Backpacking
Freedom, adventure and light luggage: The best countries and routes for backpackers worldwide. Tips for beginners and experienced travellers.
Why Backpacking Is the Most Honest Way to Travel
Backpacking is more than just a way to travel – it is a mindset. With your backpack on, you are free, spontaneous and right in the middle of it all. You stay in hostels instead of luxury hotels, eat street food instead of restaurant menus and experience a country as it truly is.
Backpacking is no longer just for students and gap-year travellers. Professionals with two weeks of holiday also discover the world with a backpack – whether in Southeast Asia, South America or by Interrail across Europe.
In this guide you will find the six best backpacking destinations, real budget tips and everything you need to know for your first backpacking trip.
The 6 Best Backpacking Destinations
From the temples of Thailand to trains across Europe – these destinations are made for backpackers.
Thailand
Southeast AsiaThe ultimate beginner country for backpackers: affordable, safe, fantastic food and perfect infrastructure for backpackers.
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Vietnam
Southeast AsiaFrom north to south in 3-4 weeks: Vietnam offers one of the best backpacker routes in the world.
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Colombia
South AmericaThe trendiest backpacker destination in South America: Caribbean beaches, coffee region, salsa and Ciudad Perdida trekking.
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Portugal
EuropeWestern Europe's most affordable backpacker country: Lisbon, Porto, Algarve and Azores offer pure variety.
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Indonesia
Southeast AsiaOver 17,000 islands and endless possibilities: From Bali's yoga scene to Java's temples to Komodo dragons.
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Interrail (Europe)
EuropeBy train across all of Europe: Interrail is the ultimate freedom experience. Flexible routes, spontaneous stops and no flying.
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Backpacking Destinations Compared
| Destination | Budget | Flight Time | Best Season | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thailand | $ | 11h | Nov–Feb | Beginner Paradise |
| Vietnam | $ | 11h | Oct–Apr | North-South Route |
| Colombia | $ | 11h | Dec–Mar | Adventure & Culture |
| Portugal | $$ | 3h | Apr–Oct | Europe Entry |
| Indonesia | $ | 14h | Apr–Oct | Island Hopping |
| Interrail | $$ | – | May–Sep | Train Adventure |
10 Budget Tips for Backpackers
Travel cheaply, smartly and unforgettably – from experienced backpackers.
Pack less than you think
The golden rule: pack everything, then take half out again. A 40-50 litre backpack is enough for 90% of all trips.
Book hostels with kitchens
Cooking yourself saves enormously. In Southeast Asia, street food is often cheaper than cooking yourself though.
Always have a copy of your passport
Digital copy in the cloud and a paper copy in your backpack.
Use night buses and trains
Transport and accommodation in one: night buses and trains save a hostel night and time.
Travel health insurance is essential
Annual international health insurance costs from 10 euros per year and can save thousands.
Download offline maps
Download Google Maps or Maps.me offline. Many regions have no internet.
Buy a local SIM card
Buy a local SIM with data package at the airport – much cheaper than roaming.
Haggling is part of the culture
In Asia and South America, bargaining is part of shopping. Stay friendly and have fun.
Use a travel budget app
Apps like Trail Wallet or Trabee help keep track of spending.
Couchsurfing and Workaway
Stay for free with locals (Couchsurfing) or work for board and lodging (Workaway/WWOOF).
Reise-SIM-Karten für über 200 Länder
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