The 10 best tips and tricks to go backpacking

We tell you a few things about going backpacking, backpacking and saving on the trip.
Backpackers have to consider many things when planning a trip. In addition to the usual list of any traveler or tourist (the weight of the suitcase, flights, accommodation, activities ...) also have to consider trying to make the budget last as long, prepare to change transport several times ... and adapt to be always in movement.
Here are the best tips to prepare a successful backpacking adventure. Whether you are traveling in Europe or hiking in the Amazon, these tips will help you make the experience unforgettable.

Before going

1. Investigate
   Obvious, but as much as it is, we must not stop doing it. Although a good part of the experience of going backpacking should be spontaneity and freedom of movement, this does not mean that you go to investigate your destination or destinations. Taking a look at the travel guides will help you inspire you to structure your trip and, by the way, it will still make you more eager to embark on the adventure.

2. Pack your bag with a head
   A good backpacker (like everyone else) has to adhere to the restrictions for airline luggage, but he also has to pack his suitcase thinking that he will have to carry the backpack on his back more than just any tourist. So pack your suitcase with your head. Do you really need 40 pairs of socks? 10 books? 9 cans of moisturizer? Remember that even if you are abroad you can always wash your clothes and buy cleaning products or cosmetics, so save yourself the space for the things that really matter. And although you may have a tight budget, things like a digital book reader or a tablet will save you a lot of space.

In the same way, the way you pack your suitcase can save you time. Save the essential things (the ones you will use the most) above all to access them without having to undo the backpack. The best place for shoes is at the bottom of the luggage.

1. Book in advance or not do it, that's the question
   We return to the theme of spontaneity and improvisation. Will you plan the trip and accommodations in advance or will you leave the agenda blank? The answer is reduced to time. Are you going to take a three-week trip through France or a six-week trip in Southeast Asia? Maybe if you go backpacking for a short time (two months or less) having the itinerary somewhat defined will help you make the most of your time away. However, if you have months and months ahead it is difficult to make detailed plans. A good idea may be to book the first two or three destinations in advance, then let yourself be carried away by the adventurous spirit.

While traveling

1. Save money on attractions
   Once you are in the race you will realize that money flies much earlier than you thought. Do not worry, they are not stealing (at least, we hope). What happens is that you are spending as if you were on a normal vacation, and not going backpacking. Do not panic! There are many ways to save money without having to sacrifice the main tourist attractions you have always dreamed of visiting. If you have a student card remember to teach it whenever you can, as if it were a VIP pass, because it could be the way to get free or get discount in places. Many museums have days (or hours) where they are free.

2. How to eat
   You are going to visit many places later and it is normal that you want to try new things. How to adjust to the budget with all that delicious food looking you in the face? It would be great to always be able to eat in good restaurants, but it would cost you dearly. Treat yourself and eat somewhere cool every once in a while, but we recommend that you try the street food the rest of the time (in Southeast Asia it's finger-licking) or buy at the supermarket and cook the hostel. The latter, incidentally, is a good way to start a conversation with other travelers.

3. Do not waste long trips
   It can be easy to disconnect during long journeys but they are usually a fabulous opportunity to enjoy the experience. If the person next to you is nice, you can try to talk to him / her. If they are local, they can also give you some good advice. If you are not very nice, take the opportunity to write your impressions about the trip in a notebook, consult the guide and get the idea of ​​what you want to see in your next destination. Without being superficial, you will see yourself very cool.

4. Talk to people
   Backpackers can end up in two plots. While some only relate to their compatriots (like "Spaniards all over the world") there are also snobs who only and exclusively want to talk to the local people. Both have good and bad things. The ideal would be to combine the two attitudes and enjoy the trip. While other travelers may give you advice on what they have seen, interacting with the local population can be incredibly useful ... as well as enriching.

5. Enjoy your destination to the fullest
   You will spend a lot of time on trains and buses watching movie landscapes. When you finally reach your destination, try to enjoy the maximum of not having a boss or anyone to tell you what to do. Avoid public transport and go as much as you can. You will discover things you would not know in any other way, such as urban art, beautiful shops and good cafes. Or maybe rent a bicycle and take a tour of the countryside. Try to imbibe as much of each place as you can before re-hanging your backpack and leaving.

On the way back

1. Do not bore people
   Yes, you have made the trip of your life and you have many stories to tell about romances on the road, adventures, incredible moments ... but for those who have stayed at home perhaps your Facebook status and photos of sunsets on Instagram are more than enough . When people ask you about your trip, try to be brief. If you want to know more, they will ask you. After all, you do not travel to show off, do you?

2. Immortalize your memories
   You will have collected hundreds of notes, travel notes, photos, tickets to places and memories of all kinds during the trip. Much better than leaving them lying in the bottom of the suitcase, why do not you take advantage of them and turn them into an album? Or if your memories are digital, maybe you could make a video with the photos and videos, besides that song that you have not stopped listening during the whole adventure. And always take some physical memory like a kimono from Japan or a magnet for the fridge. It's a good way to start a conversation with someone ... if you want to tell them more about your great trip.

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