Top ten travel hacks for backpackers

Are you planning the ultimate backpacking trip and are looking for some great tips to help you prepare and start your adventure? We want to help you out with some advice that we’ve picked up from our travels as well as some we’ve heard on the road from experienced backpackers.

1. Don’t over plan your whole trip
Leaving room for spontaneity in your travel plans will help you explore places you’d never think to visit. While you should research some areas and find places that you want to visit, don’t try to plan out every day of your trip or jampack your itinerary so that you have no free time. Scheduling some free time or a few free days will give you the opportunity to explore an area off the beaten path and will allow you to have some unforgettable experiences that other travelers are likely to miss.

2. Buy the right sized backpack
Bigger is not always better. When buying your backpack, you should be careful not to buy anything too large. Having a bigger backpack will likely lead you to overpack to fill the space which will be more difficult to manage later on as you pick up souvenirs and have more belongings to pack and repack on your travels. One of the most common pieces of advice for backpackers is to pack everything you think you need, then take out half. Find a backpack that will fit just what you need and not more.

3. Pack the right way
Packing your backpack will get easier with practice, but when you’re just starting out, you should know that it will be easier to load and unload if you’re packing the right way. Be sure to roll your clothes instead of folding or just throwing them in. This will help you save some space and to help pack your belongings securely. Try to pack your bulkiest belongings in the middle (closest to your back) to distribute the weight where it is easiest for your body to carry. Also, pack the top of your backpack with the items you’re going to anticipate using first. For example, if you know you’re going to rest when you arrive at your destination, pack your pajamas or lounge clothes at the top where you’ll easily be able to grab them.

4. Bring a waterproof bag cover
Another piece of advice you’ll always here backpackers say is to bring a waterproof bag cover. You never know when you’ll be caught in the rain and having a wet pack will add a ton of extra weight, not to mention that it will probably be very uncomfortable! A waterproof bag cover will help keep your backpack and its contents nice and dry.

5. Invest in a global SIM card
Investing in a global SIM card, such as those made by BNESIM, is the most convenient way to stay connected while you’re abroad. BNESIM has excellent coverage and no roaming fees so that you can call, text, and use data from anywhere in the world at an affordable price. The ability to call and use your phone is crucial to backpackers for safety and to help you navigate new places, as well as to share your experiences on social media or with your friends and family.

6. Pack layers
As we’ve mentioned, the weather is unpredictable. Instead of bringing bulky coats, bring along items of clothing that you can layer so you can add or remove clothing according to the local weather.

7. Buy wisely
When buying souvenirs, be careful only to buy items that will easily fit into your backpack without adding much weight or bulk. If you’ve already purchased something that you can’t fit, consider mailing it home or exchanging it in favor of an item that will be easy to take with you. Remember that you’ll probably want souvenirs from every place you’ll visit so don’t buy too much in one place and lose room in your backpack later.

8. Take precautions
Many countries will require some vaccinations before you enter. Do some research beforehand to see what vaccinations and medications you might need before you leave and visit your doctor so that you’re all good to go when you’re on the road.

9. Buy travel insurance
Buying Travel insurance before you go will help you to recover any valuable items that you might lose or be stolen during your journey. Travel insurance will also help cover any medical expenses that may arise in a foreign country, as well as help to pay for any travel interruptions or delays.

10. Be aware of common scams and tricks
Do some research before you depart about common scams and tricks that travelers face in the countries you plan to visit. Being aware of these schemes will help to keep you safe and out of trouble while you’re abroad. Be wary of people who approach you on the street, schemers will be able to spot a vulnerable tourist and will single you out. Trust your gut and stay safe.

Looking for a global SIM card? Check out BNESIM.com to find the right card for you.