Why it’s Worth Travelling Off the Beaten Path

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income. Click here to read our affiliate policy.

With the rise of social media, it can feel like everyone is visiting the same set of star destinations nowadays. While locations like Paris, Ibiza, and Barcelona are obviously wonderful, just going to these popular places can often be quite limiting.

If you’re looking for a slightly different travel experience, then it’s worth considering somewhere slightly less well-known. Whether you want a bit more of an adventure or just want to relax somewhere gorgeous that’s away from the crowds, these are a few of the main benefits of travelling off the beaten path.

travelling off the beaten path

An Authentic Experience

For many people, one of the whole points of travelling is to experience something different. To be reminded that people live in different ways in different places and to embrace those beautiful cultural nuances for a short time. 

While the global tourism industry has meant that most famous locations now feel pretty similar, with the same chains of restaurants and the same drinks menus, stepping off the beaten path is a great way to get back to authenticity.

You get to enjoy the excitement of not quite knowing what to expect, whether that turns out to be just what you wanted or not.

Tourists visiting ancient city and culture of Thailand

Avoid Mainstream Prices

Stepping off the beaten path also means that you get to travel without paying mainstream prices. By going somewhere that’s a little less known, you get to benefit from cheap flights, affordable and potentially unique accommodations, and culinary experiences that are priced for locals rather than fancy tourists.

If you’re hoping to have a great experience without having to break into your last savings account, then trying out a lesser-known location can be a wonderful way of achieving that goal.

Shot of travel documents and a laptop on a table.

Sustainable Travelling

Mass tourism has, unfortunately, had some pretty disastrous effects in terms of sustainability. In lots of places, local populations have been entirely priced out of their home area’s housing market, not to mention the impact that huge influxes of people have on the local flora, fauna, and water supplies.

By travelling somewhere that’s at least somewhat under the radar, you can avoid contributing to this increasingly pressing issue. You can contribute to the local economy without essentially taking it over.

An added bonus of this is that the locals are also more likely to be pleased to see you around if they don’t see you as a threat!

Mass of tourists at the Trevi Fountain, the historic center of the city of Rome in Italy.

Discover Unique Hidden Gems

Lastly, when you travel to popular destinations, you can pretty much expect what you see. Whether through films or social media, not much will be left up to the imagination, and while potentially wonderful, it might not quite be what you’re looking for.

By stepping off the beaten path for a moment, you can open your horizons, increasing the chances that you’ll discover some unique, hidden gems along the way.

Doing something a little different next time you travel can have a huge impact on your experience. It’s always worth stepping outside your comfort zone – who knows what you might discover.

Young family sitting in nature with view over trees to mountains

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out these top posts…

Autumn in Italy

Autumn in Italy: Ultimate Travel Guide

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income. Click here to read our affiliate policy. Fall in Italy is a season of transformation, where golden vineyards, crisp mountain air, and warm culinary traditions create an unforgettable atmosphere. As summer crowds thin and the landscape takes on a rich tapestry of color, the Italy autumn aesthetic truly comes to life. Italy in the fall is less about tourist frenzy and more about…
Read More Autumn in Italy: Ultimate Travel Guide
fall travel in Europe

Fall Travel in Europe: Weather, Wardrobe & Where to Go

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income. Click here to read our affiliate policy. Autumn is one of the most beautiful and varied seasons to explore Europe. From the vineyard-covered hills of France to the fiery forests of Scandinavia, Europe in September, October, and November offers changing scenery, mild-to-crisp weather, and a cultural calendar rich with festivals, food, and fall foliage. Whether you’re after the golden vineyards of Tuscany or…
Read More Fall Travel in Europe: Weather, Wardrobe & Where to Go
Road Trips to Nordic Fjords with a Caravan

Road Trips to Nordic Fjords with a Caravan 

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income. Click here to read our affiliate policy. There is no better way to discover the majestic landscapes of Scandinavia than a road trip to the Nordic fjords with a caravan in tow. Whether you’re dreaming of the steep cliffs of Geirangerfjord, the serenity of Hardangerfjord, or the remote arms of Norway’s northern coast, this guide helps you plan the ultimate journey through one…
Read More Road Trips to Nordic Fjords with a Caravan 
The Best Destinations for Autumn Europe

Autumn in Europe: 28 Stunning Destinations for Fall

Autumn is the perfect time for a holiday. The kids are back in school, the crowds have gone and the weather has yet to turn wintry. In our Europe in fall travel guide, we share travel tips and highlights for our top places for autumn colour and adventure. Whether you’re a city lover or road tripper, or want to visit some of Europe’s national parks and glorious landscapes, you’re in the right place!
Read More Autumn in Europe: 28 Stunning Destinations for Fall
Cruising

Cultural Immersion at Sea: Experiencing Local Traditions on Cruise Stops

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income. Click here to read our affiliate policy. Cruising offers more than just a journey across the seas; it provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the cultures of various cruise destinations. While the allure of luxurious amenities and scenic views is undeniable, the true essence of travel lies in connecting with the local traditions, histories, and communities of the places we visit…
Read More Cultural Immersion at Sea: Experiencing Local Traditions on Cruise Stops
European road trip

European Road Trip: Six Countries in 90 Days

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income. Click here to read our affiliate policy. Europe packs more history, landscape drama and cultural variety into its borders than almost anywhere else on earth. Few adventures showcase it all quite like a Europe road trip: one moment you’re sipping wine beside the Rhine, the next you’re paddling through Provence’s turquoise gorges. This Schengen-friendly, 6-country, 6,300 km Europe itinerary carves through river valleys,…
Read More European Road Trip: Six Countries in 90 Days

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Shopping Basket
  • Your basket is empty.
Scroll to Top