In today’s digital world, the idea of travelling without a phone may seem strange. For many people, a phone is not just for calls—it’s a map, a translator, a camera, and a connection to everything. But some travellers are now choosing phoneless travel—and finding it life-changing.
In January, Soraya Lemboumba, a project manager from Switzerland, spent 10 days in Panama without her phone. “It was absolutely life-changing,” she said. She listened to nature, lived in the moment, and didn’t worry about checking social media. If you’re curious about trying this peaceful, distraction-free travel style, here’s how you can start.
Set Rules Before You Leave
Before your journey begins, decide your rules. Will you carry a laptop or tablet? Some people choose to leave all devices behind. Others carry a laptop only for important tasks.
If you do bring a device, write a simple set of rules like:
- No using electronics for entertainment
- Use tablet only for an hour daily for maps or bookings
- Only use a laptop for emergencies
Writing these rules down helps you avoid using devices out of boredom. You can also use app blockers like Freedom, ScreenZen, or Opal, or even delete apps like Instagram or YouTube temporarily.
How to Manage the Airport Without a Phone
Most people worry about airport issues when travelling without a phone. But it’s very possible. Arrive early—add an extra hour—to avoid last-minute panic. Print your boarding passes in advance to skip airline printing fees (some, like Frontier, charge $25 per person).
Watch airport monitors for updates on your flight and ask airport staff for help if needed. You’ll find yourself becoming more aware and active in your surroundings.
Explore Without GPS or Apps
Use physical maps to explore cities. Try the old-school method: walk in circles around your hotel to understand your area. If you get lost, ask locals or show them a written copy of your hotel address. This also helps you connect with people around you.
Instead of translation apps, carry a phrasebook. Lonely Planet has great ones in many languages for around ₹1,000.
Take Real Photos, Not Just Digital Ones
To stay in the moment, use a disposable or simple digital camera. Don’t take hundreds of pictures. Just take one photo of something meaningful and then keep the camera away.
Author Catherine Price, who wrote How to Break Up With Your Phone, says that taking too many photos can ruin your experience. Instead, live the moment fully. In the evening, write in a journal to remember the day. These words often bring back better memories than phone photos.
What About Emergencies?
Many fear emergencies without a phone. But most emergencies while travelling are small, like missing a train. Stay calm—these problems often become the best stories.
Carry some local currency in cash, around ₹15,000 to ₹25,000, in a secure crossbody bag. Also keep a credit card. For extra safety, solo travellers can carry a basic prepaid phone for emergencies, or simply ask others for help if needed.
Tell your family or friends your full travel plan before leaving. If you’re unsure about going phoneless alone, join a group travel tour. Many agencies offer phone-free group trips where everyone shares the experience together.
Travelling without a phone may feel scary at first, but it helps you connect better—with yourself, with nature, and with people around you. Instead of living your vacation through a screen, you’ll live it with all your senses. Mistakes may happen, but that’s part of the fun. The more you rely on your instincts, the more you’ll grow.
