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What Do Travel Percentages Mean in a Job Description?

Written by Nathan Brunner .

Last updated on December 12, 2023.

“Travel percentages” refer to the amount of time that an employee is required to travel as part of their job responsibilities. Travel percentages include traveling to other cities, states, or countries to meet with clients and attend conferences.

For example, if a job description requires “50% travel,” the employee will be required spend roughly half of their time traveling and the other half working from their home office or the company’s headquarters.

Some jobs may require no travel at all, while others may involve extensive travel on a regular basis. Before accepting a job that involves travel, it’s important to carefully consider whether you’re willing and able to meet the job’s travel requirements.

Tip : Find Jobs on Salarship .

The Implications of Travel Percentages on Work-Life Balance

Different travel percentages can have significant implications for work-life balance.

For instance, if a job requires very little or no travel, an employee may be able to maintain a more consistent schedule and have more time for personal activities or family commitments.

On the other hand, frequent or extended travel can lead to fatigue, stress, and a lack of personal time, which can negatively affect an employee’s mental health and well-being .

Here is a quick table to help you understand how the different travel percentages will impact your life once you start your job:

• 10% travel — It means one or two months’ worth of business trips each year. In my experience, it is relatively easy to endure as it means a few travel days (or sometimes weeks) here and there.
• 25% travel — You will spend at least a quarter of your working hours away from your usual place of work. It amounts to 3 months per year, one week per month, or two days per week.
• 50% travel — It means constant overnight or international business trips for at least two weeks per month or six months a year. 50% of travel is usually mentioned in international business job descriptions.
• 75% travel — You will essentially live out of your suitcase and move from hotel to hotel for nine months per year, or three weeks each month. Most jobs that require you to travel three-fourths of the time are pretty stressful (e.g., high-paying jobs or jobs in the transportation industry ). You may rake in a hefty salary, but the tradeoff is little time for yourself, your family, and your non-work-related hobbies and goals. 

On the bright side, companies usually shoulder most (if not all) of your travel expenses, including food expenses, hotel expenses, and transportation expenses.

How To Get a Job That Requires You To Travel

If you’re deadset on getting a job that includes a travel percentage in the description, here are a few tips to keep in mind — whether you’re writing your cover letter or answering an interview question on whether you’re willing to travel or not.

• Highlight any previous travel experience you have. You want to reassure your potential employer that you’re not likely to, say, suffer from jet lag, or commit novice mistakes like forgetting to apply for a visa in countries that require them.
• Be honest about the amount of time you’re willing to spend traveling. The more honest you are about what you want at the job application or interview stage, the more likely you’ll end up with a job that’s a good fit for you. 

Tip : 1,068,520 Jobs Are Available on Salarship .

Final Thoughts

Evaluating the time you’ll be traveling in a job description can help you decide whether a position is right for you.

On the one hand, traveling often translates to more opportunities for promotion and career growth. On the other hand, traveling can be stressful and take a toll on your physical, mental, and psychological health.

Ultimately, it all boils down to your personal priorities and values.

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• Tough Interview Question: Are you willing to travel? How much?

Tough Interview Question - Are you willing to travel? How much?

Are you willing to travel? How much?

Similar interview questions: Do you own your own car? Are you willing to use it for business travel? How many nights per week are you willing to be on the road? Is there anywhere in the world where you would not be willing to travel? How much travel have you done in your life? Do you enjoy it?

Why the interviewer is asking this question: Some jobs involve an element of travel. It could be travel to different work locations or it could be travel as part of the job itself, such as travel to different client locations. The interviewer wants to know if you are open to travel and whether you are travel-preferent (some people enjoy the travel component of their work) or travel-tolerant (not necessarily enjoying the travel, but understanding it is a part of the job).

The best approach to answering this question: If you are open to travel, say so and say how much, usually noted as a percentage. Travel can sometimes be difficult to quantify as a percentage, since it usually refers to overnight travel, with each 20% indicating one night of travel per week. So travel done during the day, but returning that evening is technically not counted as business travel, although the travel itself usually is covered as a business expense. Also, 20% travel could mean overnight travel once a week or a full week out of town every 5 weeks or a full month out of town every 5 months. So it’s important to ask for specific examples of what the travel will look like if you are agreeing up front to travel requirements for the role.

An example of how to best answer this question for experienced candidates: "I do have flexibility to travel and have done so in my most recent role, which requires approximately 20% travel. How much travel is required for this role and what are some examples of the travel that would be involved?"

An example of how to best answer this question for entry level candidates: "I have no limitations on my ability to travel for my work and I have done extensive travel to date, including my semester abroad last year. Can you tell me more about the type and scope of travel which may be involved for this role?"

An example of how you should not answer this question: "Well only if I’ve got a big fat expense account to draw from when I travel. Then I don’t mind, since I can pad in all the extra expenses that would make it worthwhile. Would I get to fly first class?"

Further review: know the answers to these Standard Interview Questions to be fully prepared for your interview!

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Answering “What Percentage Are You Willing To Travel?”

September 14, 2023 by Hannah Morgan

Talking about what percentage of time you’re willing to travel for work is something that trips up a lot of applicants. They often say what they think an interviewer wants to hear instead of an honest and well-prepared answer.

This guide will help you understand what interviewers are looking for when they ask this question, and how you can develop a response that works for everyone.

Table of contents

What does travel percentage mean, how to answer “are you willing to travel”, example answers.

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When a position requires travel, employers typically discuss how much time you’d have to spend in cities other than your own in terms of percentages. For example, a company may advertise a position as requiring “50 percent travel.”

In that case, it means that the employer wants the person hired for that position to spend half of their working days traveling. For every ten days of work, you’d spend five traveling between cities or working in an area outside your home city.

Most travel jobs have a percentage of 50 percent or lower. But you can easily find positions that require more. For example, some engineering, training. and sales jobs have workers traveling 70 percent of the time! Some companies even offer positions that require 100 percent travel time.

It all depends on the industry and the unique position you’re applying for.

Understanding what a company means by “travel percentage” is important to grasp what an employer wants from a new hire. Travel jobs can be fun, but they’re also demanding. You’ll need to spend time away from your family and friends, and the lifestyle is much different than a standard nine-to-five.

While not always the case, many travel percentage requirements are negotiable. A question like this opens the door to that, giving hiring managers a better idea of what you can realistically do if hired.

Many job seekers fear answering a question like this because they believe that interviewers have something specific they want to hear. However, you can still be honest and set limits without hurting your chances of getting further into the hiring process.

Here are some tips on how to answer this question the right way.

1. Decide What You Want Ahead of Time

The most important thing you need to do is decide how much you’re willing to travel before you head into the interview. Nothing will ruin your chances faster than interviewing for a position that requires traveling, and saying you can’t travel at all (or aren’t sure how much you’re willing to travel). You likely won’t be in the running at all if that’s the case.

Do your research and read the job description closely. Employers are usually upfront about travel expectations. Travel percentages can be negotiable, but do note if the job posting mentions travel, some travel will be required. 

Know what you want before you head into the interview. Think about how much travel you can do and how that might affect your life moving forward. Then, have a general travel percentage in mind.

Deciding how much you’re willing to travel will give you everything you need to answer this question confidently.

Interviewers don’t want wishy-washy answers or the dreaded “I don’t know.” If you want to sound confident and serious about this position, know what you want before your meeting.

It’s also important to look into how travel is structured for each position. While companies discuss travel time in percentages, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll spend X amount of days on the road and X amount of days in an office in your home city.

Some positions require you to travel several weeks at a time before spending a few weeks off at home. Those trips could be regular or sporadic based on the company’s needs.

Understand what you’re getting into and what the job requires. Do your research to avoid any surprises!

2. Be Honest & Clear

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to say that you’ll do whatever the company wants in order to get a job.

Travel is a big commitment. Employers and hiring managers know that. They understand that considerable travel is not for everyone, so they appreciate the honesty.

Be clear about whether you’re willing to travel most of the time or can only be on the road a few days out of the month. Be honest and set your boundaries. 

The last thing any hiring manager wants to hear is a vague answer. Your response is important because it directly impacts your fit for the job. For example, some companies might have hard travel requirements that are non-negotiable. In those cases, they need a firm confirmation that you can or cannot meet their required travel percentage. Otherwise, you’d waste their time and yours moving forward. That’s why you should consider what you want from your job before the interview.

Be honest and clear. Don’t lie because you think it might increase your chances of getting a job. While lying might help you move further into the hiring process, it won’t do any good when you can’t hit the road once hired.

The best scenario is already knowing what travel percentage you can work. Discuss those limits during your interview. But you can also express interest in negotiations.

You can tell the interviewer you’re willing to travel but want to learn more about the other job expectations. While not as ideal as providing a percentage, that’s usually enough for interviewers to proceed. Interviews aren’t job offers, and you’re not signing contracts at that point.

So, there’s still room for further discussion. The most important thing is that you’re upfront and have some idea of what you can do going into the interview.

3. Show That You Understand How Travel Relates to the Job

Another important thing to do when answering this question is to demonstrate that you understand the job.

Travel jobs are appealing to many people. One concern that many hiring managers have is that applicants try to get the job because they simply think it’s a cool way to see new places. While that can be true for some jobs, you’re not getting hired to explore new cities and go on vacation!

It’s still a job, and you’ll have important responsibilities.

Show that you understand the job and are there for the right reasons. One way to do that is by talking about some of the unique responsibilities of the job or demonstrating that you know how important travel is for this position.

For example, you can connect the reason why this job requires travel to your work. If the job revolves around sales, you can mention that you understand that traveling is crucial to gaining more clients across the state. If it’s a consulting job, you can discuss how traveling to companies allows you to better assess the situation and build better connections inside companies. 

This seemingly small detail makes a difference. It shows that you’re seeking this job for the right reasons and are committed to doing a fantastic job.

4. Highlight the Positives

Finally, highlight some of the positive aspects of travel. That doesn’t mean you should lean too heavily on wanting to get out and explore. Remember: You still have a job and must demonstrate your commitment to doing it.

However, mentioning some of the things you love about jobs that require frequent travel can reassure hiring managers that you’re up for the challenge. An example of this could be networking and meeting new people in a professional setting.

Travel jobs can be overwhelming for some people. It can lead to burnout, and many employers struggle with low retention rates for these positions.

The ultimate goal for hiring managers is to find someone who thrives in a job that requires traveling. The best people are those who love getting on the road and don’t mind some of the common pitfalls of being in a new place and spending time away from friends and family.

If you show this job will be a positive experience, hiring managers may put your application at the top of the stack.

Connect your past experiences to what you hope to gain from this new job. For example, you can refer to how great previous travel jobs were for you. If you don’t have any related work experience, you can mention times when you studied abroad or spent significant time on the road.

Focus on your love of new experiences and highlight all the great things you’ll gain from this job.

There are many ways to answer “Are you willing to travel?” and how you respond depends on your needs. But these examples will give you a good idea of the type of answers that interviewers love to hear.

In the first example, we have a candidate with some experience traveling in a previous job. They leverage that work experience to reassure the interviewer that they can handle the responsibilities.

“I am willing to travel for work. I traveled about 40 percent of the time in my last job. I’m prepared to do the same here because I know I’m comfortable with that amount of time on the road. I’ve learned how to manage and succeed despite the time away from home. In my last job, I’d spend weeks traveling to cities across the eastern seaboard. I got to work with great people in cities I enjoyed plus I found time to explore many beautiful states. I’m excited at the chance to do the same here while working to fulfill your company’s objectives.”

Our next example is straightforward. The candidate demonstrates that they understand the company’s expectations and use their previous experience to reassure the interviewer that they’re up for the task.

“I’m definitely willing to travel. In my last sales job, I spent about half my time on the road while traveling to cities around the state. It was a great experience, and I had no trouble getting comfortable doing it. The roughly 30 percent travel percentage mentioned in the job posting sounds more than acceptable to me. I have questions about the frequency and the average length of business trips, but I’m certainly willing to spend time traveling.”

Our final example comes from a candidate who has no travel experience. However, they go into the interview knowing what they want and provide a confident answer, demonstrating their understanding and willingness to work hard.

“I’m more than willing to travel; I’m looking forward to it. Not only do I enjoy working with new people, I also like the excitement of traveling to new places. Your job posting mentioned that the position will require at least 50 percent travel time. I can travel as much as 75 percent if the job requires that. I know that your company has offices across the western United States. As a trainer, I understand that visiting those offices and working with people directly makes a big difference in their success. I’m eager to get my hands dirty and do what I can to help others while improving the collective expertise of this company’s employees.”

As you can see, spending some time thinking about the percentage of time you’re willing to travel is just part of the equation. You also need to be honest with the interviewer about what works for you!

If you practice your answer and follow these rules, this question won’t cause you any trouble.

Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including  Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success .

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How To Answer “Are You Willing to Travel?” Interview Question (With Examples)

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Summary. To answer, “Are you willing to travel?” in an interview, give an example that demonstrates your willingness to travel and communicate any boundaries or limitations you may have. You should also clarify what the travel expectations would be before accepting the job.

When getting asked if you’re willing to travel for your job, the instinctive response would be to say yes. After all, who wouldn’t want the opportunity to explore a new place on your company’s dime?

Here are a few things to consider before accepting a traveling position:

Key Takeaways:

When answering this question it is important to talk about positive travel experiences, demonstrate a thorough understanding of the job, and talk about networking.

You should avoid lying about your availability, any negative travel experiences, and go overboard when talking about the good experiences.

Before taking the job, it is important to clarify travel percentages, any expenses you may have, and what type of travel it is.

