As the weather finally starts to heat up, our minds are firmly fixed on exploring the world this summer. But with busy careers that demand we are ‘always on’, giving ourselves the time and space to switch off and take in our new surroundings can be a challenge. Yet with women expected to spend over $125 billion on travel this year, it’s clear travel is a top priority for us. So, we’re delving into the best ways to travel smarter and make the OOO mean just that- no inbox panic required.
Spend some time with yourself
Did you know, four out of ten women prefer to travel alone? Between not having to compromise on the destination, to only having to worry about keeping yourself happy, we can see why. But there’s an even more important reason as to why travelling solo can be the smarter way to enjoy your trip. It gives you the opportunity to spend some much-needed time with you.
When you’re constantly building your career and keeping on top of an ever-growing to-do list, giving yourself some mindful time to spend pleasing just yourself can be hugely rejuvenating. Whilst taking the leap with solo travel can feel intimidating, you’ll find it seriously rewarding. To make sure you’re getting the most out of your trip, do your research before you go- there are plenty of ways to get the information you need, from popular travel bloggers to books on solo travel for women, so it’s never been simpler to confidently branch out and adventure by yourself.
Travel with accessories that work harder and smarter
When you’re getting ready for your trip, finding the right luggage is essential. Whilst it’s an opportunity to upgrade your travel style, finding accessories that work for your needs can also make or break your trip. After all, having peace of mind about the things you’re taking with you is essential.
If you’ve ever shopped for holiday essentials, you’ll have heard of The British Travel Brand, Antler. Born in Bury, they’ve been crafting world-class luggage since 1914 and are the most well-travelled brand in the world. For good reason. Their iconic collections have been designed with those who travel often in mind for over 110 years. Antler’s brand-new Heritage Collection is two years in the making, designed to make your travels a luxurious, stylish breeze. Not feeling weighed down by your possessions is key to travelling smarter, and with the brand’s lightweight, premium hardshell cases that offer strength without extra bulk and stylish travel bags designed to keep your essentials secure. Antler’s full travel system is designed to work smarter together – every bag features a back sleeve that slips securely over your suitcase to create a stack, this keeps your carry on stable and your hands free, giving peace of mind as well as luxury when you travel.
Create your peace with clear digital boundaries
We know. Switching off completely from the things that keep us busy at home is hard, especially with our inboxes in our hands constantly with our phones. But we each get so much more, mentally, physically and emotionally when we unplug, set digital boundaries and stick with them.
But women are most at risk from digital overload, with a recent study by the University of Lancaster revealing women are 1.6 times more likely than men to juggle high levels of digital communication both at work and at home. So set your intention to make your OOO mean out of mind too and you’ll find you come back better off for it. It sounds like a small thing, but having some time away from our phones is not only mentally healing but encourages us to be in the moment when we travel, leaving us able to fully appreciate what we’re seeing, hearing and even eating.
If completely digitally unplugging sounds too much, set boundaries around the amount of time you’ll spend on your electronics every day- and try to avoid working. If you know you won’t be able to resist, consider taking your work emails off your phone, delete the work chat apps. Give yourself a proper break. Using your digital time to upload that sunset photo is one thing, but your inbox isn’t going anywhere, so those emails can wait!
Prioritise your wellbeing
Wellness looks different to each of us, but taking wellness days can be key to coming back from our travels refreshed, relaxed and ready to take on our next challenge. When you’re planning your next trip, try factoring in a few wellbeing days just for you too.
Wellness days, especially outside of our usual surroundings, engage all of our senses, give us time to reset and have a hugely positive impact on our happiness levels. According to a report by Condor Ferries, 75% of those who take adventure, cultural or nature trips are women, all of which can be transformative to our physical and mental health.
So, whether nurturing your well-being means a walk in nature, a trip to the spa, or just a day relaxing in the sunshine, making time for these days is the ideal way to travel smarter. With 74% of women saying they travel for self-care, you’ll be in great company too.
Wherever your travels are taking you in 2025, holiday smarter this year and maximise your experience, you’ll come back so much more motivated too. and until the end of June 2025, enjoy 20% off Antlers new collection using the code ALLBRIGHT20 at the checkout, Happy holidays!