travel bug meaning

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• Sep 11, 2022

Travel Bug, what it is and when you know you have it

Ever felt anxious not having any flights booked? Some of you might have heard about ‘catching the Travel Bug’ or the ‘feeling of wanderlust’ but what are they exactly?

What is the Travel Bug

Every single trip we take in life has an enormous power of changing us. If you are a travel lover like me, you will likely get back to your home town, with your usual routine, with the same people around you and the ‘fake freedom’ you initially think you have in your life, and realise how much happier, free and especially alive you felt while being on the other side of the world.

Picture this: You have just come back from a long trip, you saw new places, met new people, cultures, you were able to experience things you could have never imagined and every single day was a challenging adventure. You are now back home, tired but happy with your mind full of amazing memories that will forever have a special place in your heart. You remember the sense of freedom and excitement you felt while away, so you close your eyes and start daydreaming but suddenly a sense of anxiety starts to grow inside of you and you feel the need to book a new trip straight away and escape once again from your everyday life. Does it sound familiar to you? Result: Well… you caught the Travel Bug!

The term Wanderlust and why you catch the Travel Bug

The official definition of the German term ‘Wanderlust’ translates as:

‘ a strong desire to travel’, or ‘a man/woman consumed by wanderlust ’.

Although, it is much more complex than that. All of those who feel fulfilled with travelling and are on a constant search for new challenges and adventures, will sooner or later catch the Travel Bug, there is no way to escape it and it’s also highly contagious! Of course everyone enjoys a good holiday and some time away from work but for those who caught the Travel Bug, travelling literally becomes part of their everyday life. It’s their drive and inspiration for everything they do. When you are a traveller (not a tourist, there is a huge difference) you are always a traveller, every single minute of your life.

However, this sense of Wanderlust and therefore the love and insatiable need for travel and adventure might also emerge or more specifically be triggered, not only due to the love for travel, yet also from other aspects of our life. A good amount of full time travellers for example, decided to leave everything behind and travel the world after a big event in their life.

The sense of frustration that some have of everyday life, a relationship that doesn’t make you happy as it should, but also due to the ‘boredom’ of western societies, the life ideologies and milestones that we are kind of ‘forced’ to achieve since birth such as finishing school, getting a degree, finding a good job, getting a partner, getting married, having kids are simply not for all of us (and by the way you can do all of those things while travelling as well if you really want it!). Just because one wants to do things differently than the rest of society, it doesn’t mean that that person is wrong and others are right or vice versa, it simply means that what makes that person happy might not be a happy place for someone else. Happiness comes in different forms and colours and for those who caught the Travel Bug, happiness is exploring the amazing world we live in, every single corner and shape of it.

How long does it last

There is just one straight forward answer to that. Once you get it that’s the end. There is no turning back and no way to get rid of it. It’s simply FOREVER! You get it, you're screwed!

How I caught mine

For me, it was another usual day in cold and rainy London back in 2015 when me and two friends decided that we wanted to visit Thailand. Before that trip I had already been to a few countries around Europe, yet that would have been my very first long trip and international flight. A huge Airbus was waiting for us at Heathrow Airport ready to take us all the way to Bangkok. Well, that trip had the power to change me. The level of excitement when arriving in Bangkok was out of this world and since the very first day everything I saw, learned and experienced in that country changed me and my approach to travel forever. That trip was my transition from a tourist to a real traveller! We spent over two and a half amazing weeks exploring the crazy streets of Bangkok, the beautiful island of Phuket, and the paradisiac nature and beaches of Phi Phi and The Similans. Maybe it was the kindness of Thai people, the amazing nature, the thought of knowing that being so far away from home in a country where most things we are used to in western societies are so different, but I was certain that I have never felt more alive! I was free, curious, fearless, amazed, excited and felt a sense of happiness that I had never experienced before. Once back to London I could not resist. My heart was telling me to start looking for my next adventure right away! Being caught again in everyday life made me realise that routine was not for me. I needed to be on the move, explore new countries, cultures, talk to people I never met, challenge myself and get out of my comfort zone to see what I was really capable of. Well, since that moment I knew it. I had caught it, the Travel Bug and feeling of wanderlust would have never abandoned me again!

How to deal with it

It sounds crazy but for some the desire to travel might be so strong that a constant sense of anxiety and depressive feelings might arise. The reason why I’m saying it it’s because I experienced it on my own skin. The pandemic was a jail I could not escape from. When I heard the news on TV that Airports were being shut down due to the virus and I could not travel or go and see the rest of my family back home for God knows how long, it was unbearable! The sense of Wanderlust kept growing more and more every day…

I believe that there is no straight forward answer on how to deal with your sense of Wanderlust, and if there is it might be a different one for all of us. Many start to look at ways that will allow them to work remotely to be able to travel the world full time, some try to manage their holiday at work as best as they can, while others decide to momentarily, please their sense of wanderlust by taking a sabbatical year in South-east Asia… Personally, as I’m currently still working full time. I feel lucky to have a job that allows me to take short breaks every month, as well as longer trips (usually not more than two weeks) at least two to three times a year. Therefore, I manage to satisfy my desire to travel looking forward to my next trip. If you are in full time employment but caught the travel bug, spend your time planning your next trip, watch travel vlog, read about the places you want to visit and get ready for your new adventure. Trust me it helps! And most importantly, don’t be one of those people who think that travelling full time is impossible. It is, and thousands are doing it right now, especially with the popularity that smart working has gained after the pandemic. Look for a way that will allow you to leave everything behind, be free and travel the world the way you want to.

Time is the most precious thing we have in life and it should not be wasted living a life you don’t feel as yours!

However, with such ideas in mind, I perfectly understand that many people might think that you are a weirdo, that you should stop dreaming and get back to planet earth. So if you are one of those lucky people, who like me, caught the Travel Bug, you might feel lonely in your own world sometimes but promise yourself not to ever give up on your dream, no matter how crazy they sound!

If you need a bit of a push, have a look at one of my related blog post here or at the bottom of this page .

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travel bug noun

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What does the noun travel bug mean?

There is one meaning in OED's entry for the noun travel bug . See ‘Meaning & use’ for definition, usage, and quotation evidence.

How common is the noun travel bug ?

Where does the noun travel bug come from.

Earliest known use

The earliest known use of the noun travel bug is in the 1900s.

OED's earliest evidence for travel bug is from 1907, in the Philadelphia Inquirer .

travel bug is formed within English, by compounding.

Etymons: travel n. , bug n. 2 II.4b

Nearby entries

• travaux préparatoires, n. 1880–
• trave, n. c1405–
• trave harness, n. 1839
• travel, n. a1400–
• travel, v. c1300–
• travel agency, n. 1898–
• travel agent, n. 1885–
• travel allowance, n. 1835–
• travelator, n. 1955–
• travel brochure, n. 1908–
• travel bug, n. 1907–
• travel bureau, n. 1884–
• travel card, n. 1916–
• travel centre | travel center, n. 1883–
• travel document, n. 1892–
• travel expenses, n. 1839–
• travel folder, n. 1911–
• travel guide, n. 1881–
• travel industry, n. 1920–
• travel insurance, n. 1912–
• travellable | travelable, adj. 1521–

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Meaning & use

Entry history for travel bug, n..

