Traveling around the world is one of the most freeing things you can do. While “winging-it” always works too, here are some backpacking tips we learned on the road on a year abroad.
1. Invest in good equipment
If you are going to multiple places, a good backpack that fits you well and a good, comfortable pair of shoes will be your two most important investments before you leave home. If you’re going to splurge somewhere, splurge on these two essentials.
2. Get an eSIM
Staying connected while traveling abroad is essential for navigating, booking transportation and accommodation, or communicating with locals. An eSIM allows you to instantly connect to local networks without the hassle of finding public WiFi, which can be slow or unsafe.
3. Plan your budget carefully
I highly recommend checking out my article on planning your travel budget, where I go into much greater detail, but a good rule of thumb is to plan your backpacking expenses as carefully as you can, then bring twice as much money as you’ll think you need.
4. Consider camping, if possible, to save money
Depending on where you’re going, tent camping may be a
5. Consider traveling during off-season
The best question to ask when considering off-season travel is what makes this time of year the off-season? There’s a reason peak times are popular, I assure you. The savings may be worth dealing with less than favorable weather or missing out on seasonal events, or not. It’s worth considering, though.
6. Familiarize yourself with your destination
I can’t stress this first time travelers tip enough. Read up on your destination before you go. Is haggling acceptable? Is tipping expected? What’s considered appropriate attire in various situations? What will the weather be like while you’re visiting? Are there any popular local scams to be on the watch for? All of these are important questions to have answered before you go.
n option and a huge money saver. Of course, then you’ll have to pack a tent, but it may be worth the savings for you.
7. Pack medicine
For a stress-free trip, you should never cut the essentials, and a first-aid kit is essential. Bring various kinds of medicine, especially if you are traveling to a country where you’re unfamiliar with the language, as well as bandages, antibiotic ointment and antibiotics, etc. Make sure you have a sufficient supply of any daily medications you may take as well.