There are many aspects in the backpacking world which couples as both a means to travel and a way of life away from the same old haunts at home. There is a rush to organize your life around your trip and do the best you can in planning all aspects of the trip as well as those creepy “unforeseen ones” which will bite you in the outback if your not a local savvy!
While backpacking is one of the most exciting times you still have to be aware of everything from having all your gear on your back and hopping from one place to another in all manner of ways that will get you there. While the thrill is exciting, it will mostly be daunting especially for first-timers. We took a quick look at some of the beginner’s tips and took some good advice in the process. These are a few key tips to think about on your travels and to help you along the way!
Always pack light and compact with all you will need for your first leg and while this one might seem pretty obvious, it’s surprising how often this is overlooked by many novice backpackers. The old methods of ‘I’ll-take-it-just-in-case’ does not work as the unsuspecting proponent will find out quickly. The art of what to pack how much and all of the other aspects are a diploma course in themselves so be sure you spend a long time learning the basic requirements for your excursion. Study, plan, research and focus in on your proposed route making sure you know the area you are traveling as well as the nature of the place.
Knowing you are going out there into the wild on your first trip out gives you an unbounded sense of pure freedom for sure and this is one of the brilliant things about backpacking which is actually having the freedom to be spontaneous. Those last-minute decisions that can lead you to the best shops, place to think or simply meeting a new person who can help you along your way. All of these things are each a treasured experience but never lose sight of the fact that you still need to be careful at all times.
Be aware of the bigger picture. With mobiles and cameras are so much a part of everyday travel nowadays and are invaluable for capturing those unforgettable moments which will be with you for life. When your trip is done there is nothing better than going through all the old snaps and remembering the fun that you had back then. This being said make sure to put your lens cap on now and again and breath the air whilst taking in those moments to treasure.
While you are traveling to your next port of call be sure you have got all of the laundry requirements sorted including that invaluable last pair of dry socks to hand! Not a lot of things will ruin your day like a pair of soaking wet socks on sodden feet with squelchy boots. Always keep a dry pair in a waterproof pocket near the top or side of your bag just in case.
Now you have arrived at your destination your planning will now kick in as you settle down to exploring the area in greater detail, meeting friendly locals, people and other like minded folk at your first stop-off point. If you have done your homework and are not a (wealthy person) you should at least have done some research into being self-sufficient along the way. When all of the buzz of the first leg of your journey completes its holiday mode you may well have to (if you have not already done so) know how to use your particular skills so you can get a part-time job doing something that comes more naturally like teaching children or other students how to speak your language.
The fact you are fully qualified in the “English” language is a big bonus if you know how to use it, let alone your longer-lasting bread and butter every step of the way! If you have made some planning there could well be a new job opportunity awaiting you upon your arrival and paying your rent, food, pleasure and any other need you may have along the way. Once you get on the books of some of these reputable agencies they can and will help you from country or port to port so to speak. Companies such as Cultures Connection a very reputable translation services company who translate documents for professional work and business people will be able to offer freelance work and use your high level language skills. A Good translation company will have lots of work for you so that you can keep earning.
Once you have perfected this kind of “pay as you go” backpacking there are truly no limits as to where the adventure of a lifetime can take you so you be the captain of your own ship while earning the money for the trip and having pre-planned your next job appointment in the next port!
