If you’ve decided to become a full-time traveler, living a truly nomadic life, you usually don’t have the luxury of instantly hitting the road or booking a flight. To start your new lifestyle, you’ll need to make plans and determine how you’ll make those plans happen. The delays and technicalities might seem like little more than a dream at first, but you’ll thank yourself later for your careful goal-setting and other preparatory efforts.
Figure out your logistics
Before you can travel anywhere, you have to figure out how you’re going to get there. Then, of course, you can leave room for some spontaneity—you don’t need to have every inch of your trip mapped out and scheduled to the minute. However, for successful trips, you‘ll need to have the basics covered.
If you’re planning to take a road trip across the United States, for example, you might head to an RV auction in hopes of finding the perfect set of wheels to get you there. Whether you’re an experienced RVer or a first-time RV owner, finding your motorhome through an auction is a good idea for any nomad-to-be on a budget.
List your ideal destinations
Once you‘ve figured out how you’ll travel, you need to know where you’re going! Are you dreaming of a trip to Acadia National Park while living in New York City? Make a list of must-see destinations along that route and make a list of those you’d most like to see.
From national parks and historical sites to beaches and tourist attractions, you’ll find plenty of options for on-the-road entertainment. On your way to and from Acadia, you can see a decent chunk of the U.S.! And, of course, you’ll get to see your top destination, too.
Prepare yourself for emergencies
No matter how carefully you prepare, disasters can happen. That’s why it’s essential to have your metaphorical ducks in a row. Have you found the best RV warranty insurance for your new trailer? Does your insurance company offer the comprehensive coverage you need to truly have peace of mind while traveling? Do they offer roadside assistance or cover the cost of moving your towable RV? If you haven’t read the fine print of your RV warranty or an insurance policy, you’ll be all the more stressed in the case of a breakdown or mechanical failure.
Be ready to mix things up
You’ve got a good deal on an RV and whatever type of coverage or service plan it needs. Your route is laid out, with room for impromptu adventures along the way. However, this planning doesn’t mean you have to do the same thing throughout every trip. Mixing things up is the best way to get the most out of your nomadic lifestyle.
For example, you might spend one night at a campground, setting up a traditional tent and sleeping bag, or decide to wake up for an early morning hike to see the sunrise. A trip in your RV doesn’t always have to be spent in your RV!
Determine your finances
As fun as your planning has been so far, you have a few more technicalities to figure out before hitting the road. Most importantly, how are you budgeting for your travels? If you’re a freelancer or entrepreneur, you might be becoming a digital nomad, working from your laptop as you travel the world. If not, do you have enough savings to cover your expenses while on the open road? Are you prepared to make up the difference in mechanic’s fees, repair costs, or other expenses if your RV insurance doesn’t cover the total cost? Like it or not, finances are a critical aspect of any trip you’ll plan.
Think through your motivations
Life as a digital nomad can be incredible, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have difficult days. Before those happen, take some time to understand your most profound reasons for starting this lifestyle. Then, when the road gets rough—literally or figuratively—you can return to this list of motivations for reassurance that you should continue along this journey.
Record your journeys
While your traveling, journaling, or otherwise documenting your trips might not be your top priority. After all, there’s so much to do and see! But, if you decide to settle down on one spot again, though, you’ll be grateful for these detailed memories. If you have a family, these are the sorts of meaningful treasures you can pass through generations.
Whether in an RV or otherwise, life as a traveling nomad can be one of the most rewarding experiences a person can experience, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t require some planning and logistics. From warranties and insurance to destinations and motivations, you have a lot to consider before you can ever hit the highway.
Once you’ve made it there, though, you’ll be able to enjoy the excitement of your new adventure with the peace of mind of knowing you’ve planned the critical pieces of your journey with the best possible results in mind.