How to Travel in Your 20s (and Why You Should!)
Your 20s are one of the most exciting—and transformative—decades of your life. It’s a time when you’re discovering who you are, figuring out what you want from life, and perhaps laying the foundation for your future career and relationships. It’s also the perfect time to travel.
Traveling in your 20s is more than just about ticking off destinations or collecting Instagram-worthy photos (though those are fun too). It’s an opportunity to learn about the world, challenge your comfort zone, and grow personally and professionally in ways you can’t imagine. From solo adventures that build confidence to budget-friendly trips that teach independence, there are countless benefits to exploring the world in your 20s.
In this guide, we’ll explore why your 20s are the best time to travel—and share practical tips to help you make the most of your adventures.
Why You Should Travel in Your 20s
1. Personal Growth and Self-Discovery
Your 20s are a time of self-exploration, and travel is one of the best ways to learn more about yourself. Whether you’re backpacking through Europe, volunteering abroad, or living in a new city for a few months, travel challenges you in ways that make you more adaptable, resilient, and self-reliant.
- Push your limits: Traveling solo or to unfamiliar destinations can stretch you outside of your comfort zone. You’ll gain confidence in navigating new environments, meeting new people, and making decisions on the fly.
- Build independence: Managing your time, budget, and itineraries while traveling teaches you valuable life skills that will benefit you long after the trip is over.
- Gain a global perspective: Traveling exposes you to different cultures, customs, and ways of life. This broadens your worldview, enhances your empathy, and helps you understand your place in the global community.
2. You Have More Freedom and Less Responsibility
In your 20s, you might not have a mortgage, a family to care for, or a high-stress career that ties you down—meaning you have more flexibility to travel freely. The fewer responsibilities you have, the more time you can dedicate to exploring the world.
- Less commitment: With fewer long-term commitments, you can take spontaneous trips, gap years, or extended travels without feeling guilty about leaving work or school.
- Adventure awaits: Whether you want to live abroad, backpack for months, or take weekend trips, your 20s are the best time to explore a variety of travel styles, from solo adventures to group tours, or even just hopping on a last-minute flight.
3. Travel Enhances Your Career and Personal Development
You might not realize it now, but the experiences you gain from traveling can directly benefit your career. International travel can expose you to new ideas, innovative problem-solving, and cross-cultural experiences that employers value.
- Boost your resume: Many employers appreciate candidates who have lived abroad or who have traveled extensively, as it often indicates flexibility, adaptability, and problem-solving skills.
- Develop transferable skills: While traveling, you’ll enhance skills like communication, budgeting, time management, and independence. These skills are highly transferable and beneficial in both personal and professional settings.
- Network globally: Traveling opens doors to meeting people from all over the world, which can lead to valuable personal connections, career opportunities, and even business ideas.
How to Travel in Your 20s: Practical Tips for the Best Experiences
Now that we’ve covered why traveling in your 20s is so valuable, let’s dive into practical tips for making the most of your travels at this exciting stage of life.
1. Travel on a Budget
One of the most significant barriers to travel in your 20s is often the cost. However, traveling on a budget is not only possible—it’s often the most rewarding way to experience the world. Here are a few ways to keep your costs down:
- Use Budget Airlines and Public Transport: Flying doesn’t have to be expensive. Look for budget airlines, use fare comparison sites like Skyscanner, and book flights in advance to find the best deals. Once you arrive, opt for public transportation over taxis or car rentals to save money.
- Stay in Hostels or Use Couchsurfing: Hostels are not only budget-friendly but also offer a great way to meet other travelers. If you’re open to it, try Couchsurfing, a platform where you can stay with locals for free.
- Eat Like a Local: Skip touristy restaurants and seek out local street food or small cafes that offer authentic dishes at a fraction of the price. Grocery stores and markets are also great places to stock up on affordable snacks and meals.
- Travel During Off-Peak Seasons: If you have flexibility, traveling during the shoulder season or off-peak months can drastically reduce your expenses. You’ll also avoid the crowds, which means a more relaxed experience.
2. Embrace Solo Travel
Traveling solo in your 20s is an incredibly empowering experience. It allows you to connect with yourself, make decisions on your terms, and experience places without the influence of others.
- Start Small: If you’re new to solo travel, begin with short trips to nearby destinations or countries that are known to be safe for solo travelers.
- Stay Safe: Always prioritize your safety—keep your belongings secure, stay in well-lit areas at night, and research local customs and safety tips before arriving in a new place.
- Meet New People: Solo travel doesn’t mean you’ll be alone all the time. Use platforms like Meetup or Couchsurfing to find fellow travelers or locals to hang out with, or join group tours or activities that interest you.
3. Travel with Purpose: Volunteering and Gap Years
If you’re looking to get more out of your travels and gain meaningful experiences, consider volunteering abroad or taking a gap year. Both options allow you to immerse yourself in new cultures and make a positive impact while traveling.
- Volunteer Programs: There are countless opportunities for young travelers to volunteer abroad in areas like education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and community development. Organizations like WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) or Volunteer Abroad offer fantastic programs for short- or long-term stays.
- Take a Gap Year: Many 20-somethings choose to take a year off after high school or university to travel the world. A gap year gives you the chance to learn new skills, pursue personal passions, and get life experience that will benefit you in both your personal and professional life.
4. Explore Different Travel Styles
One of the best things about being in your 20s is the freedom to experiment with different types of travel. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Backpacking: Ideal for those who want an adventurous, budget-friendly travel experience, backpacking allows you to explore multiple destinations on a low budget. Countries in Southeast Asia, South America, and Europe are popular among backpackers.
- Road Trips: Rent a car or van and hit the road. A road trip allows you to explore places off the beaten path and enjoy the freedom of creating your own itinerary.
- Group Tours: If you’re nervous about traveling solo, consider joining a group tour. Many travel companies offer tours specifically for young adults, where you can meet like-minded people and explore new destinations together.
- Digital Nomad Lifestyle: If your work allows for remote opportunities, consider becoming a digital nomad for a period. Travel while working from cafes, co-working spaces, or beaches around the world. This is a great way to fund your travels while gaining international work experience.
5. Learn the Language and Immerse Yourself
Learning even a few words in the local language can enhance your experience and help you connect with locals. Plus, it shows respect for the culture you’re visiting. Here are some tips to immerse yourself more fully:
- Learn Basic Phrases: Even if you’re not fluent, learning simple phrases like “hello,” “thank you,” and “please” can go a long way. Apps like Duolingo or Babbel make it easy to learn the basics before your trip.
- Cultural Immersion: Instead of sticking to the tourist trail, dive into the local culture by visiting less-known areas, attending local festivals, or participating in cultural events. This will give you a deeper understanding of the place you’re visiting.
Make Your 20s Count Through Travel
Traveling in your 20s isn’t just about going to new places—it’s about growing, discovering who you are, and preparing for the future. Whether you’re backpacking across Europe, living in a foreign city, volunteering in a developing country, or just taking weekend trips, each adventure will leave you with valuable memories and life lessons.
Now is the perfect time to explore the world, broaden your horizons, and create experiences that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Don’t wait for the “right time” or for things to be “perfect”—your 20s are the best time to embrace the freedom and adventure that comes with traveling. So pack your bags, step out of your comfort zone, and get ready for the journey of a lifetime!
Safe travels!