Lao-Tzu Travel Quote of the Week | Authentic Traveling

Quick Summary

Lao-Tzu’s travel quote emphasizes the importance of flexibility and spontaneity in travel, suggesting that a good traveler has no fixed plan and is open to evolving experiences. By letting go of rigid goals and expectations, travelers can fully enjoy the journey and respond positively to unforeseen events.

The Art of Flexible Travel

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 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 ever 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 mean?

The quote suggests that a good traveler is open to new experiences and doesn’t have a fixed plan, allowing for flexibility and spontaneity.

How can I apply this quote to my travels?

 Try letting go of rigid goals and expectations, and be open to evolving experiences and unexpected events.

What are the benefits of flexible travel?

Flexible travel can lead to a more enjoyable and immersive experience, allowing you to respond positively to unforeseen events and make the most of your journey.