Urban backpacking
Photo: KF at English Wikipedia, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Urban backpacking is a form of budget travel focusing on flexibility and low cost, usually sleeping in hostels and other budget accommodation.
For information on travelling through uninhabited areas, sleeping in tents or cabins, see wilderness backpacking.
UnderstandIn this context, the term "backpacker" refers to a budget traveler, gap-year traveler, or student who is spending an extended period of time overseas, possibly working or volunteering.
DestinationsBackpackers know no borders and can be found travelling all parts of the globe. Famous destinations have long included Australia and New Zealand, Western and Central Europe, South America, India, and Southeast Asia.
Get aroundBackpacking works best in areas where public transportation is readily available, both between cities and within them (such as much of Europe).
WearYou might not be able to carry more than a few days' worth of clothing, due to limited storage space, and laundry facilities where you're staying could be expensive or non-existent (or at least difficult to find).
CarryUnlike the business traveller who can expect their upmarket hotel to provide full services, you need to carry:
EatBackpackers often purchase ingredients locally and cook their own meals, as this is the cheapest option. Many hostels have well-equipped kitchens for this purpose. Kitchen etiquette demands:
DrinkBackpackers all over the world are generally renowned for their drinking of alcoholic beverages. However, this is usually limited to local beer and other cheap drinks. Don't overdo it, and respect local customs.
SleepBackpackers favour cheap hostel, B&B and hotel accommodation. Other popular ways of travelling and saving on accommodation costs include all inclusive coach tours, camping and hiring a campervan.
Stay safeSee also pickpockets and common scams for information on security measures.
Stay healthyMost backpacks and some clothing should be treated with insecticide to reduce risk of various annoyances and of infections spread by bugs.
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Urban backpacking" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: KF at English Wikipedia, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons