Sometimes travel does feel like being in an avalanche, all the new impressions landing on you (not to mention being trapped in a small space and unable to get out, no St. Bernards in sight). But the phrase also reminds me of Bilbo Baggins and his contention that stepping out the door and onto the road is a dangerous thing, likely to get a person swept off to who knows where. Travel leads to more travel. I pick up steam, collect snowflakes and pebbles and maybe even a few bumps as I go along.
I like it.