Is Road Life For You?
Whether you're looking for a big change or simply crave adventure, living life on the road may be something you've considered before. From living in a decked out van to an RV, there are many different options you can consider. But at the end of the day, what's most important isn't the vehicle, it's if it fits your lifestyle preferences. Here are 10 signs this choice is meant for you, and 10 it's definitely not.
1. You Love To Travel
If you're a free spirit who loves going from place to place, living life on the road is basically meant for you. It's your true calling! You get to call the shots about where to go next and when. For travel lovers, there's nothing better than driving to new, unexplored places that you get to call home for the next little while.
2. You Get Bored of Staying In The Same Place
Tired of sitting at the same park bench next to the same old tree? If you're in need of a refresher, living on the road for a bit might be the medicine you need. With each turn being an exciting new adventure, people who love constantly experiencing new things are perfect for this life.
3. You're An Independent Traveler
If you enjoy spending a lot of time alone and consider yourself an independent traveler, life on the road won't be a struggle for you. You're going to be spending a lot of time taking care of yourself, and if that doesn't strike any nerve, we'd say you're pretty compatible with this lifestyle.
4. You Love Driving
One obvious thing to consider is how much time you're going to be spending driving. If you absolutely hate it already, it's clear this isn't for you! But if spending hours behind the wheel is enjoyable for you, you'll definitely see this as a perk more than a con.
Hyundai Motor Group on Unsplash
5. You're A "Go With The Flow" Kind of Person
Are you the type to be unfazed by spontaneous changes? When life throws you lemons, you try to make lemonade. Life on the road is filled with unexpected occurrences, meaning you have to always be prepared for anything. If that doesn't deter you, nothing will!
6. You Want To Experience Other Cultures
Whether you're traveling in a different country or just driving all across America, being on the road is perfect for experiencing new cultures. As you enter places you've never been before, you'll be able to throw yourself into something you've never done before.
7. You Want To See Spectacular Views
From amazing mountain landscapes to stunning forests and lakes, the world is truly your oyster when you're on the road. You'll be in awe of how many breathtaking sights you'll get to witness! As you drive to your next destination, it'll feel like every road you take is the scenic route.
8. You're Seeking Adventure
Working 9-5 isn't for everyone. If you're tired of going through the same routine every day, chances are you're looking for ways to spice up your life. For those of you seeking adventure, there's nothing like packing up and heading out on the road for the journey of your life. Who knows where it'll take you?
9. You Want To Be In Charge Of Your Own Schedule
From choosing where you'll be staying to picking your next destination, you'll get to be in charge of your own schedule. Want to do something? You can definitely work it in! While the idea of having so much freedom might stress some people out, others will find this incredibly satisfying and rewarding.
10. You're Calm And Collected
In order to live a successful life on the road, you have to be someone who's calm and collected. You can't get frazzled by the little missteps along the way, and trust us, there will be a few. This lifestyle is definitely best suited for those who can keep a cool head at all times.
1. You Hate Being Disorganized
With such little space to work with and so many random events being thrown your way, life on the road is sure to get disorganized and messy at times. If that's something you absolutely can't handle, this lifestyle is probably not for you.
2. The Idea Scares You
If you value stability, the idea of traveling on the road might terrify you. After all, there are so many answers you won't be able to get until you do it! So if you're feeling fear more than excitement, don't push yourself to do something that doesn't match your character or preferences.
3. You Love Being Around People
It's important to remember that if you pack up your things for the road, you'll be leaving your friends and family behind too. If you're someone who loves being around people and don't enjoy being alone, you'll either need to accept this choice isn't for you or grow to learn how to be more independent.
Kingsley Osei-Abrah on Unsplash
4. You're Scared of the Unknown
Never been the spontaneous type? Don't worry, not everyone is. There's nothing wrong with loving what's familiar and comfortable, but it just shows you this life on the road is not your calling. There are too many unpredictable factors that might throw your head for a loop.
5. You Enjoy Routine
If you love following the same routine everyday, you have to consider if it's something you're willing to give up or get over. When you're living on the road, food might not always be readily available and things like showers have to be carefully planned out. If any of that sounds unappealing to you, you might not be equipped to take on these challenges.
6. You Can't Do Remote Work
Obviously, if you're constantly moving from place to place, a traditional job just isn't going to cut it. After all, there's no way you can work in an office if you're suddenly in a different state the next day! Remote work is going to be your best option, meaning if that's not suitable for you, you won't be able to support yourself with no income.
7. You Hate Planning
It's funny because living on the road requires both flexibility and intense planning. You don't want to stay at an overnight site you haven't researched about! While you have to be prepared for the unknown, you also have to put in the work to plan out your next steps. For example, where are you showering next? What about getting groceries and gas? These are all important things you have to consider.
Hope House Press - Leather Diary Studio on Unsplash
8. You Have Kids
Bringing kids along on this type of adventure won't really pan out the way you want it to. Not only does it not provide your children with the stability they need to grow in their early years, there simply isn't enough space! Sadly, if you're already at this stage in your life, you may have missed your chance to experience this lifestyle comfortably.
9. You Don't Have The Money
From building out your van to buying an RV and keeping yourself well-funded, you need to have a sufficient amount of money saved up before going on the road. If you can't support yourself, pay for gas, or keep emergency funds for repairs, it's just too risky.
10. You Struggle With Long Distance
Being in a relationship might affect your decision on whether you want to go through with this. Because if your partner is not prepared to join you on this adventure, things are going to have to turn long distance. That's no simple switch either; if your relationship means a lot to you, you may have to decide whether this is worth the risk.
