Planning a long-term trip can be exhilarating, inspiring, and overwhelming. With pre-planning however, you can break each step until your departure down into a to-do list. Creating a list can help you see the progress you’re making while ensuring you don’t miss important deadlines. Here are seven things you can do to prepare for a long-term trip.
Work Through Money Matter
Traveling long-term can be a dream come true, but we all know it costs to make your wildest dreams a reality. If you have a student loan or credit card debt, set up a payment plan to start getting that balance down. Need to make extra coins to add to your savings? Pick up a part-time gig. If you’re planning a long-term trip, don’t let money stop you, but be sure it doesn’t become a burden later.
Say Goodbye To Things You Don’t Need
Having a yard sale or consigning your clothes, furniture, and even your car can be an effective way to declutter as well as make some extra cash to fund your extended travel journey.
Go Electronic
Keeping track of bills and notices that come through the mail can be a hassle, but thanks to the golden age of technology, you’re just one click away from getting those notifications sent straight to your inbox.
Get Your Paperwork In Order
Need a visa or new bank account in your new city? These things might seem like no-brainers, but getting ahead of the game will save you time and money in the long run.
Find a New Gig
Finding a new job might not be super critical depending on your finances, but it’s something to think about ahead of time. Start putting feelers out to recruiters or if you aren’t looking for a full-time job, look into freelance and remote work. Twitter, Facebook, and Linkedin can be great resources for finding jobs worldwide.
Spend Time With Those You Love
It’s possible that this long-term trip might be giving you the distance you need from the life you know, but distance can be tough on those of us that thrive on soaring independently. We all need support. Start to connect with those you love a couple of months before you’re set to leave so you won’t feel pressure to see everyone on your list before you leave.
Be Realistic About The Changes You’re Going To Face
Change is always a good thing, but it doesn’t come without its ups and downs. Talk to expats or people that have been where you’re headed. Their insight will be a comfort when you hit the rough patches that change and travel can bring.