Originally published as part of the entry for travel, n.

travel, n. was revised in March 2020.

oed.com is a living text, updated every three months. Modifications may include:

• further revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
• new senses, phrases, and quotations.

Earlier versions of this entry were published in:

OED First Edition (1914)

• Find out more

OED Second Edition (1989)

• View travel, n. in OED Second Edition

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Citation details

Factsheet for travel bug, n., browse entry.

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Travel idioms & expressions

Get off to a flying start with holiday vocabulary.

• English vocabulary

Get holiday inspiration with travel idioms

Welcome to our blog exploring the fascinating world of travel idioms and expressions . 

As avid travellers ourselves, we understand the excitement of embarking on new adventures. English is often the universal language that unites travellers worldwide, and we focus on holiday and travel vocabulary that is commonly used by native speakers.

Start your next holiday plans with these unique idioms and expressions.

Meaning a strong desire to travel and explore new places.

Example After their trip through Europe, Sarah and Tom caught the travel bug and began planning their next adventure.

hit the road

Meaning to begin a journey or trip.

Example We need to hit the road early tomorrow morning if we want to reach our destination by noon.

off the beaten path

Meaning going to a less travelled or unconventional destination.

Example Instead of visiting the main tourist spots, we decided to venture off the beaten path and explore smaller villages in the countryside.

take the scenic route

Meaning to choose a longer route for the enjoyment of the view or experience.

Example Rather than driving along the motorway, we decided to take the scenic route through the mountains. It added a few extra hours to our journey, but the views were amazing.

off the grid

Meaning to be disconnected from technology or society, often experienced during remote or adventurous travel.

Example During our camping trip in the wilderness, we were completely off the grid with no phone or internet access. It was a great experience, but next time, I’ll stay in a hotel!

living out of a suitcase

Meaning to be constantly travelling or moving from one place to another.

Example I went travelling with friends after graduating university. After living out of a suitcase for a few months, it was refreshing to be back at home.

get off to a flying start

Meaning to begin something with great energy and enthusiasm, like a trip or adventure.

Example Our holiday got off to a flying start with perfect weather and exciting activities planned for the week.

travel light

Meaning to pack minimally and carry only essential items while travelling.

Example We’re only going for the weekend, so remember to travel light and bring just what you need.

a change of scenery

Meaning a different environment or setting.

Example After weeks of working indoors, Anne decided to take a few days off and enjoy a change of scenery  in the mountains.

at the crack of dawn

Meaning very early in the morning.

Example We had to get up at the crack of dawn to catch the first train to the airport.

get away from it all

Meaning to escape from the pressures and routine of daily life by going on a vacation or retreat.

Example We booked a secluded cabin in the mountains to get away from it all and relax for the weekend.

a home from home

Meaning a place where you feel comfortable and at ease, similar to your own home.

Example We love staying at my aunt’s house in the holidays. It feels like a home from home , with its cosy atmosphere and familiar surroundings.

soak up the sun

Meaning to enjoy the warmth and light of the sun while relaxing outdoors.

Example While on holiday in Spain, we spent our days lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun and swimming in the sea.

in the middle of nowhere

Meaning in a remote or isolated location.

Example On the way to our hotel, we took a wrong turn and ended up in the middle of nowhere with no phone signal. Thankfully, a local farmer spoke a little English and gave us directions.

travel on a shoestring

Meaning to travel with a very limited budget.

Example As college students, we travelled on a shoestring in Asia, staying in hostels and cooking our own meals to save money.

travel far and wide

Meaning to travel to many different places, often covering long distances.

Example Over the years, Andrew has travelled far and wide , exploring every continent except Antarctica.

make a pit stop

Meaning to briefly stop during a journey for a break or to refuel.

Example On our road trip to California, we made a pit stop at a roadside diner to grab a quick bite to eat.

packed like sardines

Meaning to be in a crowded or cramped space, often used to describe public transportation.

Example We were packed like sardines on the train, with barely enough room to move.

have itchy feet

Meaning to have a strong desire to travel or move from place to place.

Example Ever since he returned from his backpacking trip, David has had itchy feet and is already planning his next adventure.

travel in style

Meaning to travel with comfort and luxury.

Example To celebrate their retirement, our grandparents decided to travel in style on a luxury cruise around the world.

Have a great travel experience!

We have flown through 20 travel idioms and expressions that are frequently used by native English speakers. Let these idioms and expressions inspire your next adventure and serve as a reminder of the wonderful memories created along the way.

Tip: We recommend learning new vocabulary by topic, and to create examples that help you to remember new words and expressions. For English idioms about other topics, please visit our free vocabulary lessons .

Enjoy your travels and journey learning English too!

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10 Signs You Have Been Bitten by the Travel Bug

Have You Been Bitten By the Travel Bug?

The famous travel quote by Michael Palin says:

“Once the travel bug bites there is no known antidote. And I know that I shall be happily infected until the end of my life”

I have always liked this quote, probably because I have always loved traveling.

That desire to explore the unknown , to visit the places you’ve read about or saw on tv… To learn about new cultures, taste new food… Yes, I have the travel bug! 🙂

10 Signs That Show You Have Caught the Travel Bug

1. you don’t understand why other people save money to spend on material things.

When you save money it’s for traveling.

You probably, like me, believe experiences are much more valuable than possessions. And what better way to experience new things than by traveling somewhere?

Also Read: 10 Reasons to Travel the World and How to Save Money While Traveling

2. You Both Love and Hate Airports

The airport has become the place where you say goodbye to loved ones but it’s also the place where new adventures begin…

The travel bug may take you away from people to chase after new adventures. But most of the time you will find that well worth it.

3. You Have Long Stopped Counting the Number of Times You Slept at Airports

A long layover? A delayed flight?

If you have been bitten by the travel bug you have probably spent A LOT of time at airports!

Also Read: Things to Do During a Layover

4. You Have Taken This Picture Many Times

I LOVE window seats and yes, I therefore often take a picture of the view while traveling to my next destination.

There is something magical about flying above the clouds. And about looking at the world from up above. It makes me feel small and it makes my problems seem insignificant.

5. You Love Your Passport Because of All the Cool Stamps It Has

Do you ever go through your passport, and look at all the stamps you have collected to reminisce past trips?

Or go through other people’s passports to hear the stories behind all their stamps? I can listen to those stories for hours!

6. You Have a Box Filled With Currency From Around the World

If you are anything like me you always save some money from the countries you have visited.

By now I have a big box with coins and bills from all over the world. Which, again, is a great way to reminisce past trips on a rainy day.

