10 Life Lessons You Learn From Traveling

Traveling is one of the greatest experiences one can have. It forces us out of our comfort zones and teaches us things about ourselves, and the world around us we would have otherwise never learned. In partnership with HP for their new x360 convertible PC that’s ideal for traveling and taking your inspiration on the go, here are 10 life lessons you learn from traveling.

You’re never alone.

The great thing about traveling is that even when you’re traveling through unfamiliar landscapes, surrounded by people you don’t know, you’re never truly alone. People are generally welcoming and friendly everywhere you go and striking up a conversation with someone can turn a stranger into a friend within minutes.

The world is a lot less scary than we think.

Often, the idea of traveling can seem overwhelming and frightening. It pushes us out of our comfort zone and forces us to interact with the world in a different way than we’re used to. By traveling the world you realize that people are mostly the same everywhere – good and kind and not out to harm you.

shot 9 office fab2153

You can survive with a lot less than you think.

It’s easy to over pack for any trip but many times when you’re traveling you realize you only needed about half of what you actually brought. A great idea is to look up packing lists on your tablet for the region you’ll be visiting and reading what other travelers recommend. Pack your suitcase or backpack then look at what you have and eliminate anything unnecessary. You’ll thank yourself later when you want more room to bring home gifts.

You learn how to rely on others.

We’re so used to being independent adults taking care of ourselves but traveling is the one experience that brings us back to a childlike state. Everything is new and unknown and you look at everything with a sense of wonder and curiosity. You ask for directions or tips on where to go around town and realize a big part of your journey is relying on the kindness of strangers.

The world is filled with incredible food.

At home we’re so used to eating the same type of meals day in and day out but when you’re on the road you’re more likely to step outside of your comfort zone and try something you’ve never had before. While traveling you open yourself up to new experiences and realize just how amazing the food is all around the world.

Shot 011054

You can have fun anywhere.

They often say it’s the journey, not the destination that makes a trip and that’s one of the greatest truths about traveling. You can make a connection with someone you’re sitting next to on a bus or while waiting to board your next flight. You learn to find joy in the small moments in your trip even if it’s just pulling your tablet out and sharing funny videos with the person sitting next to you.

It’s never too late to change.

Travel is all about change. You learn so much about yourself while on the road. It’s an introspective process that forces you to reflect on your life and who you are. When you put on your headphones and tune out the rest of the world you start thinking about everything going on in your life and what you’d like to do differently when you get back home.

You learn to relax.

Travel forces you to slow down and to become still for a moment. You put everything back at home on pause and learn not to worry about everything. These are the moments when we appreciate how amazing life truly is. In those quiet moments of reflection it’s great to grab your tablet and write about what you’ve seen thus far on your trip.

CLE_8844

You learn how to question the status quo.

When you’re traveling abroad you see just how different things are compared to your own country and culture. You begin questioning things you’ve been so accustomed to your entire life, and you begin to have a new perspective on life and your cultural standards. Suddenly everything you thought you knew slightly changes and once you arrive back home you realize you’re no longer the same person as when you left.

You become more connected with the world around you.

You’re trying new foods, possibly learning new languages, and meeting people from various places around the world. Through these experiences you become more connected to the world in which we live and realize just how similar we are regardless of where we call home. The HP x360 helps you to stay connected. Thought Catalog Logo Mark

Former senior staff writer and producer at Thought Catalog.

Keep up with Koty on Twitter

More From Thought Catalog