While there was a gradual evolution of the cell phone since the 1980’s, the idea of combining phones and a personal computing device with outside apps did not hit the market until the mid-2000’s and was not mainstream until the early 2010’s. While it is hard to believe, that means until just 10-15 years ago, most of us traveled without a smart phone. And while obviously it is tremendously convenient, I think we’ve lost some of the thrill, challenge, exploration, and joy of travel by relying on them too heavily.
I am not advocating for you to leave your phone at home on your next trip. I think the world has changed too much for that. At JFK airport you can’t even order or buy food without a phone. I’d still download maps to use offline in order to get my bearings and in case of an emergency. You need your phone for Ubers and in many cities, they are safer than a taxi or public transportation. For most of us, our phone is also our camera. But I do think there is a middle ground and more of us could benefit from not buying data or a sim card and restricting our phone usage to Wi-Fi. This means that when we are out and about, we are doing it “old school.” Here are some ways I think that can enhance your experience.
Build resilience and problem-solving skills. Our phone is our go-to whenever we have a question or something goes wrong. Not having our phone available to whip out every instance we have a question will help build muscles that we have let atrophy in our every day life.
Create space for introspection. Not having our phones on during a walk, hike or long drive will help create space for thought, reflection and introspection. If we want travel to change us, we need to time to reflect on what we see and experience.
Engage with locals by asking for help. Before automatically using our cell phones, asking for help from a stranger, a store clerk or wait staff will not only get you the information you need but help engage you with a local. You might even get a better recommendation.
Meet people. When you slow down and seek out free WIFI in cafes, pubs or hotel common areas you will have an opportunity to engage with locals and other travelers. This is more than a quick (but valuable) engagement to ask for directions. You can get talking and connect with someone! It may end up being one of your best memories.
More in tune with your surroundings. When not distracted by the digital, you will be more in tune with your surroundings, all 5 senses, and see more of what you came to see.
See the Unexpected. My husband loves to quote that “travelers see what they see, tourists see what they came to see.” If tied to your phone, you will probably see what you came to see. But you may miss the things not on your list. You’ll miss the beautiful neighborhood park. You’ll walk by the local café. You won’t notice the street art or the local market.
One of the most compelling arguments for travel is that it gets us out of our comfort zone and everyday routine. But that is limited when our heads are always pointed downward at our phones. I think we can make more of our experience when we are looking at our surroundings, engaging with people and using our brains instead of a computer.
Life Kinetic Travel Research 