The beautiful countries in Asia offer plenty of opportunities for an incredible backpacking experience. However, for first-time backpackers or backpackers unfamiliar with the area, planning your trip can be daunting. Here are some tips for preparing, suggestions for where to go, and how to save some money while you’re there.

Preparing to Backpack

When planning, be sure you check the visa requirements for the countries that you are planning to visit. Most countries in Asia will allow tourists from the U.S. to be there visa-free for thirty to sixty days, but some countries require you to carry a visa. Be sure to do your research so you won’t be detained due to technicalities. Along with a visa, be sure you apply for your passport early or apply to renew your previous one early. It can take anywhere from four to six weeks to get your passport, so apply early to be on the safe side.

When you select the countries you will be visiting, read up on all of the cultures you will undoubtedly encounter. You don’t want to accidentally offend anyone. Take an hour or so and research the culture, customs, values, religion, and basic phrases in the language(s). You will avoid potentially uncomfortable situations and better understand the people and your surroundings.

When packing for backpacking in Asia, there are a few things that you need to bring. Along with all the regular items, be aware that you will probably need to take anti-malaria medicine. Set up an appointment with your doctor to get all the information, and then be sure to bring the medicine! A word of warning from Simon Petersen, author of the blog Man vs. World, who says “I never suffered from any food poisoning – but traveller’s diarrhoea (or diarrhea) was an infliction I was forced to live with A LOT.” Be prepared for this and talk to your doctor. He may just recommend bringing over the counter remedies or prescribe you something. Also, be aware that you will probably need to bring light long-sleeved shirts, a hat, and plenty of sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.          

Best Backpacking Destinations

Vietnam is a beautiful country that is just recently becoming popular with tourists. Because of this, you can find beautiful and pristine hiking and outdoor activities, as well as plenty of nightlife in cities like Ho Chi Minh. An added bonus is the train network that is pretty well developed, as well as plenty of buses to get around on.

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Thailand is an exciting and vibrant country that begs to be explored by backpackers. Not only does it have spectacular food, gorgeous beaches, and amazing nightlife in big cities like Bangkok, but it’s also fairly inexpensive.

India is a large country with diverse locales to explore. The rail system is the second largest in the world, making it convenient to get around.  Check out the temples and monuments in Delhi, visit the hanging gardens in Mumbai, and definitely go drink some Darjeeling tea in Darjeeling itself.

A smaller country that isn’t as well known is Laos. This laid-back haven has plenty of amazing cuisine. It even boasts a national beer! Tubing on the Nam Song River is another great idea for the intrepid backpacker, so be sure to consider the slower-paced country of Laos.

China is a popular destination for tourists for a great reason: this country is awesome! With lots to see and do, Hong Kong is an indisputable great time for those who love the excitement of a big city. Don’t forget Beijing, and definitely go and visit the Great Wall of China!

Japan is an interesting country with juxtapositions of old and new. Tokyo is a wonderful example of modernity, with great architecture and some of Japan’s finest museums. If you’re looking for a taste of old Japan, visit Kyoto to see the shrines, temples, and gardens.

Saving Money

A few tips for those looking to save some money: hotels can get expensive, so check and see if there are hostels available. Don’t forget that some hostels charge for towels and linens, so consider bringing your own. In general, backpacking in Asia is fairly inexpensive, but bring more money than you think you need. Another thing to be aware of is that sometimes the “deal” that a local may offer you is actually a scam. It can be difficult to sort these out, so do some research into common tricks that are used in the country you’re visiting. When you’re traveling via train or bus, see if they have student discounts or multi-day passes; this can save you some money. Traveling overnight on a train or bus is also another effective money-saver as it combines travel and sleeping accommodations.

Backpacking in Asia can be a fun and varied experience. With lots of different and unique destinations, the continent’s many countries have a lot to offer backpackers. With these suggestions, you’ll soon be on your way to an exciting adventure. Happy trails!

South America is a popular destination for backpackers, and when you consider that the continent is overflowing with rainforests, archeological remains, beautiful scenery, and vibrant cities, it is no surprise. With so much to see and do, adventurous tourists have plenty of unique activities and cultural experiences to choose from. However, preparing for a trip—especially a backpacking trip—can be difficult. Follow the tips below to prepare for a truly memorable and extraordinary backpacking adventure through South America.

Passport

One of the most important aspects of your trip is your passport. You will need this to get there and back, and if you are visiting more than one country, you may need it to cross the borders, though this is unlikely. Be sure to check the visa requirements for each country you will be visiting. Most countries in South America allow tourists from the United States to enter with just their passport for up to 90 days. However, it’s always better to do your research and play it safe.

