Photo by Erik Odiin on Unsplash

Why I Hate Traveling

Hey there, fellow homebodies! Today, I want to share something that might be a bit controversial, especially in this age of Instagram wanderlust and #TravelGoals: I hate traveling. Yes, you read that right. I’m Eve, and I’m a proud travel skeptic.

First, let me clarify that I don’t hate exploring new places or learning about different cultures. I believe the world is full of amazing experiences waiting to be discovered. But the process of traveling? Ugh, count me out. To provide some context, as an immigrant and a lover of escape, I’ve been navigating the intricacies of travel since I was about five years old. Yes, even during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, I visited family. Needless to say, I have enough experience to explain why traveling is overrated. While I love experiencing new things and have a strong desire to see the world, there are times when I wish teleportation were a reality. Here are the reasons why I think traveling is so overrated.

The Hassle of Packing

Let’s start with packing. Oh, the dread! Trying to fit my life into a suitcase always feels like a game of Tetris I’m destined to lose. What if it’s colder than expected? What if I need an extra pair of shoes? And don’t get me started on toiletries and electronics. The stress of forgetting something essential often outweighs the excitement of the trip itself.

The Stress of Planning

From booking flights to finding accommodation, planning a trip is like orchestrating a mini wedding. There’s so much research involved – reading reviews, comparing prices, making sure everything aligns perfectly. One wrong move, and your dream vacation could turn into a nightmare. I’d rather spend my free time relaxing with a good book than poring over endless travel itineraries.

Airport Nightmares

Can we talk about how awful airports are? Long lines, security checks, overpriced food, and the constant anxiety of losing your luggage. And don’t even get me started on delayed flights and the joy of spending hours cramped in an airplane seat next to a stranger who hogs the armrest. It’s like a trial by fire before you even reach your destination.

Sleep? What’s That?

Traveling usually means saying goodbye to a good night’s sleep. Between time zone changes, uncomfortable hotel beds, and unfamiliar noises, getting quality rest is a challenge. And if you’re like me, a tired traveler is a cranky traveler.

Home Sweet Home

At the end of the day, there’s nothing like the comfort of your own home. Your bed, your bathroom, your kitchen—everything is just the way you like it. Traveling disrupts this cozy equilibrium and leaves you longing for the familiar.

The Pressure to Have Fun

When you tell people you’re traveling, there’s this unspoken expectation that you’re going to have the time of your life. But what if you don’t? What if the weather sucks, or you get sick, or you just don’t click with the place? There’s a lot of pressure to make every trip picture-perfect, and sometimes, it just doesn’t work out that way.

The Expense

Traveling can be ridiculously expensive. Flights, hotels, meals, entrance fees – it all adds up. Sure, you can budget and find deals, but it’s still a significant expense. Personally, I’d rather invest that money into something that gives me long-term joy, like upgrading my home, taking up a new hobby or splurging on extravagant takeout.

So, there you have it – my reasons for hating traveling. I know it’s not a popular opinion, and I get why people love the adventure and excitement of exploring new places. But for me, the hassles and stresses far outweigh the benefits. If you’re like me and prefer the comfort of home, don’t feel guilty. Embrace it! There’s no one right way to enjoy life, and staying put can be just as fulfilling as jet-setting around the globe.


Enjoy traveling? Share your thoughts in the comments! And stay tuned for a future post exploring why I’ve come to love travel. Subscribe for updates—it’s all about seeing both sides!