Backpacking can seem really daunting or even dirty if you have never done it before. All those smelly hostels, bed bugs and loud tourists - why would you want to put yourself through that? But seriously: backpacking is an incredible way to see the world on a budget, though not everyone is prepared for it. So we've made a first-time backpackers guide so you know exactly what to do when you set out on your trip.
First things first: The bag
A backpack shouldn't exceed 30% of your body weight so don't buy a gigantic bag 'cause you'll likely fill it to the brim. Pick a bag that has good shoulder support, a waist strap and a wide opening. Don't buy a bag with a drawstring top because you'll be digging around in there for days. Buy one that opens like a suitcase! Some even have a detachable day bag on the front too.
Other things to look for in a backpack:
- Lockable zippers
- Water-resistant material
- Multiple compartments
What to pack:
Think of everything you want to pack, then half it. Your back will thank you. Also, you definitely don't need all those shoes! Here's a general list of what to pack:
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- 8 pairs of underwear + bras
- 4 pairs of socks (thick and thin)
- 1 swimsuit
- 2 long sleeve and short sleeve tops
- 2 tshirts
- Fleece top
- Waterproof foldable jacket
- 2 pairs of pants
- 2 pairs of leggings
- 1 or 2 dresses
- 3 pairs of shoes - one for walking, one for going out and one for everyday
- Big coat
- Hat and beanie
- Passport
- Cards
- Travel insurance and other docs
- Washing line
- Toiletries
- Tech gadgets
- Power board
- Travel pillow
- Locks
- Travel towel
- Waterproof wash bag
- Sunscreen
- First aid kit
What to wear:
When you're backpacking, think of practicality when it comes to clothes. If it's warm, then you can get away with a tshirt and shorts plus some boots. If it's raining, whip out that raincoat. And if it's cold, layer up. Make sure you invent in comfy, good quality shoes for walking around in any weather!
Where to stay:
When you're backpacking you'll either want to stay in a hostel or camp. Both are great options but camping requires you to pack a lot more stuff for living off the land, meaning you'll have to sacrifice clothes and other stuff. Soooo hostels it is? Here's some things to keep in mind when picking a hostel:
- Price: obviously the price is important but cheap doesn't always mean bad. TripAdvisor is your best friend here so research, research, research. Look out for bed bug reviews too!
- Dorm type: if you're travelling alone, a great way to meet other travellers is in a dorm. These can be all-female, all-male or mixed, depending on the level of sanity you want to have.
- Meals: a hostel with at least one meal is golden. This will save you money and time plus you could meet some cool people at meal time
- Lockers: make sure your hostel has lockers and take full advantage of them when you're there, lest your stuff get robbed.
- Bar: a good hostel will have a lively bar and awesome nightlife to match, if you're into that sort of thing. If you want something lowkey, avoid the party hostels.
- Activities: read into reviews and see what other travellers say about the activities on offer. Do they do pub crawls or walking tours? If so, book that shit.
- Location: this is everything. Sometimes hostels will coerce you with shuttle buses and other shit but at the end of the day, if it isn't close to the action, it'll not be worth it.
Keep safe:
It sounds cliche but stay safe when you're backpacking. You're instantly a target for theft with that big ol' backpack on you so try to look as local as possible and not draw attention to yourself. Oh and wear a bag on the front if at all, and hide your money. Never leave your valuables around and don't fall for beggars or children!
