Lao-Tzu – Travel Quote of the Week

Quick Summary 

In this article, you’ll learn how Lao-Tzu’s timeless travel quote, “A good traveler has no plan, and is not intent on arriving,” can inspire a more flexible and enjoyable travel experience. Discover the benefits of non-goal-oriented travel, how to let go of fixed expectations, and find joy in the journey itself. Explore the wisdom of Taoism and how it can be applied to modern travel, helping you respond positively to unexpected situations and truly appreciate the experience.

Traveling Without A Fixed Plan

This week’s travel quote comes from Lao-Tzu, a legendary Chinese writer and philosopher. Little is known about his life, but most scholars believe he was born in China during the sixth century BC, making him a contemporary of Confucius.

He is best known for founding the philosophic and religious doctrine of Taoism, the followers of which aim to live lives of simplicity in passive existence with nature. Many of these ideas are derived from Lao-Tzu’s most famous work, the Tao Te Ching, within which he wrote, “A good traveler has no plan, and is not intent on arriving.”

Whether or not you agree with Lao-Tzu’s total life philosophy, I believe travelers can learn something from this quote. If you choose to take it figuratively—as I do—then his words describe a non-goal-oriented type of travel which is fluid and capable of evolving in accordance with the outside world. Once you separate your enjoyment of a trip from the accomplishment of a fixed goal, then you allow yourself to enjoy the entirety of the experience, whether or not certain objectives are completed.

While he wrote over 2500 years ago, Lao-Tzu’s wisdom still holds true today.  Unforeseen things can and do happen when you are on the road; it’s your response that dictates whether or not you can salvage something positive from it.

I publish a new travel quote every week, right here. Do you have a particular one you’d like us to feature in the future? What do you think about this quotation? Let us know in the comments below! 

About the Author

Andrew Scott is the founder of Authentic Traveling and a travel educator who has traveled to over 30 countries. He believes in helping individuals discover deeper, more intentional journeys, with a focus on mental preparedness and purpose-driven travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Lao-Tzu’s quote “A good traveler has no plan, and is not intent on arriving” mean?

This quote encourages travelers to be flexible and open-minded, letting go of rigid plans and expectations. It promotes a mindset that values the journey over the destination.

How can I apply non-goal-oriented travel to my own trips?

To apply this concept, try to focus on the experience itself rather than specific outcomes. Be open to new experiences, people, and places, and don’t stress too much about checking off every item on your itinerary.

Is it possible to balance planning and flexibility in travel?

Yes, it’s possible to strike a balance between planning and flexibility. Consider having a general plan or framework for your trip, but leave some room for spontaneity and flexibility. This way, you can still have a sense of direction while being open to new experiences and unexpected opportunities.