It is easy to say that the real fun of a backpacking journey is the fact that it is normally unplanned and impulsive. You can go where you want to, you can hitch a ride or you can travel by buses or by local trains and you can make spur of the moment decisions about where to stay and where to eat. But, a certain amount of preparation is mandatory before you begin any journey anywhere.There are plenty of useful online guides such as Backpackers World
Your first decision of course is your destination – at least the country and the region you shall be travelling in. Once that has been nailed down then there are a few other basics which all of us know about, but occasionally tend to forget!
Travel documents such as visas and passports are a must. There are some countries which give you a visa on the border or on entry, but many require that you leave home with a valid visa. Health insurance is becoming more and more imperative nowadays and it is a good option to travel with.
Check out the weather of the region carefully. Try not to travel during the rainy season – since not only will it make it difficult to travel outdoors – but also your gear will get spoilt. Be prepared with the right clothes.
Do not overpack your backpack – it should only be 3/4ths full. Not only will this make it easy to carry it but it will also give you space to buy any local goods. Wash one, wear one – is a good axiom for all backpackers. Local clothing will be cheap and can be discarded before leaving the region.
Have your next of kin and home contact numbers written clearly and placed in your backpack. In the unforeseen circumstance, where you may get injured or may fall sick – it will make it easier for others to contact your family.
Plan well – and then go ahead and have a great backpacking holiday.
