“Travel while you’re young” – this timeless adage holds a wealth of truth. Youth is an open chapter, a blank canvas ripe for novel experiences, life lessons, and exciting opportunities. With fewer obligations and a wellspring of enthusiasm, traveling in your early years isn’t just a leisure activity; it’s an investment in yourself.
By my 20th birthday, I had explored a significant part of the world. Though not exhaustive, my travels have been enriching enough to shape some well-founded opinions.
In this short post, I’ll outline a few compelling reasons why traveling young had a profound impact on me, and why it might do the same for you.
This isn’t to say that traveling later in life is less valuable, but it is undeniably different. The experiences and opportunities unique to youth cannot be replicated later.
Freedom from Responsibilities
The post-high school or college years are a golden period. You’re an adult with newfound freedoms, yet not burdened by the full weight of adult responsibilities. For me, this meant no rent payments while traveling, affordable health insurance, and benefits like “Kindergeld” (child benefits).
In essence, you can significantly reduce your living expenses and channel your savings into travel. Later in life, with responsibilities like family, mortgages, or car payments, sustaining long travels from financial reserves becomes more challenging.
Minimal Obligations
With age, traveling requires more planning and preparation. As a young traveler, I often embraced spontaneity, staying longer in places I loved and skipping the overhyped ones. This flexibility is a luxury that diminishes with increasing obligations.
Health and Endurance
Aging, unfortunately, brings physical limitations. While I might be slightly dramatizing, it’s true that our physical peak is often in our youth. I recall many nights spent sleeping in cars or airport floors, choices made possible by youthful resilience and a drive to extend my travels. Good health allows for more extensive exploration and endurance. For instance, during my Interrail trip across Europe, we averaged 20 km a day, fueled by simple foods and sheer excitement.
Evolving Standards
As you grow older and settle into a career or family life, your standards and needs naturally evolve. This isn’t just about physical comfort; it’s a broader shift in lifestyle expectations, which can limit the raw, immersive experiences often cherished in youth.
The Pure Joy of Travel
Traveling is fun at any age, but there’s a unique joy in youthful exploration. It’s important to balance future-oriented goals with experiences that offer immediate joy. Traveling has taught me to relish life’s moments and to value experiences that might not have an immediate, quantifiable impact.
Conclusion
Traveling can seem daunting or even unattainable for many, and these challenges don’t necessarily ease with age. However, with the right priorities and effort, travel is more accessible than ever. It’s not about waiting for perfect conditions, but about seizing the moment and embracing the unique opportunities that youth offers for exploration and growth.