Six tips for first-time backpackers
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Backpacking is becoming a growing trend in travel. A lot of travelers challenge themselves by working with a limited budget while exploring different places. And they live out of one backpack that contains all their essentials!
Backpacking Tips
For many, backpacking sounds exciting and something that many travelers wanna try out at least once. Here are some tips that will help you as you plan your trip.
1. Choose a good backpack
Best Backpack
Your backpack should be big and sturdy enough to carry all your things. To avoid needing to check in your bag, remember to pick one that meets most airlines’ carry-on standards. Check the bag straps as well, and adjust so that its length fits perfectly with your body built.
2. Travel light
Travel Light
Imagine having to carry your bag for most of your trip. Pack only the things you need! Bring clothes that you can wear multiple times, in multiple ways. Instead of bringing bottles of shampoo and other toiletries, pack them in smaller containers or sachets. And leave heavy equipment at home – there’s no room for that hair dryer in a backpacking trip!
3. Try couch surfing
Couch Surfing
There are backpacker hostels that offer dirt-cheap accommodations, but there’s nothing cheaper than free boarding! Couch surfing means staying in someone’s house for free and crashing on their, well, couch (or extra room). Websites like Couchsurfing.com allows you to safely look for a host who will be willing to let you stay in their place during their travel.
4. Go where the locals go
Discover Local Destinations
There will always be tourist traps anywhere you travel – restaurants, bars or markets that hike up the prices for tourists. Get tips from locals and ask where they shop or eat authentic cuisine. Chances are these places are not as expensive, and it will also give you a good picture of the local scene.
5. Bring emergency money
Bring Extra Money
Traveling cheap doesn’t mean you have to go for broke. Keep an extra stash of cash for emergencies or incidental expenses. (And no, another bottle of beer is not an emergency!)
6. Make friends
Make Friends
Backpacking is the best way to meet other fellow backpackers and spend some time with them during the trip. Being with other backpackers is a good way to pull down expenses (sharing the fees on a boat ride, for example).
Just remember to stay safe, especially if you’re traveling alone. But by all means, go out with your new friends and have fun!
