As cities begin reopening and work from home is transitioning to work from anywhere, there has never been a better time to pack up and hit the road…at least until our passports are fully valid again.

Whether you have time for a quick weekend getaway or want to try out the digital nomad life for a few weeks, here are four tips to help you get the most out of your journey and keep training while you’re away. 

1. Make a Plan, but Leave Room for Spontaneity

Every city has well-known, must-do activities. Do your research before the trip and nail these down, whether it’s a boutique hotel, a dinner reservation, or an activity or landmark that requires planning in advance. 

One great way to get to know a city is to wake up early on day one, throw on your Rucker, and find a local coffeeshop within walking distance. As you ruck through town, you’ll find unique new spots to hit later that day. Some of the best experiences can be had at the places nobody is talking about online yet. Pop into an unknown spot for a drink…beer tastes better when it’s from a brewery you didn’t know existed.

Your rucksack doubles as the perfect carrier for whatever you find as you wander through the city – toss in a bag of coffee beans, grab a pack of craft brews or a growler. Better yet, once you find the lay of the land, swap out the plates and sandbags with food or extra clothes so you’re prepared for the rest of the day. 

2. Take Your Gym with You

Another benefit to traveling with GORUCK is the flexibility of space the bags provide. Throw your sandbag or ruck in the trunk with the rest of your travel gear. Tight on space? Empty your filler bags and fill them up at the beach upon arrival. Packing light? Swap your weekender for a ruck for everything you need for the trip.

Familiarize yourself with the area on day one. Whether that’s a running path, hiking trail, a park, or beach nearby, find somewhere you can fit in a workout. If you’re short on time, try GORUCK’s SRT Program – a ruck or a sandbag and 10 minutes is all you need for a great workout. Build out a routine and stick to it…you’ll feel better about eating and drinking your way through the trip if you break a sweat each day. 

And remember, you’re on vacation! Stay away from the crammed hotel gyms or short-term gym memberships – get outside and enjoy your new surroundings. Take advantage of the new environment and always keep your eyes open for places to enjoy later in the trip.

3. Tap the Locals

GORUCK is the ultimate conversation starter – you’re likely to find someone who’s curious or recognizes the brand as you ruck around town. Whether a barista, bartender, or a local going for a walk, striking up conversations about things they love to do in their city is a great way to uncover hidden spots and find small businesses to support.

If you’re living the digital nomad life, finding remote work spaces can be tough if you’re utilizing online reviews. Most travelers aren’t looking for space to spend a few hours to knock out some work. Throw your laptop in your ruck the first morning and keep an eye out for locals with laptops – once you find them, set up shop where they do. Once you’re done working, pack up your ruck and hit the next spot – your laptop (and whatever else you find) will be safe on your back. 

Our favorite locals tip? Bartenders and baristas generally have the best recommendations. 

4. Travel Slowly 

If you can swing it, extend the trip a few days on either end. Build in a buffer day every few days to relax and recharge. Don’t exhaust yourself trying to see everything and feel like you need a vacation from your vacation. You want to maximize your time on the trip and see as much as you can, but keep in mind that not every day needs to be jam packed. Carve out some time to relax with the ones you’re with and reflect on the last few days.

Given the rise in remote working opportunities and office flexibility, now is the time to hit the road. A rucksack is the perfect piece of travel gear – it’s a gym on your back when you want it, and fits all the essentials when you need it. 

About the Author

Kevin and his fiancée run a travel blog. They are taking a pause right now on travel content and diving into training.

Featured Gear

• Sandbags
• The Rucker
• Men’s American Training Shorts
• Men’s American Training Shirt
• Men’s T-shirt – GRT