5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Quitting My Job to Travel!

Five Things I Wish I Knew Before Quitting My Job to Travel Full-Time

Author

Ark
June 24, 2025

Quitting your job to travel full-time is a dream for many, but when I took the plunge in 2018, I quickly realized it came with a steep learning curve. My name is Cat, and I run the motorhome and van life website Wandering Bird. After leaving my career as an air traffic controller to tour the UK and Europe in a motorhome, I’ve lived this lifestyle as a family with our teenage daughter, as a couple, and as a solo female traveler. Through these experiences, I’ve learned valuable lessons about the realities of full-time van life. Here are five things I wish someone had told me before I quit my job to travel full-time.

1. You Will Never Feel Fully Ready

Making the conscious decision to leave a stable career for a life of travel is daunting, and the truth is, you’ll never feel 100% prepared. No amount of money, confidence, or planning will eliminate all doubts. Questions like “What if I hate it?” or “What if we break down in the middle of nowhere?” will linger, and you can’t answer them until you’re on the road. Confidence comes after you’ve faced challenges, fixed problems, and realized your resilience. If you’re overwhelmed with anxiety, consider a sabbatical or an extended holiday to test the waters before fully committing.

2. A Big Savings Account Isn’t Enough

I initially thought a large savings account was the key to this lifestyle, but I learned that clarity comes from understanding your spending habits. Tracking expenses is critical. Since deciding to leave my job, I’ve meticulously tracked my spending every month for nearly eight years. This practice revealed how much I was wasting and helped me budget for life on the road. By monitoring what you spend on trips or holidays, you can estimate your full-time travel expenses. Tools like my Vanlife Budget Planner (details below) or a simple spreadsheet can make this process easier.

3. Full-Time Van Life Isn’t a Perpetual Holiday

One surprising realization was that full-time van life is not like a holiday. On vacations, you might eat out frequently or pack your days with activities, but living on the road requires a different mindset. You’ll need to budget, do laundry, and handle administrative tasks—things you typically skip on a holiday. I experienced burnout early on because I tried to maintain a vacation pace. Slowing down, spending a day reading, or simply relaxing is essential for sustainable van life.

4. People’s Reactions Can Be Overwhelming

The responses from others when I announced my decision were unexpected. While some were supportive, many—including family and colleagues—called me crazy for leaving a secure, well-paid job. This negativity, often rooted in their own fears or insecurities, can feel overwhelming when you’re already questioning your choice. Remember that their reactions are about them, not you. However, don’t dismiss their concerns entirely. Discussing “what-if” scenarios with your partner or loved ones can help you feel more prepared.

5. The Scariest Part Isn’t Quitting

Handing in my resignation was nerve-wracking, but the real fear hit when my paycheck stopped. Suddenly, the money in my bank account was all I had, making the lifestyle change feel very real. Other terrifying moments included driving the motorhome alone or dealing with breakdowns without help. These challenges, however, were where I grew the most. They built the confidence I craved at the start and taught me resilience.

Ready to Take the Leap?

If quitting your job to travel is your dream but you’re overwhelmed by the “what-ifs,” I’m hosting a live workshop at the end of June to guide you through the process. We’ll cover downsizing, financial planning, working on the road, and transitioning to this lifestyle. Spaces are limited, so check the details below to save your spot. If you’re reading this after the event, the replay will be available. For more tips on motorhome travel and van life, explore my website, Wandering Bird, or check out my Vanlife Budget Planner for a detailed guide to tracking your expenses.

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