Travel Resolutions You Need to Make in 2018

And how it shouldn't just be a vague "travel more."
by Therese Aseoche | December 30, 2017

You might have written “travel more” as one of your New Year’s resolutions at one point in your life. But with a generic and immeasurable promise like that, were you actually driven to do it?

Most likely, it had always been at the back of your mind or at the front page of your planner, but it never made the decision of where to go and what to do to have a well-traveled year any easier.

So here is a list of more specific travel resolutions that you need to make in the coming year to make you more fulfilled and happy by the end of 2018!

1. Use up your vacation leaves

Don’t be a slave to your work. Everyone deserves a break every once in a while — and that means really taking a break, not working at home. You’re granted vacation leaves every year anyway, so use them all up for going wherever your feet decide to take you!

2. Go on an advocacy trip

It means so much more when you’re traveling for a good cause. Social enterprises like MAD Travel advocate sustainable social tourism by going to marginalized communities to create fun and meaningful travel experiences. You can book tour packages with these organizations so you can help out underprivileged communities and, at the same time, explore destinations you probably haven’t before!

3. Hike up a mountain

Mountain hiking is steadily becoming a favorite to-do during weekends with friends. With the number of mountains we have of varying climb difficulties, you can easily find a spot that works for you! And trust us on this: once you’ve tried hiking, you’ll want to do it over and over again.

Here’s where to go for beginner-friendly hikes, and here are some tips when camping for the first time.

4. Take a solo trip

Going solo has transitioned from being something to be pitied, to a travel must-do. It’s one experience that must be had by everyone at least once in their lives. There’s just something life-changing and significant about entering a foreign place alone — it drives you to connect with people and places more. It also allows you to do the things you really want to do without needing to consider the wants and opinions of your companions.

In essence, it’s definitely more fulfilling to go solo. Read this firsthand account of how solo traveling changed this writer’s life, where you can go as a solo traveler, and some safety tips to keep in mind.

5. Spend more on experiences than shopping

If you’re the type to splurge on material things whenever you’re abroad, it’s time to control your spending and invest in experiences instead. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to purchase souvenirs and hoard products but when you realize you’ve spent more than a day going on a manic shopping spree, then it’s time to rethink the way you travel.

6. Practice minimalist packing

Save on excess baggage charges and start packing lighter and smarter. Besides, it’s not like locals are going to point out that you’ve worn the same jeans three days in a row (which is perfectly fine, by the way).

So before you zip that bag up, assess whether you really need that item in your travel, or whether you can find a way to lessen the number of things you’ll take with you entirely. Read our tips here!

7. Don’t do it just for the ‘gram

Don’t go to Instagrammable cities just because they’re pretty to visit; don’t over pack for the sake of getting perfect OOTD shots; and don’t visit places just to take photos instead of expanding your knowledge on its history and culture.

Learn to keep your phone in your pocket and marvel at the sights and sounds of the place you’ve visited with your own eyes.

8. Travel domestic

There’s so much to be explored within your own country — all the hidden gems, homegrown wonders, and local experiences. Don’t be stranger to your own home! Just browse WindowSeat.ph for ideas on where to go!

9. Visit a place that might vanish soon

With what’s been happening to our world, most of the natural wonders that are on everyone’s bucket lists may be gone in 50 years. From the Great Barrier Reef in Australia to the Dead Sea, they’ll one day be images of the past unless we all do something. In the meantime, this gives you the perfect reason to plan your trips this year to these places. Don’t wait until it’s too late!

10. Explore a place you’ve never considered going to

Skip the widely visited places you always see your friends going to. Find a place you’ve never once thought of going to, and go there! It’s a risk definitely worth taking if it means having exciting stories to tell and a deeper appreciation for the country you’ve visited. Adventure awaits!

What are your own travel resolutions for next year? Share them with us below!