Top Tips For Backpackers Wherever You Travel
People of all ages go backpacking as it provides an ideal way to save money, see the world, and make friends along the way.
Typically, backpackers avoid expensive hotels in city centers, and opt for campsites, hostels, or cheap bed & breakfast hotels.
If this is your style (or if you know anybody who might be backpacking) read on as this article will save you money and help make your traveling safer and more enjoyable.
Research the journey properly using respected guidebooks and the Internet.
If possible, talk to others who have taken the same route.
Take two credit cards and keep one aside for emergency use only.
Keep the emergency card hidden inside your clothing somewhere so that if your belongings are stolen, you still have your emergency card.
Carry a mobile phone for calling home or for use in the event of an emergency.
Failing that, always carry a phone card (e.
g.
an AT&T card), so that at the very least you can phone home or make an emergency call.
Email home regularly if you can get to an internet cafe.
That way, the folks back home will know where you last traveled and where you were headed, if something happens to you.
Always make sure your travel insurance is up to date and that you know the emergency telephone number to claim insurance.
Don't take expensive jewels/watches/rings or other valuables.
Buy a cheap throw-away watch for the trip.
Be aware of cultural differences.
For example, just because you can wear shorts in Western Europe, this does not mean they won't cause offence in some other countries.
Try to avoid traveling at night, or walking alone in back streets or remote areas (particularly if you are a woman).
Look out for other backpackers going your way and travel with them.
There is safety in numbers, and your journey may be more interesting.
A high-pitched attack alarm is always a good thing to have, especially for women.
Take your own medication with you.
If you need regular medication of any sort, do not assume you will be able to buy it abroad.
Brand names of medicines change from country to country.
This, combined with possible language barriers can lead to problems.
Put medication in clearly marked bottles, carry a separate list of your medical requirements plus a letter from your doctor confirming your prescribed medication.
This will help to minimize unwanted attention at customs.
Pack dental floss and spare toothbrush when backpacking (dental floss is useful for all sorts of things apart from teeth!).
Take minimum toothpaste, insect repellent, and other essential toiletries, and replenish your needs as you travel.
Always be aware of what is going on around you, especially in crowded places, such as stations, markets, airports, and busy streets.
Make your backpack thief-proof from slashers (thieves who cut through your backpack to steal without your knowledge).
Line the inside of your backpack with chicken wire (use a very fine soft mesh).
Typically, backpackers avoid expensive hotels in city centers, and opt for campsites, hostels, or cheap bed & breakfast hotels.
If this is your style (or if you know anybody who might be backpacking) read on as this article will save you money and help make your traveling safer and more enjoyable.
Research the journey properly using respected guidebooks and the Internet.
If possible, talk to others who have taken the same route.
Take two credit cards and keep one aside for emergency use only.
Keep the emergency card hidden inside your clothing somewhere so that if your belongings are stolen, you still have your emergency card.
Carry a mobile phone for calling home or for use in the event of an emergency.
Failing that, always carry a phone card (e.
g.
an AT&T card), so that at the very least you can phone home or make an emergency call.
Email home regularly if you can get to an internet cafe.
That way, the folks back home will know where you last traveled and where you were headed, if something happens to you.
Always make sure your travel insurance is up to date and that you know the emergency telephone number to claim insurance.
Don't take expensive jewels/watches/rings or other valuables.
Buy a cheap throw-away watch for the trip.
Be aware of cultural differences.
For example, just because you can wear shorts in Western Europe, this does not mean they won't cause offence in some other countries.
Try to avoid traveling at night, or walking alone in back streets or remote areas (particularly if you are a woman).
Look out for other backpackers going your way and travel with them.
There is safety in numbers, and your journey may be more interesting.
A high-pitched attack alarm is always a good thing to have, especially for women.
Take your own medication with you.
If you need regular medication of any sort, do not assume you will be able to buy it abroad.
Brand names of medicines change from country to country.
This, combined with possible language barriers can lead to problems.
Put medication in clearly marked bottles, carry a separate list of your medical requirements plus a letter from your doctor confirming your prescribed medication.
This will help to minimize unwanted attention at customs.
Pack dental floss and spare toothbrush when backpacking (dental floss is useful for all sorts of things apart from teeth!).
Take minimum toothpaste, insect repellent, and other essential toiletries, and replenish your needs as you travel.
Always be aware of what is going on around you, especially in crowded places, such as stations, markets, airports, and busy streets.
Make your backpack thief-proof from slashers (thieves who cut through your backpack to steal without your knowledge).
Line the inside of your backpack with chicken wire (use a very fine soft mesh).
