8 Things to Know Before Back-Packing Around the Globe
If you are planning to set off on a round-the-world backpacking trip for the first time, chances are your nerves are frazzled!
You might even be considering trashing the whole thing because you do not feel prepared or ready to take on such an intense journey into the unknown. If that sounds like you, do not cancel – just do more research.
There is almost nothing that can be achieved in life if you stay in the same place, doing the same things with the same people for eight or ninety-odd years. That is surviving and not thriving.
Below are eight things that you need to know about your upcoming adventure:
- Travel With A Friend
Travel with a friend, if possible.
Traveling with a buddy or in a group can save you money. It means you get to split travel and accommodation costs.
Besides, what is a backpacking trip without someone to enjoy it with?
Think of all the memories you will make together and the stories you will share with everyone when you return.
- Political Tension
When it comes to backpacking trips and outdoor adventures, many people choose the more affordable destinations with the logic of being able to visit more countries and enjoy more experiences.
While that is an excellent strategy, you must research each country thoroughly before packing your bags. Some countries, particularly the less wealthy ones, experience a lot of political tension with the running of that country.
For example, Mozambique is a popular destination for backpackers but unfortunately, that country is experiencing riots and civil unrest at the moment, making it an unsafe area to travel to.

- Finances
Before you jet off halfway across the world – make sure your bank knows.
You never want to arrive in a brand new country with NO money and no way to get any in a hurry.
Double-check with your bank before your departure date and take some cash with you for emergencies. Depending on your destination country, cash might be the best option throughout your adventure but you do not want to be carrying a large amount of it at any one time.
- Insurance
If you are a first-time backpacker, you will likely encounter many new challenges and experiences.
If you can learn anything from the seasoned pros, learn to get the appropriate insurance coverage. One of the most important things to have as a backpacker is trip cancellation insurance.
This insurance is curated to protect travelers from financial loss if something unforeseen forces them to cancel their trip. It will reimburse you for non-refundable expenses due to unexpected circumstances.
- Language Barrier
Learning a new language takes time, practice, and a patient teacher.
If you have none of those at your disposal, it might be worth sticking to learning a few key phrases. Mastering the basics of conversation can take you a long way and make a difference to your trip.
This is one of the best ways to overcome language barriers while backpacking.
- Cultural Experiences
Do not be afraid to get stuck into local experiences.
One of the main reasons to go backpacking all over the world is to experience new and exciting things. Research the cultural traditions of your destination country to gain insight into how and why their culture developed and evolved over the years.
Be cognizant of being respectful always, an ounce of respect goes a long way with the residents.
- Food Safety
The internet is not short of horror stories about new food in new countries.
The simple fact is that your digestive system is not used to the local cuisine, so you can safely expect a few issues at the start of your journey. To keep those issues to a minimum while enjoying your trip; wash your hands before every meal.
Choose safe foods if you have a sensitive stomach, and drink bottled water wherever possible.
- Book Accommodation
Backpackers typically have a small budget to work with, so do not forget to book accommodation in advance whenever you can.
Make a rough itinerary of what you want to do in each city and book accommodation as close to the action as possible, that will help reduce transport costs.
Hostels are a cheap option but you will typically be sharing a dorm room with other backpackers – keep your possessions close to you but keep an open mind for making new friends.
To End
Apart from all the wonderful memories you will make on your adventure, backpacking teaches valuable lessons in being independent and learning to love yourself the way you are.
Backpacking is about more than traveling. It is about experiencing the world in a hyper-minimalist way. Once you find your rhythm, the rest will fall into place.