7. You Are Constantly Daydreaming of Where You Can Go Next

When you hear someone talking about traveling or see some Instagram pictures of idyllic destinations your travel bug is easily triggered and you are off dreaming about your next travel destination.

Also Read: Where to Travel to Next – Travel Inspiration From Instagram

8. Your Bucket List Never Seems to Get Shorter

There is always a new destination to add to your bucket list.

So instead of getting shorter, it seems like your bucket list is only ever getting longer!

Also Read: Incredible Bucket List Destinations For a Once in a Lifetime Trip

9. You Love Being Immersed in Different Cultures

A large part of the excitement of traveling is in exploring new cultures.

Learning about how other people live, what their culture is like and how that differs from yours is one of the most valuable parts of traveling.

10. WhatsApp Is Your Default Form of Communication

If you have been bitten by the travel bug you probably have friends all over the world.

And the best way to communicate with friends on the other side of the world is via WhatsApp. So by now, you are probably very familiar with this app!

What Does ‘Travel Bug’ Mean?

Simply put: people bitten by the travel bug have a passion for travel and like to visit new places .

Or, more formally, according to the Macmillan Dictionary :

Travel bug meaning: A strong desire to travel across the world

Did you catch the travel bug yet?

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• Why Should You Travel?

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the things you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor and catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

– Mark Twain

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Example sentences travel bug

I think that's what gave me the travel bug .

Then he got the travel bug .

After learning more about other countries and cultures, she 'got the travel bug ', and after training as a teacher, started using her holidays to see the world.

I caught the travel bug young.

I had only finished college a year before so was cultivating a travel bug with my new-found 'riches' (minus housekeeping to my mum).

Definition of 'bug' bug

Definition of 'travel' travel

Related word partners travel bug.

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5 Minute English

The Travel Bug – ESL Lesson, FAQs, and Practice Quiz

The Travel Bug

“The Travel Bug” is a popular term used to describe an intense desire to travel, explore new places, and experience different cultures. It captures the infectious and exhilarating feeling that comes from discovering the unfamiliar and the joy of embarking on new adventures. Often, those who catch the travel bug find themselves continuously drawn to the excitement of planning trips and exploring the world, whether through short local excursions or extended journeys abroad.

• travel bug  (idiom)- strong desire to travel
• to be bitten by the travel bug  (idiom)- kind of a cute way to say when someone begins to want to travel. After the “bug” bites you, you will really want to travel.
• to wander – to go from one place to another without any definite plans
• to be in the comfort of (one’s) own home – to be at home, in a familiar or comfortable place 
• to explore – to look around and find out new things
• exotic  (adjective)- strange, mysterious, exciting, unknown
• mystery – something unknown, something that needs to be found out
• to flock – large amounts of people go to the same place at the same time
• vast  (adjective)- very large
• perspective – view, way of seeing things
• accomplishment – feeling like you have done something important and good

Reading Comprehension

Have you ever had the desire to wander the world and see what was out there? While some people prefer to stay in the comfort of their own home, others have been bitten by the travel bug and can’t wait to explore the world. Exotic places call to them. “Come visit me and I will show you my mysteries,” they say.

Every year millions of people pack their suitcases or put on backpacks and flock to visit the seven continents of the world. They wander through the castles and museums of Europe, and the cities and natural wonders of North and South America. Some visit the vast exotic cultures of Asia, Africa and the Middle East. The great outback of Australia is a wonderland for those who go there. And a few lucky people even make to the most mysterious continent on the earth- Antarctica.

Why do people want to explore the world? It gives them a better perspective about the earth and the people living on it. It opens their minds, it gives them a feeling of accomplishment, and it makes them feel alive. So save some money, get your passport ready, and see the world. It will change your life forever.

Practice Quiz on The Travel Bug

As a way to test your understanding of the concept, here’s a setup for a practice quiz with eight questions related to the travel bug. This quiz will challenge your knowledge on what it means to have the travel bug, how it affects people, and various ways to experience and manage the desire to travel. The questions will cover definitions, symptoms, contagion, management, and personal experiences related to the travel bug.

Questions and Answers – Choose True or False.

Answer key is located at the bottom of this page (but make sure to answer the Q’s first!)

1. To be  bitten by the travel bug  means you like to stay home.

True or False

2. People bitten by the travel bug like to visit new places.

3. The great outback is in Europe.

4. Antarctica is in Africa.

5. Asia is vast.

6. Traveling opens your mind.

7. Traveling makes you feel alive.

8. Traveling helps you see things in a new way.

Frequently Asked ESL Questions About The Travel Bug

The travel bug refers to a strong, often irresistible desire to travel and explore the world. It is characterized by an eagerness to experience new cultures, meet new people, and see new places.

Catching the travel bug can happen after a particularly inspiring trip, hearing others’ travel stories, or even through films and books that depict adventure and exploration. It often begins with a memorable and positive travel experience.

Common symptoms include constant daydreaming about destinations, frequent browsing of travel websites, and an overwhelming urge to plan next trips. A heightened interest in world maps, travel blogs, and international cuisine can also be signs.

Metaphorically, yes! The travel bug can be quite contagious among friends and family, as enthusiasm and exciting stories about travel tend to inspire others to explore and embark on their own adventures.

To manage the travel bug, individuals should embrace it by planning future trips, exploring local attractions, and learning about different cultures through books, movies, and cuisine. Engaging in travel communities online can also satisfy travel cravings.

Answer Key:

• True         

*Another* Trip?!? How to Explain the Travel Bug to Those Who Just Don’t Have It

You announce to your friends or family that you’re planning yet another trip. Instead of being excited or even plain jealous, these people just look at you quizzically, totally unable to comprehend why you would want to go away again , and especially to a place they’ve barely heard of or can’t imagine in their entire lives ever wanting to visit.

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These are people who don’t understand the travel bug.

I’m guessing there are quite a few travelers out there who have experienced this situation and I sympathize with you. If you’d really like these people to understand why you’re hitting the road again — or if it’s important that they do, because they’re your significant other or someone else affected by your travels — here are a few ways I’ve found to try to get them a bit more on side.

Don’t expect to convert them to travel addicts — it’s possible, but more often it’s just something you’re born with — but you might be able to at least elicit a normal reaction out of them when you start arranging your next trip.

#1: Information is Persuasion

Pass on some of your pre-trip research to your doubting friends and family so that they can know something concrete about the destinations you’re all hyped about. Be careful not to overdo this, of course. Just give them a small sample of websites or brochures or whatever info you have, carefully selected to be the kinds of things they’re most likely to be interested in — art galleries perhaps, or statistics about the cost of living. Pretty pictures can work miracles.

They don’t need to love your destination — you just want them to understand why you do.

Just make sure you do this without coming across all teacher-like or you’ll only be putting them off the idea more. Unless you’re trying to persuade them to come with you (a much harder proposition), they don’t need to love your destination — you just want them to understand why you do.

