REDISCOVERING WANDERLUST: THE RISING TREND OF UNPLUGGED TRAVEL AND DIGITAL DETOX.
In an era dominated by digital connectivity and the constant hum of notifications, a growing number of travelers are embracing a refreshing trend—packing their bags and embarking on journeys completely unplugged from the digital world. The allure of unplugged travel, or a digital detox, lies in the promise of re-connection—with oneself, with nature, and with the genuine experiences that travel offers.
So, why are so many people embracing embracing unplugged travel? Is unplugged travel really worth doing? Or does it just remove some of our modern day conveniences and replace them with the “mythical promise” of a digital detox.
What is Unplugged Travel?
Put simply, unplugged travel is about travelling without your smart phone, tablet or laptop. Or, taking devices with you but turning them off. Or, as many people reading this might be thinking – “the way we did it in the old days.”
Benefits of Unplugged Travel
Let’s start with the potential benefits of unplugging for a while whilst you travel.
I like the idea of isolation, I like the idea of solitude. You can be connected and have a phone and still be lonely
Paul Theroux
Escape the Digital Noise
In a world inundated with information and digital distractions, travelers are seeking refuge from the constant buzz of notifications. Unplugged travel allows them to escape the digital noise, providing a rare opportunity to be present in the moment without the perpetual pull of screens.
According to research conducted by Data Portal, the average screen time for adults around the world was nearly seven hours – that’s per day. And that’s an average, I expect many of us far exceed that. Not just that, but did you know that a study by the Pew Research Center found that 69% of adults feel the need to check their phones even when it doesn’t ring or vibrate?
Reconnect with Nature
When you ditch the screens, you unlock a whole new world of natural wonders. No need to snap, tweet, or post every single moment—instead, take a deep breath and soak in the beauty of the world around you.
According to the wise folks at the Journal of Environmental Psychology, spending time in nature minus the electronics can do wonders for your happiness and energy levels. It’s a chance to truly appreciate the landscapes and cultures you come across without being glued to your phone.
But wait, there’s more. Have you heard of tree bathing? It’s like a relaxing spa day, but for your soul. In Japan, they call it “shinrin-yoku,” and it’s all about immersing yourself in a forest environment to promote physical and mental well-being. Walking leisurely through the lush, wooded areas, you engage all your senses to absorb the healing properties of the forest. And studies show it’s no joke. Tree bathing can reduce stress hormones, lower blood pressure, and even enhance your mood. All things that your mobile phone cannot do.
Authentic Human Connection
One of my favourite travel writers Paul Theroux writes frequently about his experiences of talking to strangers, fellow travelers that he meets during his journey – “The conversation, like many others I had with people on trains, derived an easy candour from the shared journey”. With mobile phones as a barrier, it can be difficult to imaging this happening on trains these days.
Without the digital barrier, you’re way more likely to have genuine, face-to-face convos. According to a survey by Common Sense Media, 50% of teens feel addicted to their phones. Unplugged adventures open up chances to connect with locals, fellow travelers, and even with yourself on a whole new level. It’s all about breaking free from the screen and diving into real, authentic human connections.
Mindful Travel
Unplugged travel allows for mindfulness and fully embracing each moment by disconnecting from technology. Frequent studies have reported that reducing smartphone usage can improve mood and well-being. This type of travel encourages engaging all senses and being present in surroundings.
Not just that, but you might regain your sense of wanderlust. All too often these days, I can’t help myself but check Google Ratings of restaurants before I go in. Sure, it’s helpful to know about other people’s experiences, but isn’t it better just to see something you like the look of, or follow your nose, rather than take notice of what the app on your phone is telling you.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Taking a break from the digital grind has been linked to feeling way less stressed and more mentally zen. No pressure to document every little thing or to respond to messages immediately means a more laid-back and enjoyable travel experience. A report by the American Psychological Association highlights that constant connection to technology can contribute to feelings of stress. Going unplugged can take you away from this and reduce stress and anxiety levels.
You could enhance this more during your trip, take time to focus on complete well being – maybe reaping the benefits of walking, yoga or eating well too.
Best Unplugged Travel experiences for 2024
If you’re sold on the idea of “unplugged travel” here are some of the best experiences that we have found for 2024. Here are some options:
Go totally nuclear with a silent retreat
If you’re someone who doesn’t like to do things by half measures, then you might want to explore going on a silent retreat in 2024. Not only will you be totally unplugged from your phone, but you will be required to take a total vow of silence.
- Start small with a five night silent retreat in Devon, South West England
- Learn about meditation at a 10 day Vipassana Meditation retreat in India
- Work exchange for a minimum of two months at an ecological community in Costa Rica, silence optional.
