Home, Sweet Roam.

The nomadic lifestyle has seen a massive rise in popularity in recent years, and it's not uncommon to come across people doing #VanLife on your social media feeds. There is an incredible sense of freedom and adventure in having the ability to take your life on the road, exploring different states and towns while keeping up with your job and other responsibilities. In this article, we will take a closer look at the rise of this type of lifestyle. Whether you travel by van, rooftop tent, or RV, there is no denying the appeal of life on the road. Let's get into it!

Lifestyle Perks and Challenges

colorado park view
Photo by Helaina Cozza

The perks of life on the road are incredible—a constant change of scenery and the chance to explore new places and cultures. There is so much to explore in Colorado alone, with various mountain towns, each charming. Go beyond this beautiful state and travel to Montana and California for more stunning views and unique experiences. Wherever your journey takes you, it's incredible to take in everything our country offers.

Of course, every lifestyle has its challenges as well. Of course, the nomadic way of living has its challenges. From finding stable work and maintaining relationships to dealing with unexpected breakdowns and expenses, there is much to consider before embarking on this lifestyle.

Perks

  • Freedom and Flexibility: The most significant advantage of a nomadic lifestyle is its freedom. You can choose when and where you want to go, and you're not tied down to one location.
  • Exploration and Adventure: Living on the road means a new backyard every week. There's always something new to see and do.
  • Simplicity: A nomadic lifestyle often involves minimizing possessions, leading to a simpler, less cluttered life.
  • Connection to Nature: Many nomads spend much of their time outdoors, which can lead to a greater appreciation and connection to the natural world.

Challenges

  • Unstable Income: While the internet has made it easier to work from anywhere, finding consistent, well-paying remote work can be challenging. One practical way to overcome this challenge is by securing a remote job that offers a stable income or diversifying income streams, like freelancing, creating digital products, or starting a blog, which can generate passive income while you enjoy your journey.
  • Lack of Routine: Some people thrive on routine, which can be hard to maintain when constantly moving. Overcoming this challenge requires accountability. Luckily, it can be turned into a fun game of flexibility. Creating a "travel-friendly" routine, like a simple morning workout or meditation session, allows you to stay grounded wherever you are! A gym membership at a national chain can give you a solid place to work out while traveling. Try a membership with ClassPass, which allows you to use credits to book classes in cities nationwide.
  • Social Isolation: While you meet new people, maintaining long-term relationships can be challenging, and you might often feel isolated. Luckily, there are ways to keep your social life and connections alive. Try to keep the lines of communication open with regular video calls or online game nights with friends and family.
  • Uncertainty and Stress: Things can go wrong on the road, and dealing with these unexpected events can be stressful. Remember to plan for any breakdowns or emergencies and approach any hiccups with a calm mind. Take a deep breath, step back, and tackle those challenges with a positive attitude.

Remember, a nomadic lifestyle can be full-time, but it doesn't have to be. Take it from a casual nomad: there's great beauty in a life filled with travel and nights spent at your unmoving house.

Embracing the Nomadic Lifestyle: Tips for Beginners

If you're ready to plunge into the nomadic lifestyle, here are some tips to get you started.

First off, consider your mode of travel. Are you a fan of vans, or would you prefer an RV? Your choice will shape many aspects of your nomadic life, from where you can park to how much you can carry. It's also essential to have a solid financial plan. Work out a budget for all your living expenses, plus a little extra for unforeseen costs and emergencies. You'll want to have a reliable source of income that doesn't tie you down to one place. And finally, remember to stay connected. Maintaining relationships while on the road can be challenging, but regular check-ins with friends and family can help alleviate feelings of loneliness.

The nomadic lifestyle is an adventure; with careful planning and the right mindset, it can be an enriching experience.

The Open Road Awaits

Photo by Carolina Rincon on Unsplash

The nomadic lifestyle is a unique one. While it isn't for everyone, for those drawn to the open road and the allure of new experiences, it can be an incredibly fulfilling way to live. It requires careful planning and flexibility, but its rewards are unparalleled. So whether you're considering #VanLife, living in an RV, or casual roaming with a rooftop tent, remember that the journey is about personal growth, discovery, and the joy of exploring the vast and beautiful world around us.

Happy trails!

Helaina Cozza
Helaina is a content writer for OCN. She is a Colorado transplant and loves the Colorado lifestyle. Some activities she enjoys are skiing, going to concerts, and hiking.
RELATED ARTICLES