How to Answer “Are You Willing to Travel?”: Dos and Don’ts

Example answers to “are you willing to travel”, what you should ask about travel during your interview, what does “willingness to travel” really mean, are you willing to travel faq, final thoughts.

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When it comes to actually answering the question when it’s posed to you by a hiring manager, there are a few things you ought to bring up — and some things you should just avoid entirely .

The DO’s:

Talk about positive travel experiences. They’re looking for someone who is comfortable with spending a lot of time away from friends, family, and the home office — you want to do as much as you can to assure them that traveling is something you find invigorating and fun.

So go ahead and bring up that study abroad trip, even if it’s a little out of date.

Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the job. Whatever it is you’re doing, your company won’t just be sending you places so you can eat cool food in new places.

They want you to work, and understanding that you’ll be working regardless of whether you’re traveling is important to be considered for the job.

Bring up the unique job responsibilities of the position as you understand it and explain your commitment to fulfilling them.

Talk about networking . A lot of work in a traveling position requires talking to other human beings and making business connections that stick.

For this reason, it’s important to show hiring managers that you know how to make these kinds of connections by talking about networking experiences you’ve had in the past — and it wouldn’t hurt to engage in a little small talk during the interview itself, either.

The DONT’s:

Lie about your availability. If you can’t travel at all, don’t apply in the first place, but your employer needs to have a realistic understanding of your ability to travel if they’re going to hire you for the position .

So if you can’t do weekends or certain percentages of the week, let the hiring manager know up front.

Focus too heavily on your availability either. Giving a specific maximum amount of travel you’re able to do can look bad as well, especially if that maximum is below the company’s expectations. So tell them your availability, but don’t spend too much time on it.

Bring up negative travel experiences: These are fine to talk about once you have the job, but during the interview process it will just make you look like you associate these experiences with traveling and that you are even perhaps lying about how comfortable you are with traveling.

Go overboard talking about good experiences: As bad as it is to talk about bad experiences, it can be just as damaging if the only good experiences you talk about are vacations or day trips.

After all, they expect you to work while you’re on these trips, so if they think you associate traveling just with vacations and relaxing, they might not have the most faith in your dedication to work.

Yes, I’m absolutely willing to travel. I spent a year studying abroad before graduating last year, and I learned that I love experiencing new places and meeting new people regularly. During my internship at The Coastal Society, I regularly traveled to different coastal sites to meet with marine biologists and gather data. I really enjoyed that aspect of the job, so I’m definitely open to making travel a bigger part of my professional life.

I am certainly willing to travel for work. At my last job in sales, I spent about half my time on the road, so the roughly 25% travel time we discussed for this job sounds more than acceptable. I just have a few more questions about how frequently trips are taken for this position and the typical length of a business trip.

While I’m willing to travel (and love traveling), my spouse works on the weekends and we have three kids at home. As such, I need to keep my weekends free for childcare. But any travel during the workweek I can happily accommodate.

The reasons why the company needs you to travel can vary wildly, and as a result, the particular travel experiences you’ll have could vary even for two similar positions.

It’s important for this reason to figure out exactly what sort of travel the company expects you to undertake before you get too far into the interview process .

A few things you should clarify before you take the job:

Travel percentage. If a job is advertised as having a travel percentage of 20%, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re traveling every Friday, or alternatively that you’re only traveling one week of every month.

That 20% is an average , and what it represents can vary dramatically by career, so make sure you ask your hiring manager to tell you exactly what the travel percentage means for the position you’re applying for.

Expenses. Namely, are they paid? How much of your food is being covered? Gas? Other travel expenses?

It’s important to know this beforehand — while many places will reimburse you for every expense you incur while on the road, it’s important to know what the company’s official policy is for travel.

Type of travel. Will it mostly be flying? Will you be expected to drive to the locations you’re going to? Where will you usually be traveling to?

Where would the company prefer that you stay while you’re there? Will you be staying anywhere at all, or are the trips too short for this?

There are two major kinds of travel jobs :

Seasonal jobs. These exist only for a few months or even just a few weeks and may require you to travel for the entirety of the time you’re working the gig.

“Regular” job that require travel. For these kinds of jobs, the amount of traveling that occurs can vary dramatically depending on the position.

Here are a few things that might be expected of you if you enter a job like this, seasonal or not, and some things you should keep in mind before giving your final answer.

You might have to make day trips, but the company may not be willing to pay for you to stay overnight. This could mean long work days punctuated by large amounts of travel which could keep you awake for 16 hours or more.

Alternatively, you might be sent very far away and be expected to fend for yourself once you get there. You may not have much, if any, time to explore this place between takeoffs — you might just be working the entire time.

Relocation should NOT be expected of you unless it’s discussed at this time as well. It’s also important to note that there is a big difference between being willing to travel and being willing to relocate.

What does it mean when a job asks if you’re willing to travel?

When a job asks if you’re willing to travel, it usually means there is at least some travel required for the position. The exact amount will vary, but there will typically be enough for interviewers to find out how well your willingness to travel aligns with the job’s requirements.

How do you put willing to travel on your resume?

You can put willing to travel on your resume by noting how much you traveled at your last position. This will point out to recruiters that you’ve at least been willing to travel in the past and may be willing to again.

If you haven’t had a position that requires travel before, you can note your willingness to travel in your resume summary . This is usually only a best practice if you’re aplying for a job or are in an industry that typically requires travel. Otherwise, it could look out of place and come off as ignorant.

Traveling is often one of the most exciting parts of any job that includes it and, despite the huge amount of work that gets compressed during these trips, it can be very fun if you’re adequately prepared for it.

When it comes to working travel jobs, you really have to be ready to go all in. That’s why it’s so important to understand what a company is asking when they want to know if you can travel.

Not only will it make you look proactive and interested in the position, but it can help keep you from getting in over your head with a situation you’re not comfortable with or ready to undertake.

And whatever you do while you’re out exploring the world, make sure you don’t stray too far from the hiking trail. That’s how you get bear maulings, and those usually aren’t covered under company expenses.

Anyhow, best of luck to you! Here are some other links to help you on your way.

• 3 Tips For Successfully Calling In Sick (Even If You’re Not)
• 13 Job Search Mistakes You Might Not Even Realize You’re Making
• 3 Steps To Reject A Job Offer Without Burning Bridges

Illinois Graduate College – Sample Interview Questions

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Ryan Morris was a writer for the Zippia Advice blog who tried to make the job process a little more entertaining for all those involved. He obtained his BA and Masters from Appalachian State University.

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The Biggest Travel Trends to Expect in 2024

By Condé Nast Traveller and Sarah Allard

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If 2022 travel trends were all about a return to travel, then 2023 was the year we went further than ever before . Travelers took to the skies, rails, roads, and seas to cross off goals on their bucket lists with Arctic adventures, luxury yacht cruises , and even the first tourist trip into space.

In 2024, travelers will be putting what’s important to them front and center of their plans, valuing deeper experiences that leave a positive impact, time spent with loved ones, and wellness moments that last well after checkout. We’ll be choosing destinations carefully, slowing it down to enjoy the silence and the stars, indulging in our love of food in new and interesting places, and immersing ourselves in wellness practices that help us live longer.

These are the 20 travel trends likely to guide how we see the world in 2024.

A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller UK .

1. Astro tourism

What’s the trend? Astronomy, of course, is a field of study that has been around since the dawn of civilization, and the act of gazing up at the stars has long been a source of soul-soothing wonder. Today, the more society falls deeper into an ever-expanding virtual world, the more we feel a need to broaden our horizons in the real universe. Astro tourism is the act of traveling with the aim of catching sight of astronomical phenomena—disappearing to lands devoid of any pollution, crowds, and traffic, where we can focus solely on the skies above and while away hours gazing at the stars, planets, and constellations overhead.

Why will it matter in 2024? Increasingly, wellness-centric hotels and spas are creating the space for guests to gaze upwards, watching for comets, spying constellations, and identifying patterns in the glittering expanse. In the UK, Port Lympne has opened the Lookout Bubble, a glass dome allowing guests to sprawl out on king-sized beds and study the stars. Further east on the Arabian Gulf, Zulal Wellness Resort is surrounded by the expanse of the Qatari desert—the ultimate destination for pollution-free astromancy, with dedicated workshops and stargazing sessions for families and children looking to learn more about the cosmos.

Safari company Desert & Delta organizes trips for travelers looking to soak up the stars across Botswana and Namibia, where guests can sleep in tents at remote locations such as the Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the world’s largest salt flats, and spend nights with uninterrupted star vistas. Similarly, Tswalu is a South African safari camp with star beds set on a sleep-out deck in the Korannaberg mountains. And 2024 happens to be a big year for the skies, from mind-boggling eclipses to spectacular meteor showers.

Plus, scientists are predicting the best displays of the Northern Lights in 20 years, according to the Guardian , as we approach the next solar maximum (the sun’s peak of its 11-year activity cycle). — Olivia Morelli

2. Eco diving

What’s the trend? A rise in divers choosing their travel destinations based on the sustainability of the scuba centers , and having a more positive and regenerative impact on the ocean once there.

Why will it matter in 2024? In 2022, UK marine ecology charity The Reef-World Foundation found that 95% of divers wanted to book with sustainable operators, but struggled to do so. In response to this, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (a.k.a. Padi) launched its Eco Center accreditation on World Earth Day in 2023, with the United Nations Environment Program and Reef-World itself. The steps required to earn this green status are so rigorous, including sharing evidence of conservation activities and a real reduction in environmental footprint, that Padi advised operators to allow at least 12 months to hit the criteria—taking us to Earth Day 2024.

After an initial figure of just 11 worldwide, there are now 100 accredited operators, and Padi has set a goal to reach 660 by 2030—a tenth of its membership. “South East Asia currently has the highest density (more than 20), along with the Caribbean ,” says Julie Andersen of Padi. So what does this mean for divers and their trips? “The type of conservation work done and reported on depends on the Eco Center,” Andersen explains. “Those in the Caribbean offer coral replanting programs, key for regenerating coastlines. In Baja, Mexico , they’ve developed citizen science courses, collecting data for whale conservation.”

There are also a number of new Padi courses being launched for any diver to take anywhere, including the Global Shark and Ray Census in August 2024, as well as the relaunch of the Coral Reef Conservation Specialty course before December. — Becky Lucas

3. Home swapping

What’s the trend? Increasingly, discerning travelers are looking to stay away for longer stretches, while the rise of remote jobs means that working and living abroad has never been more appealing. The catch? Forking out on hefty accommodation fees while you’re at it. Enter home swapping: the perfect solution to guarantee yourself a (free) home abroad while you offer up your own in exchange for weeks or even months at a time.

Alex Erdekian

Jessica Puckett

Why will it matter in 2024? As the cost of traveling continues to climb, home swapping is an affordable alternative to splashing out on expensive hotels or Airbnbs. And while the concepts of couch surfing and house exchanges have existed for decades, several slick new platforms are redefining what home swapping looks like today.

Twin City , which operates in cities like as Lisbon and Los Angeles , has curated a community of over 1,100 carefully vetted users in just eight months. For an annual subscription fee of about $189, members can find Twins to connect with through the platform, and are encouraged to exchange local recommendations for their city as well as their homes, enabling members to feel as if they’re swapping with a trusted friend rather than a stranger.

Meanwhile, Kindred , a home-swapping platform where members rack ​​up credits for each night that they exchange homes, raised $15 million in funding this year to expand operations across the US and Europe, and currently has more then 10,000 homes in over 50 cities. Members simply pay a cleaning and service fee for each stay, while the cost of the stay itself is free.

Travelers can skip out on membership fees entirely and head straight to TikTok, where Gen Z appears to be spearheading the home-swapping movement on social media. Inspired by the film The Holiday , trending tags #houseswap and #homeswap have garnered more than 23 and 20 million views respectively, with users utilizing the platform as a means to advertise their homes, discover like-minded peers to swap with, and document their adventures along the way. — Gina Jackson

4. Train stations are the new food destinations

What’s the trend? Train stations around the world are usually passed through as quickly as possible, having not been designed for commuters to stay and hang out. Nowadays, as travel delays increase and visitors want more local experiences, it pays for train stations to welcome travelers with shops, restaurants, and bars for them to explore. In an effort to create a more dynamic visitor experience, historic train stations are being revamped, with bespoke food and drink offerings as an integral part of the redesign.

Why will it matter in 2024? As train stations are renovated to accommodate more travelers and update old infrastructure, local restaurants and bars are being added to attract more customers. In 2023, the new Moynihan Train Hall in New York City became home to The Irish Exit, a bar from the team behind the acclaimed Dead Rabbit, and Yono Sushi by trendy BondST, plus outposts of beloved NYC restaurants Pastrami Queen and Jacob’s Pickles, with Mexican hotspot La Esquina coming soon. As part of its renovation, Toronto’s Union Station launched Union Market in May 2023 with favorite local food retailers Manotas Organics, Chocolatta Brigadeiro’s, Patties Express, and Kibo.

In the UK, Platform 1 , a new bar and restaurant, opened in November underneath Glasgow Central Station . The cave-like space, with its historic brick arches, serves street-food-style dishes and craft brews made in the on-site microbrewery, plus there’s an outdoor beer garden. Meanwhile, in Somerset, Castle Cary station is in the process of a revamp, with nearby hotel The Newt creating a creamery, cafe, and co-working space, which is set to open in 2024.

