Digitally Detoxing on the Road

When people talk about digital devices and their harmful effects on our psyches and our natural environment (oh, the plastic!), it is sort of a wonder we still use them at all. Of course, these are for work, travel and life in general, so simply giving up on them is not an option. It is hard to discard your phone or computer, even for a day when you know an important communication might come through at any minute.

The experts agree being online too much is not healthy, and this is not just a problem for kids. Many adults are not able to curb their dependency on electronics and this has consequences for more than just the person with their face in a screen. Since the option to opt out of the digital world is not feasible, taking short, but regular breaks from technology might be the way to go. Some people pick one day of the week to go internet free, and others use travel to retreats specifically designed for digital detoxification.

Some think in order to digitally detox you actually have to immerse yourself in an almost sanatorium-like environment so you don’t succumb to the call of your devices. This might be necessary, but if you suffer from average levels of dependence, then digitally detoxing while traveling could be pretty easy once you get over the normal withdraw symptoms.

Try some basic strategies to drastically reduce your digital connections. For instance, leave extra devices at home. If you can get away with just using your phone, then do. Take advantage of being on a plane, train or bus by not purchasing the WiFi. While traveling, make the decision to only use your phone for necessities like if you are lost, or if you need to check into a flight. By planning your trip on paper before you go, you can avoid a lot of online searches on the road. This could open up a world of spontaneity while also calming your internet-weary brain.