Today on Wander Lounge, we’re joined by Lydia Copeland. By day, Lydia is a data analyst, but by passion, she’s a travel blogger and educator on a mission to make travel more accessible, inclusive, and less intimidating for everyone. Her journey from small-town roots to exploring the world is a reminder that travel isn’t reserved for the privileged—it’s something we can all learn to do, step by step.

Lydia is also the author of “An Introduction to Traveling: The First Step of Many Around the World,” a comprehensive travel skills handbook featuring 183 practical tips to help you plan, budget, pack, and navigate your way with confidence. Whether you’re preparing for your very first trip or seeking to refine your travel style, Lydia’s insights are a masterclass in turning wanderlust into action.

✨ In this episode, we explore:

How Lydia learned to travel without a “blueprint”

The key mindset shifts that make travel feel possible for anyone

Practical, beginner-friendly tips from her book

Why representation and accessibility matter in the travel space

How you can start taking your first steps around the world

Tune in and get inspired to plan your next adventure—no matter where you’re starting from.

Connect with Lydia:

Follow her journey  @lydslifeskills,  and grab a copy of her book, An Introduction to Traveling: The First Step of Many Around the World https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CK45BH92?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_478SAY775GYNN7XFF19E&bestFormat=true

Connect with Wander Lounge:

Follow @wander_lounge, and sign up for our newsletter at https://www.wanderloungepodcast.com/  for more travel stories, solo travel tips, and community for women who love to explore.