Packing your seven things and heading out into the wide world – it’s not as difficult as it might sound. However, as a backpacker, there are a few tips you should keep in mind:
Choosing the Right Destination
Especially as a beginner, you should consider a few things and ask yourself the following questions:
- What season is best for backpacking in this country?
- What language is spoken there? Do locals understand English?
- Which places should be avoided due to high crime rates, political unrest, etc.?
Solo or Together?
Think about whether you want to travel alone or with someone. Traveling solo gives you independence, but having someone with you is advisable, especially for safety reasons.
Before the trip, make sure to clarify the following with your travel partner:
- What is your budget?
- How long do you plan to backpack?
- City or beach vacation?
- How will you get from point A to point B?
It’s especially important to get an overview of the distances between locations. You might underestimate them. Also, roads in some countries may not meet European standards. So, research thoroughly and carefully!
Accommodation: Hotel or Hostel?
The answer depends partly on the hotel standards in the country, and hotels usually come with higher costs. If you're adventurous, couchsurfing is another option. What is it? Simply put: private individuals offer their couch for sleeping. Modest, affordable, and currently a trendsetter!
The Right Gear
The essence of backpacking is to focus on the essentials. Your backpack is your only and most important piece of luggage throughout the trip. Make sure it’s not too big but still has enough space. Your gear will depend heavily on your chosen destination. Essentials should always include hygiene items, medication, water, important documents, and money.
A Few Final Tips Before Departure:
- Check your passport’s validity
- Do you need a visa to enter the country?
- Are vaccinations required? If so, which ones?
- Keep your valuables with you, but store them separately.
