10 Things you need to Know Before your First Backpacking Adventure!
Your first big backpacking trip is going to be life changing yet daunting, especially if you are heading off into the world alone. Here are the top 10 things you should know before you set off to fulfil your bucket list.
1. You get What you Pay for
When it comes to choosing a hostel to stay in as a rule you get what you pay for. If you go for the cheapest option you may find yourself in a place with little comforts, limited privacy and facilities that aren’t really up to standard.
That being said the vibe of a hostel is generally much more important then the facilities when it comes to your experience. Check reviews before you book.
I always recommend booking in advance for just one or two then later decide whether you want to extend or find somewhere different to stay. Keep options handy.
2. Pack Half of What you Think you Need
This is a big one, especially for the ladies. Take only the essentials.
Forget fancy shoes, make-up and toiletries and really think about what you feel most comfortable in everyday. Always wear your bulkiest items while you are traveling and keep the bag light.
Also, when you’re packing don’t stress about taking everything because you might end up buying something new. You will also want to leave space for shopping obviously!
3. Let go of Set Plans and Embrace the Flow
For some this will be easy but others this will be hard. Backpacking is all about embracing the present moment and crossing paths with new people and places. Not having a set plan gives you the freedom to change your plans. Tag along with new people and visit amazing places that otherwise you would have never heard of.
Throw the map. This is where the true beauty of travel happens, when you open yourself up to being spontaneous you have the opportunity to make incredible life long friends and have experiences of a lifetime, which come to you completely unexpectedly.
4. Don’t Have Expectations
Peace begins when expectation ends. Try and let go of expectations you may have about a certain place or people. Don’t build a place up in your mind, let it present itself to you. Beauty is in the moment.
5. Be Smart with your Cash
You’re a backpacker so you’re on a budget. Don’t waste hundreds of dollars in bank and atm fees. At the same time don’t put yourself at risk by carrying large amounts of cash. Do some research on online banking and spend your money smartly.
Revoluta, based in the UK is an online bank which gives you free atm withdrawals up to £200 per month, the exchange rates they give are the same as the market rate, you can load and transfer funds internationally for free. It saves fortunes!
6. Remember to Pack Unexpected Backpacking Essentials
Packing items you may not have thought of can really make your trip easy and save you a lot of money. A knife, a spoon, a plate, a jar and a lighter count as bare essentials.
You can cook when it’s necessary without much hassle. Also a sewing kit, scissors and dental floss can come in handy for a multitude of things.
7. Learn to be Present
My favourite thing about traveling is that it forces you to live in the present moment. Each day you get to decide what you want to really do. This will result in an immense feeling of liberation and freedom which you will get addicted to. The mundane everyday tasks and worries of your old life become the last thing on your mind.
Fully engage with your surroundings and see the magic unfold. Enjoy the little treasures and take it all in. When you learn to do this, you will feel so intensely grateful for the amazing time you spent all by yourself.
8. Don’t be Afraid of the Unknown
One of the scariest things about backpacking for a long time is the thought of the unknown people, places and events ahead. It takes guts to leave home and venture out into the world to new places with different cultures.
You may be concerned about your safety, your health, whether you will be able to make any friends. This list goes on. The challenges that come with travel push you out of your comfort zone and help you grow so much as a person.
Remember that no matter where you are in the world everyone you meet is a human just like you with a big heart. You will find help and support around every corner so there is no need to be afraid, everyone has your back.
9. Prepare Yourself for Midnight Munchies!
Always have some fruits, oats or instant noodles handy in case you find yourself hungry with no access to open cafes.
Preparing right will prevent any hunger emergencies. Better yet, you can share your food with people you meet and get to know them more. Food is a real good ice-breaker!
10. You will Probably get Sick
Accept the fact before you leave that you will probably get sick at some point on your trip. Whether it is food poisoning or homesickness.
Reach out for help. There might be someone who could take care of you. Eating the way locals eat will help your stomach and immune system get stronger.