#2: Emphasize the Benefits

Many non-travelers just don’t see the point of it all. Their idea of taking a trip is limited to something like a package deal to a sun-kissed island where they’ll stay at the resort all week (by the pool) with one zany excursion into the local town for two hours. To these people, travel is equivalent to mere relaxation, and anything more complicated than that sounds much too exhausting.

If your traveling needs go a bit beyond this — and if you’re reading this site, the chances are very high that they do — it is (sometimes) possible to educate others about why you really want to go somewhere different. Angles include:

• Excitement. Just mention that you’re a bit hard to please when it comes to something that grabs your interest, and you need to head out further afield to satisfy your adrenalin cravings.
• Self development. Explain that travel helps you to push the boundaries in life and you hope it’ll lead to a few insights into your personality and the way forward for you.
• Financial. Personally, I don’t care too much about the fiscal side of things, but others do: if you’re planning to work as part of a longer trip, or you can sell stories of your trip afterwards, you can make your trip sound much more logical to some by mentioning the monetary benefits.
• Intercultural experience. There’ll be times when having deeper intercultural experiences will make you more employable, or just help you to deal with the kinds of people you meet in your everyday life at home, too.
• Language practice. Also good for the resume.

#3: Personalize Your Motivations

Everybody has a passion for something. We just belong to a bunch of people that have this passion for travel. Narrow down the passions of your friends and explain your travel bug in terms of their own favorite indulgence.

Yes, this could lead to conversations like this:

• “You know that new tire on your racing bicycle? How you kept stroking the new rubber and admiring its perfect fit? That’s how I feel about this airline ticket to Papua New Guinea.”
• “Remember when you got your first girlfriend? How exciting that was? That’s how I feel when I decide on an obscure country that I just have to visit.”

But heck, whatever it takes, just say it.

#4: Bugs Can Be Contagious

It’s not called the travel “bug” for nothing. For a start, it infects you and will never let go for your entire life. You just have to live with that (I certainly haven’t heard of any cases where it’s gone away). But the bonus is that sometimes, the travel bug is contagious.

The bonus is that sometimes the travel bug is contagious.

When I first announced I was going to live abroad and travel for an extended time, probably years, I received mixed reactions. Some of them bothered me. But when I was living far from home and just sending monthly emails to most of my friends, rather than having any particularly personal contact, I couldn’t really care about what their reactions were to my travels.

That’s when a funny thing happened. I started to get a lot of emails — particularly if I hadn’t sent an update for a while — where people said that they were traveling vicariously through me. They’d caught the travel bug, or at least a passive form of it. And over the years, some of these friends started going on trips inspired by some of the places I’d visited, and they even asked me for advice. So perhaps the lesson is that not caring so much about what people think is the best thing to do.

If You Don’t Succeed … Give Up and Travel Anyway

If you’ve tried all this and your friends or family members still don’t have the vaguest idea why you want to travel, it’s okay to give up. Give up on convincing or persuading them, that is. Then just throw yourself into trip preparations and fly off into the sunset.

This is some great advice. We often get the “didn’t you just get back from ?!?” looks from our friends.

We’ve been to four countries and eight states so far this year and love every minute of it! Portland, OR and Ireland are still coming up. :)

I have found, however, that I don’t really need the understanding of those around me about why we go so many places. I have my hubby as my travel partner and a pup to come home to, so life is good.

It’s wonderful how you reach out and relate to so many of us who have tried to “explain” why. My husband’s family, most of whom have never left Texas, let alone, the USA after many years of courting themn, as you suggest, gently, next tactic:we even sent them passport applications and offered to pay, we finally realized that they are among those who can’t really figure out WHY and (after fifteen years of being on the road) we would want…why anyone would want…to be, as they refer to it “down there somewhere”…i.e. Central and South America….Well, your “give it up and travel anyway” advice is sound. Don’t limit your horizons looking for approval of family and friends. WWe never did and never will. Thanks for another great article, Jody

Thanks for the nice feedback, Leandra and Jody. Sounds like you’re both lucky enough to have perfect travel partners (and so am I) – but I know people whose own partners don’t understand the travel thing and that’s tough!

I am the only one in my family who really has the travel bug. It’s impossible to try and explain why I like traveling and living overseas. I get sick of the question “so when you are going to settle down?”

For me I LOVE the planning aspect. I’m not a good gardener – but just like those cultivate seeds and watch their plants grow I enjoy poring over maps, learning the streets, hunting for interesting places before I leave and while there.

I’m an adventure traveler – and love running around cities, catch subways, and taking in as much as I can. But I don’t diss anyone who just wants to sit on the beach for a week. Some people have more stressful jobs – so to them its well deserved.

http://www.futuregringo.com

Also I try and take two big trips a year – one in the spring and one in the fall when the weather is good everywhere. (and long weekends closer to home in between.)

That means I’m always on the lookout for good airfare deals or scouting out my next place the rest of the year.

I really do enjoy the planning – and its fun when its finally confirmed and booked – and you get to truly pencil in your dates and tell your friends about your plans…

@ james, yes, planning is definitely a big part of the fun. I don’t like to make lots of actual definite plans, but love reading about where I’m headed and especially then picking up a few novels that were written there to get a feel for the place

@ Mike, I hate that “when are you going to settle down” question too! I’m sure everybody who asks it is just jealous, really ;-)

People ask me how I can afford to travel or how I can justify the expense. Then they tell me about the new high-def, flat-screen monstrosity they just bought. It doesn’t occur to them that for the price of that new TV they could have enjoyed an incredible trip to another country.

Traveling has educated me in too many ways too count and made me a better person. I have awesome stories to tell and a sense of accomplishment. A television is only something to stare at while you sit immobile in one place.

Jim conversely people see travel as a one time thrill that doesn’t last, where as a TV serves you for a few years.

I see the opposite: At the end of my life I don’t remember fondly a new plasma TV or fancy car – but time with friends, weekends in the mountains with friends, and travel to places abroad gives you great memories

and it is tangible through people you meet, photos, and stories you keep.

james…

@ Jim and James, the idea of a TV being better than a trip is kind of a shock to me, but I can see the logic – but I’m grateful I don’t think that way! You’re both right, I think, that you have better stories to tell and memories to linger on from taking trips.

Good article, but I am of the belief that you will never be able to successfully make anyone understand why you do what you do (if they’re not travelers themselves, that is). This is because travelers are a different breed. We see things from a much different angle than people who don’t travel. Basically, we see life differently…most people have a notion that all there is to life is go to school, get a job, get married, have kids, buy a house, retire at 65 and live off your pension.

This is ingrained in us from the moment we’re born. There doesn’t seem to be much thought towards any of those things…they’re taken for granted that “that’s just what you do”. Enter the traveler…curious, wide-eyed, a sense of the entire world, willing to question everything we are taught in life.

In a sense it is isolating, which is why traveling communities exist, because we can relate to each other. Friends and family from home feign a passing interest in what I’m doing, but in the end just don’t and can’t understand it. Which isn’t to say they are any less of friends…there should just be a mutual respect that you’ve chosen your path in life. The only one that needs to understand why you do what you do, is you.

