A Digital Break

If you want to spend less time on your smartphone during your pilgrimage, but see a bunch of notifications every time you check the map or the weather forecast, you should make some adjustments.

Turn off notifications for the channels you don't need to pay attention to during the trip. You can also temporarily move social media apps away from the home screen without deleting them if you want to avoid being tempted by seeing the app icons. Let people know how they can reach you during your walk (for example by texting or calling), so you can disconnect from other channels with a clear conscience.

Although you might want to avoid screen time, it's recommended to use the digital map of the trail while you walk. The Norwegian pilgrim trails are mostly well-marked with physical signs, but the advantage of the digital map is that you can see your own location in real-time by tapping the position marker on the right side of the screen. The map also shows nearby accommodations and other points of interest.

Most of us are used to documenting travels and experiences with our mobile cameras so that we can share them with friends and strangers on various platforms. We often spend memorable moments taking pictures or filming rather than enjoying the view and each other's company.

If you want to be more present in the moment, it might be wise to find alternative ways to document the journey. You could get a pilgrim passport at the start of the pilgrimage and collect stamps at pilgrim centers, hostels, and churches along the trail. Another way to preserve the memories is to write a diary or bring a sketchbook and pencil and draw what you see.

On a pilgrimage, surrounded by a timeless landscape, it can feel very natural to take a digital break. It may be a bigger challenge to maintain the same habits when you return to modern everyday life.

If you wish to preserve the feeling of presence, it might be a good idea to give your future self a reminder. For example, you can write a letter to yourself with a future opening date noted on the envelope. Write down the insights you gained while walking, and ways to implement them in your daily life, whether it concerns screen time, mental presence, or a wish to spend more time in nature in your everyday life.

Although it's probably healthy to reduce screen time, you should keep your mobile phone charged and accessible in case you or others encounter problems. Read more about safety on the Norwegina pilgrim trails here.

It is also important to call and notify your accommodation if you have changed plans or will arrive later than expected. This prevents the hosts from thinking something has happened to you.

Good luck on your journey!