Planning a trip around the world: 6 questions to ask yourself first

Planning a trip around the world: 6 questions to ask yourself first

There are three basic questions everyone asks themselves when planning a trip around the world: Where do I want to go? How long do I want to go? How much will it cost?

As plans take shape, several other questions arise: Do I really need travel insurance? Should I pack extra shoes? How much does the rabies vaccination cost? (Yes, no, wtf.)

There are some other important things you should ask yourself when planning a trip around the world. Consider the following questions well before departure to be well prepared not only for your trip, but also for everything that comes after.

1. Quit my job or take a sabbatical?

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If you have already worked for a company for several years, you may be able to take a sabbatical. In some cases this is offered in the standard employment contract. In other cases, you need to create a special case for it. In any case, consider whether you want to take a sabbatical or quit completely.

Quitting offers the ultimate flexibility. If, like us, you want to extend your break by six months, you have the freedom to do so. If you want to settle in Samoa, you have the opportunity to do so. However, it puts you in a more vulnerable situation financially. A sabbatical, on the other hand, offers less flexibility (you have to be back by a certain time) but offers more security: there will be a job waiting for you when you return, so you know exactly where you stand.

2. Round-the-world ticket or pay as you go?

There are several advantages and disadvantages of RTW tickets to consider when planning a trip around the world. On the plus side, an RTW ticket is often cheaper, it reduces the stress of booking large flights on the road, it accumulates air miles and allows for better budgeting as you know exactly when your trip around the world begins and ends. On the negative side, it stifles spontaneity, follows the tourist trail and can be complicated to organize as there are numerous rules that govern where you go and how you get there.

At Atlas & Boots, we prefer pay-as-you-go travel because it leaves open the possibility of jumping on a boat, taking a last-minute road trip, or settling somewhere for a while. By far the most interesting way for us to travel.

3. What is my credit rating?

This is important for two reasons. The first step is to determine whether or not you can secure a good travel credit card. Prime options like the Halifax Clarity Card require a very strong rating, so start improving yours as early as possible.

Second, your credit score can be affected if you travel long-term without a permanent home. Make sure you register to vote by proxy and send your bills and statements to one address to keep your financial records as neat as possible.

4. Do I need to get fitter?

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If you're planning a trip around the world, you probably have a few items on your list that require a certain level of fitness (e.g. trekking Machu Picchu, climbing Kilimanjaro, conquering a volcano or two). Think about it in advance and consider how fit you need to be. In Travels, Michael Crichton admitted to attacking Kili while woefully underprepared. He underestimated how fit he needed to be and ended up with blisters, exhaustion and a burden on his companions.

Work on your fitness as early as possible so that you can optimally enjoy not only demanding activities but also everyday travel. When you are fit, walking long distances and carrying your backpack is less strenuous.

5. Do I need a will?

We know it's a bit morbid, but writing a will is worth considering if you're planning an extensive trip around the world. Traveling to most parts of the world is probably just as safe as living in London, but it's sensible to plan for the worst. Without a will, a person's estate will be distributed according to the law, which may not reflect their wishes. Write one to protect your loved ones. This can be done through a lawyer or a will-writing specialist, or you can even do it yourself if dividing the estate is easy.

6. What do I expect from my trip?

Before you plan a trip around the world, think about what you want to win. Are you traveling the world out of pure curiosity or do you want to change your life? Maybe you want to learn a language, change careers or settle down. Maybe you want to worry less and be more positive.

If you have a specific goal, start planning early. For example, if you want to learn a language, you might plan a month-long stopover in Mendoza, Argentina to study at a language school rather than hoping to learn Spanish on your travels.

Thinking about your goals in advance can transform your experience from a fun trip around the world to a life-changing trip with lasting results.

Good luck!

For more help planning a trip around the world, check out Don’t Offer Papaya, our guide to your first trip around the world.

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