I’m not the most organized traveler. I forget things, I underestimate weather, and I pack snacks like someone preparing for a week instead of a day. But I do have a few small rituals that keep me remotely sane on the road.
They’re not fancy. Just simple habits I picked up after too many chaotic trips.
1. The “first five minutes” pause
Whenever I arrive somewhere — a cabin, campsite, random motel — I sit for five minutes before unpacking. No phone. No rushing. Just absorbing the space.
It resets my head.
2. The pocket notebook
I’ve tried using my phone for notes, but it never sticks. Instead, I carry a tiny notebook where I jot down:
- trails I hear about
- weird things I notice
- good conversations
- places to eat
It makes the trip feel more grounded.
3. The sunset check
Every trip, I try to watch at least one sunset. Doesn’t have to be fancy. Could be a parking lot. But watching the sky flip colors is a reliable way to remind myself I’m actually living.
4. The “one good thing” rule
At the end of each day, I think of one good thing that happened. Just one. Even if the day was chaotic. Helps keep the trip from blending together.
5. The always-pack tea trick
I’m not a tea person at home. But on trips? I always pack a few tea bags. Something about having a warm drink at the end of a long hike makes me feel like a functioning adult.
These rituals aren’t life-changing
But they anchor me. They make travel feel intentional, not rushed.
If you don’t have your own rituals yet, maybe start with one. See what happens.
