There is no right or wrong way to travel, however I am passionate about discovering the world in an open minded and more authentic way. Avoiding tours, companies, desperate to see the world in a more genuine way. I wanted to write up some straight to the point tips on backpacking anywhere in the world.
Let it go.
Let go of stuff you don't need. Let go of luxury and expectations. Let go of being in control of everything and what you're used to. Let go of being in your comfort zone. The world is a diverse and different place wherever you go. It's time to see how others people live.
Pack light.
Bring stuff you know you will need and wear. Backpacking isn't fashionable or attractive, be realistic. The more things you bring, the more to worry about and manage. This is your chance to be a minimalist. The less you have, the more free you can feel.
You will learn.
It's okay to mess up or have things go wrong. It's okay to not always know what to do or how to handle some situations, but you will learn the more you travel. You travel to learn.
Open your mind.
This is no time to be picky or judgemental. It will not get you anywhere. There are some strange beliefs, traditions and choices in this world, but this is the time to open your mind to other things.
Respect the locals
You are entering their homes, their communities and countries. These people are the best to get on with and will show you the real parts of the country and authentic culture. At least learn the very basics of the language like hello, please, thank you, goodbye and respect their culture. Always.
Not everyone needs to know the truth.
Be wary of how much information you hand out, anywhere. Not everyone needs to know you're completely lost or traveling alone.
Travel towel
You simply cannot backpack with a bath towel, unfortunately, these little light travel towers will have to do.
Carry earplugs
Thank me later.
Always have warm clothes
Whatever climate or destination, it is always possible to be cold. I always carry warm jumpers, a hat and scarf, even in the hottest of countries. Cold planes, air-con, bad weather, even driving on motorbikes etc, plus it's a massive comfort.
Good foot wear
Look after those poor little feet. Get something durable, sturdy and water proof. Who knows where you will end up. Be prepared. I travel with a pair of Timberlands and I love them!
Stay in big dorms
This is not for everyone, and sometimes when you are more then one, it can be cheaper to have your own room, but large dorms are always cheap and easier to meet people.
Compare prices
Bus's aren't always cheaper than flights. Companies always charge more and smaller business will make good deals, it's worth finding the best for your money.
Work
In hostels, online, volunteering, is an easy and fulfilling thing to do when and opens lots of opportunities. Traveling feels a lot more rewarding when you have more of a purpose.
Take photos
Photos capture a moment, a memory, they make time stand still and the best way to remind yourself of these wonderful experiences. You're in outstanding and unique places, capture the moment. You don't need to plaster social media, but they're perfect reminders of where you have been, even just for yourself.
Make notes
You will forget stuff. Write down how you feel and what you're up too. Important information or recommendations. You are on a trip of a lifetime, document what you're doing. Especially for the follow solo travellers, writing down your feelings and experiences can be really comforting.
Be prepared
Seriously, think ahead for certain situations. Don't rely on one bank card or not needing a visa. It'll save you stuck and panicked further down the line. Get a photocopy of things and have emergency numbers written down.
Back stuff up
If you want to keep your photos and video, back it up often. No one expects to loose their phone or have their camera stolen.
Lay off the booze
Ah. Don't kill me. But come on guys, backpacking isn't just about getting drunk. (I seen way to many 'gap year partiers' who thought traveling was just getting hammered) Learn to find fun in other ways. For safety, money and energy, don't over indulge.
Don't plan much
Keep your options open. Do what you feel like and when, it's so much more fun and possible. This is my number one tip when people ask me on advise.
Once you let go of comfort, endless opportunities open up.
Wash your own clothes
In some countries, laundry is super cheap but get used to washing some of your clothes in the sink, let things dry naturally and saves money. Eco friendly and cheaper.
Learn to cook
At least learn the basics and know cheap ingredients. Plan meals, cook together and save money. Buy local produce from markets and be creative. It'll save you heaps and can be a real social activity. In counties like Asia, it is difficult to find hostels with kitchens and street food is so cheap, but it will save you a sh*t ton of money.
Get your advise and tips off other backpackers (but don't let someone put you off either!)
The internet isn't always true and it's easy to get the wrong comments from people who haven't travelled much. I get many comments from people who have never been to the country. Listen to the others doing it. However, I have heard negative comments about places I come to love, you're here to explore, go and find out for yourself!
Keep your wits
Be prepared to stay aware and on the ball and look after yourself more than ever before. Especially you solo travellers. Do not be scared, but be ready to pay more attention to your surroundings, safety and belongings.
Carry a padlock or two
Lockers should be provided in accommodation but a lock always helps keeps things a little safer. From hostel lockers, to falling asleep in the airport or locking your rucksack closed on long travel journeys. Safety of your stuff needs to be a priority.
Photocopy important information
I guess this comes under preparation, but never rely on only having one hard copy, have one with you and even leave stuff with friends or family at home.
Get your vaccinations
If you're traveling to countries with high risk, research what you need. Some countries may not let you in without certain vaccinations. These jabs can save your life. For example, Yellow Fever, Hep A/B, Rabies, and many more.
Download your music offline
Technology has become so advanced, we are lucky to be able to have offline Spotify, apple music and the rest. Trust me, download it all offline and thank me later.