Fantastic article Amanda!

What particularly resonated for me was the realisation that family/friends may come around to understanding one’s need to travel, but it’s no biggie if they don’t

My husband doesn’t like travel near as much as I do, because he grew up very poor and never traveled outside of his hometown of Lima, Peru as a child.

I, on the other hand, LOVE travel – and since we live in Lima now, I want to travel and see everything there is to see in this amazing country.

These tips might help me make him a little more enthusiastic about it!

Great article. Most of our family and friends were very supportive when we told them of our plan to take a year off and travel the world. There were those who thought we were crazy and didn’t understand why we’d ever want to sit on a bus for 24+ hours or sleep in less than stellar conditions, but those are people who just have different priorities. There’s a lot of great advice here in the article and in comments. We don’t have to try to convert non-travel lovers, cause chances are we won’t. But we can share our experiences, and who knows, they might want to expand their interests a bit?

I enjoyed this post, thoroughly. In my family not everyone has a travel bug, what is weird my mother has it and that’s one of the few things in common between the two of us. Most people are supportive though, some don’t understand the financial part of it – yes, travel is not something I would call cheap, but it’s also not as expensive as some people might imagine.

I absolutely LOVE to travel and it is hard to explain to people, especially my mom, why I love it so much. It’s funny she and my dad were the ones who inadvertantly planted the seed years ago when she would pack my brother and me up and ship us off to relatives in Louisana, Arkansas or wherever anyone was willing to take us for the entire summer. I grew up thinking all kids went away after school got out and found out that many of my friends never left the block. We had special experiences that were priceless!! I don’t try to explain anymore, it’s my pleasure and vice and no one will ever “get it” if they don’t already have the bug :)

Great tips, though, as you say, some people just won’t ever get it. I’ve been traveling for almost 2 years now (working on and off as an English teacher and freelance writer) and still to this day, every time I speak to my mother, she always asks when I’m going to stop “playing” and come home to “reality”. For some people, travel is reality. And beside, we’re pretty happy so that’s all that should matter right?

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Great article, I’ve done one in the past about breaking it to family, mainly my brother. I grew up in an EXTREMELY conservative family and at the mere mention of chasing some dream of mine I was usually mocked.

Then the day came when I had my tickets booked and it was two weeks before I left the US for the first time. When I went and told my brother about it, I expected him to be outraged, call me stupid, and think it was the most irresponsible thing ever.

I was very wrong, it was much worse.

He actually disowned me and told me if I left the US I would no longer be his brother. Being that he is the only blood I have left on this planet, you can imagine I was crushed.

I still went though. He was not there to say farewell at the train or the airport, and for 4 months he didn’t speak a word to me. After a while I broke through and we began chatting again, but it has still been rough ever since.

But it is important that you try your hardest to have them see why this travel dream is so important, and if they can’t, you must continue on your path.

Great article!

Great tips! I just finished Law School and I’ve been waiting all my life for this moment. I want to take a year of and then come back and work. Everybody is giving me a hard time when I tell them I want to travel.

Next time I speak to someone about me taking one year off I’ll try your tips and see how it goes.

Thanks for shearing have a wonderful day! :)

Hi Amanda and Paulina,

Fabulous tips! I just finished law school as well and I planned an around-the-world trip on miles to visit friends from my previous time abroad living in Paris and a year in Sydney before that. The grind of law school is absolutely suffocating to free spirited individuals.

When I announced I was going traveling, yet again, I got the “you are refusing to participate in reality,” talk from friends and confused looks from my parents.

I was a little sad at the lukewarm and apathetic response to my trip, so much to the point that I began to doubt my decision. This felt strange after spending so much time living abroad; suddenly trying to “manage perceptions” of those around me? I never needed anyone’s blessing before! What has law school done to me?

After some introspection, I discovered I wanted others to validate my decision. The truth is the only validation I need is my own. Developing an authentic sense of self and finding the courage to make decisions that generate happiness for your innermost self is an essential life skill and component of creating a lasting, fulfilling existence.

Leaving just after Christmas. Totes excited! Maybe I’ll see you both on the road.

Cheers, Grant

Thanks for sharing your experience, it sounds a lot like what I’m going through right now.

See you on the road! :)

Greetings, Paulina

I wish I had found this article years ago :p I have struggled greatly trying to explain travel to people and most people just don’t get it so I just give up!

That’s alright, I always tell my backpacker friends…”Yup. We’re the ones that got life right”

I’m about to head out on an 18 month rtw again this jan!

Thanks for posting such an inspiring article. We can 100% relate to this!

We quit our jobs, sold our house and all our belongings and set off on a 13 month backpacking trip. Most people were super skeptical of our choice and didn’t think we’d last on the road. They thought we were pretty crazy for giving up everything.

After an amazing, eye-opening, life altering trip, we returned to Canada to “real” life….and realized we didn’t belong there anymore.

So, we planned another trip and mos people were shocked. “What? Another trip, but you just got home” The thing was, this wasn’t home anymore, we were used to a completely different style of life now.

We left Canada again after one year and have been travelling now for 22 months and we don’t second guess a minute of it.

People don’t understand it, they don’t really want to hear about travel stories, but you know what? We don’t mind anymore. We have new friends that we’ve met on the road and we have each other, so basically if you find people who can relate to you, it’s all good.

Thanks a lot for this post!

Safe Travels. Goats On The Road

There is no need to explain. You get confused looks and questions of why. All I can do is laugh. People going to work each day with nothing to look forward to than their two weeks vacation don’t get it. Seeing the sun rise in the Andes, sitting on the beach in Belize, looking over a rain forest from the blue glacier in Washington, walking the streets of Salem for Halloween, the adventure never ends. I have worked part time for an airline for the last 15 years. Waking up in the morning knowing that I am 45 minutes from a flight that will take me anywhere in the world makes it hard to sleep some times.

I found that when I finally decided to do my trip my way on my own, that friends of mine were eager to meet up with me while I was in destination. I met up with three different friends from my city on my trip to Europe –some who were going to be there anyways; and others who were inspired that I was going and kind of had an excuse or a friend to be with while in destination. WIN WIN. Trust your instincts and others will follow.

So true… just travel and enjoy…. you’ll meet and discover new friends along the way :)

happy travelling…

“Are you going away again? When are you going to settle down? It’s time you buy yourself a new car…..”

I hear it all the time! But I still NEED to travel. To meet new people, see new places, experience new things and learn!

And I also love the planning, research, etc (although I do minimal bookings except for my inbound/outbound flights and first few nights accomodation).

I will settle down in the near future, but that does not mean I have to give up travelling. Just travel in a different way…

I’m glad there are people that don’t have the travel bug… at the famous places, it’s unbelievably crowded as it is. I’ve traveled to many places where i was the only or one of a few tourists in the area… I like it that way.

