I'm going offline! The digital detox trend is nothing new, and many people already build a detox day into their week to escape the flood of media impressions and relentless push notifications for a day. But what about when you're travelling? We at VanSite give you useful tips for a digital detox on your van or camping holiday.

Foto von Tadeusz Lakota |

Why do a digital detox at all?

Digital devices like smartphones, tablets and laptops now take up a huge part of our everyday lives. No wonder the digital detox trend has become so popular. Many people consciously choose a digital detox cure and switch off all devices for a period of time. But why does science actually recommend digital detox?

3 reasons for digital detox:

1. Stress is reduced

2. Sleep disorders improve

3. Your health benefits

Travelling offline: 6 tips for digital detox on holiday

When travelling in particular, it's hard to imagine being without your smartphone. As a new travel companion, it takes on many functions at once. It serves as a map, helps find hotels or hostels, and is used to locate campsites, water refill stations or supermarkets. But on holiday, whether in a van, camper, tent or hotel, you should really be able to relax properly, right?

Foto von processingly auf Unsplash |

The six best tips for digital detox while travelling

Tip 1: Get into the right mindset

First, be clear in your own mind about why you want to do a digital detox on holiday. If you want more quality of life, want to enjoy beautiful moments undisturbed and simply switch off properly, then a digital detox cure is just the right thing for you and your camping mindset.

Tip 2: Set up automatic out-of-office messages

Before your trip, set up automatic out-of-office replies. This works for both your email inbox and WhatsApp. That way, anyone who messages you during your holiday will an automatic notification about your absence.

Tip 3: Turn off notifications

Notifications from apps should really be completely turned off during your digital detox on holiday. That way you won't be disturbed by a message from your aunt or an email from a work colleague. After all, even the flashing or vibrating of a smartphone is a distraction that stops you from truly relaxing.

Tip 4: Only use necessary apps

If you're already on the road, you could of course leave your smartphone at home entirely. If you'd rather have it with you, at least try not to use any unnecessary apps or gadgets. You can of course take a photo with your phone or use an app to find the nearest hiking car park, but then put it away!

Tip 5: Switch to offline mode

When not in use, switch your smartphone off completely or at least put it in flight mode. Most phones have an offline mode, which is the best way to stay truly disconnected from the internet and more connected to yourself and nature.

Tip 6: Bring alternative activities

You're probably used to scrolling through Instagram or checking the latest news when bored. For a successful digital detox while travelling, pack a book, magazines or some card games.

Foto von Clay Banks |

As you can see, digital detox is a real bonus for your next holiday. Try to consciously take time away from your smartphone, tablet or laptop and follow our tips for more lightness, relaxation and quality of life on your travels.

After all, instead of staring at your phone, it's so much better to collect real experiences through camping micro-adventures!