So you’re planning your first backpacking trip. You’ve mapped out all the locations you want to visit and it’ll be the highlight of your youth! However, you may not be fully prepared for all the highlights of your adventure, so we’ve prepared seven great tips to help you ensure a smooth adventure that is both safe and fun.
1. Invest in a good backpack
Backpacking gear may end up costing you more than your travel expenses itself. And choosing the right backpack would most likely determine the flow of your travel. If you end up choosing the wrong backpack, you’re bound to have a bad experience as the straps start digging into your shoulders and your back starts aching. So try on a couple backpacks at the store, determine the quality of the straps, how it feels on you, and make sure there’s enough space for what you intend to carry.
2. Pack smart
Backpacking also indicates that you’ll be carrying all your things wherever you go, and you’re going to be stuck carrying it for a long time. Pack travel sized toiletries, and load up on clean underwear, especially. Always pack an extra sweater or jacket, generic medication that you need, and even a pair of cheap flip flops on top of your shoes. If you’re visiting a township where laundry stores are easily accessible, then try making a laundry run as often as you can so you won’t have to pack too many clothing.
3. Get travel insurance
The last thing you want to do is call off your entire trip after something unfortunate happens to you during your trip. Look around for a comprehensive policy with good cover level. Some companies offer cheap travel insurance policies, so do your homework before you start traveling.
4. Don’t carry too much cash
Always split a decent about of spending money between two cards if possible, so if you do lose, it you still have some to tie you over. Keep the cash in small denominations and don’t forget to keep it safe. Debit cards are also great to use, however remember to check with your bank about the international fees.
5. Get vaccinated
Getting sick or contracting a disease while you’re on vacation is just a nightmare on a vacation. If you’re heading to an exotic location, make a visit to the doctor and enquire about the required vaccinations. Even so, any vaccination will do as it’ll keep your immune systems boosted.
6. Design a back-up plan
When you’re in a foreign land, anything could happen and the chances of getting in touch with your relatives only makes it difficult. Plan out something convenient and simple, especially when it involves money. If you have a phone plan, look out for a cheapest roaming charges so you can keep in touch with your family members when you need to. If your trip is full of connecting flights with short time periods, always plan ahead so that you don’t risk missing your flights.
7. Safeguard your memories and pictures
On your adventure, you’ll most probably take hundreds of pictures to remember your trip. So, don’t forget to back them up in a laptop, or a Cloud service over the internet if you’re able to access it.
