Round-the-World Trip
Even as travel prices climb, the idea of a round-the-world (RTW) journey continues to capture the imagination of many Americans. For some, it’s a post-graduation adventure. For others, it’s a family trip of a lifetime or a retirement goal. In fact, a National Geographic Traveler/Yahoo Travel survey revealed that two out of three people called an RTW trip the ultimate travel experience.
What Is a Round-the-World Trip?
A round-the-world trip typically involves visiting at least three global regions and traveling in one continuous direction—either east or west—without backtracking. It’s not just a vacation; it’s a deeper kind of travel that opens your eyes to different cultures, perspectives, and ways of life.
Whether you’re actively planning your RTW journey or just dreaming for now, here are some simple and smart tips to help you make it happen:
1. Plan Your Route Online First
Choosing where to go can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are excellent resources to help you start mapping out your dream itinerary.
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PerpetualTravel.com offers a solid introduction with its RTW 101 guide.
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BootsnAll.com is another go-to site, packed with planning tools, real-life stories, travel deals, and practical advice for first-time global travelers.
These websites make it easier to compare destinations, calculate budgets, and get inspired by real journeys.
2. Travel Counterclockwise to Minimize Jet Lag
One of the best tips from seasoned travelers: head west. Traveling counterclockwise adds hours to your day, which helps your body adjust more easily across time zones. Another smart move is to book flights that land at your destination after 8 p.m. local time. You’ll likely be tired when you arrive, which makes it easier to fall asleep and reset your internal clock.
3. Know What You Should Be Paying
A typical RTW ticket in economy class should cost about 10 cents per mile. For a 29,000-mile route, that works out to somewhere between $2,000 and $4,000, depending on your departure city, travel season, and number of stops.
Always compare options and read the fine print. The more flexible you are with dates and destinations, the more likely you are to find better fares.
4. Choose the Right Airlines for a Smoother Experience
Booking your trip through airline alliances (like Star Alliance, OneWorld, or SkyTeam) can simplify logistics. However, flights operated by different airlines mean varying standards for service, baggage policies, and seat comfort.
One unique option: Air New Zealand now offers RTW service using only its own aircraft, giving travelers more consistent quality from start to finish. It’s worth checking if their route fits your plans.
5. Pack Smart—Pack Light
It might sound counterintuitive, but the longer your trip, the lighter you should pack. Overpacking leads to extra baggage fees, back pain, and less flexibility.
Stick to lightweight clothing in neutral colors that can be mixed and layered. Start by listing everything you think you need—then cut it in half. You can buy essentials on the road and leave room for items you pick up along the way.
Finally
A round-the-world trip isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about expanding your worldview. With some thoughtful planning, a flexible mindset, and a few smart strategies, you can make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Whether you’re dreaming of it or ready to pack your bags, remember: the world is waiting.
