The coronavirus has changed things for the vast majority of people, including global travelers. If you have vulnerable family members, or the area you want to travel to is locked down, you may need to stop traveling for a while and return back to Australia. When you do, there are a few things you will need to do to make sure that you can recommence your travels should you want to do so.
Move some of your money
You will likely need to change some of your cash back to Australian dollars. Find out about the cheapest way to send money to Australia using this link. If you have been out of the country for a long time, make sure to familiarise yourself with the currency again before splashing the cash – the value may be different to what you were once used to.
Work out what to do with the stuff you have to leave behind
Many globetrotters mainly live out of a suitcase, or rucksack. But not everyone does that. Others buy a motorhome and use that as their base or choose to camp. In some countries, it is possible to rent a cheap house for a few months and use it as a base from which to explore.
If you fall into one of those categories, the chances are that you will have quite a bit of stuff that is not valuable enough to make sending it back to Australia a viable option, especially if you are on the other side of the world. Unless you are fairly certain you will be abroad again soon, the best approach is to sell or give it away. But if you have a friend who is willing to look after your gear for a bit, by all means, take them up on their kind offer.
Find somewhere temporary to live
When you first arrive home, the chances are that friends or family will want you to stay with them. That can be nice for a few weeks. But, in most circumstances, it is best to try to find somewhere of your own.
Provided a lockdown is not in operation and virus levels are low, you may wish to explore Australia a little. It is surprising how many global travelers have never done this, yet people from all over the world come to Australia to see the gold coast and Bondi Beach. This can be a nice way to ease yourself back into the way of life in your home country.
Look for work
Try to make the most of being back by finding work. It provides you with the chance to save a little money for when you recommence traveling.
Alternatively, you can volunteer. If you are the kind of person that is used to being on the go all the time, sitting at home is not likely to be for you. Plus, volunteering gives you a chance to build up your skills and make connections with other people.
Keep planning to travel again
When you return to your home country, especially for several months at a time, it is all too easy to get embroiled in everyday life. If that happens, there is a good chance that your dream of traveling again will slip away from you. Be conscious of this and actively take steps that will enable you to return to your travels when you can.
