Backpacking Questions...and Answers
original post: http://www.travelbackpacker.com/stories.php?story_id=302
Backpacking Questions...and Answers
February 19, 2003
by Samuel Harwin
Portland, Oregon, United States --
I recently received an email from a visitor to Travel Backpacker who was working on a project for university about Backpacking. What follows is her questions and some answers...enjoy:
Hello Sam!
I am currently a student at Texas A&M University and saw your website: Travel Backpacker. I am extremely interested in traveling and actually worked in London this past summer and then went backpacking for a month through Ireland, Germany, England, Italy, Switzerland and France. It was certainly the most amazing time of my life! Currently, I am writing a magazine article about backpacking for an upper level class and possibly to query to a travel magazine of some sort. I realize you are probably very busy, but I was wondering if you could answer a couple of questions for me:
What do you think is one of the key factors in how to save money (not spend as much) when backpacking or preparing to backpack?
How is backpacking around the world affordable for the average citizen?
Why is backpacking worth forking out the money?
Kim,
Sounds like an interesting project. I'll see what I can do to help. I'm also forwarding your message to a few friends who have some extensive backpacking experience aswell.
>>What do you think is one of the key factors in how to save money (not spend as much) when backpacking or preparing to backpack?
I think when it comes to this, the place you choose to go is key to saving (or spending) lots of money. I traveled through some countries in SE Asia for around $10-15/day and lived quite comfortably. As for saving money in the preparation, I would stray away from buying things you think you'll need and won't be able to buy at your destination... The truth is that many items, such as clothes and simple supplies are often MUCH cheaper at your destination. Also, when you buy clothes at your destination, you are more likely to blend in and the clothes will be suited for the climate.
>>How is backpacking around the world affordable for the average citizen?
Not sure what you mean by "average citizen". If you are talking about Americans, it's very affordable, assuming you have the time and can just take off. Again, the cost comes with the destination you choose. If you go to Hong Kong, you'll be spending upwards of $50/day, but nearby in Vietnam, you could live on $15/day.
>>Why is backpacking worth forking out the money?
Not sure how to approach this question. Well, if you've traveled extensively, you know that everyday is filled with new and exciting experiences and people. I had days where I woke up one place and slept in a new country at night, or when I spent almost 2 weeks on a secluded beach in Thailand and never got board. Just having a leisurely pace to explore the world is what makes it worth it. When you get back, you wonder how you could have gone this far in your life without such an experience and you soon look at the people around you who think you're crazy and wonder how they have not taken the world and explored.
My advice, if you are serious about backpacking, get away from Europe and really take yourself out of your comfort zone...S.America, Asia, India...just go.
best of luck,
sam
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Q1: How do you define “backpacking”? What do you think it is? (the cost limit/ transportation and accommodation way…etc)
Q2: Have you ever tried backpacking? Please share your most unforgettable experience with us. Or, will you want to try it in the future? why or why not?
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