Setting off with a folder of tickets, a handful of sucky sweets and a backpack the size of a German Shepherd to a foreign country is a daunting yet thrilling experience. No amount of research can prepare you, because realistically they all state the obvious – don’t go down dark alleys, don’t get in a van with strangers and most importantly DO leave the Crocs at home!
Whether it’s trekking through the Amazon rainforest in Colombia, exploring the night life on Koh San Road in Bangkok or ‘finding yourself’ in India, travel is a great way to meet new people and try new things.
Below is a list I’ve compiled on tips I wish I knew before my first backpacking trip.
1. Make A Plan:
A plan brings a sense of security to your trip. There’s no fun arriving at the train station and realising the last train departed an hour ago – been there! That being said, the great thing about backpacking is the sense of freedom and spontaneity ... if you do end up missing something, it’s a good excuse to go back again for another adventure!
Word of mouth is the best way to plan ahead. Don’t be afraid to ask people who have already been to the country about their experiences – they’d be more than happy to recall all the great times they’ve had there! A little planning ensures you leave a country with incredible memories, no regrets and zero FOMO!
**NB: Lonely Planet is a good website to get recommendations on what best to do and see in a city.
2. Pack Lightly:
This section is particularly for the girls. I would suggest laying out what you intend to bring with you and then half it! Honestly, you’ll end up wearing the same few practical items again and again. Don’t forget, you’re not going into the desert (or maybe you are) where you won’t be able to wash your clothes before re-wearing them!
The weight of your backpack is one thing that could make or break your trip… and back! Firstly, make sure you’re taking the correct backpack. One that has many pockets and opens in the centre is particularly helpful to locate items and to pack efficiently. I would also recommend rolling your clothes and packing them in plastic bags. This makes sure they stay dry if something leaks and allows you to find things quicker.
Some things that may not be on generic packing lists that I would highly suggest are:
- Plenty of medicine for all possible illnesses
- Lock (for hostel lockers)
- Portable charger
- Adaptor plug
- Ear plugs and eye mask
- Scarf (to cover your shoulder/knees if you’re travelling around Asia)
- Packet tissues
- Hand sanitiser
- SPF lip balm
- Plastic bags
- Pack of cards
- Blister plasters
- Plastic cutlery
**NB: Just because you have extra space, doesn’t mean you should pack more. You might want to buy some useless fridge magnets or a Toblerone for your family on the way home!
3. Live like the Locals:
Local cuisine – Ask the locals for recommendations on restaurants, dishes, in-season fruits, etc. If you’re brave enough, try street food, it’s cheap and fast … just have plenty of Imodium close by in case! Markets are a great source of exotic, tasty food. You’re also supporting the small local traders by buying here. These markets may be their only source of income.
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Accommodation – There is no need to stay in fancy, expensive hotels while away. Instead try hostels or local guesthouses. Hostels are a great way to meet like minded people. In my opinion, guesthouses are the best way to completely immerse yourself in the local culture. Families take you in, show you around, cook you dishes and if you’re lucky, perform some local entertainment. Just remember you are staying in someone else’s family home, be respectful.
**NB: Booking.com and hostelworld.com are great websites and easy to navigate. I would recommend Airbnb for groups larger than 5 people.travelling.
Transport – Transport varies greatly from country to country. In Vietnam the quickest way to get around is to stick out your hand and wait for a motorcycle to pull over and give you a lift. Local transportation methods tend to be much cheaper and give you a hands-on experience of daily life for the locals. Hitchhiking is safer in some countries than others. The only country I’ve been to so far that I would recommend hitchhiking in is New Zealand, as the country is full of backpackers.
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4. Be Safe:
I know it’s common sense, but it is extremely important to have your wits about you when backpacking in a foreign country. Our famous pale Irish skin and freckly faces make us stand out, but I would recommend trying to blend in for the most part. Don’t go flaunting your Gucci wallet or new iPhone Xr for all the world to see! Before you leave, be sure to:
- Take out insurance (VHI offer international insurance for the duration of your trip, or alternatively, annual multi trip insurance which I would recommend).
*NB: Check what your insurance covers before participating in any sports or activities while abroad, as they may be an add on to your basic insurance.
- Photocopy/scan and email all major documents and store them separately to originals (Passport, health insurance documents, bank cards, etc.).
- Bring extra passport pictures.
- If you’re stuck without internet and need it immediately go to a nearby McDonalds, Starbucks or a hostel. They nearly always have free WIFI.
5. Try Everything:
Backpacking allows you the freedom to step out of your comfort zone, meet new people and try new things. Whether it’s eating snails in Burgundy, bungee jumping in Bangkok or skinny dipping in the Ganges, the best advice I can give is to try it all.
Foreign countries offer you experiences that you won’t get in Ireland. Embrace these opportunities on your travels and you’ll come home with great memories and incredible stories!
Other tips to note:
- Inform your bank before you leave, so they’re aware of foreign transactions.
- Wear sun cream everyday – our skin isn’t used to exotic weather!
- Don’t change your currency at the airport – they give awful exchange rates.
- Always have a pair of dry socks at hand – there is nothing worse than wet feet!
- Pack a quick-dry sports towel as they are much smaller and dry quicker for repacking
- Make sure you know which airport you are flying into – some large cities may have up to four airports in the city. If you are organising transportation/accommodation around the airport, you must know this information.
- Stay hydrated. Travelling from place to place can be tiring. Treat your body well by eating well and most importantly drinking plenty of water (especially if you’re in a humid country).
- Wake up early to avoid the crowds (also dodgy areas are safer in the morning - honest hardworking people are up and about early… scammers and pick pocketers sleep in!)
Bon Voyage!🌏🌍🌎