dog owners found that 33% of respondents fly with their pets, while 37% listed not being able to bring their dog on a plane as their biggest annoyance. (You can learn more about the differences between cargo, check-in and carry-on options  here , including warnings about the  dangers  involved when pets travel in the cargo hold.) 

Carry-on pets

Even for pet owners whose animals are small enough to fly as a carry-on, traveling is no breeze.

"When I fly with him I have to go to the desk," Margaret Rauch, 44, told CBS MoneyWatch, referring to her 15-pound poodle mix, Soda. The New York City resident has taken Soda on dozens of flights to St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where Soda, now 4, was being fostered by a friend after being found as a stray puppy in 2021. 

In addition to calling the airline in advance to register her dog for a flight, Rauch has to check in at the counter whenever she's traveling with Soda, so the airline agent can confirm her dog and pet carrier conform to the in-cabin pet requirements and that the flight hasn't already met its pet maximum. 

Rauch, who said she would never consider putting Soda in cargo, applauded American Airlines' new policy, while noting that in her experience the one carry-on rule was rarely enforced. 

"I feel the price is already high for what I get. Even with AA's rule change, I lose the underseat space," she said. "My dog creates no extra work for anyone."

Despite the added preparation, paperwork and hassle involved in flying with Soda — not to mention the unfriendly looks she occasionally detects from fellow passengers at the sight of her pet carrier — Rauch said, "It's absolutely worth it." 

Asked how the experience could be improved, she pointed to early boarding for pet owners as something that would help.

"If you can get in early, get a seat and settle down, that is an accommodation I don't expect to see anytime soon but I think it makes sense," Rauch said.

Safety and comfort

For the many Americans who see their pets practically as family members, one of the most challenging aspects of flying is ensuring their animal's comfort and safety. 

"The increasing humanization of pets, which involves treating them as part of the family rather than as mere animals, has increased the demand for pet travel services that are of high quality and can be customized to meet the specific needs of each pet," LinkedIn reported in December.

Among other tips, the U.S. Department of Transportation  and animal experts recommend that you not feed your pet four to six hours before a flight and limit their water intake. Others also suggest keeping bottled water on hand at all times. Additionally, most airlines require certain vaccination and vet certification that your pet is healthy enough to fly. Individual countries also have their own requirements for pets to enter.  

Not surprisingly, some airlines do better than others at handling pets. One of the best-rated carriers for pet travel is Alaska Airlines, which has repeatedly topped rankings, such as NerdWallet's Most pet-friendly airlines of 2024.  In recent years, the airline also has maintained one of the industry's lowest incident ratings, according to Veterinarians.org. United Airlines and Delta are among the airlines with the highest incident rates, according to the pet information website. 

On Rauch's first plane trip with Soda traveling home to New York, a layover in Miami led to the flight sitting on the tarmac for two hours. Calming treats are something that helps keeps her dog relaxed on flights. She also withholds Soda's food and limits his water intake up to five hours before a flight, which is also helpful given that he doesn't like using pet relief areas, which she said generally smell of urine and can be overwhelming for dogs. Flights between New York City and St. Croix are generally under six hours. 

"I'm not sure how I'd handle a flight to Singapore," Rauch said.

Here's a rundown of U.S. airlines' pet travel policies, along with fees and and restrictions:

Alaska Airlines

Pet fee: $100

Pets allowed: Dogs and cats are the only pets allowed in-cabin on international trips and flights to Hawaii. Domesticated rabbits and small household birds are allowed as carry-on on domestic flights.

Destinations: Domestic and international, with additional requirements and documentation required for  pets traveling to Hawaii  or  internationally .

See Alaska's full pet policy here .

American Airlines

Pet fee: $150

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats

Destinations: 

• Within the 48 contiguous U.S.
• The U.S. and Canada*
• Puerto Rico

*Additional special restrictions may apply. See American's full pet policy  here .

Pet fee: $75-$200, depending on destination

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats, household birds

Pet friendly destinations: 

• U.S., Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico
• International destinations with the exception of Australia, U.K., Republic of Ireland and others .

Pets are not permitted on flights to Hawaii. See Delta's full pet policy here .

Frontier Airlines 

Pet fee: $99

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and household birds

Destinations: Domestic flights and international flights to and from the Dominican Republic and Mexico.

See Frontier's full pet policy here .

Pet fee: $125

Destinations: Domestic and international. See exceptions for international flights here .

See JetBlue's full pet policy here .

Southwest Airlines

Pet fee: $125 per pet carrier on the U.S. mainland; $35 per pet carrier between Hawaiian Islands

Destinations: Domestic U.S. flights only. For travel to Puerto Rico, specific requirements may  apply . For Hawaii travel, see rules and regulations here.

See Southwest's full pet policy here .

Spirit Airlines

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats, birds (with the exception of flights to or from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) or rabbits (with the exception of flights to or from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands).

Destinations: Domestic flights including Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

See Spirit's full pet policy here .

United Airlines

Destinations: Domestic and international flights with a list of exceptions. United does not allow pets to fly to, from or through certain states and countries. View the list here .

See United's full pet policy here .

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