Also on tap for the next few years is the completed renovation of 30th Street Station in Philadelphia, with plans for a 20% increase in concession space that will focus on local purveyors. — Devorah Lev-Tov

5. Sports tourism

What’s the trend? Sports tourism has evolved in the past few years with a new generation of sports fan emerging, thanks to glossy TV documentaries ( Formula 1: Drive to Survive , we’re looking at you). Now, we’re taking our fandom out of the house and following a host of different sports in destinations across the world, planning trips that hinge around seeing games, races, and other activities in exotic locales, and extending trips on either side to see the sights too.

Why will it matter in 2024? A little event known as the Olympic and Paralympic Games anchors the 2024 sports calendar. It kicks off in Paris in late July and runs until early September , during which time more than a million tourists are expected to check in across the French capital. The games have inspired city-wide projects such as the €1.4-billion clean-up of the Seine, which, should all go well, will allow public swimming in the river for the first time in a century.

Elsewhere, the Tour de France starts in Italy for the first time, with competitors speeding off in Florence before heading to Rimini on the Adriatic coast and then north to the Apennines through Emilia-Romagna. New bike routes in the area have been released by tour operators such as Ride International Tours and Ride Holidays for cycling enthusiasts keen to join in the fun. — Sarah James

6. Coolcationing

What’s the trend? For the vast majority of folks, summer holidays used to be about following the sun, seeking the heat—watching the mercury climb and hitting the sands. With the intense, record-breaking temperatures of recent years, however, many are considering traveling in the opposite direction: booking "coolcations" in temperate destinations, which also benefit from being less crowded.

Why will it matter in 2024? It's official: 2023 is the hottest year on record . Little wonder that many travelers are thinking twice before booking literal hotspots like the South of France and Sicily, prone to heatwaves , in July or August. A survey for luxe travel network Virtuoso found that 82% of its clients are considering destinations with more moderate weather in 2024: destinations such as Iceland , Finland , and Scotland , according to Intrepid Travel , along with Latvia, which is surging in popularity. “We’re seeing an increase in those holidaying further north,” says Andrea Godfrey of Regent Holidays . “Scandinavia and the Baltics are both getting noticed more: They offer a more pared-back style of holiday but have some lovely beaches, forests, and lakes for both relaxation and adventure activities.”

Cooler temperatures are particularly well suited to family travel too. “We’re getting far more inquiries from families for destinations that offer summer sun, but also respite from the high temperatures being experienced in beach resorts across the Med,” says Liddy Pleasants, founder of family specialist Stubborn Mule Travel . “Kayaking in Norway, with its midnight sun, for instance, and cycling or hiking in Slovenia, which is also very good value.” — Rick Jordan

7. Gig tripping

What’s the trend? For years, athletes and wellness gurus were the big headliners at retreats. But rock stars are, well, the new rock stars of travel. Call it the Taylor Swift Effect. Destination concert business is up more than 50%, led mostly by Taylor Swift, says Janel Carnero, a travel advisor at Embark Beyond . In the US, tickets for Swift’s Eras Tour cost thousands and were still impossible to score. Music fans are realizing they can pay less and have a more memorable experience by seeing their favorite pop icons perform in say, Amsterdam or Milan . (Remember when everyone went to see Beyoncé early in Stockholm ?) Tours from performers such as Pearl Jam, U2, Doja Cat, and Madonna will anchor trip itineraries, while music festivals—Glastonbury sold out in less than an hour—will be major catalysts for travel.

Why will it matter in 2024? New music festivals, including Untold in Romania's Cluj-Napoca, are introducing travelers to less-popular destinations, says Alexandrea Padilha of Fischer Travel . And it’s no longer just about the music, says Carnero. “It’s the social aspect of sharing experiences with friends,” she adds.

Hotels and travel companies have taken note and are creating the equivalent of backstage VIP experiences for guests. Global adventure collective Eleven has recently introduced Music with Eleven. The program’s dedicated team of music-industry insiders (including Chris Funk, guitarist from the Decemberists) design custom itineraries that might include sitting in on a recording session at Flóki Studios, just outside the Arctic Circle at Deplar Farm in Iceland. And Rhythm & Sails  hosts musicians on its catamarans. The company’s music director, Anders Beck of the jam band Greensky Bluegrass, curates the line-up of artists who perform sessions onboard and in ports as you island hop around the Caribbean . — Jen Murphy

8. Resorts will help you biohack your health span

What’s the trend? Longevity is the latest wellness buzzword thanks to best-selling books such as  Outlive  and the hit Netflix documentary  Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones . Between 2021 and 2022, venture-capital investment in longevity clinics more than doubled from $27 million to $57 million globally, according to analysis from longevity research and media company Longevity.Technology. Now, the science of extending life and optimizing health has become the focus at hotels. Blue Zones retreats are the new boot camps, and even sybaritic resorts are offering the latest biohacks. Poolside vitamin IV, anyone?

Why will it matter in 2024? Since the pandemic, feeling good trumps looking good. “People have become aware of the critical importance of developing a more proactive, preventive approach to health on all levels,” says Karina Stewart, co-founder of Kamalaya , a wellness retreat in Koh Samui, Thailand . This means a new willingness to go beyond diet and exercise and embrace sci-fi-sounding bio-regenerative treatments such as ozone therapy and hyperbaric oxygen chambers, both on offer at Kamalaya's new Longevity House.

Luxury hotel brands are embracing the trend too. Six Senses Ibiza recently teamed up with biotech company RoseBar to offer guests full diagnostic testing. Maybourne Hotel Group is collaborating with wellness tech pioneer Virtusan to help guests boost performance. And Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea administers treatments such as stem cells and NAD+ (a.k.a. the fountain of youth) through its partnership with Next Health . At 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay in Kauai, guests are welcomed with a B12 shot and the resort’s new wellness-specific rooms come with recovery-boosting mod cons including infrared light mats. If the trend continues, the secret to longevity may be as easy as taking more holidays. — Jen Murphy

9. Peak season gets the cold shoulder

What's the trend? There’s been a dramatic recent increase in shoulder season travel to Europe’s most popular destinations (particularly France , Spain , the UK , and Italy ), which is set to continue in 2024. Luxury travel specialists Original Travel has launched new shoulder season itineraries to locations traditionally in demand during the summer—including the crystalline seascapes of Sardinia and Corsica—after seeing 14% more bookings for September 2023 than for August 2023. Pegi Amarteifio of Small Luxury Hotels of the World shares similar insights: “Comparing phone reservations in 2023 against 2019, we’ve seen a 33% increase for March to May and a 58% increase for September to November, a pattern reflected across our other booking channels too.”

Why will it matter in 2024? A combination of social, economic, and environmental factors is driving this trend into 2024. The cost of living crisis means a heightened focus on value. For 62% of respondents to Booking.com’s 2024 travel trends survey, this is a limiting factor for 2024 travel planning, so much so that 47% of respondents are even willing to take children out of school for cheaper off-peak travel. Shoulder season travel is also becoming more attractive due to rising temperatures, and more feasible due to flexible working. Layered on top of these practical considerations is an emotional motivation too: Travelers are craving authenticity more than ever, seeking a tranquil and local feel when abroad, rather than beaches that resemble a Where's Waldo? scene. — Toyo Odetunde

10. Private group travel

What’s the trend? The post-pandemic desire to gather friends or family and embark on a shared holiday experience shows no sign of abating. In fact, it’s on the increase in luxury travel, as people appreciate the benefits and savor the moment, from three-generation family groups to 50-something empty-nesters keen to rekindle life-long friendships. Just don’t take Succession ’s family outing to Tuscany as a role model.

Why will it matter in 2024? “While some predicted group travel would peak post-pandemic, we’ve seen it have a lasting, positive impact with private group bookings continuing to be a dominant trend,” says Tom Marchant of Black Tomato , for whom group travel now accounts for 30% of bookings. The company has just launched its See You in the Moment series to cater for the demand. It uses a mood board of over 35 experiences themed around key flash points, from The Meal (a backcountry feast served on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon , for example) to The Challenge (rafting down the Apurímac in Peru , perhaps), all designed to create lasting memories. For Scott Williams , meanwhile, multi-generational travelers are thinking big: Why take one house when you can take a whole estate, such as Meli on Paxos in the Greek Islands, which sleeps 17?

Other groups are taking to the water, with Red Savannah reporting an increase in bookings for Turkish gulets, Egyptian dahabiyas, and Indonesian phinisis. Scott Dunn have seen an increase in bookings amongst groups of friends, with 30% of respondents in a recent survey saying they were planning trips for 2024 that included ski trips to France, adventure travel in South and Central America, and beach breaks on Antigua and Barbados.

Empty-nesters are also a growing force, with groups of couples in their 50s to 70s hiring villas in the shoulder season for cultural weeks away, and all-female groups—mainly aged between 50 and 65—who are proactive in wanting to renew long-term friendships. “We had one repeat group that included several cancer survivors,” says Sarah-Leigh Shenton at Red Savannah. “A hammam afternoon in Turkey was a deeply bonding experience and they’ve since traveled to Jordan and Sicily together.” — Rick Jordan

11. AI aims to be your sidekick

What's the trend? Early last year, after OpenAI’s ChatGPT broke the record as the fastest-ever growing consumer app, travelers started playing around with AI chatbots to get inspiration on where they could go. More recently, major travel booking platforms have started to integrate AI chatbots into the booking experience. But if 2023 was the year of AI chatbots wanting to plan your trips , 2024 will be all about how AI aspires to be your travel sidekick. A wave of new AI-powered features and products aims to support travelers on the ground, all while raising concerns around the potential negative impacts as AI becomes more widely integrated with our travels.

Why will it matter in 2024? AI will start to make more real-time interventions in our travels in 2024. One practical example is live translation , which Samsung plans to launch on its 2024 Galaxy devices. Imagine calling somewhere you want to visit to get information without worrying about whether staff speak the same language as you. Another example is greater AI personalization in popular apps you already use. Uber’s CEO Dara Khosrowshahi has recently touted the company's increasing use of personalized AI algorithms , which will learn about your habits and make suggestions based on what you’re doing.

For the true early adopters, real-time travel interventions could also mean ditching your screen entirely and clipping a screenless personal translator and travel assistant to your chest. This is the unusual idea behind the new talking and projecting AI Pin from Humane , a start-up backed by investors including OpenAI’s Sam Altman, that promises to function a bit like the universal translator from Star Trek . Will anyone want to actually wear the pin or will it go the way of previously hyped devices such as Google Glass? It certainly raises a host of ethical questions about privacy and data protection. Yet the more that AI products successfully help in addressing on-the-go problems, the more travelers will come to rely on them too. — JD Shadel

12. Skip-gen travel

What’s the trend? Skip-gen travel describes when grandparents holiday with grandchildren, in other words, “skipping” a generation. “In the past few months, I've had around twice as many enquiries as usual for grandchild/grandchild bookings,” says Clio Wood, founder of family retreat company &Breathe . “There’s been a rising trend of grandparents taking their grandchildren away,” agrees Ollie Summers, head of sales at luxury travel operator Scott Dunn . “Often to places that have a sentimental meaning to them.”

Why will it matter in 2024? Several travel agencies have created itineraries to cater specifically for this demand in 2024. “Skip-gen safaris are emerging as a micro-trend from the UK, reflecting a niche traveler group now well established in the US luxury market,” says Liane Goldring of Mahlatini Luxury Travel . “The grandparents are usually in their 70s and still active enough to fully embrace a fully guided safari adventure.” Original Travel, meanwhile, has relaunched its Bonding Holidays Collection , featuring trips focused on discovering something new together, such as its 14-day Family Ranching itinerary in the American West. Some of this growth can be attributed to big-ticket lockdown promises coming to fruition. Now, parents are also keen to make the most of the time and childcare support of their typically retired parents. Plus, the global ratio of living grandparents to grandchildren is higher than ever, thanks to a combined increase in life expectancy and drop in the number of children per person. We’re even said to be living in the “the age of the grandparent.” Don’t expect this trend—or your grandparents—to slow down anytime soon. — Becky Lucas

13. Train travel gets glam

What’s the trend? Rising climate consciousness has fueled a rail travel revival, and so the luxury train niche is reaching new heights of popularity, extravagance, and ambition. Travel booking platforms are reporting growing demand for luxury rail trips , where the journey is, yes, the destination. In fact, new design-forward train lines increasingly rival the finest hotels for the culinary experiences and bells and whistles on offer.

Why will it matter in 2024? A new wave of rail lines and itineraries launching in 2024 puts an emphasis on deeper immersion into the culture and landscapes of the destinations, which are more and more off the beaten track. Responding to growing demand for luxury train travel among its user base, specialist platform Railbookers plans to launch arguably the most geographically extensive and expensive luxury train itinerary around. With prices per person starting at $113,599, the 80-day Around the World by Luxury Train voyage will cross four continents and 13 countries. Beginning in August, the slow journey will string together existing luxury rail trips including Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Jasper, and India’s Maharajas Express from Delhi to Mumbai.

In Asia, the previously paused Eastern & Oriental Express is making a grand comeback starting in February, with carriages getting an upscale revamp and its legendary route being retraced through Malaysia's landscapes. Meanwhile, Japan is a hot destination for its scenic train journeys such as the exclusive Train Suite Shiki-shima, which quickly closed applications for its 2024 trips due to demand.

