what is functional hippies?
Functional Hippies was created as a space for like-minded individuals to connect—whether you’re a traveler, a dreamer, or simply someone who values freedom, trust, and supporting one another.
It’s a place to discover the best tips on travel, health, natural living, and even managing money!
But more than that, the dream is to build a community we can take with us, no matter where we go. The journey is long, and occasionally it can be isolating. Maybe one day, we could even create a ‘real-world’ community in a jungle somewhere! (It’s on my bucket list!)
This is a place where the simple life is celebrated, and where we can avoid getting caught up in the negativity of the world.
I hope this space inspires people to step outside their comfort zones, pursue their dreams, and live naturally.
Behind the messy hair and baggy clothes...
Hello there, you lovely people! Welcome!
I hope your journey here was slow, bumpy, and eventful—just like every good travel adventure should be!
I’m Missy, the resident functional hippie here. After over a decade of long term travel (mostly solo), working abroad and exploring this beautiful planet of ours, I thought it would be fun to share some of the wisdom I’ve picked up along the way.
Essentially, I’m your average English libertine—rooted in curiosity and driven by freedom. Somewhere between a free-spirited wanderer and a spreadsheet enthusiast. An artist trapped in a logical mind, making sense of the chaos one adventure at a time.
If riding in the back of pick-up trucks with the wind in your hair sounds good to you – you’ve found your fellow tribesfolk!
Wandering & Wondering: My Story..
Since I was 18, traveling and working around the world has been my full-time life. It’s been a journey of connection, knowledge, and, of course, fun! Over the years, I’ve opened my heart and mind—sometimes a little too much—but always in search of new experiences.
I have traveled mostly alone, meeting people along the way. I never thought of myself as a solo-female-traveler, but I guess thats exactly what I have been. It hasn’t held me back…much…but it does come with its advantages and disadvantages.
I have always strived to do and go where I want to, within reason.
Some of my adventures...
I’ve found myself in some pretty surreal situations over the years. Some incredible and awe-inspiring, some make me feel like the luckiest girl alive and others… not so much… But everything is an education! Here’s a short taster – please comment to hear details about any.
🌕 Full moon parties in Thailand (obviously!)
🌿 Jungle hikes in Brazil’s Amazon
⛷️ Learning to ski/snowboard in France and Canada
🕌 Ramadan feasts in rural Morocco
🍄🟫 Mushroom picking season in Canada
🧘 Silent meditation retreats
⚓ Sailing the Atlantic
😳 Hold-ups in South America (not my best moment!)
💫 Psychedelic journeys
…..And much more in-between!
There’s a lot to experience out there in the Whole Wide World, and it was my mission for many years to try and do it all! But alas, I’ve come to realise that it’s not possible—every answer only seems to provoke more questions…🤔
The Research-Obsessed Traveller
One thing you should know about me—I research the heck out of everything. If there’s a smarter, cheaper, or better way to do something, you can bet I’ve found it (and been stuck in analysis paralysis for hours… ok days!) Whether it’s stretching a travel budget, hacking visas, or uncovering hidden gems, I love finding ways to make adventure more accessible. I want to bring more adventure to everyone who seeks it.
Where I Am Now
These days, I’m taking it a bit more chill (in the sweltering heat of Central America). At 34, with my long-term Scottish boyfriend by my side (shock), we’re looking ahead for the first time—figuring out where to settle and how to build a sustainable, freedom-filled life.
As we navigate new missions—finding a place to call home, diving into business and investments—I’m hoping to share the lessons I learn along the way.
How I hope to Help You
I hope to guide you through:
💰 Financing a life abroad (without resorting to picking cherries at 4 a.m.—though that was one of my favourite jobs ever!)
🌍 Long term travel on a shoestring
🌱 Living simply, naturally, and freely
🧡 Creating a community of like-minded souls
💪 Navigating Solo Travel as a woman.
Join the Tribe
If you’re looking for practical, real-world advice on travel, finances, and living a life on your own terms, you’re in the right place.
👈 Sign up to hear more ☝️
👉 Read my blog post on how to save for travel here….
Happy trails! 🍄✨
May the journey be ever in your favour,
Oh to be young again , I love your new blog and look forward to following your world . I have been to many places but my heart lies in Scotland’s amazing Islands mostly travelling alone meeting lots of locals and hearing their stories . Now at the ripe old age of 76/77 i have my next few trips planned travelling as cheaply as I can and often solo . I admire so much what you are doing . I look forward to following your travels and dreams .T