Introduction
Backpacking offers incredible, unique opportunities to embark upon outdoor adventures and travel the world without breaking the bank. Statistics suggest that over 45 million people go backpacking every year, with South East Asia, South America and Australia and New Zealand popular destinations (source). If you’re planning your first backpacking trip or maybe want to experience Trekking in Nepal, here are some tips to help you prepare.
Tips to prepare you for your first backpacking trip
Backpacking is a unique type of vacation, which requires careful planning. While there is scope to be spontaneous as a backpacker, it is wise to have a rough itinerary and to make some arrangements before you go. Here are some steps to take:
1. Choosing your destination/destinations
The first thing to do when organizing any trip is to decide where you’re going. The world is your oyster when it comes to backpacking, and many people choose to go to multiple destinations on their travels. If you are considering moving around, it’s an excellent idea to compare around-the-world ticket prices and options. Think about how long you’ll be away, how far you want to travel and what you want to see and do while you’re backpacking to help you narrow down the options. If you have a lengthy list of contenders, take time to carry out research and join forums or social media groups to seek advice from experienced backpackers.
2. Investing in essentials
Before you leave home and go globetrotting, it’s wise to ensure that you have essentials with you to keep you safe and make traveling easier and more enjoyable. If you’re exploring new places and getting off the beaten tourist track, you might not have access to shops and stores so being prepared is advisable. Here are some key purchases to make before you travel:
- A sturdy, good quality, durable backpack
- Warm, breathable layers
- Waterproofs
- Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes
- Beach clothing (if suitable for your destination)
- A roll-up, lightweight, quick-dry towel
- Flashlight
- A small bag to take on excursions or day trips: examples include rucksacks and a women’s or men’s tactical chest bag. Bum bags or fanny packs and money pouches are also ideal for keeping smaller items safe during hikes and walks and while traveling.
- First aid kit
- Medication: this includes any prescription medicines you take or treatments for allergies plus painkillers, medication for diarrhea and cream for insect bites
- Mosquito net
- Mosquito spray
- Sleeping bag
- Water treatment tablets or drops
- Sunscreen
- Compass
- Sunglasses
- Portable phone charger
- Camera
3. Getting used to a backpack
Backpacking is very different from other types of vacation, and even if you’re fit and active, it can take time to get used to hiking with a bag on your back. Before you jet off, try to organize a few trial runs and practise walking, hiking and moving around with your backpack on. Start with short treks and trails through woods, forests and mountains, and gradually increase the distance as you get fitter, stronger and more comfortable with your backpack.
4. Logistics and itinerary planning
When you know where you want to go, try and sketch out an itinerary. Planning in advance can help you to ensure that you see and do everything on your wish list and it can also save you time and stress when it comes to getting from A to B. You can modify plans while you’re traveling if you want to make changes to destinations or dates, but it’s helpful to have a rough plan. Once you have dates, locations and flight numbers, you can give a copy of your itinerary to loved ones in case they want to contact you and you don’t have access to your phone or the Internet. It’s often beneficial to follow set routes and take inspiration from guided tours and well-known itineraries and other travellers when planning your trip, as this can help to reduce travel time, save on transport costs and ensure you prioritize incredible sights, attractions or experiences.
5. Travel documents
One of the most important tasks to cross off your list when traveling is to make sure that you have all the relevant documentation. Check your passport or ID card, make sure you have all the permits or visas you need to enter the different countries you’re visiting, and ensure you read the conditions of travel so that you know how long you can stay. There are charges in place in some countries, such as visa fees and tourist tax. It’s beneficial to calculate how much these fees will cost so that you don’t get a nasty surprise later on. At the moment, due to the pandemic, there are restrictions on travel in some countries, and you’ll need to make sure that the country is open to visitors and that you meet eligibility criteria.
If you plan to go trekking or hiking, or you want to visit national parks or popular landmarks, attractions or sights, research in advance. You may need to book a time slot, apply for a permit or schedule a date to fit in with limits on numbers.
6. Learn about the leave no trace concept
Backpacking often involves discovering natural wonders and spending time in remote locations. The leave no trace concept is designed to protect and preserve the planet. Before you travel, familiarize yourself with the key principles so that you can enjoy the views and experiences without causing any damage to the environment.
7. Travel insurance
It is crucial to make sure that you have travel insurance before you go backpacking. Search online for policies, compare plans and prices, and ensure that the countries you are visiting and the activities you have planned are covered. It is worth paying for comprehensive cover to protect you against theft, lost items and cancellations and delays and provide medical cover.
Summary
Going backpacking is a hugely exciting prospect. Backpacking is an incredible way to see the world, discover far-flung places and enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences. When you go backpacking, you’ll essentially be living out a bag so it’s wise to plan ahead and make sure you have everything you need before you travel. Once you have chosen your destinations and planned activities or trips, create a packing list and make sure you have all the documents you need to get from one place to another. Invest in comprehensive insurance, draw up a rough itinerary and ensure that your parents, close friends or siblings have a copy.