And in Europe, six new train lines will commence or terminate in Rome under Accor's La Dolce Vita umbrella, with suites designed by starchitects Dimorestudio, building on the cultural legacy of the famous Orient Express . — JD Shadel

14. Restaurateur-owned hotels

What’s the trend? Restaurants and hotels are the two keystones of the hospitality industry. And naturally, the two are often intertwined on one premises. Until recently, though, most hotels weren’t started or owned by restaurateurs. Yet as food-focused travel keeps increasing, with people hankering for the next hot reservation and planning entire trips around engaging with a culture through its food, it makes sense that restaurateurs are adding hotelier to their personal bios—and ensuring their new properties have impressive food offerings. We’d be remiss not to mention Nobu, which began as a restaurant in 1994 and in 2013 launched its global hotel brand , as a harbinger of the trend.

Why will it matter in 2024? Just as design brands (RH, West Elm) have opened hotels in recent years, now restaurateurs are getting in on the action. In the US, restaurateur and 12-time James Beard award nominee Sam Fox has just launched the Global Ambassador in Phoenix, Arizona, with five restaurants. Santa Barbara’s Good Lion Hospitality is relaunching Petit Soleil , a Californian wine country boutique hotel, with a new bar and restaurant slated for next spring. The Lafayette Hotel & Club was debuted last summer in San Diego by Arsalun Tafazoli, founder of a local hospitality group that operates 16 bars and restaurants. The hotel has five restaurants and bars, with two more opening by the end of the year. In Dallas, Harwood International, which owns a dozen or so restaurants in the area, opened Hôtel Swexan in June.

In the St. Gallen region of Switzerland, two hotels were recently added to beloved restaurants: the revamped Mammertsberg  and  Gasthaus Traube . In Slovenia, AS Hotel is a new place to stay launched by Sebastijan Raspopović, son of chef Svetozar Raspopović-Pope of renowned restaurant Gostilna AS in Lublijana. Aside from a restaurant by Raspopović-Pope, the hotel also has an eatery by Michelin-lauded chef Ana Roš. Finally,  R48 , and its lauded Chef’s Table, was opened in Tel Aviv last spring by R2M Hospitality Group, which also runs restaurants CoffeeBar and Herzl 16. — Devorah Lev-Tov

15. Silent travel

What’s the trend? In an age of overstimulation, silence might be just what we need from our travels in 2024. Offering a chance to restore and reset, silent travel represents a more mindful kind of trip, one that doesn’t leave you needing a holiday to recover from your holiday. Silent meditation retreats are an increasingly popular wellness trend, but silent travel also encompasses secluded nature resorts, sleep retreats , quiet hotels , silent walking tours and even silent disco and concert experiences.

Why will it matter in 2024? Saturated with stress and screen time, many of us are looking for ways to disconnect. The silent walking trend that recently took TikTok by storm reflects a growing impulse to escape the noise of our tech-fueled lives and embrace the quiet, with promising implications for wellbeing. One 2015 study suggests silence may help to stimulate brain development, while another found that two minutes of silence during or after relaxing music increased the music's calming effects. With the Global Wellness Institute forecasting a 21% increase in wellness tourism in the next two years, what better counter to the chaos of our always-on lives than silence? Silent travel is also part of a move towards more sustainable tourism. Quiet Parks International , for example, offers unique nature experiences in dedicated quiet spaces, reducing noise pollution for the surrounding wildlife.

Silent travel opportunities abound in 2024. Kick off the year with a silent retreat in Portugal (with Innate ) or Italy (with Mandali ). More adventurous silent-seekers can trek the peaceful Japanese Kumano Kodo trail, or explore Finland’s Arctic landscape with a Silence & Nature Tour . For a tailor-made silent experience, Black Tomato’s Blink camp offers luxury accommodation in the world’s most remote settings, while its Get Lost program promises to help you find yourself by getting lost in a far-flung location. — Tasha Kleeman

16. Urban gardens

What’s the trend? Never mind the biophilic office and those pot plants you forget to water: Whole cities are going green as architects and planners create leafy microclimates amid the grey concrete to help keep us cooler, connect communities and even feed us.

Why will it matter in 2024? Having trees and gardens in our cities is a pretty good idea. King Nebuchadnezzar certainly thought so, which is why his Hanging Gardens of Babylon made it into travel’s first-ever bucket list—the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—back in the 2nd century BC. Nowadays, planting trees creates much-needed shade, stores carbon, and increases biodiversity, but it also makes our cityscapes so much nicer.

While Valencia, an early adopter of urban greening with its 12km-long Turia Garden in 1986, is the 2024 European Green Capital, France is busy planting trees like there’s no tomorrow. Go to Paris for the 2024 Olympics and you’ll spot budding new forests growing in Place du Colonel-Fabien, Place de Catalogne, and in the Charonne district, while Bordeaux ’s Grandeur Nature project includes urban cooling islands, micro-forests, and rain gardens.

Meanwhile, on Cyprus—an island that experienced temperatures of 111°F in 2023—the new Salina Park opens in time for summer shade in the seaside city of Larnaca. In Brazil , Rio’s Hortas Cariocas is a groundbreaking achievement that will be completed by the end of 2024: the largest urban vegetable garden in the world, connecting 56 community gardens across favelas and schools.

And in London , the £1-billion Google building in King’s Cross will show just what can be done with one structure. Designed by Thomas Heatherwick, the “landscraper”—only 11 stories high but stretching out longer than the Shard is tall—is hoped to provide a blueprint for future urban projects: running along the rooftop is a multi-level garden, with wildflowers, lawns and decked seating areas, set with more than 55,000 plants and 250 trees. Can you dig it? — Rick Jordan

17. Back-of-house tours

What’s the trend? Greener hotels giving us a look behind the scenes to show us—not just tell us— they're sustainable. Not just a look-see at solar panels or composting, but experiential tours that help us appreciate why it matters to support socio-economic uplift through tourism. In South America, Blue Apple Beach invites visitors to get up close and personal with the community work it does in Colombia through its impact fund. Founder Portia Hart wanted more than token-gesture carbon offsetting, where locals themselves could decide how money was spent. In Africa, guests of the Bushcamp Company contribute to initiatives through the Luangwa Conservation and Community Fund. A popular excursion in Zambia is visiting the boreholes that are installed with outreach funds. Each pump provides fresh drinking water to hundreds of people a day, and visitors who spend time with those gathered get a very tangible insight into how such provisions funded by hospitality can literally change lives in regions most affected by a warming planet.

Why will it matter in 2024? Transparency is on the up as the European Union's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive comes into force and greenwashing is coming close to being officially outlawed. A year of droughts, floods, and heatwaves also reminds us we need to make better-informed choices in our travel planning—and all the better if we can also get a crash course on the science and sociology of positive impact. Experiences that go beyond explaining responsible practices, but demonstrate a deep respect for communities on the climate-change frontlines and help make their challenges relatable to visitors are especially helpful. — Juliet Kinsman

18. Wild feasting

What’s the trend? Have you ever noticed how food always tastes better outdoors? But in today’s modern world, many of us are more used to eating a sandwich while staring at a screen. Wild feasting describes the trend for beautifully curated culinary experiences in natural environments with the incorporation of hyper-local and foraged ingredients. In Sweden , for example, you can tap into a network of do-it-yourself outdoor restaurants where you book a table in a scenic location, search for nettles, birch leaves, lingonberries, and trumpet chanterelles, and then cook them on an open fire according to a recipe card provided by a Michelin-grade chef.

Why will it matter in 2024? A greater range of wild feasting opportunities will give urbanites a chance to properly connect over food. Leading the way is Noah Ellis, founder of the UK's Nomadic Dinners . “Since launching in 2018, we experienced compounded year-on-year growth for our feasting and foraging experiences,” he says. In 2024, he will be hosting a new series of fire feasts, including one set among the bluebells. Also tapping into the zeitgeist is TikTok star Alexis Nikole Nelson (a.k.a. the Black Forager) who will publish a book about wild food in 2024. And don’t forget, 2024 is the last year you will be able to eat at Copenhagen ’s legendary, foraging-focused restaurant Noma before it turns into a test kitchen and closes to the public.

Another innovator is Holmen Lofoten’s Kitchen On The Edge Of The World series in the Norwegian Arctic Circle, where guests can participate in four nights of wild feasts cooked by top chefs. In 2024, these will include Lennox Hastie, José Pizarro, and Heidi Bjerkan. Ingunn Rasmussen, owner of Holmen Lofoten, says, “Now, as when we were little kids, gathering around a bonfire in the wilderness, sharing stories, and feasting under the stars in these magical, remote surroundings is one of the absolute highlights, both for our guests and for us.” — Jenny Southan

19. Plan-free travel

What's the trend? Saying no to endless scrolling to plan every inch of a trip, and saying yes to spontaneity instead. The power of the algorithm-spawned era of FOMO travel is waning, with those once secret spots made Insta-famous becoming tired and cookie-cutter, and the drive to plan a trip around them losing momentum. The rising counter movement is travel with no plans at all.

Why will it matter in 2024? The plan-free appeal is going one step further in 2024. Booking.com recently reported that 50% of UK travelers want to book a surprise trip in 2024, where everything, even the destination, is unknown until arrival. And it’s possible to do it via travel companies such as Black Tomato, whose Get Lost service offers customers the ability to simply select a preferred environment—polar, jungle, desert, mountain, or coastal—and leave its team to decide everything else. “While we launched Get Lost several years ago, post-pandemic we’ve seen a notable and rising uptick in bookings and enquiries,” says Black Tomato co-founder Tom Marchant.

Journee offers a similar surprise element, with travelers only finding out where they’re going at the airport. The service, which includes a full itinerary and access to a team via Whatsapp, is particularly popular with solo female travelers, while overall demand has grown so much that the London-based brand recently launched trips in the US. — Lauren Burvill

20. Frontier tourism

What’s the trend? To go above and beyond. Or below and under. As crossings of the tumultuous Drake Passage to Antarctica rack up millions of TikTok views and traffic jams form on Everest, canny travelers are seeking more individual, less obvious experiences that combine thrill-seeking with more meaningful self-empowerment.

Why will it matter in 2024? One person’s frontier is another’s backyard, of course, so frontiers are entirely subjective here. For some, this could mean being the first to camp under the stars in a remote landscape, or hike an ancient pilgrimage trail that’s been off the map for centuries. It’s still possible to bag a rare place on a Kamba African Rainforest Experience in the Republic of the Congo, being one of just 12 people to explore a game park the size of Belgium.

Black Tomato, meanwhile, is designing an intrepid new expedition to the remote Mitre Peninsula in Argentina, along with a trip in Peru navigating the Sacred Valley of the Incas by raft. “This sort of adventure goes beyond bragging rights and is more akin to self-empowerment and the gratification of pushing our own horizons,” says Black Tomato co-founder Tom Marchant. The Ultimate Travel Company is also heading to Peru, a country repositioning itself for luxury travelers, with stays at Puqio, its first tented exploration camp, in the remote Colca Valley in the Southern Peruvian Andes.

Wilderness camping is also pegging out fresh terrain in Kyrgyzstan, with yurt stays on the steppes trending for 2024, according to Wild Frontiers, as is Mongolia; while Albania, Mongolia, Pakistan and the Empty Quarter of Oman are all on the radar for an increasing number of travelers. And while the space-age pods of White Desert have already sold out for New Year’s Eve 2024 and 2025, latter-day frontiersfolk can take the path less traveled and explore the frozen continent’s southern coast (99 per cent of visitors go from South America to the northwest) with The Ultimate Travel Company’s new Ross Sea cruises, seeing the Ross Ice Shelf and Transantarctic Mountains. Don’t forget to pack your penknife. — Rick Jordan

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• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Meaning of travel in English

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travel verb ( MAKE JOURNEY )

• I like to travel but, then again, I'm very fond of my home .
• It's often quicker to travel across country and avoid the major roads altogether .
• Passengers without proper documentation will not be allowed to travel.
• The elderly travel free on public transport .
• We like to travel in the autumn when there are fewer tourists .
• The tragedy is that cultures don't always travel well, and few immigrant groups can sustain their culture over the long term .
• around Robin Hood's barn idiom
• communication
• public transport
• super-commuting
• transoceanic
• well travelled

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

travel verb ( MOVE )

• The objects travel in elliptical orbits .
• In 1947, a pilot flying over the Cascades saw nine metallic flying objects traveling at an estimated 1,200 miles per hour .
• The elevator traveled smoothly upward .
• White light separates out into its component wavelengths when traveling through a prism .
• As the material travels through the winding machine , excess liquid is squeezed out by rollers .
• Lead dust travels easily from hands to mouth and can't be seen .
• body English
• kinetic energy
• kinetically
• repair to somewhere

travel verb ( BREAK RULE )

• foul trouble
• free-throw lane
• free-throw line
• full-court press
• run-and-gun

travel noun ( ACTIVITY )

• They offer a 10 percent discount on rail travel for students .
• The price includes travel and accommodation but meals are extra .
• His work provided him with the opportunity for a lot of foreign travel.
• The popular myth is that air travel is more dangerous than travel by car or bus .
• Passes are available for one month's unlimited travel within Europe .
• break-journey
• circumnavigation

travel noun ( MOVEMENT OF OBJECT )

• It can be difficult to predict the travel of smoke from smouldering fires .
• The travel of the bullets and blood spatter showed that he was lying on the ground on his side when he was shot .
• This seemed to prove that light has a finite speed of travel.
• Striking the ball when the clubhead is already past the lowest point of its travel gives a slight overspin.
• The actuator then rotates its output shaft to the extremes of its travel.
• bring someone on
• non-competitor
• park the bus idiom
• play big idiom
• step/move up a gear idiom

travel | American Dictionary

Travel | business english, examples of travel, collocations with travel.

These are words often used in combination with travel .

