Many people believe that travel can only fit into life in two ways: either you drop everything and become a full-time globe-trotter, or you take one holiday a year—and then return to the daily grind. But what about those of us who crave both? Who loves the comfort of home, the stability of routines, the warmth of family and friends—yet feel that constant itch to explore the world?

Well, that’s exactly where we find ourselves. And if you feel the same, then this post is for you.

We Have a Home, But Travel Lives in Us Too

We’re not full-time travelers. We have jobs, and a daughter who goes to kindergarten. We enjoy our everyday life and wouldn’t give it up—but travel is still a vital part of who we are. So how do we make it work? With intentional planning, a flexible mindset, and the belief that travel isn’t a luxury—it’s a priority.

One of our favorite travel habits is to start dreaming about the next trip while we’re still unpacking from the last. We don’t necessarily mean booking anything right away—but choosing a potential destination, saving a few accommodations, or spotting a flight deal already gives us purpose and something to look forward to. It helps us through duller days and adds a bit of spark to the everyday routine. Travel becomes a source of joy—a kind of mental escape during the more monotonous moments.

You Don’t Have to Be a Nomad to Be a Traveler

Many people are drawn to the idea of working remotely while traveling—the digital nomad lifestyle is increasingly popular for those wanting to break free from traditional structures. But I’ll be honest: that life isn’t for me. What makes travel so valuable is that it allows me to disconnect from work and routine, and reconnect with the present moment. If I were working while traveling, I’d lose that sense of freedom—the wonder, the slower pace, the shared quality time that travel brings.

So no, you don’t have to be on the road full-time to be a “real” traveler. The love of travel isn’t defined by how far or how often you go—but by how deeply you experience it. A nearby hike, a long weekend in a neighboring country, or a well-planned summer break can be just as meaningful as a multi-month backpacking trip through Asia—if you’re fully present, heart and soul.

Balance Is Possible—You Just Need a New Perspective

The biggest barrier for most people is believing they simply don’t have time to travel. But it’s not about duration—it’s about consistency. What works for us is planning several shorter getaways a year, each lasting 3–6 days. These are much easier to align with work schedules, school breaks, and our family rhythm. And honestly? These little adventures keep our “travel spark” alive all year round, without burnout.

Here are a few practical tips that might help you do the same:

• Create a travel calendar at the start of the year. Mark long weekends, school breaks, and other good times for short trips.
• Make a destination bucket list that includes nearby towns, national parks, and close international spots. That way, when a window opens up, you’ve got ideas ready to go.
• Look out for last-minute travel deals and sign up for flight alerts from your favorite airlines—you’d be surprised how often a deal will nudge you into action.
• Plan around your family’s rhythm. Choose destinations with kid-friendly options so that travel feels like a treat for everyone involved.

A Home Base and a Sense of Freedom Can Coexist

Having a stable home base is something I treasure. I love knowing there’s a place I can return to—a familiar rhythm, loved ones, a community. And the good news is: I don’t have to give that up to live a life filled with travel. Because freedom isn’t only about geography—it’s about giving yourself the space to follow your passions.

And if travel is your passion, then make it count. Investing your time, energy, and resources in it isn’t selfish—it’s a way of nurturing your mental wellbeing, your creativity, and your sense of wholeness. For us, travel is a form of active rest. It enriches us, recharges us, and helps us see even our “ordinary” days with new eyes.

If You Feel the Same—Come Along

If you feel like a traveler at heart, don’t let the routines of life bury that side of you. You don’t need to go on a round-the-world trip to live like an explorer. What you need are conscious decisions, dedicated time, and a little room for wonder. Because joy, discovery, and renewal are there—in every trip you choose for yourself.

Travel is more than changing your location. It’s a mindset, a way of being that you shape to fit your life. And once you learn to balance it with your everyday world—you really can have the best of both.

So come along with me on the next adventure—whether it’s on the map or just in your imagination. Because travel is always better when it’s shared.