Planning a trip around the world can be one of the most exciting and transformative experiences of your life. However, it’s also somewhat terrifying. I know, because I’ve done it. Here’s how to plan a trip around the world in 2025 without getting overwhelmed.
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Quick overview of how to plan a trip around the world
- Define your why
- Budget realistically
- Create your itinerary
- Decide on your transportation
- Handle practical matters
- Pack smart
My story
Years ago, I was stuck in a job that didn’t fulfil me, feeling anxious and restless. I needed a change and had always dreamed of seeing the world, but it took years of hesitation before I finally took the leap of faith. Eventually, I quit my job, gave up my apartment and booked a round-the-world ticket with the help of a travel agent.
The idea of taking a year-long journey was daunting, from figuring out where to go to managing the logistics. But it was the best decision I ever made. Along the way, I went to incredible places, connected with inspiring people and grew in ways I couldn’t have imagined. My purpose was clear from the start—to rediscover myself and experience the world’s diversity—and this guided everything from my destination choices to the pace of my journey.
If you’re considering such a trip but feel overwhelmed, you’re not alone. This guide is here to help you navigate it, step by step, from deciding if solo travel is right for you to crafting the perfect itinerary.
How to plan a trip around the world in 2025
Embarking on a journey around the world is the ultimate adventure. But planning such a trip can feel like climbing a mountain. Where should you go? How do you manage your budget? And what about visas and flights?
In 2025, AI-powered tools have revolutionised travel planning, making it easier than ever. From comparing flight prices and optimising routes to tracking expenses and offering real-time safety alerts, AI simplifies the logistics.
In addition, there’s something uniquely valuable about talking to a real person who’s actually done it. An experienced traveller knows what it feels like and what you might encounter on the way. They’ve been to the places on your bucket list and and can share advice and first-hand experience. This will help you navigate complex situations, create a customised itinerary and discover hidden gems that AI might miss.
Whether you’re dreaming of a gap year, a sabbatical or a fresh start, this guide will walk you through every step of the process. Let’s turn those travel dreams into reality!
Step 1: Define your why
Before you start booking flights or packing bags, take time to reflect on why you want to travel the world. Your motivations will influence everything from your destinations to the pace of your journey, shaping it into an experience that’s uniquely yours. Are you yearning for adventure, cultural immersion, a career break, or personal growth? Identifying your purpose not only guides your planning but also keeps you motivated when challenges arise.
Why defining your purpose matters
As I experienced firsthand, knowing my clear purpose—to rediscover myself and experience the world’s diversity—helped me commit to this life-changing journey and shaped my itinerary choices. I made sure to include cultural exploration in India, diving in Australia, and connecting with people in Southeast Asia.
Having a clear ‘why’ will serve as your anchor when things don’t go as planned—because they won’t, and that’s part of the adventure! When faced with delays, unexpected expenses, or homesickness, you’ll remember your purpose and feel inspired to keep going.
Ask yourself these questions
- What are you hoping to achieve? Are you looking to escape routine, challenge yourself or learn something new?
- What kind of experiences excite you? Do you dream of hiking in the Himalayas, diving the Great Barrier Reef or wandering through street markets in Asia?
- Is this trip about self-discovery or connection? Are you hoping to deepen your understanding of yourself or meet people from different walks of life?
Examples of different motivations
Adventure Seekers
You may crave physical challenges like trekking through Patagonia, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, or scuba diving in the Galápagos.
History, art and culture enthusiasts
Perhaps you’re drawn to the history of the Colosseum, the spirituality of India’s ashrams or the art scenes in Paris and Tokyo.
Nature lovers
Your itinerary might prioritise the Northern Lights in Iceland, safaris in Africa, or the lush rainforests of South America.
Career or life breaks
If you’re taking a break from work, you might want a mix of relaxing destinations like Bali and vibrant cities like Sydney to recalibrate.
Foodies
You could structure your route around culinary hotspots such as Japan for sushi, Italy for pasta, and Mexico for street tacos.