Get the right rucksack
There are so many different types, sizes and ranges of rucksacks, so spend time getting the right one. It doesn't need to be so expensive but look at different makes and try them on. It should fit correctly on your back evenly over your shoulders, chest and hips. If you will be away long term, this is investment you should take seriously. I currently have an Osprey 66L rucksack.
Learn the language, at least try the basics
You would appreciate someone in your country talking to you or at least trying to communicate in your own language. Phrases like Hello, Yes, No, Thank you, How much? Please. Excuse me. Goodbye etc. It's respectful to try and will make your life a lot easier. Speaking the local language will help you get lower prices when traveling and helps to meet more locals.
Keep in contact with friends and family
It’s easy to be busy and occupied with your travel life, trust me, I have to remind myself all the time but keep your relationships, invest time in keeping up your friendships, they’ll be the ones waiting for you at home.
Let people know your main plans
Whenever I move towns/ cities/ countries I tell my parents so they know what's going on for my own safety. Sometimes I tell people at home where I am staying in case of any problems. I also let people know if I am leaving internet for some time so they don't worry. It's for everyone's benefit. It is beneficial to have friends or family know some of your movements and whereabouts
Use bags when packing
Plastic or travel packing bags helps keep your things organised. I use a plastic bag for tops, one for dress', one for my underwear etc. Makes unpacking and packing easier and managing my clothes.
Travel Extras
They are designed to help you travel. Earplugs, a neck pillow, eye cover, USB chargers. It'll make your life and travels a lot easier. Maybe invest in one or two things to add comfort and convenience.
Couch-surf, Hitchhike, volunteer
Fun, Exciting and free ways to stay in places or travel around. There are tons of websites, groups and organisations and it's a totally different experience. I've tried all of these around many different countries and it's definitely an experience.
Don't get lazy
You have plenty of time to sit back and relax. You need those naps in the hammocks and lazy movie days, but you can't relive your life, make the most of your time in each place.
It's okay to be alone
I travel alone, almost all of the time, and I wouldn't change it. Always making long journeys solo and going out for dinner with me, myself and I, but it's part of the deal. I admit to getting lonely but I love the freedom I have in my life. In many parts of the world, in countless societies, being alone is not something we strive for, but this is your time to learn about yourself. Have time with yourself on you. I promise, it is totally ok to be alone
Try local food
It may be different, strange and simply weird. It may also be the tastiest thing you've ever tried. A big part of traveling to foreign places is to try their local food. Some of the most exciting things to this diverse world. Understanding how the locals do it and their flavours, sampling new things, it's a big part of the culture.
Make friends
You have endless friends across the world, you just haven't met them yet.
Travel eco friendly
There are enough disrespectful and problematic people in the world. There is enough pollution and plastic waste. Enough eco systems failing. Many countries have little systems in place for hygienic and helpful tactics but I beg you to try and travel as eco friendly as possible. Share journeys, carry your own metal straw, recycle, share transport, don't keep re-buying plastic bottles and so much more.
Don't judge
It's human nature to make judgements, just for your own safety. However, you're traveling to see the world. There are many things I see that I do not agree with, and many beliefs I think are total bullsh*t. There are many foreign cultures and manners different to what you're used to. Try not to judge, and know it's not about being wrong, just different. You're traveling to these places to learn and open your mind.
Bring your own water bottle
Time to save the world one plastic bottle at a time. You can save so much money also
It’s okay to be confused
Traveling can be tough, you're enduring one giant adventure. Constant changes, temperatures, cultures, vibes. Always adapting, always moving, trying to understand. You don't always talk the language or even know what is going on, it get's exhausting and confusing but it's ok.
Listen to your gut
Trust yourself. If something does not feel right, go with your feelings. Learn to listen to yourself and any intuitions.
Reduce what valuables you bring
Save the hassle and risk of loosing something valuable. It's also a good idea to reduce the attention you can draw to yourself, with fancy jewellery and flashy objects. Sometimes at night I take my jewellery off and keep my phone away.
Do things yourself
Why so many people pay for tours and guides I don’t know. It's convenient and easy but nowhere near as fun as doing it on your own. Normally a lot cheaper and a deeper way to travel.
Download maps.me
My favourite offline map to help me navigate, remember places and get a better sense of direction and co-ordination. I have used this app for years and swear by it.
Keep hydrated and healthy
It's important to look after your body anywhere in the world but if you're in foreign place, in poorer areas and third world countries, this needs to be an important priority. You may not have access to the same help, comfort and hygiene. Look after yourself.
Some research is handy
You don't need to plan your route, or know exactly on what you're going to be doing there, but just make yourself aware of what's in the country. Weather, visas or entry requirements, danger/ terror threats, laws, natural disasters and the different places you want to go.
You're representing your country
You may not even realise, but many locals you meet, in many countries, have never left their own. They know very little about other places and traveling. I know many people who have never met someone from England. I am the only person they can go off. People unfortunately easily stero-type people and make decisions with the only things they can go off.
Just have fun
You heard me, go and live your life. You're in for an adventure!
Have fun in life. It's short. Go live, laugh and love, go travel!