Although in theory it would be nice to just jet off into the sunset without a care in the world, backpacking isn’t quite so free spirited. It may be a popular choice for independent travellers looking for a different and affordable holiday, but independence still walks hand in hand with planning and research. So here are a few tips to help make sure your backpacking trip is a successful one.
1. Travel documents. Make sure you have a valid ten year passport, which has at least three months left to run after your return date before you depart. This will be needed for identification and when travelling. You’ll also need to check the visa requirements for each country you plan to visit, and whether you need to register with any relevant authorities during an extended stay in any country. Further information can be obtained from the relevant embassy or consulate.
2. Plan your transportation as much as possible, especially if you are on a budget. It’s always worth looking at things like the cheapest times to fly, whether you can get a train pass covering the country(s) you plan to visit, and where to find reliable taxi firms. Some long distance journeys will require reservations, and timetables may change, so try and confirm your plans a few days in advance of any journey when you’re away.
3. If you are travelling to any exotic/tropical locations then it is essential you visit your local doctor or health centre before you travel to get the correct vaccinations. No backpacking trip will be much fun if you come down with illnesses such as Malaria, Yellow Fever, Tetanus, Polio, and Hepatitis A.
4. Booking adequate travel insurance is also very important. Be sure to buy a policy that insures you for the duration of your trip abroad, has relevant medical/dental cover, and includes insurance for loss of possessions/cash, and if you take part in any activities like extreme sports or skiing. It’s also worth checking out specialised backpackers insurance which may offer all the benefits/cover you’re looking for.
5. Buy a sturdy, comfortable rucksack to take with you, and write up a checklist of items to pack. This should include clothing to suit changes in weather conditions, fast drying towels, essential medical stock like plasters, space savers to help you fit everything into your backpack, comfortable footwear or specialised walking shoes, and a spy wallet to protect your money from pickpockets. A sleeping bag, and your own pillowcase may also be needed, depending on where you are planning to stay. Travel guides and maps can also be useful, but try and stick to lightweight version or just bring with you the parts you will need to help reduce the weight of your pack.
6. Hostels can prove to be the most affordable form of accommodation for backpackers. Although some will have age limits, and are aimed at younger travellers, there are still many that will accept people of all ages. Private rooms in hostels are very popular and should be booked in advance. There are numerous websites that contain worldwide hostel listings, and for young travellers, the Youth Hostel Association is well worth checking out.
7. Lastly, seek advice while you’re planning your backpacking trip. There are quite a few resources available that feature contributions from, or are entirely written by backpackers themselves. These will often feature handy tips and advice which may help your own trip(s) run more smoothly.
