Slow travel explored: what is it, who is it for, and what do you need for a safe adventure
When was the last time you went from A to B and enjoyed the journey as much as the destination? Or counted the quality of your holiday not in the miles travelled, but by who and what you saw along every step of the way?
Slow travel was once the only option in town, but the joys and benefits have been forgotten along the way as people prioritise filling every second; but in 2023 slow travel is finding new followers looking for a holiday filled with ‘mindfulness meets wellbeing recharge’, where the journey itself is the break you’ve been looking for.
What is slow travel?
It’s the antithesis of air miles, the opposite of traffic jams, and the chance to embrace a cleaner, greener way to enjoy your downtime, at a purposeful pace that makes it every bit as slow as you want and need.
Imagine a gentle potter down the canals on a narrowboat, a cycling holiday through stunning countryside, a walking tour close to home but a million miles away, soaking up everything life has to offer, without the need to document every step on social media.
Who is it for?
All of us! Exponents say that taking life at a slower pace is a great way to recharge the batteries and enjoy what’s on our doorstep. A typical slow travel weekend might be no more than 20 miles from home, with a gentle meander through nature, eating locally sourced food cooked by independent brands, topped off by a craft ale made in traditional methods. Expect less checking in, and more zoning out, as you allow yourself the chance to go off-grid.
What do you need?
A slow travel purist will ditch the car and do it on foot, bike or via public transport. They might pack a tent and get ready to be one with nature, sleeping under the stars, with the sounds of gentle wind through the trees, a bubbling brook nearby or waves crashing on the shore.
Forget google maps, rediscover the joy of a folded Ordnance Survey and compass. Slow travel gives the chance for a digital detox like no other, and an opportunity to fully unwind.
Of course, you’ll want to be safe every step of the way, and the new Solar Generator 1500 Pro, has been built with environmentally conscious adventurers in mind.
Harnessing the power of the sun, you can top up the generator in just two hours, meaning that lights, GPS equipment, stoves and your phone (even if you keep it on silent in your pocket) are fully charged and there when you need it, either to capture memories or check in with loved ones at the end of each relaxing day.
With plenty of safety features built-in, a quiet running system, and a portable weight, Jackery, known as the king of solar power, has launched its latest offering this week, 1500 Pro, designed to suit those with a love of the great outdoors.
It’s ideal for day trippers and campers, slow travellers and those who want greener power, ready to stay safe on their next adventure, wherever it takes them.
Early bird orders from 16-22 February can enjoy discounts of up to £110.00 on the official online shop uk.jackery.com. Anyone who orders the following week from 23-28 February will receive a practical carrying case for the power station worth £99.00 free of charge.