Make sure that you make photocopies of your passport and keep them separate from your physical passport. This way, if you lose your passport or if it is stolen, you can replace it easier. It is also a good idea to scan your travel documents and e-mail them to yourself. This way you have a physical copy as well as an electronic copy.

Spanish-English Dictionary/Phrase Book

While you travel throughout South America, you will probably encounter a few people who speak English, but it is a wonderful gesture and also quite fun to learn at least some of the language you’ll be immersed in. If you’ve never taken Spanish before, consider buying a computer program or going to some lessons with someone who does speak Spanish. You can also look up videos on YouTube that will focus on particular phrases good for travelers. And while you’re on the go, a phrase book and dictionary will help a lot, even if you end up just pointing to words. Don’t stress out about communication, though! It’s surprising how much you can communicate even without speaking the same language.

Clothing

You’re backpacking, so keep it light. Also, the clothing that you bring depends on which countries you’ll be visiting and when you’re traveling. However, it’s always safe to bring layers so that you can add clothing if you’re cold or take some off if it’s hot. Some people like to bring zip-off pants that convert to shorts. While these can be effective for changing climates and activities like hiking and sightseeing, just be aware that they do make you stand out as a tourist.

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Most hostels and hotels in South America offer laundry service that is typically very inexpensive. Take advantage of this, and you’ll be able to further cut down the amount of clothing you pack. However, if you do plan to consistently use laundry service, make sure to pack inexpensive, replaceable clothing. This way you’re not losing your favorite pair of shorts to a too-hot dryer.

Toiletries/Medication

For the most part, you probably won’t need to bring many toiletries. You’ll be able to buy what you need over there quite cheaply, plus you won’t have to deal with the hassle of getting it through airport security. Leave the bulky bottles at home.

For prescription medication, you should bring as much as you’ll need for the whole trip. Talk to your doctor to be sure that you’re prepared. If you’re diabetic or need syringes, just know that you’ll probably have to check your bag in the airport since they don’t allow syringes on planes. For over-the-counter medications, you can probably find them there, but it might be good to take some common ones like Tylenol so you have it in case you need it on the plane.

Packing Your Backpack

Ayngelina, a travel blogger from Bacon is Magic, gives a great tip when she says: “I will never travel without packing cubes again. These changed how I viewed packing my bag. Instead of rummaging through my bag it was simple and quick to take them in and out. If you don’t have them, believe me: you need them.” Having packing cubes makes organizing your backpack a snap and really helps keep things tidy during your trip, not just at the beginning.

So there you have it! Have fun in South America, and don’t forget that packing light is better than being weighed down!

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Anatomy of an Adventure Traveler

Start your adventure by clicking on the callouts or tabs

Various types of footwear you may need to consider:

Waterproof sandals:

Closed toe sandals are best – waterproof uppers provide good coverage, cap toe keeps toes protected, rubber outer-sole supplies traction.

Hiking Shoes:

Trail running is the most versatile option, make sure shoes are broken in beforehand; all types are made from leather and provide a high degree of ankle and foot protection – designed specifically for rough terrain with stiff and supportive mid-soles. Protects feet from rough terrain and outside elements.

Comfy trainers:

Best if built with heel contoured for stability, arch supports or anatomically contoured footbeds and padded collars. Keeps foot supported, provides smooth walking and ease on the joints.

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Feeling Adventurous?
We’ll see how extreme you really are.

How Extreme are You?

1. It’s not a real trip unless it’s off the grid
2. You have considered using a t-shirt as a tourniquet
3. Who needs a concierge when you have a Sherpa?
4. State Department warning? That’s a travel triple dog dare!*
5. Who needs photos when you can let your bruises tell your story
6. Nap while sky diving? Yeah, that sounds like a good idea
7. Hiking an active volcano? Just another nature walk.
8. Your gear is packed in your trunk at all times
9. You’ve gone to work sick so you can save your time off for a trip
10. You know how to ask for malaria pills in 6 languages
11. You have photos or video of you on a rock face
12. Your internal compass can lead you to clean water or the
    best watering hole depending upon which jungle traverse.
13. You have heard of via ferratta

*Disclaimer: We STRONGLY encourage you not to visit countries with active travel warnings.

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Alligator Wrestling

Location: Everglades, Florida

Alligator wrestling is not actually wrestling. It consists of several carefully planned stunts to force the alligator to do specific moves, such as opening it’s mouth and holding it open as you place your chin atop of it.

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