Dear Jaclyn and Heidi,
I have just bought my new ‘second-hand’ caravan and I’m heading off on my great ‘endless’ adventure in less than a month. I’ve been planning for this and dreaming off this moment for so long that I can hardly believe it’s all about to become a reality. I should be feeling on top of the world … but I’m a ball of pent-up panic. Am I crazy to try to do this on my own at my age? Should l I have bought a different rig? Did I pay too much for my van? What happens if I don’t like life on the road? What happens if I don’t make friends? Is it safe? Will I get lonely? Help! Should I ‘come to my senses’’ and sell the caravan before I pass the point of no return?
Toni
Any real estate agent will tell you that all house purchasers panic at some stage as ‘buyer’s regret’ kicks in. Taking off on a long-term trip is a massive step and it is only natural that you will question yourself before taking the plunge. You don’t really specify what ‘passing the point of no return’ is Toni but, if you have sold or rented out your home already, just hold your nerve. There is nothing to be gained by questioning what cannot be changed. Just remember what convinced you the travelling life was the life for you in the first place. And imagine living with the regrets and the ‘what might have beens’ if you pull out of your plans now.
Jaclyn
You don’t say exactly how old you are, Toni, but I’m guessing you fit into the mature-aged traveller category. You’ve almost certainly made many decisions about where to live, you’ve probably changed jobs, you may have been married, divorced or at least had your heart broken. In other words, you’ve lived life. What’s to be frightened of? You’re not heading off to war or risking all your savings on 18 black at the roulette wheel. Barring an accident or some other unlikely misadventure, the biggest risk you face is not enjoying your new lifestyle. Big deal! If you don’t like it, make new plans … just like you’ve been doing for the past 60, 70, 80 or 90 years. Stop being such a drama queen Toni … and go check your tyre pressures!
Heidi
