“Then you will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before.” — Joshua 3:4 NIV
This verse has been on my mind a lot. It reminds me that life can surprise you with opportunities that open up whole new worlds when you say yes to them. The Portable Life—traveling with my husband while he works —wasn’t something I had planned, but it’s something I’ve grown to love. It fits this season I’m in. And more importantly, it’s helping me be more deliberate about how I spend my time, whether I’m home or away.
My Story
The Portable Life—living and working on the move— wasn’t something I had planned. But as I’ve spent more time working remotely from hotel rooms, temporary rentals, and unfamiliar towns, it’s become a lifestyle I’ve learned to love.
I work remotely, and I didn’t really see the point in staying home alone while my husband was away for work. So I decided to start traveling with him. Initially I was excited—new towns, clean hotel rooms, someone else making the bed (yes, please). I imagined us exploring local attractions together, discovering new places hand-in-hand.
Of course, that's not always how it goes. Sometimes he works long shifts, and when he gets back he obviously needs to rest, so I end up exploring on my own. That part took some getting used to. I'm someone who usually likes to experience new things with another person so we can talk or laugh about it and make memories together.
And then there's the packing. Ugh! It's never been my strong suit. Even when I was in boarding school, my little sister used to help me pack or else I'd never get it done on time or well. Add in me missing my huge monitor I use back home, which I can never bring—yeah, it's a bit of a process. Working on a smaller screen isn't ideal for the kind of design work I do. But over time, I've learned to make it work.
What surprised me was how motivating this lifestyle became. I started setting small goals for each trip—finishing a section of a project, listening to a new audiobook, sticking to a particular skin care routine, completing a one week workout program, even just journaling more regularly. I began to see these trips as mini resets.
It also changed the way I see time. When I’m home, I’m more intentional with my routines. When I’m away, I try to be realistic about what I can do—and not do. And through it all, I’m reminded that this world isn’t our final destination. We’re always moving. There’s something sacred about embracing that.
One Thing That’s Helped
If you’re thinking about living this kind of life—even temporarily—my advice is this: Make the time count.
Be intentional. Plan your meals. Have a rough itinerary. Don’t let the days slip by just because you’re working and in a new place. And if you can, journal. Even if it’s just a few lines at the end of the day, it’ll help you process and remember the journey.
Here’s What I’m Learning
People have said to me, “I could never do that. Live out of a suitcase? No thanks.” And I get it. I didn’t think I could either. But I decided to try—and now I honestly look forward to our trips.
Sure, I still overpack sometimes. Or forget something important. But I’ve gotten better. I’m learning to balance structure with flexibility. I’m learning that this isn’t something I have to do—it’s something I get to do.
I get to work while traveling with the person I love. I get to explore new towns, try new routines, and reset my habits. I get to make the most of a season that won’t last forever.
And for all of that—I’m grateful.
Whether you travel for work, follow contract gigs, or just find yourself living out of a suitcase more than you expected—this is for you.
This post is part of my 30-day series: The Portable Life—notes from a remote-working woman on the move. Tag: #ThePortableLife
Up next in the series: “What I Miss—and Don’t Miss—About Staying Home.”
I’ll be reflecting on the comforts I’ve left behind—and the surprising things I don’t miss as much as I thought I would.
Be intentional! Love that bit. Sometimes we go in without a plan or we leave things to chance and end up being exhausted instead of refreshed. Having a plan is very important. Well said!