Sat next to a retired pilot in a coworking space and he told me about his travel rule

I was working out of this hostel in Medellin last week, trying to focus on some freelance stuff, and a guy in his 70s sat down next to me with a coffee. Turns out he was a pilot for 30 years and now he just travels full time with a tiny backpack. He told me his rule is to never book more than 3 nights in advance anywhere, because plans always change and it keeps you open to better opportunities. I've been planning my whole year out in advance, booking hostels and flights months ahead, and it hit me that I'm just recreating my old 9-5 schedule on the road. He said the best stuff happens in the gaps you don't plan for, and he's been to 87 countries living that way. Has anyone else tried ditching the detailed planning and just winging it more?

2 comments

2 Comments

the_nathan9d ago

Wait, hold on, 87 countries with just a tiny backpack? That's like 20 years of constant travel if he's not staying anywhere long. I can barely pack for a weekend trip without bringing my whole closet. The 3 nights rule sounds nuts to me but I guess it makes sense if you're retired and have zero commitments. Still, I'd be too scared to just show up somewhere without a place to sleep. That kind of freedom must take some serious guts.

brian8658d ago

Hey, my weekend bag looks like I'm moving out too, so I'll stick to being impressed and jealous from my closet at home.