Hi, im better than you because I travel, I’m glad you don’t travel because that means its less crowded for me. This is the most egocentric bs I’ve ever heard. Moderator won’t post this because she will be biased. So this and the last message is for you. You are not better than one person, not posting my comments proves you have an issue with your ego and are too stubborn to post someone elses opinions that might conflict yours as your concered how it will look on “your cool travel page guide”. Oh please, do us all a favour, move to a 3rd world country without internet and live out your traveling dreams.

Oh please, There is no such thing as a travel ‘bug’ or contagious illness to travel. I do travel, often off the beaten road, this article however made my toenails curl. I can’t stand people who think that they are better people because they have been here or there, quite frankly this article screams that. I would love to travel more but can’t afford it, just because I don’t go on about traveling all the time doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy it. People are far to concerned now days about what other people think about what they are doing. If you want to go traveling, do so, don’t bore myself and all of your friends of the planning details, I can’t think of anything worse. Isn’t part of the idea to go there and see what happens, rather than a regimented trip? For someone who is a travel writer, and been to over 30 countries (would of expected more from a travel writer) this article seems as it was written by a 18 year old girl who just got back from a gap year and is desperately trying to get as much attention and reaction as she did when she announced her first trip. Thank you for confirming that the majority of people who travel are yuppy ego centred twits.

Grr … sounds like someone needs a hug ='(

Thats a very patronising way to dance away from the point i’ve raised, bravo.

No problem, James. Patronizing self righteous assholes is what we do best here.

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Evidently, nice hat by the way.

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Travel idioms: Fun ways to talk about traveling and adventures

Are you in the mood for an adventure? Before you pack your bags and grab your passport, make sure you have the right vocabulary to talk about it.

These English travel idioms will not only inspire you to see the world but can also be used on your journey. We have included lots of fun and useful expressions about travel and transport, all with examples and definitions. Idioms can be hard to understand , after all.

Travel idioms

A country mile.

A country mile is not an exact measurement but refers to a deceptively long distance. Country roads usually meander, so a destination a mile away can take much more than a mile to reach.

“It was suposed to be a 5 mile run but it felt like 5 country miles!”

People who have itchy feet are bored of where they are and have a desire to travel, do something new, or explore.

“She only came back from her camping trip last week but she got itchy feet and is setting off on a road trip tomorrow.’

Feet and other body parts are featured in idioms a lot, so they are always useful to know.

The travel bug

Be careful: if you catch the travel bug, it may turn your plans upside down! The travel bug refers to a strong urge, passion or desire to travel the world.

“I caught the travel bug when I first explored Europe over 20 years ago.”

At a crossroads / a fork in the road

You will surely come across a crossroads or a fork in the road when you are traveling. These expressions relate to any place where the road splits or meets another road, and you must decide which way to go.

However, we have put these on our list of travel idioms because they can also be used figuratively as choice idioms . You can say someone is at a crossroads or at a fork in the road if they have an important decision to make in any area of their life.

“I’m at a bit of a crossroads and I’m not sure what I should do.” “We get along fine, until we hit a fork in the road.”

At the crack of dawn

At the crack of dawn is a simple but fun way of describing any time very early in the morning.

“We’re going to have to get up at the crack of dawn to make our flight.”

There are many other time idioms you may find useful for planning a travel itinerary.

Bad news travels fast

Bad news travels fast , or at least that is how it often seems. Most bad news is scandalous or a great topic for gossip, so people are more likely to talk about it with their friends or colleagues.

“I can’t believe I got fired and that my wife knew about it before I even got home. I guess bad news really does travel fast!”

Live out of a suitcase

People who live out of a suitcase travel a lot from place to place, not returning home often. Since they normally stay for a short period of time in each place, they keep all their clothes in their suitcase rather than bothering to unpack and settle in.

“Guys, we have a busy interary, so get ready to live out of your suitcases for the next week or so!”

On a shoestring

Although this is a good travel idiom, it can actually apply to all situations. Anything that happens on a shoestring is done with a very small budget, keeping costs as low as possible.

“I’m backpacking around Asia next year but I’m traveling on a shoestring.”

Find some more money-related idioms here .

Hit a roadblock

This is a saying with two meanings. An actual roadblock is something used by the police to stop the illegal activity of a driver. As a travel-related idiom, to hit a roadblock refers to something getting in the way and stopping you from making progress in a project.

“The new contract negotiations were going well but we’ve hit a bit of a roadblock now.”

This is not to be confused with the one below.

Hit the road

Here’s a very popular travel idiom; so popular, in fact, that you’ll hear it in many songs like “ Hit the Road Jack “. To hit the road simply means to depart on a journey.

“Well, it’s getting late, so I think it’s time we hit the road.” “The car is all packed; let’s hit the road!”

You normally say this phrase when referring to traveling by car or going home, but it could be used in other circumstances.

Catch the sun

A lot of these travel idioms focus on going on vacation. For most people, a vacation means time in the sun. To catch the sun is to spend enough time in the sun that your skin burns or develops a tan.

“Won’t be long until I’m catching the sun in Spain.” “Looks like you have caught the sun today.”

You may also hear catch some rays , which means to sunbathe.

If you’re heading off for a summer vacation, make sure you check out some idioms about summer before you go. There are expressions to suit every season, in fact: winter , fall (autumn) and spring .

Pack light / travel light

People who travel light or pack light are careful not to bring unnecessary items. They keep their luggage to a minimum, whether for convenience or to avoid paying extra airfares for it.

“I always travel light.” “Much as I try to travel light, I always seem to need a huge suitcase.”

Travel on a full / empty stomach

Part of the joy of traveling is deciding what to eat! To travel on a full stomach means you have just eaten a lot and have no room for any more food. On the other hand, an empty stomach means you are very hungry as there is no food in you!

“I can’t have you traveling on an empty stomach. Let me make you a snack.” “I mustn’t travel on a full stomach. I get car sick.”

A mile a minute

Travel idioms can be a fun way to exaggerate your point. When you need to highlight that someone was traveling very fast, you could say they were moving a mile a minute . This saying comes from when cars had a top speed of 60 miles per hour and it was considered very fast.

“You must have gone a mile a minute to get here so fast!”

This fast idiom can also be used more generally to refer to anything done very quickly.

“She had the whole family to cook for and was chopping and mixing a mile a minute to get it all done!” “I could tell he was excited because he was talking a mile a minute. I couldn’t keep up.”

Off the beaten track / path

A beaten path or track is one that is well-used by other people. So, to get off the beaten track is to go somewhere unknown or more isolated.

“When we visit Thailand we like to get off the beaten track so we’re not just following the other tourists!”

Although it may seem similar to the next expression, this saying is more about a physical place than a direction in life.

Take the road less traveled

Here’s a travel idiom that may just change your life!

When you have a choice to make, people may advise you to take the road (or path) less traveled . This is an encouragement to think independently or unconventionally, rather than conforming to the norm and picking the option that everyone else would pick.

“I’ve decided to take the path less travelled and decline the job offer.”

