Technology is all around us, and it’s very easy to become consumed by it nowadays. However, when you go on vacation, it’s important to stay present, be in the moment, and take in everything that’s going on around you. Though we understand that this isn’t always the easiest thing to do. Fortunately, there are some tips that you can follow that will hopefully help you disconnect from the digital world for a few days, so that you can enjoy your trip, and make meaningful memories that will last a lifetime.
From setting limits on screen time to chatting with the locals and more, here are some tips to help you stay present while traveling in a digital age.
1. Set Limits on Screen Time
We are so used to having our mobile devices on hand all the time, that it has become such a habit to constantly be looking at them. Though you should want to break this habit the best you can while on vacation, because you don’t want to waste your time staring at a screen.
To help you do this, we suggest setting a limit on the amount of screen time you have each day. You can set a time limit (1-2 hours per day or less), or vow to only use your electronic devices in the morning or at night before you go to bed. You’ll find that this will help you be a whole lot more conscious of what you’re doing and how much time you’re spending on your phone.
Bonus Tip: When using your phone, set a timer to make sure that you don’t lose track of time.
2. Practice Mindful Photography
Capturing your vacation through photos is something that we all enjoy doing, as it allows us to look back at the pictures for years to come. However, sometimes we may take too many photos, and forget to truly enjoy what’s going on around us. So, though it’s okay to take photos from time to time, avoid always having your phone out to take pictures, and focus on being present.
Bonus Tip: Limit yourself to the number of photos you take per day while traveling.
3. Use Airplane Mode
Believe it or not, airplane mode can be used for a whole lot of different purposes, and is an excellent tool to use on vacation. When you’re taking some time to relax, consider putting your phone on airplane mode. This ensures that you won’t get any notifications during this time, so that you can enjoy some peace and quiet. Then, once you’re ready to get back on the move, you can simply turn airplane mode off.
Bonus Tip: If you don’t want to use airplane mode, you can put your phone on silent and place it face down on the table.
4. Try Journaling
With travel comes some incredible experiences, and you want to do everything you can to remember as much of the journey as possible. To do so, you should try journaling. At the end of the day, set aside some time to sit down and journal for 5-10 minutes. Write down everything that you did that day, including any activities you took part in, the people you met, the delicious food you ate, and anything else that stood out to you. Not only will you be able to look back at your journal in the future, but journaling is a wonderful way to unwind at the end of a long and busy day.
Bonus Tip: Write down 5 things that brought you joy that day that didn’t involve technology.
5. Chat With the Locals
A great way to be present and immerse yourself in the culture is to chat with the locals. Ask them questions about their town, get recommendations for things to do in the city, and get to know them a little bit. One of the best parts about traveling to other destinations is getting to know the people. So don’t be afraid to put yourself out there – you never know who you may meet!
Bonus Tip: Ask the locals to recommend some hidden gems that most people don’t know about.
6. Practice Meditation
Another way to stay present while traveling is to practice meditation. Meditation allows you to unwind, relax, and connect with the Earth and your surroundings. It’s a wonderful thing to try (even if it’s your first time), and very easy to do. You can meditate on the beach, in a spot filled with nature, or even in your hotel room. We suggest that you partake in this peaceful activity in the morning to get a good start to the day, or during the afternoon when you feel like you need to decompress.
Bonus Tip: If you aren’t into meditation, do yoga instead.
7. Avoid Activities That Involve Screens
Do your best to avoid activities that involve staring at a screen for a long period of time. There are more and more activities that involve technology, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, if you want to truly be present and in the moment, we suggest participating in things that don’t include a screen. New destinations have so much to offer, and it’s important that you go out and experience them as much as possible before heading home.
Bonus Tip: Do something in nature at least once a day while traveling, such as hiking, relaxing by the ocean, or simply taking a walk.
8. Be in the Moment
Last but not least, be in the moment as much as you possibly can. Traveling is about experiences and making memories, and you want to soak everything in. Try new things, meet new people, and live like a local. Ask questions, dance in the rain, and don’t be afraid to really immerse yourself in the culture. There truly is nothing like putting your digital devices down, and really just focusing on being present.
Bonus Tip: Leave your phone in your hotel room if possible to avoid distractions.
We hope that these tips will help you to be more present while traveling on your next vacation. If you have an upcoming trip and need a passport or visa, we would be happy to assist you. When you’re ready to fill out your application, please visit our website, and if you have any questions along the way, please don’t hesitate to contact us. No matter where you’re going, we’ll get you there!