Step 2: Budget and save for your world adventure
Knowing how much you can spend and where to cut costs is crucial for a successful round-the-world trip. The financial aspect often intimidates potential travellers, but with proper planning, world travel is more affordable than many people imagine.
Research costs by destination
The most affordable regions include Southeast Asia, South America and Eastern Europe. Mid-range destinations are places like Peru and parts of Central America. The most expensive regions are Japan, Australia and Western Europe.
Budget tips for long-term travel
Choose hostels, guesthouses and homestays rather than hotels. Travel overland where possible to save on flights. Overnight trains and buses mean you’ll save spending a night of accommodation too. Eat at street markets for cheap and tasty local food. Consider working abroad or volunteering in return for accommodation to extend your travel funds.
Step 3: Create your dream itinerary
Your itinerary is the heart of your world travel experience. Revisit what you noted down in the first step, including the destinations and experiences that excite you. Here’s how to plan a trip around the world that includes all your dream places.
Seasonality matters
Research the best times to visit each location. Avoid monsoon seasons in places like India or trekking in Patagonia during winter. Travel during shoulder seasons for the best combination of pleasant weather, lower costs, and fewer crowds. This timing consideration is crucial when you plan a trip around the world.
Choosing your direction
The direction you travel from your starting point—east to west or west to east—has pros and cons. West to East means you lose time crossing time zones but regain it when crossing the International Date Line. East to West allows you to gain time gradually and may cause less jetlag.
The endless summer route
To maximise warm weather, stay in the Northern Hemisphere from April to October and the Southern Hemisphere from November to March. This approach works well for those escaping winter or seeking year-round warmth.
My itinerary
I was living in the UK and for me travelling west to east made sense because I wanted to start in India and finish in South America.
I chose to go to Goa in India for its spirituality, hippie vibe and beaches. Bali was also on my list as I was drawn to its yoga centres and green rice paddies. I knew I wanted to try scuba diving in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. I had a working visa for New Zealand, so that was another confirmed stop. Finally, I was inspired by South America, including the street art in Chile and the breathtaking Iguazu Falls.
Step 4: Choose your transportation
Your flight strategy will depend on your budget and need for flexibility. There are two main approaches to consider.
Round-the-world (RTW) tickets
Offered by alliances like Oneworld and Star Alliance, RTW tickets can be cost-effective but rigid, with rules against backtracking. These tickets work well if you have a clear route planned and don’t mind limited flexibility.
One-way tickets
These offer more freedom but require research and can sometimes cost more overall. One-way tickets allow you to extend stays, change routes, and book based on recommendations from fellow travellers. I chose an RTW ticket through Flight Centre UK, which gave me a clear route and flexibility to adjust dates as I travelled
Step 5: Handle practical matters
The administrative side of world travel requires attention to detail and advance planning.
Visas and documentation
Research visa requirements for each destination months in advance. Apply early for countries with complex processes, like India and China. Some visas require confirmed flight itineraries and hotel bookings. Consider getting a second passport if you’re from a country that allows it, as this helps when applying for multiple visas simultaneously.
Vaccinations and health preparations
Visit a travel clinic at least 6-8 weeks before departure to ensure you’re protected against diseases like Yellow Fever, Typhoid, and Hepatitis. Carry essential medications like anti-malarials and a comprehensive first aid kit. Some vaccinations require multiple doses spaced weeks apart.
Travel insurance
Purchase comprehensive insurance that covers health emergencies, trip cancellations, and adventure activities. World Nomads is popular among long-term travellers for their flexible coverage options and excellent customer service.
Technology and connectivity
Bring an unlocked phone and purchase local SIM cards for affordable data. Most countries have reliable Wi-Fi, so staying connected is easy. Consider a portable charger and universal adapter for your electronics.
First destination essentials
While you’ll want to stay flexible throughout your journey, it’s wise to secure your first few nights’ accommodation and any essential bookings for your opening destination. For example, I booked my first few nights’ accommodation in Goa, organised a private transfer from the airport and pre-booked a 2-week course I wanted to do there. This removes arrival stress and gives you time to get oriented before embracing spontaneous planning for the rest of your trip.
