The first thing you need to know about backpacking is that it is in no way what you would call 'esoteric', and is pretty easy in almost every country. Yes, backpacking can get very frustrating at times, but it is not difficult at all. All you really need is a dash of gumption and you are good to go. Traveling to places with names like Istanbul or Lhasa might sound very exciting and adventurous, but there have been many elderly people who have already found their way around these places (backpackers don't really have to be young) and you are not the only one who is doing this.
The biggest industry in the world today is tourism, and most places have already been visited by thousands of backpackers. These days, the world has become a lot more accessible, and heading to Europe or New Zealand to study for a year with a small stop-off at Thailand does not mean you are backpacking. Backpacking is solely about making choices. How often in life do you get the time, opportunity and money to just travel? When you do, do you want to rough it out or go for a leisurely holiday? If it is the latter option, then this article is not for you. The article deals with tips and other relevant information for the travel obsessed backpacker.
A guide to safe backpacking within a budget:
Look before you leap - When traveling to a foreign country, make sure you know all the constitutional laws of the country. Browse through travel websites online or buy a guide of the place. Collect travel tips from friends and family. Conduct research on your destination before you go there. With so many travel books available, you are sure to find out about cheap accommodation, food, and cheap modes of transport.
Get travel insurance - Insurance is very important for the backpacker traveling within a limited budget. Without insurance, an injury or illness can ruin your vacation and even your bank balance! So, if you are going bungee jumping or kayaking or you are going to be traveling on a bike or moped, make sure your insurance policy covers you.
Safety tips - If you are traveling on a tight budget, just imagine what would happen if some scoundrel of a thief walked away with all your cash! Never carry large amounts of cash on you. Instead, opt for traveler's checks and a few international credit cards.
Mix with the Locals - Mixing with the locals can be very helpful - you will surely find out the cheapest places to stay at, the best places for good yet cheap food, cheap pubs and bars to go to, cheap modes of transport.
