Planning on backpacking? This type of travel may appear simple, but despite the carefree attitude, it actually requires a lot of planning and strategy. If you're planning to travel the world on your backpack, here are some rules that will help get you started.
Choose your backpack wisely. If you're going to be away for weeks (or months), it's best to get those that are heavy duty. The standard rule is to have a backpack that should not exceed your body weight. You should also invest in a good brand--it might seem very expensive up front, but trust that it will help you in the long run. Bags such as The North Face, Deuter, Arc'teryx, and Osprey have wonderful technologies that will make traveling easier. Also: pack light!
Up your booking game. Try to get the cheapest fares as you can. You'd want to fit in as many destinations in your itinerary, and for the most affordable prices possible. Watch out for low and promo fares, travel sales, and airline discounts--bookmark homepages, be a member of the mailing list, register for alerts, and so on.
Always have some easy-to-eat snacks with you. We all know that airport food are almost always overpriced, so make sure that you always have munchies with you wherever you go. It's ok to splurge in restaurants every once in a while, but if you're on a tight budget, a healthy and filling snack (granola, protein bars, a piece of fruit) is what will help you save some cash when you're in touristy places.
Most backpackers stay in hostels and guest houses--this is where you'll meet fellow backpackers and solo travelers--but it won't hurt to stay in good hotels every once in a while, especially if you've been staying in bunk beds for a long time. Staying in a more decent place for a night or two can actually make things better for you in the long run--this is where you can recharge and take advantage of amenities and services.
Backpacking is one of the rawest and most fun ways to see the world, so if you want to embark on a unique and rewarding journey, this is definitely something that you must consider doing.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