Career considerations
Consider your career situation carefully. Negotiate a sabbatical or leave of absence if possible – some employers value the skills and perspective gained from extensive travel. If not, leaving your job might be the reset you need for personal growth and career change.
Pre-departure preparations
As your departure approaches, you’ll need to tie up loose ends at home. End leases, store belongings with family or in storage facilities, and cancel unnecessary services like gym memberships and subscriptions. Arrange for someone trustworthy to manage your post and bills, and set up online banking to ensure you can access accounts from abroad.
Step 6: Pack smart
Packing light is essential for a year-long trip. Stick to versatile, seasonal clothing and practical travel gear that serves multiple purposes.
Essential packing items including a lightweight backpack or wheeled luggage suitable for various transport types. Packing cubes to organise clothes efficiently and maximise space. A reusable water bottle, travel-size toiletries, and quick-dry clothing. A basic first aid kit and any prescription medications you need.
Avoid overpacking—you can buy most things on the road, often at lower prices than home. Remember that laundry services are available worldwide, so you don’t need clothes for every occasion.
My journey in summary
Here’s a glimpse of my eight-stop itinerary that brought my world travel dreams to life:
India: Yoga in Goa, exploring Kerala’s backwaters and experiencing the chaos and beauty of Mumbai.
Southeast Asia: Trekking in Thailand’s mountains, diving in Malaysia’s crystal-clear waters, and exploring Vietnam’s rich history.
Bali: Two months relaxing in the island’s serenity, practising yoga, and connecting with fellow travellers.
Australia and New Zealand: Adventures in the Great Barrier Reef, exploring Sydney’s harbour, and hiking New Zealand’s South Island.
South America: From Chile’s colourful street art to Brazil’s magnificent Iguazu Falls and Argentina’s passionate tango culture.
Each destination taught me something new about the world and myself. The challenges I faced—from missed flights to language barriers—became part of the adventure and contributed to my personal growth.
Frequently asked questions about planning a trip around the world
How much does it cost to plan a trip around the world?
Costs vary dramatically based on destinations, travel style, and trip length. Budget travellers can expect to spend £15,000-25,000 for a year-long journey, while mid-range travellers might spend £25,000-40,000. Luxury world travel can cost £50,000+. Remember to factor in pre-trip expenses like gear, visas and vaccinations.
How long should I plan a trip around the world for?
Most round-the-world travellers spend 6-12 months on their journey. Six months allows you to visit 4-6 destinations properly, while a full year enables deeper exploration of 6-10 countries. Consider your budget, career situation, and personal preferences when deciding on duration.
Is it safe to travel around the world alone?
Solo world travel is generally safe with proper precautions. Research destinations thoroughly, stay aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts. Many solo travellers find the experience empowering and transformative. Join online communities and stay in hostels to meet fellow travellers along the way.
When is the best time to start planning a world trip?
Begin planning 6-12 months before departure. This allows time for visa applications, vaccinations, saving money, and booking flights during sales. Some visas and permits require several months’ advance notice, especially for popular destinations.
Do I need special travel insurance for a round-the-world trip?
Yes, standard travel insurance often doesn’t cover trips longer than 30-60 days. Look for annual or long-term travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and adventure activities. Ensure your policy covers all planned destinations and activities.
Final thoughts on how to plan a trip around the world
Planning a trip around the world is an exciting challenge, but it’s worth every effort. This journey will change your life. You’ll experience the world at your own pace and create memories that will last forever.
The key to successful world travel planning lies in thorough preparation combined with flexibility. While planning is important, leave space for spontaneity. Some places might captivate you and you’ll want to extend your stay. Others might not meet expectations, and you’ll want to move on quickly. Build buffer time into your itinerary for delays, weather disruptions, or simply falling in love with a destination. The most memorable travel experiences often come from unplanned moments and chance encounters.
Most importantly, don’t let fear or perfectionism prevent you from starting. Simply beginning is a transformative moment. Trust in your preparation and embrace the adventure ahead.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning, pack your bags, and let the adventure of a lifetime begin.
Next up, choose your first destination and start your research!