Click on a collocation to see more examples of it.

Translations of travel

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Word of the Day

have irons in the fire

to be involved with many activities or jobs at the same time or to make certain that there are always several possibilities available

Binding, nailing, and gluing: talking about fastening things together

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• travel (MAKE JOURNEY)
• travel light
• travel (MOVE)
• really travel
• travel (BREAK RULE)
• travel (ACTIVITY)
• travel (MOVEMENT OF OBJECT)
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Definition of travel verb from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

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• GENERAL TRAVEL

24 Perspectives & Thoughts on Meaningful Travel

Megan Lee is an international educator, traveler, writer, & SEO. After leading study abroad p...

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There are as many reasons to travel as there are gelato flavors to taste-test and awe-inspiring sunrises to groggily pull yourself out of bed for: to learn, to grow, to become, to breathe fresh air, to see new horizons, to dive into new depths, to hear strange words. But, don’t just take our word for it—there are plenty of fellow travelers out there that will back us up as to why traveling is good, and just how important meaningful travel is.

Travel is all a matter of perspective—and here are some great ones.

To celebrate 20+ years in the world of making travel meaningful , we’re here to share 24 inspiring and unique perspectives on travel from our community, our colleagues, and our team. Read on!

24 reflections & thoughts on travel

1. Destiny Davis—Meaningful Traveler

Community Member | GoAbroad

Meaningful travel is the reason why I never hand individuals items with my left hand or why I would never allow the bottom of my feet to face a Buddha statue in a temple. Meaningful travel is learning respect. Meaningful travel is when you dive into a culture and leave with a greater understanding of a country, its physical atmosphere, people, and social climate. Meaningful travel is one of the most important types of travel, for not only is the traveler forever changed, but leaves an imprint and positive impact on the country he/she visits.

2. Umar Khan—Meaningful Traveler

Travel doesn’t mean leisure only, it is more than that. Travel means responsibility, care, opportunity, and learning. Responsibility for the environment—a meaningful traveler does not engage in any activity to pollute it. Care is to be given to the local community to respect them and buy from them. Opportunity is to do better at the destination, to invest in for the benefit of locals. Learning means to learn something new that you can later implement in your own life in your own country for the betterment and improvement of sustainable travel practices.

3. Amy Ruhter McMillan—International Educator

Associate VP of Marketing | IES Abroad

How has meaningful travel changed in the last 20 years? The one thing that never changes about travel is how extraordinary the people in this field are. Attend any youth travel-related conference or event, and it will be full of people to admire. People who are committed to study abroad and international exchange. People ultimately committed to international education because we believe it can and will change the world. People who have seen first-hand that it IS changing the world.

4. Kate Mosser—GoAbroad Team Member

Writer's Academy Alumni | GoAbroad

Travel creates new situations for you, where you can explore who you are in different contexts. Every time you're presented with something new, you have the opportunity to write the story of who you are. And everywhere you go, you have the opportunity to tell that story. Therein lies the magic of travel: it shapes you at precisely the same time you are shaping it. Whether this is on a camel ride across the Sahara or a bus trip into the next city, you are constantly encountering and creating the new you, and that gives meaning to all travel.

5. Charmaine Yip—Travel Blogger

Blogger | The Canadian Wanderer

Meaningful travel is stepping out of what you know into a realm that you don't know and to see the best of both worlds. 

It is the ability to compare and contrast and to see the advantages and disadvantages of both places and learning to be grateful of where you come from. 

6. Nicole Powers—GoAbroad Team Member

CCO | GoAbroad

It's important to realize these trips are not separate from our everyday lives. They are windows into shared human experience. The people we meet abroad are living their normal life each day—buying groceries, picking their kids up from school, arguing with their boyfriends, figuring out how to pay their rent. This is the most powerful and meaningful part of travel—when your perspective changes from assuming difference to discovering similarity. The only way to care about someone is to identify with them, and the quickest way to that point is on an airplane.

7. Steph Dyson—Meaningful Traveler

Travel Goddess/Blogger | WorldlyAdventurer

Meaningful travel is recognising that visiting a country is not just about the photographs you take: it is about setting aside the camera and become a participant in what you see before you. It is the recognition that travel is a two-way process: we must be willing to give something in exchange for being welcomed into communities and shown kindness by people who have little else that they can offer.

8. Alyssa Nota—International Educator

CEO/President | USAC Study Abroad

More and more people are seeing the unequalled value of education abroad, language learning and the immense personal growth that occurs when one is forced from one's "familiar" into the "unknown" or "different." Technology has made the world smaller. Financial support in various forms has made the far corners of the globe more easily reached. Study abroad programs have transformed into innumerable formats, durations, types and destinations. All of this has brought study abroad into the scope of far more students than ever before - and this can only be considered a good thing.

9. Suzanne Bhagan—GoAbroad Team Member

Meaningful Travel Insider | GoAbroad

For me, meaningful travel is not a competition to see who gets to visit the most places first. It certainly does not mean treating foreign countries like cool selfie backdrops or commodities I can tick off a bucket list. It's about me trying to engage more deeply with a location, people, and culture, which also causes me to interrogate my prejudices from home. Above all, it teaches me that I’m part of a whole—the whole of the human race.

10. Antoaneta Antonova Atanassova—International Educator

Founding President | Mexican Council for Cultural Diplomacy

If I don´t learn about the culture of the place I am visiting, I don’t feel I’ve traveled at all. The culture and the personal interactions of a new place are the object of my learning, and serve as an effective form to compare reality to the cultural bias existing in the media—and to ultimately break paradigms. Travel, interact, feel, analyze, and learn; then, your intercultural competences will grow.

11. Lara Jeich—Meaningful Traveler

Be open-minded, eager to observe, to learn, to adapt. Be open to relate with people, learn and EXPLORE! Be cautious, but don’t stop being adventurous, live the moment and take the best of it. If someone has an advice, take it, you never know when it could come in handy. GET INVOLVED!...with the places you go, the nature that surrounds you, and the people you meet. If you have an opportunity to participate in a local project, never doubt it! It will be the most rewarding experience you could ask for. Traveling can be transforming. Nevertheless, it has to be a “conscious traveling,” the kind that gets you out of your comfort zone.

12. Kayla Patterson—GoAbroad Team Member

COO | GoAbroad

Something magical happens when we travel meaningfully. When we step outside our comfort zone, intentionally immerse ourselves in another culture, and learn more about the places we visit, it changes us. Our fundamental views of the world, ourselves, and relationships shift. We realize that before these experiences, our eyes weren’t wide open and we lacked a profound understanding of our place in the world.

13. Ali Gaffey—Meaningful Traveler

While travel is likely meaningful to the traveler on a emotional level, the term "meaningful travel" refers to a purpose rather than simply the destination. As humans, we are constantly searching for meaningful interactions with each other. Travel allows us to share experiences with people and places different from our norm. Meaningful travel makes us better citizens of the world and keep us desiring for more. 

14. Sunny Fitzgerald—Travel Blogger

Founder | FROLIQ

Don't be so focused on your own journey that you forget to look up and connect with people around you that are all on journeys of their own. Other countries and communities don't just exist for your pleasure. 

Yes, of course, take time to learn and challenge yourself. But, don't forget to get to know the people and places where you travel. What meaning can any trip or life have if it's void of the connection with the journeys that are interwoven with your own?

15. Louise Lieselotte Katharina Mayer—Meaningful Traveler

Meaningful travel is not about the number of "likes" on your Instagram picture or checking off five star sights because TripAdvisor told you to. It has nothing to do with images portrayed or perception of what makes a true "traveler." Traveling with meaning comes from personal growth. It is a chance to challenge yourself and to absorb everything you possibly can, so that you can continue the cycle and give back once again to the world. 

16. Rebecca Schwab—International Educator

Campus Operations Director | Kahal Abroad

Meaningful travel means an opportunity to see the world differently than you ever have before and reflect upon how far you've have come to be standing where you are. Being abroad is a once in a lifetime experience where you develop as a person in a completely new world; I hope more students take advantage of the blank slate being abroad gifts you.

17. Sara Engelhard—Meaningful Traveler

To me, the phrase “meaningful travel” is redundant. All travel is meaningful; however, I do think that “meaningful” is a spectrum. At the highest end of the spectrum, there is travel that transforms not only you, but those who you meet. In even the smallest of ways, “meaningful travel” changes the world.

18. David Hayes—Meaningful Traveler

Don’t take that picture that literally every other foreigner visiting that place has taken, and never underestimate the power of simply "hanging out" with local folks. People shine their brightest in their moments of normalcy. Join them.

19. Vianna Renaud—International Educator

Placement Development Advisor | Bournemouth University

Meaningful travel, to me, is an international experience that makes you think and creates an impact. Even during the most difficult moments, I know that my life has been much more enriched from living abroad.

20. Kendall Dick—GoAbroad Team Member

Meaningful travel is not just a trip or a vacation, it is a journey. But it’s not always as appealing as a picture on the cover of a study abroad brochure. The word “travel” is derived from the world travail, which means painful or laborious effort. 

Meaningful travel promises trials, but in the end, it offers a life changing opportunity for someone else as well as yourself.

21. Elsa Thomasma Alingasa—GoAbroad Team Member

SEM & Content Executive | GoAbroad

Traveling to a new place always makes me realize how many extraordinary people, cultures, and places exist in the world, each one unique and beautiful in its own way. It restores my faith in humanity and the future of our planet, by introducing me to kind, generous, accepting people from all walks of life. Traveling reminds me that media reports are never representative of entire populations, ethnicities, regions, or points in history. When I travel, I find myself continuously redefining what it means to be human, and more importantly, a humanitarian.

22. Anna Vatuone—Meaningful Traveler

I love the way a stranger looks when your first approach them. The way their eyes brighten and their smile curls in anticipation for the words soon escaping your mouth. I love the feeling of a fresh conversation, the way it revives you, the way it awakens you. Crossing paths. I can tell you of nothing more powerful, to meet the very people that make up a place. So, I suppose if you were to ask me what meaningful travel is, I would tell you it’s thanks to the people you meet along the way. 

23. Mary Ellen Dingley—GoAbroad Team Member

Meaningful travel does one of two things—it puts us in touch with others, or with ourselves. Meaningful travel happens when we are open to receiving the stories of people on the other side of the globe, whether through building personal connections or through the local art or history. Meaningful travel can also, as one fellow traveler said, make us "come face to face with ourselves." While lost in strange cities or gaping at mountain ranges, I learned more of who I was. While what is “meaningful” to a traveler may change, the desire for intentional, immersive travel never will. 

24. Shelby Sage Lisieski—Meaningful Traveler

Meaningful travel for me goes beyond sight. One can travel thousands of miles to "see" a certain attraction, however, if only the sense of sight is used, are you fully taking in and embracing all that is around you? Personally speaking, I enjoy taking time to fully immerse in a new travel destination and all it has to offer. The differentiating tastes, the aromas that surround you, the continuous sounds of everyday life, the feelings of objects foreign to what you are used to, and last but not least the entrancing sights. Meaningful travel to Shelby Sage Lisieski means that I become intertwined with the surroundings (living and inanimate), and to always have my five senses strapped to me at all times!

Feeling inspired yet?

Yeah, us too—these thoughts on travel get us pumped. Excuse us while we bite the bullet and actually book one of those Scott’s Cheap Travel flights…

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Definition of travel

 (Entry 1 of 2)

intransitive verb

transitive verb

Definition of travel  (Entry 2 of 2)

• peregrinate
• peregrination

Examples of travel in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'travel.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English travailen, travelen to torment, labor, strive, journey, from Anglo-French travailler

14th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing travel

• pre - travel
• see / travel the world
• travel agency
• travel agent
• travel light
• travel sickness
• travel trailer

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Dictionary Entries Near travel

Cite this entry.

“Travel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/travel. Accessed 21 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of travel.

Kids Definition of travel  (Entry 2 of 2)

Middle English travailen "torment, labor, strive, journey," from early French travailler "torment, labor," from an unrecorded Latin verb tripaliare "to torture," from Latin tripalium "an instrument of torture," literally "three stakes," derived from tri- "three" and palus "stake, pale" — related to pale entry 3 , travail

More from Merriam-Webster on travel

Nglish: Translation of travel for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of travel for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about travel

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I-20 Form Guide for International Students

What is a I-20 form? This important form enables international students to pay their I-901 SEVIS fee, apply for a nonimmigrant visa at the nearest US embassy or consulate, and travel to the US.

For international students who want to study in the US on US student visas , the I-20 student visa form is a required document. Issued by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to certified colleges and universities in the US, the I-20 form proves that you are a legitimate student who is enrolled in an accredited college or university.

With your I-20 form, you can pay your I-901 SEVIS fee, apply for your nonimmigrant visa in your US embassy or consulate, and travel to the US.

What Is an I-20 Form? 

The I-20 form for a student visa in the USA is a Certificate of Eligibility issued by accredited colleges or universities in the US for international students on an F-1 student visa or M-1 student visa. The I-20 form proves that you are a legitimate student studying in the US and is an important step in getting your student visa. Once you have your visa, you can then apply for a driver’s license and a Social Security number (pending visa and employment status), and be qualified to work on campus or off campus, depending on the type of your US student visa.

Once you are accepted to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified US college or a university, you will receive an I-20 form from the designated school official (DSO) at the school or university where you plan to enroll. The DSO is responsible for signing and delivering the I-20 form student visa USA to you. If you want to update your information on the I-20 form student visa, the DSO will make the changes through SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System). 

