What are the main barriers to travel?

The Great Wall of Wanderlust: Why Getting Away Is Harder Than It Should Be

Ugh, travel. I want to explore ancient ruins, sample exotic street food, and bask on sun-drenched beaches. I crave the feeling of stepping into a completely different world, the jolt of new perspectives that only comes from experiencing other cultures. But let’s be real, the path to paradise is often paved with obstacles. Like me, you’ve probably stared longingly at travel blogs, feeling that familiar pang of wanderlust mixed with a healthy dose of frustration. Because let’s face it, there are some serious barriers standing between us and our dream destinations.

The most obvious hurdle, and the one that keeps me up at night sometimes, is money. According to a recent survey by Bankrate, 55% of Americans aren’t taking a vacation this year due to financial concerns. I get it. Flights, especially with the recent surge in fuel prices, can be exorbitant. Then there’s accommodation, food, activities… it all adds up. I’ve spent hours painstakingly comparing flight deals and scouring Airbnb for affordable options, only to feel defeated by the final price tag. It feels like unless you’re raking in the big bucks, truly experiencing the world is a luxury we can’t afford.

And even if you can scrape together the funds, there’s the ever-present issue of time. The American standard of two weeks of paid vacation is laughably inadequate for anything beyond a quick getaway. Trying to squeeze in a meaningful trip to, say, Japan or Peru within that timeframe feels almost disrespectful to the destination itself. You’re constantly rushing, ticking off boxes instead of immersing yourself in the culture. Personally, I’ve often felt more exhausted after a short vacation than before! And forget about those epic backpacking trips across Southeast Asia – unless you’re willing to quit your job (which, let’s be honest, is a tempting thought sometimes!), long-term travel seems like a pipe dream.

But the barriers extend beyond just money and time. There are also logistical headaches to contend with: visa applications, language barriers, navigating unfamiliar transportation systems, and the sheer overwhelm of planning an itinerary. I’m a bit of a control freak, so I find the uncertainty of travel both exciting and anxiety-inducing. I’ve had my fair share of travel mishaps, from lost luggage to missed connections, and they definitely add to the mental load.

And then, of course, there are personal barriers. Fear of the unknown, anxiety about flying, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of leaving your comfort zone can hold us back. I have friends who are hesitant to travel solo, and while I understand their concerns, I also feel sad that they’re missing out on the incredible sense of empowerment and self-discovery that comes with exploring the world independently.

So what can we do? While some of these barriers feel insurmountable, I refuse to give up on my travel dreams. I’m learning to be more flexible with my destinations, opting for less expensive countries or exploring closer to home. I’m also prioritizing experiences over material possessions, saving diligently for that one big trip instead of splurging on unnecessary purchases. And I’m actively seeking out travel hacks and resources to make the planning process less daunting.

Because despite the challenges, the rewards of travel are undeniable. It broadens our horizons, challenges our assumptions, and connects us to the wider world. It’s an investment in ourselves, in our understanding of humanity, and in creating memories that will last a lifetime. And that, my friends, is worth fighting for.