#backpacking advice

[a-beginner-on-the-trail]

A channel I have really been paying attention to this past week, Homemade Wanderlust. Dixie is super thorough and helpful in her backpacking advice and I’m learning a lot of good stuff. I know I’ll be continuing to watch her channel. 

Some things I took away from this video:

- Do not bother taking a towel when backpacking. If you do end up going for a swim, I believe she suggested just taking a bandana... much more lightweight 

- Really the only clothes that should be taken are your hiking clothes, sleeping clothes, rain gear, and depending on weather, a puffy and whatever other warm gear (WILL be seeking more info on this all of course)

- No Nalgene bottles needed. Super interesting for me to hear as I always suspected that’s what you use!

- Most people end up ditching their soap and deodorant 

- Phones are completely acceptable for camera usage 

[thewanderlustoftheworld-blog]

Things Only Backpackers Can Understand

Do you have plans on trying backpacking on your next travel adventure? There are a few things you need to know to make it easier. Check out some advice to help you if you continue reading.

Backpacking is more than just thrifty traveling - it’s an adventure. It’s a way for travelers to really immerse themselves in the culture of the country they are visiting, and meeting the people beyond just as a tourist. Each trip is a personal challenge to embrace the spontaneity, the chaos, and find the order and calm in it.

[chrisandkatietravel]

[californiavacationclub]

Backpacking: An affordable way to travel

Image Source: frankborga.com

Most people use the excuse of “not having enough money” for them not being able to travel. This is a shame because travelling is one way for individuals to become more cultured by exposing themselves to newer (and sometimes, radically different) perspectives. Many travel agencies do offer affordable packages for different destinations around the world; but still, one of the most cost-effective options is to go backpacking. The difference lies in the fact that backpacking is more versatile and allows the traveler to see places not usually explored by standard tour packages. This freedom enables the traveler to truly interact with the locals, see hidden gems, and discover the area more. Still, this same type of independence lends itself to certain dangers. First-time backpackers should follow these tips and suggestions from seasoned travelers before deciding to hit the road.

Image Source: wanderlustandlipstick.com Research, research, research: Backpackers typically have to work "on-the-fly," which means being open and flexible to political crises and any economic instability. This becomes especially true when the area the traveler wants to visit is a relatively turbulent one. Research also includes discovering the different types of public transportation the country has to offer with its specific rates. Some unscrupulous people may charge more if they find out a passenger is a foreigner. Choose the right backpack: As the name suggests, backpacking needs a good and sturdy backpack. Most people do not take into consideration that size also plays a big factor in the decision. It is all about choosing the perfect size that fits all the essentials while not being bulky.

Image Source:travelbackpacks.wordpress.com Backpacking should definitely be considered by anyone who wants to go off the beaten track and truly immerse themselves in a specific culture. For everything else, however, it’s best to go to a trusted travel agency known for their reasonably priced packages. Ideas for the best vacations include knowing where and how to travel. Check out the CVC Destinations website for all your travel concerns.

[wanderingbarls]

Some tips when backpacking (I'll update this as I screw up)

- book hostels in advance!!!! Don't wait until the day of because they may all be booked full - buy bus and train tickets online, it's much cheaper that way - travel as light as possible. My collar bones are beginning to bruise from my already pretty light backpack - find a place to eat when you are in an area with a lot of restaurants. Once you leave that area and look for more, you won't find any and then you'll get grumpy and won't want to walk back to that original area

[bringmewonder]

Attention, Ireland dwellers and backpackers!

I'm planning and Ireland trip with a friend for the summer. We plan to leave at the end of June and stay for three weeks. I was wondering if anyone could give me advice on how much money to bring, tell me about some of your favorite places to visit, or what I should pack. Anything that you think would be useful, really. Help?