There are two types of I-20 forms issued to international students, depending on the type of visa:

Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status – For Academic and Language Students

Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (M-1) Student Status – For Vocational Students

While the two I-20 forms are for different types of academic programs, they contain the same information. The following information will be recorded in the SEVIS when you receive your I-20:

SEVIS ID number

Academic program start and end dates

Intended program of study

Funding sources

Cost of attendance at your school of choice

Other personal information

It is important to keep your I-20 form with you during your stay in the US as an international student. You can find out more information about the I-20 form on DHS.gov and from Shorelight’s student visa services .

I-20 Form Requirements

To obtain the I-20 visa application form, you must meet the following I-20 visa requirements :

Get accepted to an accredited college or university —First, the college or university you applied to must accept your application. The institution must be SEVP-certified.

Make sure your information is correct and up to date —The college or university you are attending must confirm that your personal information is correct and that you have enough funds to cover your costs during your stay in the US.

Read more about the I-20 student visa form on State.gov .

What Is the I-901 SEVIS Fee?

After you are accepted to an accredited college or a university in the US, you are asked to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee to obtain your F-1 student visa or M-1 student visa. To complete the payment, you need to have your I-20 form with you.

You are expected to pay the SEVIS fee if you are a:

F-1 or M-1 visa student from a country where a visa is required to travel to the US

F-1 or M-1 visa student from a visa-waiver country (before you seek admission at a US port of entry)

A non-immigrant in the US who wishes to change your nonimmigrant status to F-1 or M-1 status (before applying for a change of nonimmigrant status)

F-1 or M-1 student who has been out of status for more than five months

F-1 or M-1 student who has been away from the US for more than five months and wishes to re-enter the US for higher studies in the same course of study

Visit DHS.gov for more information about the SEVIS fee.

To pay the I-901 SEVIS fee, you need to provide your:

Name, address, date of birth, and email address

Country of birth and country of citizenship

School Code as stated on your I-20 form

SEVIS Identification Number as listed on the I-20 form

After paying the I-901 SEVIS fee, make sure to keep the I-901 SEVIS fee receipt and bring it to your visa interview as proof of payment. It is mandatory to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee before you enter the US.

How Do I Get My I-20 Form?

If you are applying for an F-1 student visa or a M-1 student visa, you first need to obtain the I-20 form, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, to travel to the US. 

Once you are accepted into a SEVP-certified college or a university, you will receive your I-20 form from your designated school official (DSO). After your application has been approved by the SEVP-approved school, you will be registered in SEVIS and must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. Once you are registered, the college or the university will issue you an I-20 form. The I-20 form lists the start date of your program, and you may enter the US 30 days before your academic program begins. Your F-1 or M-1 student visas can be issued up to 120 days in advance of the start date of your program.

For more information, check out Shorelight’s college application assistance services.

Who Needs an I-20 Form?

As a required document that proves your eligibility for an F-1 student visa or M-1 student visa status in the United States, the I-20 student visa form must be kept with you during your US study program. 

You need a I-20 form if you are an international student who is a:

Non-immigrant who has never attended a school or a university in the United States

Non-immigrant wishing to transfer from a secondary school, college, or university in the US

Non-immigrant changing your current visa status to a F-1 visa

Non-immigrant returning from a leave of absence of more than five months, from the US

You have to carry your original I-20 form with your signature as you enter the US. A US Customs and Border Protection officer will ask you to present your I-20 form at the port of entry. (Make sure to have it in your carry-on bag – do not pack it inside your suitcase!)

Will I Get a New Form I-20?

Yes, you can request a new I-20 form from your DSO under the following circumstances:

The physical copy of the I-20 form is destroyed, lost, or stolen

You need it to travel

Your SEVIS status changes (e.g., your status changes from initial to active)

Your personal information like changes (e.g., new program of study, optional practical training, etc.)

To request a new I-20 form, contact your DSO. It is important to remember that your DSO can only reprint an official I-20 form when your SEVIS status is initial or active.

Do I Need the I-20 Form for Travel?

You do not need to have your I-20 form with you when you travel. However, you are required to carry your I-20 form for re-entering the US. You will be asked to keep a hard copy of your I-20 form with original signatures — this applies to international students with a F-1 student visa and M-1 student visa. For example, if you plan to travel outside of the US and return to your US university or college to resume your studies, remember to take your I-20 form with you. 

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Travel idioms: Fun ways to talk about traveling and adventures

Are you in the mood for an adventure? Before you pack your bags and grab your passport, make sure you have the right vocabulary to talk about it.

These English travel idioms will not only inspire you to see the world but can also be used on your journey. We have included lots of fun and useful expressions about travel and transport, all with examples and definitions. Idioms can be hard to understand , after all.

Travel idioms

A country mile.

A country mile is not an exact measurement but refers to a deceptively long distance. Country roads usually meander, so a destination a mile away can take much more than a mile to reach.

“It was suposed to be a 5 mile run but it felt like 5 country miles!”

People who have itchy feet are bored of where they are and have a desire to travel, do something new, or explore.

“She only came back from her camping trip last week but she got itchy feet and is setting off on a road trip tomorrow.’

Feet and other body parts are featured in idioms a lot, so they are always useful to know.

The travel bug

Be careful: if you catch the travel bug, it may turn your plans upside down! The travel bug refers to a strong urge, passion or desire to travel the world.

“I caught the travel bug when I first explored Europe over 20 years ago.”

At a crossroads / a fork in the road

You will surely come across a crossroads or a fork in the road when you are traveling. These expressions relate to any place where the road splits or meets another road, and you must decide which way to go.

However, we have put these on our list of travel idioms because they can also be used figuratively as choice idioms . You can say someone is at a crossroads or at a fork in the road if they have an important decision to make in any area of their life.

“I’m at a bit of a crossroads and I’m not sure what I should do.” “We get along fine, until we hit a fork in the road.”

At the crack of dawn

At the crack of dawn is a simple but fun way of describing any time very early in the morning.

“We’re going to have to get up at the crack of dawn to make our flight.”

There are many other time idioms you may find useful for planning a travel itinerary.

Bad news travels fast

Bad news travels fast , or at least that is how it often seems. Most bad news is scandalous or a great topic for gossip, so people are more likely to talk about it with their friends or colleagues.

“I can’t believe I got fired and that my wife knew about it before I even got home. I guess bad news really does travel fast!”

Live out of a suitcase

People who live out of a suitcase travel a lot from place to place, not returning home often. Since they normally stay for a short period of time in each place, they keep all their clothes in their suitcase rather than bothering to unpack and settle in.

“Guys, we have a busy interary, so get ready to live out of your suitcases for the next week or so!”

On a shoestring

Although this is a good travel idiom, it can actually apply to all situations. Anything that happens on a shoestring is done with a very small budget, keeping costs as low as possible.

“I’m backpacking around Asia next year but I’m traveling on a shoestring.”

Find some more money-related idioms here .

Hit a roadblock

This is a saying with two meanings. An actual roadblock is something used by the police to stop the illegal activity of a driver. As a travel-related idiom, to hit a roadblock refers to something getting in the way and stopping you from making progress in a project.

“The new contract negotiations were going well but we’ve hit a bit of a roadblock now.”

This is not to be confused with the one below.

Hit the road

Here’s a very popular travel idiom; so popular, in fact, that you’ll hear it in many songs like “ Hit the Road Jack “. To hit the road simply means to depart on a journey.

“Well, it’s getting late, so I think it’s time we hit the road.” “The car is all packed; let’s hit the road!”

You normally say this phrase when referring to traveling by car or going home, but it could be used in other circumstances.

Catch the sun

A lot of these travel idioms focus on going on vacation. For most people, a vacation means time in the sun. To catch the sun is to spend enough time in the sun that your skin burns or develops a tan.

“Won’t be long until I’m catching the sun in Spain.” “Looks like you have caught the sun today.”

You may also hear catch some rays , which means to sunbathe.

If you’re heading off for a summer vacation, make sure you check out some idioms about summer before you go. There are expressions to suit every season, in fact: winter , fall (autumn) and spring .

Pack light / travel light

People who travel light or pack light are careful not to bring unnecessary items. They keep their luggage to a minimum, whether for convenience or to avoid paying extra airfares for it.

“I always travel light.” “Much as I try to travel light, I always seem to need a huge suitcase.”

Travel on a full / empty stomach

Part of the joy of traveling is deciding what to eat! To travel on a full stomach means you have just eaten a lot and have no room for any more food. On the other hand, an empty stomach means you are very hungry as there is no food in you!

“I can’t have you traveling on an empty stomach. Let me make you a snack.” “I mustn’t travel on a full stomach. I get car sick.”

A mile a minute

Travel idioms can be a fun way to exaggerate your point. When you need to highlight that someone was traveling very fast, you could say they were moving a mile a minute . This saying comes from when cars had a top speed of 60 miles per hour and it was considered very fast.

“You must have gone a mile a minute to get here so fast!”

This fast idiom can also be used more generally to refer to anything done very quickly.

“She had the whole family to cook for and was chopping and mixing a mile a minute to get it all done!” “I could tell he was excited because he was talking a mile a minute. I couldn’t keep up.”

Off the beaten track / path

A beaten path or track is one that is well-used by other people. So, to get off the beaten track is to go somewhere unknown or more isolated.

“When we visit Thailand we like to get off the beaten track so we’re not just following the other tourists!”

Although it may seem similar to the next expression, this saying is more about a physical place than a direction in life.

Take the road less traveled

Here’s a travel idiom that may just change your life!

When you have a choice to make, people may advise you to take the road (or path) less traveled . This is an encouragement to think independently or unconventionally, rather than conforming to the norm and picking the option that everyone else would pick.

“I’ve decided to take the path less travelled and decline the job offer.”

Just to be very clear: this doesn’t have to be a decision related to travel. It could be about the type of job you choose, family options, education path, etc.

If you enjoy an adventure like this, also check out some action and adventure idioms .

Travel broadens the mind

Here is a little proverb that’s sneaked onto our list of travel idioms. A great reason people may give for seeing the world is that travel broadens the mind . You learn about different cultures, beliefs, and customs. You learn first-hand about history and taste new foods. Travel gives you a greater understanding and a new perspective on life.

“I’m so glad you’re taking a year to backpack Africa. Travel really broadens the mind.”

Spread your wings and fly/soar

Here is another travel expression that describes the freedom and liberty that comes with being able to wherever you like. We can liken this feeling to a bird spreading its wings to fly or soar above the world.

“You’re still young! It’s the best time to spread your wings and fly.”

This expression about freedom can relate to things other than travel, such as moving to a new place or beginning a new season of life.

Travel idioms featuring different modes of transport

We’re not done yet! Here are some more travel idioms, this time featuring or about different modes of transport.

In the driver’s seat

The person in charge of a situation and making the choices is the person in the driver’s seat .

“Mary took the week off, so Sam is in the driver’s seat.”

If you specifically need driving-related idioms more than travel idioms, there are plenty to refer to.

Catch a red-eye

Due to the size of America, it’s common to have long domestic flights. This is why this phrase is more of an American English idiom than British. A red-eye is a flight that departs late at night and/or arrives early in the morning, disrupting your natural sleep pattern and perhaps giving you red or bloodshot eyes.

“To make it to the wedding on time, we’ll have to catch the red-eye tomorrow.”

In the same boat

Normally, you’d use this saying in the context of a negative situation. To be in the same boat means that you and the people around you are all in a similar situation or experiencing the same thing.

“I know you’re cold, but we’re all in the same boat.” “The recent tax increases have hit us hard, but everyone is in the same boat.”

Here are some more idioms to use in bad situations .

Fly under the radar

Radars are used to detect things like planes or submarines. Someone or something that flies under the radar goes unnoticed or undetected, usually by people in authority.

“Let’s keep our heads down and hope we fly under the radar.”

As the crow flies

The straight-line distance from one location to another is measured as the crow flies . This is different from the distance needed to actually travel from one place to the other, since you usually need to navigate around roads, buildings, rivers, and other geographical features.

“The beach is only 2 miles away as the crow flies, but it’s more like 4 on the winding country roads.”

Find some more interesting bird idioms here.

Don’t forget to write

If you’re going to be traveling for a while, you’ll probably want to write to your friends and family back home. Traditionally this was done via letters or postcards, but now you’re more likely to email or use social media.

You can say don’t forget to write as a farewell, reminding the person to keep in touch while they are away.

“Have a fantastic trip, and don’t forget to write!”

It’s surprising how many idioms about writing are becoming obsolete as we turn to electronic methods of communication.

Float your boat

If you find something appealing, you can say that it floats your boat . It’s often used in negative constructions about things you don’t like.

“I think I’ll pass on the spring rolls, thanks. They don’t really float my boat.”

You can also use the expression whatever floats your boat to mean ‘whatever you like’ or ‘whatever makes you happy’.

“Listen, whatever floats your boat is ok by me.” “Peanut butter and tomato sandwiches sound a bit weird to me, but… whatever floats your boat.”

Occasionally, you may hear people use this in relation to a person, meaning that they find that person attractive. This could be considered rather sleazy, and there are better idioms about love and attraction that you could use.

Just the ticket

Here’s a travel idiom that can actually be used as a sentence on its own. Just the ticket is a way of expressing that something is exactly what is needed or wanted; a perfect solution to a problem.

“Brilliant! That’s just the ticket. Thanks.”

Be aware that this expression might sound a little old-fashioned nowadays. Find some other ways to describe good things here.

There really are plenty of boat and ship-related travel idioms. When you jump ship you move from one group, cause, or situation to join another.

