Trucker Bao Dang Khoa, Tran Dang Dang Khoa (38 years old), is a familiar name in the Vietnamese travel community. He once completed a motorcycle trip around the world in 1,111 days, across 5 continents. In November 2023, Khoa continued his new journey, conquering the world with a truck that he personally customized.
Trucker Bao Dang Khoa at Bromo volcano, Indonesia.
From Motorcycle to Truck: Bao Dang Khoa’s New Adventure
After 3 years of “retiring his sword,” Trucker Bao Dang Khoa embarked on his second trip around the world. Unlike his previous motorcycle journey, this time he chose a truck. The vehicle has been modified for convenient travel and to hold all the necessary items for the journey, which is expected to last 3 years.
Experiencing the Unique “Day of Silence” in Bali
After 4 months of setting off, Trucker Bao Dang Khoa is currently stopping in Bali, Indonesia. He has passed through Cambodia, Thailand, and Malaysia. Bali has captivated him longer than expected, giving him the opportunity to experience the “Day of Silence” – a unique cultural feature of the local people.
Trucker Bao Dang Khoa interacting with locals in Indonesia.
On this day, all activities cease, people stay indoors, do not go out, do not talk, and do not use devices that emit sound. Khoa described the atmosphere as “like the lockdown during the pandemic.”
Challenges and Joys on Trucker Bao Dang Khoa’s Journey
The journey of Trucker Bao Dang Khoa is not only filled with interesting experiences but also many difficulties. Bad weather and heavy rain in Southeast Asia are an obstacle. The cost of transporting the truck between countries is also a major challenge.
Vehicle Shipping Costs – A Difficult Problem
Shipping a truck across islands is much more expensive than shipping a motorcycle. For example, from Malaysia to Indonesia it costs nearly $3,000 USD. Trucker Bao Dang Khoa will still have to transport the truck through many more legs, from East Timor to Australia, New Zealand, Panama…
The "Squirrel" truck accompanying Trucker Bao Dang Khoa on his journey around the world.
Adapting to Left-Hand Driving Laws
Trucker Bao Dang Khoa shared his experience of driving on the left side of the road in some countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. He had to get used to observing, overtaking, and handling different traffic situations.
Life on the Road for Trucker Bao Dang Khoa
With his fully equipped truck, Trucker Bao Dang Khoa can cook, rest, and work right in his vehicle. He is determined to live simply, spend sparingly, and only spend on basic needs.
Trucker Bao Dang Khoa enjoying the simple life on his journey.
Every Day is an Adventure
At nearly 40 years old, Trucker Bao Dang Khoa has a more mature and profound perspective on life and his journey. Every day that passes is a new adventure, full of memorable experiences. He shares: “I am happy with every day that passes.”
