Are you looking for backpacking tips? I’ve been where you are. That queasy feeling in your gut? It won’t go away until you’re prepared for your adventure.
And with over 10.3 million backpackers exploring the United States (nevermind the rest of the world!), it’s tricky to find actual, hands-on advice that makes sense.
Luckily, I’ve got 9 excellent backpacking tips for first-timers. Even if you're a backpacking pro, these tips will keep you safe, happy, and free to explore.
Ready? Let’s roll.
My 9 Backpacking Tips at a Glance
Here are my 9 hard-won tips and tricks for backpacking:
- Check your paperwork
- Take only what you need
- Create a budget
- Have a to-do list
- Learn the local lingo
- Keep an eye on the weather
- Bring some entertainment
- Phone home
- Try everything
I know it sounds like a lot, but these tips are worth their weight in gold. Let’s take a closer look at each, starting with my favourite backpacking tip: always check your paperwork.
1. Check Your Paperwork
This tip is close to my heart. Whether on a long weekend adventure getaway or backpacking across several countries, I always ensure my paperwork is in order.
I know it sounds dull, but it is important.
Now, the paperwork you’ll need depends on the type of backpacking adventure you’re on.
At the very least, I always carry the following with me:
- Passport: Your passport is your most important document. Ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
- Visas: You may need visas depending on your nationality and the countries you plan to visit. Check the visa requirements for each country and apply in advance if necessary.
- Travel insurance policy: A good travel insurance policy is crucial. Carry a copy of your policy and keep the insurance company's contact information handy. I use SafetyWing. Their cover is fantastic in case of medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.
- Prescription medication: If you take prescription medication, bring a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor. I'm a diabetic, so this is a must.
- Emergency contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including family members, your bank, and your travel insurance provider.
Here’s a bonus pro backpacking tip: Keep copies of your passport, visa pages, and any other important documents. Store them separately from the originals.
If you’re tech-savvy, like me, you can store digital copies of all important documents online or email them to yourself.
Got that? Great. Let’s move on to my next top tip.
2. Take Only What You Need
I know the feeling. It’s easy to want to pack your entire wardrobe. But carrying your entire wardrobe on your back isn’t fun. It’s going to turn your adventure into a nightmare.
So, only pack what you need. I use this backpacker checklist to ensure I only take the necessary items.
My pro tip? Bring versatile clothing. I typically wear anything black, such as jeans, shirts, and comfortable shoes. You get bonus points if you can wear your clothing more than once.
Since I’m taking only what I need, I find it easier to stick to my budget.
3. Create a Budget
I always create a budget before I set off on any backpacking adventure. My typical budget consists of the following:
- Accommodation: Hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnb.
- Food and drinks: Daily meals, snacks, and occasional dining out.
- Transportation: Flights, trains, buses, and local transit.
- Activities and tours: Entry fees, guided tours, and adventure activities.
- Travel insurance: Essential for emergencies and peace of mind.
- Miscellaneous expenses: Souvenirs, laundry, and unexpected costs.
- Emergency fund: Extra cash for unexpected situations or emergencies.
Having a rough idea of your spending limit is definitely helpful, but sticking to a strict budget can take the joy out of your trip.
Spontaneous outings, adrenaline-pumping adventures, fancy dinners, and late-night parties all come with a price tag.
The last thing you want is to miss out on a lifelong memory or a life-changing experience just to save a few bucks.
These moments are priceless and the very reason you’ve been saving your hard-earned money. So, by all means, have a spending plan, but don’t feel guilty if you go over budget—embrace it and enjoy every moment.
That brings me to my next backpacking tip.
4. Have a To-Do List
Whether you're a meticulous planner or a free-spirited wanderer, knowing the top attractions a city offers is always helpful.
While you can find lists online, only you can tailor a list that perfectly matches your personality and interests.
For me? I love visiting museums, hiking and getting involved with the local culture.
Only you can create a list of activities you're sure to love. A bit of planning ensures you leave each city with wonderful memories and no regrets.
And if you don’t know what type of traveller you are and what activities would appeal to you, don’t worry! Recently, I found this Adventure Travel Personality Quiz.
I am an Owl! Try it out and see what type of traveller you are and what sort of activities will appeal to your personality.
5. Learn the Local Lingo
As a culture fan, I’m fond of grabbing Duolingo and brushing up on the local lingo before I backpack through a new country. Why?
Because knowing a few basic phrases shows respect and makes it easier to meet new people.
And on this topic, remember to brush up on the local culture. A bit of research can help you avoid accidentally offending anyone.
For example, tipping is customary in the United States, in Spain the siesta affects business hours, and in Singapore, littering, smoking, or spitting in public are prohibited.
Understanding these customs ensures a smoother and more respectful travel experience.
Obviously, if you're on a local backpacking trip in your own backyard, this tip won’t be so useful, but my next tip is essential, no matter where you go.
6. Keep an Eye on the Weather
This might seem obvious, but it's often the simple things we overlook: always keep an eye on the weather.
Unless you have a built-in weather sensor (who does?), checking the forecast and planning accordingly will serve you well.
I typically use WeatherPro (the mobile app) to help me track the weather.
Knowing the weather forecast before you travel is crucial. It affects what you wear, what you eat, and the activities you can enjoy.
You don’t want to be bundled up in layers during a 35-degree heatwave or attempting a scenic hike in the pouring rain.
Now that I’ve covered all the essentials, it’s time to look at some of my favourite backpacking tips for an unforgettable experience.
7. Bring Some Entertainment
Whether you're jet-setting or taking the scenic route, you'll have a lot of downtime while in transit.
And here’s the sad truth: even the shortest trips can feel endless or lonely without something to occupy your mind.
If you're a TV or movie buff, bring a laptop, tablet, or phone loaded with shows and movies.
I love reading, so I always have a book with me. I also tend to pick up new ones along the way.
Even a video game, a puzzle book, or a travel journal can make the time fly by and help you reach your destination in no time. This is where my Steam Deck comes in handy! It’s excellent for playing games on the go.
8. Phone Home
Always phone home. My mother would kill me if I forgot to phone home while backpacking.
Usually, during some downtime, I hop on WhatsApp and connect with my loved ones.
This downtime is also fantastic for sharing my amazing stories and photos taken with my best hiking camera. This is when I get to tell my family how much fun I’m having.
Remember, your family cares about you and will be eager to know how your backpacking adventure is going. Phoning home is a win-win; it cures homesickness for you and brightens their day.
Are you ready for my final backpacking tip? Let’s get into it.
9. Try Everything
Backpacking lets you push boundaries. You get to step out of your comfort zone, literally!
It brings new challenges your way. My best advice?
Try them all and have no regrets. It doesn’t have to make sense or seem like a great idea, but you’ll never know unless you try.
Learn to make paella or salsa dance. Tackle that plate of snails. Sing karaoke with locals. Go off-road quad biking.
Whatever you wouldn’t normally do, do it. Embrace everything that comes your way; you’ll learn so much about yourself and end up with incredible stories.
My Final Thoughts
And there you have it: 9 backpacking tips that’ll make you look like a pro. You can use these tips, whether you’re backpacking Europe, or just across the state. Ready? Great. Now go.