Backpacking Lifestyle – Is it For You?

What comes to mind when backpacking lifestyle is mentioned? A traveler who goes from one place to another bringing only the barest essentials in a backpack, perhaps? A lifestyle consisting of frequent low-cost travel and vacations? These are just some of the things that will be mentioned when talking about backpacking lifestyle but there is definitely more to it than these.

The Backpacker

Although there is no strict limitation with regards to age in backpacking, backpackers are generally young adults who have the time to travel. Most would have less family and work obligations which will allow them to pursue their interest. They need not necessarily be well-off financially but have a certain means of supporting their frequent travels to many different places. Early backpackers were associated with the so-called Hippie Trail of the 60s and 70s.

A backpacker is typically motivated to travel by a desire to learn more about different cultures around the world. Backpacking is seen as a better option to travel tours which tend to limit exposure only to select places. Backpackers are said to be identified as a certain group associated with non-institutionalized travel. A large number of backpackers come from Northern Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Israel although North Americans are fast catching up. Travelers coming from other regions such as Asia are also discovering the joys of backpacking.

What is Backpacking?

Backpacking is defined as a form of low-cost international travel which is largely characterized by independence of travelers from a prescribed travel itinerary. It may or may not include wilderness adventures depending on the specific characteristic of the place being visited. It is always associated with low-cost airlines and budget accommodations which specifically sets it apart from leisurely vacations.

Travels made through backpacking focuses on authenticity of discovery as opposed to the packaged version of travel tours. There is an intention to interact with locals more but there is an observation that current backpackers tend to put more focus on interacting with other backpackers which somehow defeats the purpose of authentic discovery of the place. Authentic learning still occurs however when backpackers learn about other cultures from fellow backpackers who come other countries.

Modern Backpacking

While the early backpackers traveled very light bringing only the barest of their personal belongings, modern backpackers appear to be going the way of flashpacking. Flashpacking is essentially as an affluent form of backpacking. It is very common to see backpackers bringing along expensive equipment like laptops, cameras, and PDAs in their desire to stay connected while traveling.

Backpackers who have more disposable income are said to be poshpacking. It is simply following a backpacking style of traveling with more comfort. Thus, instead of staying in hostels and other low-budget accommodation or riding the least costly form of transportation, poshpackers will be choosing hotels and transportation which offer more style as their money can afford.

My Say

Backpacking is a real lifestyle option for those who are into travel and learning. Whether one decides to choose the basic or the more comfortable style of doing it is beside the point. The important thing is to take the trip fully informed about the place of destination so that backpackers will come prepared and ready for the adventure. Travel books about the people, language, food, attraction, and culture of a place are always handy. Current information about accommodation, health and safety risks, and other pertinent information can always be checked through online resources. So what do you think, is the backpacking lifestyle for you?