Backpacking might be too much for first-time Backpackers, especially in the wild life, thousands of miles away from civilization. However, loneliness is one of the main reasons for one to pick them up and go.
Why do we travel?
Many people do not feel like traveling for all sorts of reasons: The crime rates, the dirt, the cost,… or just simply bored of seeing the same things everywhere they go. And they want to have a real vacation in an exclusive resort to relax when they have got enough money.
That is simply not the case. You can make the most out of traveling if you want it and really know what you are doing. Backpacking is a perfect method (sometimes referred as Budget Travel).
How did it start?
It started out as a trip to the wilderness, away from the luxury of modern cities with simply a backpack on one’s shoulder. Necessities would include a sleeping bag, a tent, cooking supplies, food, and clothing based on the destination. Such a trip can last one or more nights. To start your journey, naturally, walking thousands of miles is a bad idea. Focus on your destination so that you would not bite off more than you can chew.
Backpacking is more difficult than Hiking because of the extra weight you need to carry on your shoulders.
Favorable destinations for backpackers in the early days usually are national forests. To guarantee a successful trip, be sure to analyze the map and manuals. Remember to absorb water from streams and lakes to avoid dehydration.
Modern Backpackers
The world has witnessed students backpackers carry their bags upon their shoulders, cross thousands of miles over all terrains to fulfill their desire for adventure. No matter where they go, or how they do it, the goal is to force their way over obstacles with heavy luggage on their back. You can catch students carrying backpacks from other countries, strolling down the Old Quarter of Ha Noi, Vietnam. This sight has become too familiar for people around here. And if you are really up for it, get up and go.
It is a way of travel, but in the mean time save money, suitable for those who are young and adventurous. One economical journey will pave the way for another one. Before you know it, so many countries have been crossed of your to-go list.
As a Backpacker, you might want to spend your nights in hostels, the kind of accommodation for travelers with limited funding. Usually, you will share bathrooms. And to be even more conservative, you can stay in a dorm room and share it with up to 6 people.
The first time will probably be uncomfortable, but you will get used to it, especially when the price is somewhat affordable. If you stay in a dorm room, it is likely that you will have your own drawer, so your personal belongings are relatively safe.
An interesting fact about hostels is that there are young people from all over the world also stay there. They could be High School Graduates, University Students, or even Taxi Drivers… People from all walks of life, possibilities are endless. Who knows? Maybe you will make some new friends along the way.
As a Backpacker, you will have to find the cheapest form transportation and not watch the street through the window of an Aircon Taxi. You might understand the suffering of the hardworking people pushing against your body on subways and buses.
A Backpacker should only eat in food stalls on the sidewalk. Here you can get a taste of dishes consumed by locals everyday, so they are somewhat harmless (not totally, so try at your own risk). You should try all sorts of traditional, original dishes during your time in town.
Let somebody in on your destination, your route, let them know that you will call them when you are home safe.
A first aid kit is important. In case of an accident, remain calm to patch yourself up and find a way to get help.
Make full use of water sources. They are easy-to-find life-savers.
Minimize the risk of fire hazards to avoid unfortunate forest fires.
Respect the wilderness. No hunting endangered species.