“We heard the company was struggling, so Martha jumped ship as soon as she could.”

That ship has sailed

Sadly, when you hear the saying that ship has sailed , it means you’ve missed an opportunity. Perhaps something or someone is no longer available, or the situation has changed.

“Sorry son, that ship has sailed.”

Here are some more idioms about change that you can use.

Train of thought

If you didn’t know the meaning of the phrase train of thought , you’d struggle to work it out or make a logical guess! It’s the process by which someone reaches their decision; their line of reasoning to make a choice.

“I really don’t understand her train of thought, but she’s the boss, so we’ll do as she says.”

Have these idioms about travel inspired you to start planning your next adventure? Can you think of any others that should be on this list? Leave a comment to let us know!

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What does 4/20 mean? Origin, celebrations, and everything to know ahead of ‘holiday’

S aturday is 20 April, marking marijuana culture’s high holiday, with cannabis users across the globe set to come together and light up in honour of 4/20 .

The annual event is observed as a means of celebrating marijuana use as well as campaigning for its legalisation in parts of the world where it is prohibited.

From the meaning of 4/20, to its origins, and how the day is celebrated, here is everything you need to know ahead of the event:

What does 4/20 mean?

4/20 is an annual event taking place on 20 April (the date is 20/4 or in the American date format 4/20), in celebration of cannabis.

While 4/20 is widely used in common vernacular in reference to the date of the event, it also relates to the origin of the observance, the history of which can be traced back to the early 1970s in California.

What are the origins of 4/20?

The origins of the date, and the term " 420 " generally, were long murky. Some claimed it referred to a police code for marijuana possession or that it derived from Bob Dylan's "Rainy Day Women No. 12 & 35," with its refrain of "Everybody must get stoned" – 420 being the product of 12 times 35.

But the prevailing explanation is that it started in the 1970s with a group of friends from San Rafael High School, in California's Marin County north of San Francisco, who called themselves "the Waldos" - Steve Capper, Dave Reddix, Jeffrey Noel, Larry Schwartz and Mark Gravich. A friend's brother was afraid of getting busted for a patch of cannabis he was growing in the woods at nearby Point Reyes, so he drew a map and gave the teenagers permission to harvest the crop, the story goes.

During the fall of 1971, at 4:20pm, just after classes and football practice, the group would meet up at the school's statue of chemist Louis Pasteur, smoke a joint and head out to search for the weed patch. They never did find it, but their private lexicon – "420 Louie" and later just "420" – would take on a life of its own.

The Waldos saved postmarked letters and other artifacts from the 1970s referencing "420," which they now keep in a bank vault, and when the Oxford English Dictionary added the term in 2017, it cited some of those documents as the earliest recorded uses.

A brother of one of the Waldos was a close friend of Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh, as Lesh once confirmed in an interview with the Huffington Post , now HuffPost . The Waldos began hanging out in the band's circle and the slang spread.

Fast-forward to the early 1990s: Steve Bloom, a reporter for the cannabis magazine High Times , was at a Dead show when he was handed a flier urging people to "meet at 4:20 on 4/20 for 420-ing in Marin County at the Bolinas Ridge sunset spot on Mt. Tamalpais." High Times published it.

"It's a phenomenon," one of the Waldos, Steve Capper, now 69, once told The Associated Press . "Most things die within a couple years, but this just goes on and on. It's not like someday somebody's going to say, 'OK, Cannabis New Year's is on June 23rd now."'

While the Waldos came up with the term, the people who made the flier distributed at the Dead show – and effectively turned 4/20 into a holiday – remain unknown.

How is 4/20 celebrated?

While it began in the US, 4/20 has since become a celebration observed all over the world.

In addition to the widespread smoking of cannabis that happens on 20 April, several events also take place to mark the occasion.

Each year, thousands of cannabis users meet in Hyde Park, London, in celebration of 4/20 and to protest the existing laws prohibiting use and possession of cannabis in the UK.

In the US, where 4/20 originated, organised rallies normally take place in states including Colorado, California, Michigan, and Florida.

Some celebrations in the US are bigger than others: The Mile High 420 Festival in Denver, for example, typically draws thousands and describes itself as the largest free 4/20 event in the world. Hippie Hill in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park has also attracted massive crowds, but the gathering was cancelled this year, with organisers citing a lack of financial sponsorship and city budget cuts.

College quads and statehouse lawns are also known for drawing 4/20 celebrations, with the University of Colorado Boulder historically among the largest, though not so much since administrators banned the annual smokeout over a decade ago.

Some breweries make beers that are 4/20-themed, but not laced, including SweetWater Brewing in Atlanta, which is throwing a 420 music festival this weekend and whose founders went to the University of Colorado.

Lagunitas Brewing in Petaluma, California, releases its "Waldos' Special Ale" every year on 4/20 in partnership with the term's coiners. That's where the Waldos will be this Saturday to sample the beer, for which they picked out "hops that smell and taste like the dankest marijuana," one Waldo, Dave Reddix, said via email.

4/20 has also become a big industry event, with vendors gathering to try each other's wares.

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Top 20 Slang For Travel – Meaning & Usage

Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or planning your first adventure, staying up to date with the latest slang for travel can make your journeys even more exciting. From “wanderlust” to “jet lagged,” our team has scoured the globe to bring you a curated list of the most trendy and essential travel slang. So pack your bags, get ready to explore, and let us be your guide to the lingo of the wanderlusters!

Click above to generate some slangs

1. Hit the road

This phrase is used to indicate the beginning of a trip or adventure. It can be used both literally and figuratively.

• For example , “We packed up the car and hit the road for our cross-country road trip.”
• Someone might say , “I’ve been stuck at home for too long, it’s time to hit the road and explore.”
• In a figurative sense , a person might say, “I’ve accomplished all my goals here, it’s time to hit the road and find new opportunities.”

2. Globetrotter

This term refers to someone who travels frequently or extensively to various parts of the world.

• For instance , “As a globetrotter, she has visited over 50 countries.”
• A travel blogger might describe themselves as a globetrotter , saying, “Follow my adventures as a globetrotter exploring the world.”
• In a conversation about travel , someone might ask, “Are you a globetrotter or do you prefer to stay in one place?”

3. Take off

This phrase is used to indicate the start of a journey or flight. It can be used for both literal and figurative departures.

• For example , “The plane is about to take off, please fasten your seatbelts.”
• Someone might say , “I’m taking off for my vacation tomorrow, can’t wait to relax on the beach.”
• In a figurative sense , a person might say, “I need to take off from work early today to attend a family event.”

This slang phrase means to leave for a trip or vacation in a hurry or without much notice.

• For instance , “She jetted off to Paris for a weekend getaway.”
• A friend might say , “I’m jetting off to visit my family in another state.”
• In a conversation about travel plans , someone might ask, “When are you jetting off on your next adventure?”

5. Get a little R&R

This phrase is an abbreviation for “rest and relaxation.” It refers to taking time off to relax and unwind from daily stress or work.

• For example , “After a busy week, I’m looking forward to getting a little R&R at the beach.”
• Someone might say , “I’m planning a spa weekend to get some much-needed R&R.”
• In a discussion about self-care , a person might suggest, “Take some time for yourself and get a little R&R to recharge.”

6. Backpacking

Backpacking refers to a style of travel where individuals carry their belongings in a backpack and typically stay in budget accommodations or camp. It often involves exploring multiple destinations and immersing oneself in the local culture.

• For example , “I’m going backpacking through Europe this summer.”
• A traveler might say , “Backpacking allows you to have more flexibility and freedom in your journey.”
• Someone might ask , “Do you have any tips for backpacking on a tight budget?”

7. Sightseeing

Sightseeing involves visiting famous landmarks, attractions, or points of interest in a particular destination. It often includes activities such as taking guided tours, visiting museums, or exploring natural wonders.

• For instance , “I spent the day sightseeing in Paris and saw the Eiffel Tower.”
• A traveler might say , “Sightseeing is a great way to learn about the history and culture of a new place.”
• Someone might ask , “What are the must-see sights when sightseeing in New York City?”

Wandering refers to exploring a destination without a specific plan or itinerary. It involves taking spontaneous detours, getting lost in the streets, and embracing the unexpected discoveries along the way.

• For example , “I love to wander through the narrow alleys of old cities.”
• A traveler might say , “Wandering allows you to stumble upon hidden gems and experience the local vibe.”
• Someone might ask , “Do you have any tips for wandering around a new city safely?”

Roaming involves moving freely and aimlessly, without a specific purpose or destination in mind. It often implies a sense of adventure and exploration, as one roams through different places and experiences.

• For instance , “I spent the day roaming the streets of Tokyo.”
• A traveler might say , “Roaming allows you to embrace spontaneity and go wherever your curiosity takes you.”
• Someone might ask , “What are the best neighborhoods to roam around in London?”

Cruising refers to traveling in a relaxed and leisurely manner, often by ship. It can also refer to driving or moving smoothly and effortlessly through a destination, enjoying the scenery and taking in the surroundings.

• For example , “We went on a Caribbean cruise and visited multiple islands.”
• A traveler might say , “Cruising allows you to enjoy a stress-free vacation and explore different ports of call.”
• Someone might ask , “What are the best cruise destinations for first-time travelers?”

11. Wanderer

A wanderer is someone who travels aimlessly or without a specific destination. It can also refer to someone who enjoys exploring new places and experiencing different cultures.

• For example , “He quit his job and became a wanderer, traveling from country to country.”
• A travel blogger might describe themselves as a wanderer , saying, “I’m always on the move, seeking new adventures.”
• In a conversation about travel , someone might ask, “Are you more of a planner or a wanderer?”

12. Road tripper

A road tripper is someone who enjoys traveling long distances by car, often taking a leisurely route and making stops along the way to explore different places.

• For instance , “We’re going on a road trip across the country and plan to visit several national parks.”
• A group of friends might say , “Let’s gather some snacks and hit the road as road trippers.”
• In a discussion about travel preferences , someone might ask, “Are you a road tripper or do you prefer flying?”

13. Travel enthusiast

A travel enthusiast is someone who has a strong interest in and passion for traveling. They enjoy exploring new destinations, trying new experiences, and immersing themselves in different cultures.

• For example , “She’s a travel enthusiast who has visited over 50 countries.”
• A travel blogger might describe themselves as a travel enthusiast , saying, “I’m constantly planning my next adventure.”
• In a conversation about hobbies , someone might ask, “Are you a travel enthusiast? Where have you been?”

14. Explore new horizons

To explore new horizons means to venture into unfamiliar territories or to try new travel experiences. It refers to the act of broadening one’s travel experiences and seeking out new destinations or activities.

• For instance , “I’m ready to explore new horizons and visit countries I’ve never been to before.”
• A travel agency might advertise , “Let us help you explore new horizons with our unique travel packages.”
• In a conversation about travel goals , someone might say, “I want to explore new horizons and step out of my comfort zone.”

15. Adventure seeker

An adventure seeker is someone who actively seeks out thrilling and exciting experiences while traveling. They enjoy activities such as hiking, skydiving, and exploring challenging terrains.

• For example , “He’s an adventure seeker who loves bungee jumping and rock climbing.”
• An adventure travel company might target adventure seekers , saying, “Join us for adrenaline-pumping experiences around the world.”
• In a discussion about travel preferences , someone might ask, “Are you more of a beach relaxer or an adventure seeker?”

16. Travel aficionado

This term refers to someone who is extremely passionate and knowledgeable about travel. A travel aficionado is someone who has a deep love for exploring new places and experiencing different cultures.

• For example , a travel aficionado might say, “I’ve been to over 50 countries and counting. Traveling is my biggest passion.”
• In a conversation about favorite destinations , a person might ask, “Any recommendations for a travel aficionado like me?”
• Someone might describe themselves as a travel aficionado by saying , “I spend all my free time planning my next adventure. I’m a true travel aficionado.”

17. Jet off to paradise

This phrase is used to describe traveling to a beautiful, exotic location, typically a tropical paradise. It implies a sense of excitement and luxury associated with traveling to a dream destination.

• For instance , someone might say, “I can’t wait to jet off to paradise and relax on the beach.”
• In a conversation about vacation plans , a person might say, “We’re jetting off to paradise next month for our honeymoon.”
• A travel blogger might write , “If you’re looking to escape the cold, jet off to paradise and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.”

18. Travel the world

This phrase is a common expression used to describe the act of traveling to various countries and experiencing different cultures. It emphasizes the idea of exploring and broadening one’s horizons through travel.

• For example , someone might say, “My dream is to quit my job and travel the world.”
• In a conversation about travel goals , a person might ask, “Have you ever wanted to travel the world and see all the wonders it has to offer?”
• A travel vlogger might say , “I’ve been lucky enough to travel the world and document my adventures on YouTube.”

19. Go on a journey

This phrase is used to describe the act of starting a new travel experience or adventure. It conveys a sense of excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead.

• For instance , someone might say, “I’m ready to go on a journey and explore new places.”
• In a conversation about travel plans , a person might ask, “Where are you going on your next journey?”
• A travel writer might describe their latest trip by saying , “I recently went on a journey through Europe, visiting multiple countries and immersing myself in the local culture.”

20. Travel in style

This phrase is used to describe traveling with a sense of luxury and style. It implies that the person is not just focused on getting from one place to another, but also on enjoying the journey and making a statement with their travel choices.

• For example , someone might say, “I always travel in style, staying in the finest hotels and flying first class.”
• In a conversation about travel preferences , a person might ask, “Do you prefer to travel in style or are you more budget-conscious?”
• A travel influencer might post on social media , “Traveling in style is all about the little details. From designer luggage to luxury accommodations, I always make sure to travel in style.”