Just to be very clear: this doesn’t have to be a decision related to travel. It could be about the type of job you choose, family options, education path, etc.

If you enjoy an adventure like this, also check out some action and adventure idioms .

Travel broadens the mind

Here is a little proverb that’s sneaked onto our list of travel idioms. A great reason people may give for seeing the world is that travel broadens the mind . You learn about different cultures, beliefs, and customs. You learn first-hand about history and taste new foods. Travel gives you a greater understanding and a new perspective on life.

“I’m so glad you’re taking a year to backpack Africa. Travel really broadens the mind.”

Spread your wings and fly/soar

Here is another travel expression that describes the freedom and liberty that comes with being able to wherever you like. We can liken this feeling to a bird spreading its wings to fly or soar above the world.

“You’re still young! It’s the best time to spread your wings and fly.”

This expression about freedom can relate to things other than travel, such as moving to a new place or beginning a new season of life.

Travel idioms featuring different modes of transport

We’re not done yet! Here are some more travel idioms, this time featuring or about different modes of transport.

In the driver’s seat

The person in charge of a situation and making the choices is the person in the driver’s seat .

“Mary took the week off, so Sam is in the driver’s seat.”

If you specifically need driving-related idioms more than travel idioms, there are plenty to refer to.

Catch a red-eye

Due to the size of America, it’s common to have long domestic flights. This is why this phrase is more of an American English idiom than British. A red-eye is a flight that departs late at night and/or arrives early in the morning, disrupting your natural sleep pattern and perhaps giving you red or bloodshot eyes.

“To make it to the wedding on time, we’ll have to catch the red-eye tomorrow.”

In the same boat

Normally, you’d use this saying in the context of a negative situation. To be in the same boat means that you and the people around you are all in a similar situation or experiencing the same thing.

“I know you’re cold, but we’re all in the same boat.” “The recent tax increases have hit us hard, but everyone is in the same boat.”

Here are some more idioms to use in bad situations .

Fly under the radar

Radars are used to detect things like planes or submarines. Someone or something that flies under the radar goes unnoticed or undetected, usually by people in authority.

“Let’s keep our heads down and hope we fly under the radar.”

As the crow flies

The straight-line distance from one location to another is measured as the crow flies . This is different from the distance needed to actually travel from one place to the other, since you usually need to navigate around roads, buildings, rivers, and other geographical features.

“The beach is only 2 miles away as the crow flies, but it’s more like 4 on the winding country roads.”

Find some more interesting bird idioms here.

Don’t forget to write

If you’re going to be traveling for a while, you’ll probably want to write to your friends and family back home. Traditionally this was done via letters or postcards, but now you’re more likely to email or use social media.

You can say don’t forget to write as a farewell, reminding the person to keep in touch while they are away.

“Have a fantastic trip, and don’t forget to write!”

It’s surprising how many idioms about writing are becoming obsolete as we turn to electronic methods of communication.

Float your boat

If you find something appealing, you can say that it floats your boat . It’s often used in negative constructions about things you don’t like.

“I think I’ll pass on the spring rolls, thanks. They don’t really float my boat.”

You can also use the expression whatever floats your boat to mean ‘whatever you like’ or ‘whatever makes you happy’.

“Listen, whatever floats your boat is ok by me.” “Peanut butter and tomato sandwiches sound a bit weird to me, but… whatever floats your boat.”

Occasionally, you may hear people use this in relation to a person, meaning that they find that person attractive. This could be considered rather sleazy, and there are better idioms about love and attraction that you could use.

Just the ticket

Here’s a travel idiom that can actually be used as a sentence on its own. Just the ticket is a way of expressing that something is exactly what is needed or wanted; a perfect solution to a problem.

“Brilliant! That’s just the ticket. Thanks.”

Be aware that this expression might sound a little old-fashioned nowadays. Find some other ways to describe good things here.

There really are plenty of boat and ship-related travel idioms. When you jump ship you move from one group, cause, or situation to join another.

“We heard the company was struggling, so Martha jumped ship as soon as she could.”

That ship has sailed

Sadly, when you hear the saying that ship has sailed , it means you’ve missed an opportunity. Perhaps something or someone is no longer available, or the situation has changed.

“Sorry son, that ship has sailed.”

Here are some more idioms about change that you can use.

Train of thought

If you didn’t know the meaning of the phrase train of thought , you’d struggle to work it out or make a logical guess! It’s the process by which someone reaches their decision; their line of reasoning to make a choice.

“I really don’t understand her train of thought, but she’s the boss, so we’ll do as she says.”

Have these idioms about travel inspired you to start planning your next adventure? Can you think of any others that should be on this list? Leave a comment to let us know!

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From the trademark Travel Bug .

travel bug ( plural travel bugs )

• Geocaching for Schools and Communities (page 182) The teams placed their travel bugs in a geocache and listed the bugs on the geocaching.com Web site [ … ]
• 2015 , Christopher Holden, et al: Mobile Media Learning , page 168 : Because moving travel bugs is a practice that is only physical in nature—you find the travel bug and then you move it to another geocache—the game's design did not require players to take part in as much conversation as I had hoped.
• Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see travel ,‎ bug . Synonym: wanderlust After my trip to New Zealand, I caught the travel bug : now I go abroad several times a year.

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• English nouns
• English countable nouns
• English multiword terms
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• 15 Signs Youve Caught The...

15 Signs You've Caught the Travel Bug

Once your soul contracts the bug, your trip will never end. Travel writer Pico Iyer once said, “travel is like love, in the end, mostly because it’s a heightened state of awareness, in which we are mindful, receptive, undimmed by familiarity and ready to be transformed. That is why the best trips, like the best love affairs, never really end.” If you find yourself thinking, doing, or feeling any combination of the following 15 symptoms, you may have a full blown case of the travel bug.

You’re always dreaming up your next adventure.

On your way home from your adventure, you are already starting to conjure up your next escape .

You’re saving up for experiences

You have reprioritized your live and realized that you want less stuff and more experiences. After an adventure, you are already working on saving for the next one. Your hard-earned money is now being put toward plane tickets and trips instead of possessions that will only keep you sedentary.

Your most prized possession is your passport

Your passport is your ticket to the world and you guard it with your life. You are always aware of where it is and always have it securely stored when it is not on your body. You also frequently flip through it to look at your collection of stamps and have mini flashbacks with a big smile on your face from your grand journeys of the past.

Your second most prized possession is your travel journal

You write down things you don’t want to forget and have a running journal of notes, observations, thoughts, and memories from your trips. You have lists of favorite places, restaurants, accommodations, contact information of people you’ve shared time with along the way, and valuable information that only a person who has been a certain place would know. When you’re home, you look through this journal and feel instantly transported back to times where you were freely roaming the earth.

You have a collection of treasures

You’ve collected things like cocktail napkins, matchbooks, postcards, and hotel pens. You’ve picked and pressed flowers between the pages of the book you were reading at the time or saved a piece of sea glass or a shell that you found on a beach somewhere. Maybe you even have a collection of different currencies in your wallet left over from past trips. You have kept little things along the way that only have a special meaning to you.

