Travel is a fantastic way to escape your comfort zone, but if you’re considering a long or international trip, you’ve probably run into a few obstacles. You might think any vacation is bound to be super expensive or that traveling by yourself isn’t safe, but these myths are holding back the jet-setter within. By putting these seven misconceptions about travel to bed, you can buy your next tickets with confidence.
Vacations can’t be productive
Remote work options at many companies mean you have the chance to explore new cities and locales without taking a single precious vacation day. It’s called a workcation, and it’s becoming trendy for good reasons.
Of course, if you’re going to make workcations work for you, you’ll need a few tech tools to stay connected. A portable laptop is a must, as is a secure VPN. You’ll also want a virtual address for your correspondence. That way, you can read any paper mail remotely using your phone, and you won’t have to worry about thieves stealing your packages while you’re busy globetrotting.
Vacations are too expensive
Vacations can be expensive, but they don’t have to be. You can find plenty of budget-friendly destinations by doing a little homework before your trip. And, if you make it a workcation, you could actually make money while you’re away.
There’s a key time to hit tourist sights and skip the line
The truth is, if the destination appears in a guidebook, there’s going to be a crowd no matter when you go. Waking up early to see a famous site in hopes of having the place to yourself is a fantasy.
If you want to see something popular, be ready to deal with crowds. And if massive amounts of people bother you, pick sights off the beaten path.
Couchsurfing isn’t safe
Couchsurfing makes travel exceptionally cheap and gives you the chance to engage with locals on a deeper level. Of course, the idea of staying on a stranger’s couch might make you cringe.
The Couchsurfing app is full of reviews, and with some common sense, you can easily find someplace to stay that isn’t dangerous. Exercise your best judgment and, if all else fails, book a hostel stay instead.
Travel is dangerous for women
If you’re a female who wants to travel solo, you’ll probably hear from well-meaning friends and family about the dangers of traveling alone. But, in truth, it doesn’t have to be dangerous.
By following a few tips, you can make your trip safe. Try taking group tours, keep your cash in multiple places, and download local apps that let you contact law enforcement quickly should you need it.
You can only travel cheap if you don’t have kids
You may not want to backpack or couch surf as a family, but there are still ways to see the world relatively cheap. For example, RVs are an excellent option for exploring new places as a group.
Street food will make you sick
Don’t be scared of the local street fare. It’s usually delicious, and food poisoning from street food is rare. Ask any local friends you make for their recommendations and chow down on what your destination has to offer.
Final thoughts
Traveling is a great way to explore cultures and customs outside your own, so don’t fall for the myths that try to keep you at home. Instead, leave these myths out of your suitcase the next time you pack up for the adventure of a lifetime.