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Why is 4/20 the unofficial weed day? The history behind April 20 and marijuana

The favorite day of stoners across the globe is upon us: April 20 or 4/20 , also known as weed day, is this Saturday.

Coincidentally falling on the same weekend as National Cold Brew Day and National Record Store Day, Saturday is shaping up to be something of a paradise for weed, coffee and music fans alike.

But how did an otherwise random day in April somehow become the mecca of marijuana enjoyment? Many theories have swirled over the years. While more exciting ones harken the holiday back to police busts or hidden messages in classic songs, the widely accepted origin is a little more reminiscent of a classic high school experience.

How did 4/20 become the official unofficial weed holiday? Here's what we know.

420 deals: Celebrate 4/20 with food deals at Wingstop, Popeyes, more. Or sip Snoop Dogg's THC drinks

What does 420 mean?

420 refers to the day 4/20, or April 20. The date has come to be known as the official stoner holiday on which marijuana smokers celebrate their love of bud.

The number 420 itself has also come to be associated with marijuana and smoking and is often used as a colloquial term for the flower and the act of consuming it.

Smokers see 4/20 not only as a day to kick back and celebrate their love of the stuff, but also to push for broader legalization and decriminalization of marijuana federally in the U.S. and beyond.

Where is weed legal? The states where recreational, medicinal marijuana is allowed in 2024

Why is 420 associated with weed?

You may have heard some of the most popular rumors that have circled the cultural zeitgeist over the years: that 420 is the code police used to describe marijuana smoking; 420 is the number of active chemicals in weed that get you high; April 20 was Bob Marley's birthday (it wasn't); that it's a reference to Bob Dylan’s song “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35” (12 times 35 equals 420).

In reality, it's much simpler and perhaps less exciting than any of that.

While no one can say for certain, one widely accepted origin traces back to a group of teenagers hanging out after school.

In the early '70s, five students at San Rafael High School in Marin County, California would meet outside of the school after extracurricular activities had ended for the day. The group, eventually called the "Waldos," simply for the fact they met by a wall to do their thing, made their official meeting time 4:20 p.m. and eventually started using 420 as code for smoking.

One of the Waldo members, Dave Reddix, later got work as a roadie for the Grateful Dead, and the band helped to popularize the term, he told Time. Specifically, a flyer distributed by a group of Oakland Deadheads in December 1990 inviting people to smoke on April 20 at 4:20 p.m. did the trick.

A reporter at High Times magazine got hold of the flier and printed it in 1991, bringing it to the attention of cannabis fans across state lines. The magazine continued to use the term in future publications, solidifying its place in popular vernacular.

Steve Bloom, the "High Times" reporter who originally received the flyer, later credited the Waldos for originating the term, saying in a 2013 blog , "...they wanted people all over the world to get together on one day each year and collectively smoke pot at the same time. They birthed the idea of a stoner holiday, which April 20 has become."

Stoner movies: Celebrate 4/20 with these TV shows and movies about weed

Where is weed legal?

Looking forward to partaking this 4/20? Make sure you know the laws in your area before you do.

The legalization of marijuana has been a long state-by-state process, and various levels of use from none to medical to recreational are allowed in jurisdictions across the U.S. At least 25 have fully legalized recreational use, and more are either in the process or have future voting on the books.

Wondering about the status in your state? Check our list of where recreational, medicinal marijuana is allowed in 2024.

More From Forbes

7 ways to travel more sustainably.

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Sustainable travel can be fun, rewarding and not at all challenging

Sustainable travel is surging in popularity, but what does it mean? The vague term can refer to traveling in a way that’s conscientious of the environment and local communities, leaving less of an impact on a destination and perhaps even bettering the location in the process. Sustainable tourism, in many ways a reaction to overtourism, helps protect the planet, to ensure destinations are liveable and worth visiting for years to come. And while travel can certainly takes its toll, creating carbon emissions, waste and more, responsible tourism is an essential step in protecting the planet.

Sustainable Travel Tips

Responsible tourism helps the environment by limiting ecological impact, supporting indigenous wildlife, respecting cultural heritage, and not taking away from a destination as a visitor, be it removing a shell from a beach or littering on a hiking trail. Plenty of responsible travel itineraries are easily replicable, but many trips can be adapted to be more sustainable. There are so many ways, big and small, to travel more responsibly and sustainably. Here’s how to start:

1. TSA-Friendly Doesn’t Need To Be Earth Hostile

You can buy single use and tiny versions of pretty much every care product these days, but do you actually need to? Opt for refillable travel bottles to decant your normal products into, and you’ll always have TSA-friendly bottles of shampoo, lotion, whatever you need at the ready. If you prefer to travel without liquids, consider switching to bars of shampoo and conditioner toothpaste powder and other products, which are eco-friendly wherever you are.

Planning ahead can be a major factor in sustainable travel

2. Opt For Public Transit

Public transportation — buses, trains, light rail, etc. — is always more sustainable than a private ride. If possible, use public transit to get to and from your destination and learn your destination’s public transit system to navigate while you explore. Not only will you likely save money as well as lower your carbon footprint, you’ll get a taste of how locals live. If public transit isn’t an option, consider booking shared rides to the airport and excursions, or renting an electric or hybrid vehicle if driving solo is the only option.

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Gervonta davis next fight tank has an opponent for his return, warner bros reveals 115 million investment in harry potter attraction, 3. pack for low waste experiences.

A bit of planning ahead can save considerable landfill waste. Bringing a reusable coffee cup for morning coffee runs and reusable water bottle will hopefully cut down the amount of single-use items you purchase on the go. Other easy to pack items including a reusable travel utensil set, reusable straws and reusable earplugs can help avoid creating more waste on the road. If you’re someone who discards beach reads, consider switching to an e-reader. Pack tote bags to carry souvenirs or other items purchased on the road that won’t require disposable plastic bags.

4. Eat Conscientiously

Eating local is the best way for your diet to support local eco-systems. Not only does dining at independent, small businesses (e.g. not chains), support local business people, but can often have lower environmental impact than major franchised restaurants that ship ingredients and supplies across the country. Making lower impact choices, including eating mostly plant-based, when possible, can also make travel a bit greener. If you don’t have anything to do with leftovers, consider ordering with a bit more restriction so you aren’t creating an excess of food waste.

Local culinary experiences can be healthy, fulfilling and sustainable

5. Book A Sustainable Hotel

Staying at a property dedicated to sustainability can make a big impact, especially by showing the travel industry that this is a priority for hospitality. Hotels are offered various certifications to prove their sustainable status, which can be achieved as a remote eco-lodge or luxury property in a major city. Several hotels are seeking LEED certification , the Green Hotels Association has a collection of vendors who prioritize sustainability, and the Leading Hotels of the World has a sustainability collection of five star properties.

6. Buy Carbon Offsets

While we technically can’t undo the damage we cause to the environment, there are initiatives to at least mitigate it. Carbon offsets allow consumers to compensate for their carbon footprint by funding projects that reduce carbon dioxide pollution. CoolEffect.org can help you decide how much to give, based on trip itinerary and logistics. For example, to offset air travel, a roundtrip, 6-hour flight would add about 1.89 tons of CO2 per passenger, and $31.17 of carbon offsets would help mitigate that.

Some airlines offer the option to purchase carbon offsets alongside airfare

7. Slow Down Your Travel

Slow travel is a buzzword that’s emerged in the 2020s, when work and leisure travel aka bleisure have melded more than ever, and the concept of working and even socializing remotely is totally normalized. Rather than a quick jaunt back and forth, slow travel emphasizes taking your time with tourism, be it living in a rental property for a month and enjoying the sights on the weekends, going backpacking, biking or hiking for an extended off the grid period, or traveling via train instead of air. Slow tourism has been proven to have a positive environmental impact .

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How to experience the ultimate adventure in South Greenland

From kayaking across vast, petrol-blue fjords to tasting locally foraged delicacies, these seven South Greenland adventures reveal a country ripe for adventure.

Nature pulls out all the stops in South Greenland. Glaciers crash into fjords where whales often feed, icebergs tower like the ruins of fairytale castles and remote sheep farms nod to a rich Norse and Inuit history. On the fringes of the second-largest body of ice in the world, the Greenland ice sheet, this fjord-woven region will blow you away with raw beauty, heritage and season-led cuisine using ingredients from land and sea.

Cruise ships only give you a taste of what’s out there. To properly venture into the wilds and get a feel for the Arctic, fly in and stay a while. You need time, peace and space to find your own adventure — whether hiking, kayaking, exploring Norse ruins or bathing in hot springs. With luck, you’ll have the Northern Lights for company already in late summer and early autumn.

1. Taste Greenlandic flavours  

Using Arctic ingredients, incorporating Inuit heritage with agricultural tradition and adding a pinch of creativity, South Greenland is a rising star in new-Nordic cooking, bringing hyperlocal ingredients to the plate. Whether you’re digging into a leg of lamb, newly cultivated grass-fed beef or locally grown root vegetables, this is food with heart. For an immersive experience, join locals for a private dinner — one of the best is ByNanna, where Nanna Høegh and her husband talk art and Viking ruins over a multi-course feast in their beautiful home in Qaqortoq. At fjordside Tasermiut Camp , help the chef forage for herbs and flowers to pep up dinner, where storytelling and — if you’re lucky — a Northern Lights show join, too.

2. Immerse yourself in Inuit history at Kujataa

For millennia, humans have eked out a living on the edge of the ice cap. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kujataa   brings to light a rich thousand-year-old subarctic farming culture, taking you back to the Norse farmer-hunters of the 10th century, who reared cattle, sheep and goats; and to the Inuit farming, fishing and seal-hunting communities that sprung up here in the 18th century. With the ruins of farms and churches spread across the World Heritage Site, often right next to present-day working farms, Kujataa offers a fascinating window into the hard work, resilience and pioneering spirit of the Indigenous people, and those that came to settle on their land.

3. Boat along the Tasermiut Fjord

Home to one of South Greenland’s most photographed glaciers, Tasermiut Fjord , with its lush forest and sheer walls of granite, is jaw-droppingly beautiful. This 44-mile-long fjord is a taste of the Arctic proper. To get a true sense of scale, and for closer encounters with the nature and wildlife, nothing beats exploring Tasermiut Fjord by boat. With stops along the way including the only settlement in the entire fjord or a sheep farm, you can get a feel for life in the fjord. Continue onward to the great lake, the forest and then the innermost reaches of the fjord, which is often called the Patagonia of the Arctic.

4. Unwind at a sheep farm

If you want to give civilisation the slip and tune into the quiet beauty of South Greenland’s fjords, fields and mountains, stay on one of eight sheep farms that offer guest accommodation. Norse settlers first grazed sheep in these lush pastures 1,000 years ago, a tradition revived 100 years ago by an Inuit couple in Qassiarsuk. Affording an insight into traditional Arctic life, the farms are ideal for embracing the outdoors, whether on foot or by horseback. Favourite escapes include Pioti Igaliku , with a summer lake cottage where you can peer up at gliding sea eagles; Sermilik Hostel , where sheep paths lead to the Greenland ice sheet; and idyllically rustic Kangerluarsorujuk Cabin , where your host family will prepare delicacies like smoked lamb leg and marinated salmon. Just be sure to follow the cardinal rules of traversing farm country — leave gates as they are found (open or closed); walk on roads whenever possible; do not give working dogs attention; and never walk on the green grass fields.

5. Bathe al fresco at Uunartoq Hot Springs

You’ll find hot springs bubbling up all over the Arctic, but there’s something special about Uunartoq’s. This uninhabited island, a breezy boat ride away from Qaqortoq, Nanortalik or Alluitsup Paa, is a vivid green speck of land, ringed by mountains and petrol-blue waters glinting with icebergs. Here, you can ditch your clothes and slip into your bathers to wallow in the 38C natural pool. Enjoyed by Norsemen and Inuit alike for many centuries and heated by geothermal subsoil, these are the most accessible hot springs in Greenland warm enough to bathe in.

6. Embrace adventure in Nanortalik

Where fjord meets sea, the town of Nanortalik — meaning the place with polar bears — is beautiful, with a sprinkling of brightly painted timber cottages amidst a rocky landscape with direct views of the mountains. After roaming the old town and open-air museum that delves into Greenlandic history and heritage, you’ll be itching to head out into the wilds. This is South Greenland’s adventure hub, where you can trek into the mountains with a backpack, scale near-vertical cliffs (the 2,010-metre peak of Ulamertorsuaq, also known as Ketil, is the ultimate challenge) or get a guide who’ll take you kayaking, sailing or fishing for trout, salmon and cod. Staying at the locally-owned and operated Tasermiut Camp or NTS Cabins is highly recommended to fully connect with the backcountry.

7. Press the pause button in Igaliku

It’s oh so quiet in Igaliku, an isolated Inuit settlement of just over 30 people sitting on on a thin 2.5-mile wide isthmus, tucked between two fjords. Green and gold pastures north of the town slope down to iceberg-filled waters, Qooqqut Glacier shimmers in the distance at the top of Illerfissalik mountain and, in summer, the fields erupt with wildflowers. But Igaliku is more just a pretty face — this is one of the central grounds for Greenland’s 12th-century Norse culture, home to the well-preserved ruins of Gardar, seat of the Norse bishop. Getting there is part of the magic: arriving via Tunulliarfik Fjord includes a 2.5-mile traverse along the King’s Road from Itilleq, open for walking, driving or UTV-ing.

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