Living the Dream?
Travelling full-time isn’t a holiday. At least, not in the way people imagine it to be. There’s a kind of rhythm to living on the road that’s not just poolside cocktails but more laundry days, small-town grocery runs, and the occasional “what day is it again?” moment. While we wouldn’t trade this lifestyle for anything, it does come with its own unique set of challenges, particularly in terms of mental well-being.
There are days when freedom feels boundless. And then there are the quieter moments when the distance from family and friends sneaks up unexpectedly. A birthday missed, a phone call dropped in a patch of no service. The joy of constant movement can be matched by a creeping sense of disconnection, especially when the scenery is stunning but your mind’s a few hundred kilometres behind.
We’ve learnt that making space, both physical and emotional, is key. Sometimes, it’s as simple as taking a solo stroll, reading under a gum tree, or setting off on a slow walk with Zoe. It’s not about being apart for long, but just long enough to breathe in your own company, to check in with yourself without distraction.
Some days we chat deeply, other days we sit in companionable silence. We’ve also found it helps to reconnect with the people who know us best. A quick video call, even just a few minutes with familiar voices, can do wonders. We share little wins with our family back home, such as the view from a great campsite, the triumph of finding decent bread in the middle of nowhere, or simply the act of watching a pink sky settle over the horizon.
Maintaining mental health on the road isn’t about having all the answers, but about recognising that even good days can be tiring, and even beautiful places can feel heavy when your head’s not quite in the right space.
We still feel fortunate to be out here. But we’re learning not to chase every moment. Sometimes the best way to see a place is to slow down in it, take a breath, and let yourself feel whatever comes; the wonder, the fatigue, the delight, the loneliness—all of it. Because being on the road doesn’t just take you places — it teaches you how to be with yourself, and that’s something worth carrying. Here are our top tips for living full-time on the road:
Don’t rush.
The temptation to tick off every landmark is real, but slowing down gives you room actually to live in the places you pass through. It turns a stop into a story, and a roadside camp into a memory.
Leave room for bad days.
Not every sunrise will be magical, and not every town will feel like home. Permit yourself to be grumpy, homesick, or just plain tired…it’s normal. Go easy on each other, and yourself.
Prioritise alone time.
Even when you love your travel companions, a little solo space goes a long way. A solo coffee, a walk and a quiet hour to yourself can help reset and recharge.
Keep things flexible.
The weather will change. Roads will flood. Pubs will burn down. The best memories often come from the detours and unexpected turns. Let go of rigid plans and make room for spontaneity.
Make friends, but protect your energy.
You’ll meet incredible people. You’ll also need quiet days to just be. It’s okay to decline a campfire invite or wander off for a bit of solitude.
Keep a routine…loosely.
Simple daily anchors, such as a morning cup of coffee, a tidy van, or a shared sunset walk, can keep you grounded when the scenery is ever-changing.
And lastly: document the little things.
The laughs, the mess, the golden-hour photos, they’re what make the journey your own.
Exploring the unbeaten paths of Australia, one adventure at a time! 🌿 Follow along as we uncover hidden gems, tackle rugged terrains, and head Off the Main Road to embrace the thrill of exploring offbeat destinations. 🚙💨
Other updates you may like…
Everyone has a list of towns to avoid. We’ve got one too, except we went anyway. From Alice Springs to Port Augusta, these “tough” towns prove reputation isn’t always reality.