Ditch the Devices, Discover the World: The Power of Unplugged Family Travel
In a world where notifications never stop, emails pile up, and social media keeps us constantly scrolling, it’s easy to feel like we’re always "on." Even when we crave a break, our devices make it harder to truly disconnect. And as a parent, I see how this constant connectivity affects families—it can be tough to have real, meaningful moments when everyone is glued to a screen.
But more and more families, especially those with teens, are starting to push back. They’re craving experiences where Wi-Fi is weak, cell service is spotty, and unplugging isn’t just a side effect—it’s the goal. They’re discovering what I’ve seen firsthand: the magic of unplugged travel.
The Magic of Disconnecting
I’ll admit, when we first took our kids on safari in Africa and later to central Mexico, I worried about the lack of Wi-Fi. My teens love their devices, and I braced myself for some serious eye-rolling. But something amazing happened. Without their phones as a distraction, they connected in ways I hadn’t seen in years. They swapped stories with photographers, compared snapshots from our game drives (on actual cameras!), and relived the day's adventures together. They weren’t just documenting moments—they were living them.
And I’ll be honest—it’s not just my kids who struggle to disconnect. I do, too. My phone is my lifeline for work, keeping up with clients, and staying in touch with people back home. But when I put it away, I realize how much more present I can be with my family. It’s a challenge, but it’s always worth it. When I make the effort to unplug, I engage more deeply, notice the little things, and feel a stronger connection with the people I’m traveling with.
A Growing Travel Trend
It turns out we’re not alone in this. Condé Nast Traveler recently highlighted "unplugged travel" as a major trend, with families actively seeking destinations where they can disconnect in order to recharge. The article (DM me if you want the link!) explains that unplugging isn’t just about avoiding technology—it’s about choosing to be present.
More and more travelers are realizing that true connection isn’t about having strong Wi-Fi; it’s about shared experiences. Whether it’s watching a herd of elephants cross the savanna, hiking through a misty rainforest, or simply sitting together under a star-filled sky, the best moments happen when we’re fully engaged in them.
Making Unplugged Travel a Reality
Even in remote locations like safari lodges, Wi-Fi is becoming more common. But many lodges understand the value of a digital detox and will gladly accommodate requests to limit or even eliminate internet access in your room. Some will even "hold" devices for you, providing a gentle nudge toward being present. If you're serious about unplugging, talk to your travel advisor (that’s me!) about finding the right lodges and itineraries that prioritize real-world experiences over screen time.
And it’s not just safaris—so many destinations are perfect for disconnecting. Imagine a remote island in the South Pacific, where your schedule follows the rhythm of the tides instead of the buzz of notifications. Picture trekking through Patagonia, where the vast landscapes make emails feel insignificant. Or hiking in the Himalayas, where the challenge of the journey leaves no room for digital distractions.
Closer to home, our National Parks offer incredible opportunities for a digital detox. Places like Zion and Yellowstone have limited cell service, making it easier to embrace the natural world. Hiking through Zion’s Narrows or watching Old Faithful erupt in Yellowstone is so much more powerful when you’re fully present, sharing the experience with your loved ones instead of your phone.
Even a major time zone shift can work in your favor! When jet lag forces you to slow down, it’s the perfect excuse to put the phone away and immerse yourself in the moment. Traveling across continents can help reset your habits, making it easier to step away from digital distractions. Plus, with the time difference, people back home may not even be available to communicate with, reducing the temptation to check in and making it even easier to embrace your surroundings fully.
Ready to Unplug?
Think about it: a safari in Africa, a secluded island escape, a cozy mountain lodge, or even a campsite under a canopy of stars. These are the places where the best memories happen—the ones that don’t need a filter or a hashtag. They’re the moments that remind us what it really means to connect, to explore, and to simply be present.
If you’re feeling the pull to disconnect so you can truly reconnect, I’d love to help. Let’s plan an adventure that not only takes you somewhere incredible but also brings your family closer together in the process. Reach out, and let’s create something unforgettable.