You have a bucket list of places and experiences

You have made a list of all the places you want to go and things you want to do in your lifetime and are determined to complete the list. You also possess a certain confidence in your ability to complete your bucket list , a confidence that non-travelers would inadvertently replace with doubt.

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You’ve left a piece of your heart all over the world

It’s a good thing that you have a huge heart because you tend to leave a tiny piece of yours somewhere along the way on each one of your adventures. As you’ve traveled, you have found that you have these special connections to places you’ve never been before and to people whom you’ve never met prior. As we travel the globe and leave pieces of our hearts all over the place, we are only further connecting to one another and the world as a whole.

You’ve realized that less is more

The more you travel the more you’ve realized that traveling light is the way to go. You’ve found that you don’t really need more than what you can comfortably carry. You’ve really started to master the art of packing. With each consecutive trip, you’ve become more skilled at putting together the perfect articles of clothing and the proper gear. You also get abundant joy when you realize how perfectly you packed while you are on your trip.

You have a well-stocked travel kit

Through trial and error and well-earned experience, you always travel with a kit that only a true traveler or an innately amazing planner would think to pack. Your kit will vary depending on where in the world you are traveling, but you will typically have things like Benadryl, an anti-acid, a traveler’s tummy remedy, anti-nausea pills, an anti-inflammatory, a simple first-aid kit, sunscreen, mosquito-repellent, anti-bacterial gel, water purifying tablets, blue or black pens, a copy of your passport, credit card information, driver’s license, and your travel insurance or health insurance; and a reusable water bottle.

You get excited about gear

There’s nothing like having the right gear. You get excited about a new wetsuit for your upcoming surf trip to Morocco in the winter, a wide angle lens for your camera to capture those beautiful scenes in South Africa , or a pair of boots that are waterproof and so comfortable that you feel like you could trek to the end of Patagonia in.

You’ve embraced “the art of doing nothing”

While you love sightseeing, you’ve also learned to love to just take time on your trip to do nothing. Maybe this is just sitting at a cafe and people watching all afternoon, laying on a secluded white sand beach and listening to the waves kiss the shoreline until the sun sets, or resting in a hammock while you slowly read pages from Walden. You’ve realized the value and pleasure of just being and just taking in your surroundings instead of actively participating in them.

You’ve become more of a “yes” person

Sometimes the greatest experiences , the most valuable life lessons, and the most incredible relationships are just waiting for you to say yes. You tend to put more thought into saying “no” than you do into saying “yes.”

You’ve realized travel is the greatest teacher…

…and the world is the greatest classroom.

Distance isn’t a deterrent to you

There is no destination that is too far away. You’ve accepted that the time and distance it takes you to get to your destination is all part of the journey. You feel quite comfortable navigating an airport, train station, or metro. You’ve learned to use maps, guides, travel applications, and when all else fails, ask for directions using a combination of pantomime, pointing, and a butchered new language.

You’re not afraid of traveling alone

You’ve definitely caught the travel bug when you will travel on your own. Sometimes solo travel is totally planned that way, while other times it just ends up being the case because you can’t find anyone to travel with when you want to go. When the world calls to you, you go, even if it’s alone .

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• Learn English /

9+ Popular Idioms for Travelling that You Should Know

• Updated on  
• Jul 1, 2024

Travel Idioms: Do you call yourself a wanderlust? Then you should definitely know these idioms for travelling that you can use to express yourself in a creative way. So, before you pack your bag for another adventure, make sure you have the right English vocabulary . Mentioned below are some idioms for travelling that you should know.

This Blog Includes:

1. itchy feet, 2. the travel bug, 3. live out of a suitcase, 4. hit the road, 5. a country mile, 6. desert a sinking ship, 7. drive someone up the wall, 8. take the road less travelled, 9. catch the sun, 10. pack light, 11. in the same boat, 12. off the beaten track.

People who have  itchy feet  are bored of where they are and have a desire to travel, do something new, or explore.

Example: I was getting itchy feet so I moved to London.

The meaning of the travel bug is to have a strong desire to travel.

Example: I caught the travel bug when I first explored Europe over 20 years ago.

Also Read:  Idioms for Food

Individuals who live a nomadic lifestyle frequently travel to different locations and do not often return to their homes. As they only stay in each location for a short period of time, they prefer to keep their clothes stored in their suitcase rather than taking the time to unpack and settle.

Example : Guys, we have a busy itinerary, so get ready to live out of your suitcases for the next month or so!

Quick Read: Bag and Baggage Meaning, Example, Synonyms

Also Read:  Understanding Idioms: Examples and Meanings

Hit the Road Jack is a widely known travel expression that’s often referenced in songs like “Hit the Road Jack”. It means to depart on a journey.

Example : What time are we hitting the road tomorrow?

Also Read:  Idioms for IELTS

A country mile is not an exact measurement but refers to a very long distance or way.

Example : She beat the other swimmers by a country mile.

Also Read: Go the Extra Mile Meaning, Examples and Synonyms

The phrase “to flee a sinking ship” means to escape from a situation where failure is likely, and it references the tendency of rats to be the first to leave a sinking ship.

Example : After seeing the company’s financial statement, he knew it was time to desert a sinking ship.

To drive someone up the wall means to make someone extremely angry.

Example : My colleague is driving me up the wall .

When faced with a decision, you may be advised to take the less travelled path. This is an encouragement to think independently and unconventionally, rather than conforming to the norm and choosing the option that everyone else would choose.

Example: I took the road less travelled when I decided not to go to college, unlike all of my friends.

This idiomatic phrase refers to getting sunburnt. So, whenever you see someone with a tan after sunbathing, you can use this phrase.

Example: Be careful not to catch the Sun in the excitement of a Beach trip.

This phrase in general means to pack minimalistic things or travel lightly.

Example: Boys the tracking trip is going to be rough, so make sure to pack light .

Normally, to be in the same boat means you, along with your companion are facing the same adversity.

Example : Don’t feel sad brother, given my financial situation at this point, I think we both are sailing in the same boat .

The expression “off the beaten track” means a place that is unconventional or not frequented by many people.

Example: We rented a cabin off the beaten track for a peaceful getaway.

Explore more exciting reads below:

We hope this blog has provided all the necessary information on ‘Idioms For Travelling.’ To advance your grammar knowledge and read more informative blogs, check out our Learn English page and don’t forget to follow Leverage Edu .

Nikita Puri

Nikita is a creative writer and editor, who is always ready to learn new skills. She has great knowledge about study abroad universities, researching and writing blogs about them. Being a perfectionist, she has a habit of keeping her tasks complete on time before the OCD hits her. When Nikita is not busy working, you can find her eating while binge-watching The office. Also, she breathes music. She has done her bachelor's from Delhi University and her master's from Jamia Millia Islamia.

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