Take a wellness break to Iceland
One way to make unplugged travel easy, is to join an organised tour. That way, you have everything taken care of and you get a chance to socialise with fellow travellers (sans phone.)
This seven day wellness break to Iceland, might just be the perfect short vacation detox. You’ll get to see the best natural sites in Iceland, including hot springs. Plus, the itinerary includes a glacier hike, yoga and meditation sessions.
G Adventures also offer a few more wellness breaks, including one to Costa Rica and another to Bali. Both are excellent offerings to two of our favorite countries.
Long distance hiking in Norway
What could be more “off grid” than long distance hiking. We recently walked St Olav’s Way in Norway, a route taking in 500km of wonderful scenery from Oslo to Trondheim. This trail is excellent for unplugged travellers – not least because you can wild camp along the way. No need to plan too much, just see how far you get each day and pitch your tent! Enjoy the sound of absolute silence.
The Himalayas – what could be more “unplugged”
Traveling to The Himalayas is very much on my bucket list. Nepal, seems to me, to be the perfect unplugged travel destination. Breathtaking scenery, mountains and mindfulness.
G Adventures run a 10 day tour in The Himalayas, which includes home stays, a night in a monastery, visits to national parks and ancient temples. Plus, with everything organized for you, it will be easy to unplug.
Retreat to an island
When I think “unplugged travel” I immediately think of tropical islands. If you want to really get away from it all, booking a luxury hotel in The Maldives may be just the thing. Arrive by sea plane, sleep in an over water bungalow and enjoy your own personal swimming pool.
Alternatively, if your idea of island paradise is something more rugged – why not explore the Scottish Isles? This cottage in Shetland, offers uninterrupted sea views and it’s own private spa facilities.
Book an “unplugged cabin”
Somewhat ironically, I’m seeing a lot on Instagram about the dedicated Unplugged Rest cabins in London, Manchester and Wales. These cabins are specifically designed with digital detox in mind. You’ll leave your smart phone and be handed a sweetly retro Nokia handset (for emergencies) as well as maps to help you navigate the local area. I have to admit, they do look splendid and it sounds quite appealing to have everything taken care of for a few days.
If the Unplugged Rest cabins seem a little OTT to you (and a little over budget), then you can create your own Digital Detox weekend. Here are two more budget friendly options that we have found:
SWEDISH LAKESIDE CABIN – what could be more idyllic than a cabin with a private beach on a lake in Sweden. Silent, tranquil and completely away from it all.
A RAILWAY CARRIAGE IN ENGLAND – for keen walkers, a railway carriage right next to the South West Coastal path may be the ideal unplugged travel getaway. This romantic converted railway carriage sleeps two and costs around £60 per night.
Book up, follow our practical tips below and switch off.
How to embrace Unplugged Travel: A practical Perspective
Inform Loved Ones
Before embarking on an unplugged journey, inform loved ones about your decision and establish alternative means of communication for emergencies. A practical tip, but it avoids anyone sending out the emergency flares if they don’t hear from you.
Use Offline Maps
Pre-download offline maps to navigate without relying on a data connection. This ensures that you can explore new destinations without being tethered to a screen. Maps.Me is a great “offline map” option. You can of course, go old school and use a paper map!
Analog Alternatives
If you don’t think you’ve got enough self-control to have your mobile near you or in airplane mode, consider using analog alternatives, such as a physical travel journal or a traditional camera, to capture memories without the digital distractions.
Set boundaries
If going entirely unplugged seems daunting, consider setting specific time boundaries for device use. Designate certain periods for checking emails or social media to strike a balance between connectivity and disconnection. Another option is to keep hold of your phone, put put it on airplane mode. That way you can still take photos and listen to audio books but remain “off line.”
And what about draw backs of “unplugged travel”?
Having had experience before of “unplugged travel” my main feelings about the draw backs are two fold.
Firstly, there’s a risk that anxiety levels can creep up if you feel that you’re missing something important on your phone – for example, a work email or a message from a friend. This can be avoided if you plan ahead, deal with everything before you travel and as far as possible, just adopt a laissez-faire attitude. Easier said than done, but after a few days of being unplugged you can soon realize that truly important Whatsapp messages are few and far between.
Secondly, going unplugged for a period of time can lead to feelings of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). What if you miss an invite to a last minute event? Or, don’t find out about a really great coffee place in your vicinity? The answer is to just embrace it. You will miss out. That’s the whole point of being unplugged.
Written by Emma
Wine Lover. Yogi. Hiker. Writer.
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