Life On The Road… How much do I REALLY like travel?

The open road, the hum of the engine, the ever-changing scenery – the allure of travel is undeniable, especially for those of us in the remote work world. As system integrators, programmers, consultants, and digital nomads, the promise of working from anywhere is a powerful draw. But what happens when “anywhere” becomes a constant state of motion? As I embark on a series of road trips spanning five weeks, I’m diving deep into this question: How much do I really like this life on the road?

Right now, I’m in Detroit, Michigan, the midpoint of this journey. It started with a quick flight to New Hampshire for a plant visit, followed by a drive to Illinois, and now here. Next week, it’s back to Illinois, then home to Nashville before heading to South Carolina for a week. This trip, and another planned for April-May covering over 5000 miles, is an experiment. A chance to learn if this nomadic lifestyle truly aligns with my professional goals and personal well-being, especially at this stage of my career.

It’s February 16th, 2026, a chilly Monday, and the reality of road life is sinking in. While the idea of remote work conjures images of exotic locales and endless freedom, the truth is often a blend of meeting rooms, plant floors, and staring at my laptop in yet another hotel room. According to recent Robert Half data, a significant 24% of new job postings are hybrid and 11% are fully remote, particularly in technical fields. The infrastructure for travel-based work is there, but is the desire?

The Productivity Paradox: Discipline vs. Reality

One of the biggest challenges I’m facing is maintaining consistent productivity. After a day of meetings and plant tours, the motivation to tackle personal projects dwindles. Discipline becomes paramount, but even the strongest willpower has its limits.

Research supports this. While studies show that remote work can increase overall productivity (a Bureau of Labor Statistics analysis found a positive association between remote work and productivity growth during the pandemic across 61 private sector industries), individual experiences vary wildly. Approximately 61% of workers report increased productivity at home, but a significant 39% either maintain the same level or experience a decline. For those of us in technical fields that require deep focus and collaboration, the constant change of scenery and varying internet connections can create a cognitive overload.

The key, I’m learning, is to align my tasks with my energy levels. Neuroscience research shows that our brain’s glucose stores deplete throughout the day, especially during tasks requiring attention and decision-making. My evening reluctance to work isn’t a lack of commitment; it’s a sign that my cognitive budget is spent.

Actionable Insight: Don’t beat yourself up for lacking motivation after a long day. Instead, structure your day to prioritize demanding tasks when you’re most alert. Consider scheduling personal projects during transition times or simply lower your expectations for evening productivity.

The Kitchenette Chronicles: Food, Isolation, and Connection

Another aspect of road life is the food situation. Eating alone in restaurants isn’t my idea of a good time, so I prioritize hotels with kitchenettes. This allows me to stock up on groceries and prepare my own meals. While it’s a cost-effective and healthier option, it also contributes to a sense of isolation.

The “alone on the road” phenomenon is well-documented. Research suggests that while some digital nomads thrive on the lifestyle, others struggle with forming stable social connections. My preference for kitchenettes, while practical, also limits opportunities for spontaneous interactions that happen in restaurants and communal spaces.

Actionable Insight: Be mindful of the potential for isolation. Schedule calls with friends and family, attend professional meetups, or find a local activity to participate in. Even a brief conversation with a local can make a difference.

The Exercise Equation: Cold Weather and Motivation

Staying active is another hurdle. I enjoy walking outside, especially in the mornings, but the cold weather makes it challenging. Research shows that outdoor exercise, even in cold weather, offers benefits like increased calorie burn and improved mood, but the initial push is always the hardest.

The key is flexibility. Relying solely on outdoor walks creates fragility. A sudden snowstorm can derail my entire routine.

Actionable Insight: Find alternative exercise options. Look for hotels with fitness facilities or pools. Even a short workout in your room is better than nothing. Remember, consistency is key.

Mid-60s on the Move: Family, Work, and the Balancing Act

At my age, family is a top priority. Being away from my wife is tough. While digital communication helps, it doesn’t replace the everyday moments of connection.

This highlights a key tension: last year, I didn’t get enough work, so I’m pushing myself to work more this year, which means being on the road. Research on older workers shows that we often prioritize flexibility for family time and control over our schedules. Yet, extended travel often contradicts this value by removing us from our loved ones.

Actionable Insight: Schedule dedicated time for connecting with family. Make video calls a priority, not an afterthought. Discuss the travel arrangements with your spouse and ensure they feel heard and supported.

The April-May Experiment: A Deeper Dive

The upcoming April-May trip, spanning over 5000 miles, feels like a true test. It’s a chance to refine my routines, address the challenges I’m facing, and ultimately, answer the question: Is this lifestyle sustainable and fulfilling?

To make the most of this experiment, I’m going to track several key areas:

• Productivity: When am I most productive, and what factors contribute to my success?
• Energy Levels: How does my energy fluctuate throughout the day and across different locations?
• Social Connection: Am I feeling isolated, or am I building meaningful connections on the road?
• Physical Health: Am I maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine?
• Enjoyment: Am I genuinely enjoying the experience, or am I simply going through the motions?
• Family Impact: How is my absence affecting my relationships at home?

The Evolving Landscape of Remote Work in 2026

The world of remote work is constantly evolving. As of 2025, approximately 25% of paid workdays were conducted from home, a significant increase from pre-pandemic levels. This indicates that remote work is here to stay, but its long-term impact on our lives remains to be seen.

For system integrators, programmers, and consultants, the ability to work remotely offers unprecedented flexibility. However, it also requires careful planning and a realistic understanding of the challenges involved.

Actionable Insight: Stay informed about the latest remote work trends and best practices. Network with other remote workers and share your experiences. Continuously evaluate your own work-life balance and make adjustments as needed.

Embracing Local Experiences: The Key to Sustainable Travel

One aspect of travel that I genuinely enjoy is exploring local areas. Visiting museums, trying new restaurants, and immersing myself in the local culture provides a much-needed break from work and helps me feel more connected to the world around me.

Research supports this. Studies show that travel provides mental health benefits when it involves genuine engagement with new places and experiences. Exploration reduces stress, improves mood, and increases mindfulness.

Actionable Insight: Make time for exploration in each location you visit. Even a short walk through a local park or a visit to a nearby museum can make a big difference.

The Mental Health Factor: Staying Grounded on the Road

Extended travel can take a toll on mental health. While remote work offers benefits like reduced commute stress and increased autonomy, it also carries risks like increased isolation and blurred work-life boundaries.

It’s crucial to prioritize mental well-being while on the road. This includes maintaining a regular sleep schedule, practicing mindfulness, and connecting with friends and family.

Actionable Insight: Schedule regular check-ins with yourself. Are you feeling stressed, anxious, or lonely? Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Consider using a digital mental health platform or connecting with a therapist online.

Conclusion: A Journey of Self-Discovery

As I continue this series of road trips, I’m committed to learning as much as possible about myself and my relationship with travel. This isn’t just about ticking off destinations on a map; it’s about understanding what truly makes me happy and fulfilled.

The question “How much do I really like travel?” is a complex one. It requires honest self-reflection, a willingness to adapt, and a commitment to prioritizing my well-being. As I navigate the challenges and embrace the opportunities of road life, I’m confident that I’ll find the answer.

What about you? Are you considering a life on the road? Or are you already living it? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below! Let’s learn from each other and create a more sustainable and fulfilling remote work lifestyle.