7 Reasons To Pack Up Now and Go On A Spontaneous Trip
PUBLISHED October 21st, 2016 07:00 am
Planned vacations are definitely enjoyable, but you know what? Life’s no fun without a little bit of spontaneity. It’s a habit to to travel with a full itinerary, and we know how addictive pouring over guidebooks and booking rooms in advance can be, but there’s nothing quite like the rush of emotions and thoughts when you decide to embark on a spontaneous trip.
Want to have a jolly good experience to remember for life? Here’s 7 reasons to make it happen!
A break is good for your wellbeing and health
Know that feeling when you’re stressed, constantly anxiously, and just all burnt out? What wouldn’t we give for even a short weekend getaway – well, do it, and you’ll come home refreshed with renewed energy to tackle your problems. Perhaps it’s an extra-long weekend due to a public holiday or some stowed-away paid leave. Alternatively, if you have a super-understanding boss and a job that doesn’t require you to be in the office all the time, see if you can request to work remotely for a short period.
It’s more about the journey than the destination
A spontaneous trip is an adventure in its own right. Traverse the plains of Mongolia, taste the exotic cuisine of Argentina, or head to a comedy festival in Melbourne. Embrace the lack of a plan and go with the flow, and don’t we hesitant about talking to strangers on the way – language may be a barrier, but that’s nothing some simple gestures and actions can’t remedy. More often than not, you’ll find that the locals have way better recommendations and knowledge of the area than in guidebooks (aka tourist traps).
See how far your comfort zone stretches
It’s terrifying to go on spontaneous trips without a detailed plan, we know. But they allow you to get out of your comfort zone by pushing you to try something new and exploring the unknown. When it actually happens, you’ll be surprised at how flexible and resourceful you can be, and that’s a fantastic feeling.
Discover hidden gems
Walking around the city fixated only on famous landmarks and guidebook recommendations can be inhibiting. While those are amazing and gorgeous, take some time to avert your eyes from the usual tourist spots to discover hidden finds, such as a small quirky cafe, a thrift store hidden in an alleyway, and pieces of history tucked away in a corner – places that a tour group would never bring you to.
You get to disconnect from responsibilities
Don’t check your email and text messages, don’t turn on the TV, and don’t stick to schedules. Take a break from your difficulties and responsibilities, you’re on vacation after all.
It will change your perspective of life
Not enjoying the comfort of a luxury hotel (sometimes all that’s left are hostels and guesthouses. Use Hipmunk and Hostelbookers to help your search) or an itinerary will make you see life in a different perspective, allowing to learn a lot about how different cultures and countries in the world work.
You’ll make memories that last forever
The unexpectedness of a spontaneous trip adds an intense beauty to the idea of travel. The lack of preparation makes for a wholly different experience than if you were to plan in advance. Be creative and shuffle your accommodations and activities around as you see fit. Be open to new places to go and things to do that locals might recommend. Sleep in a little longer, postpone that big party night you wanted, or even extend your time in a particular place. It is a spur-of-the-moment holiday after all.
Have a Credit Card On Hand
It’s never wise to carry too much cash around when travelling. Instead, a credit card is an alternative and handy way to pay, especially when you accrue unexpected expenses like that luxury handbag on discount.
Cards like the OCBC CashFlo Credit Card are perfect for spontaneous trips, allowing you to split large payments – such as your air ticket, accommodation, and travel spending – into 0% instalments, payable over 3 months (below $1000 spend) or 6 months ($1000 and above) with just one swipe.
On top of that, you’ll earn up to 1% cash rebate* on any and all spending, giving great value to your purchases. Easy interest-free instalments, generous rebates, and a financial cushion for travelling the world – what’s not to like about that? Apply for the OCBC Cashflo Credit Card and start packing your bags!
*1% for monthly bill of $1000 and above, 0.5% for lower amounts.
For more information or to apply for OCBC Cashflo Credit Card, please click here.
This article is sponsored by OCBC.
Top Image: fdecomite
