Tourist traps are the very antithesis of all that’s good and wholesome about traveling. Whether it’s a tuk-tuk ride via a family jewelry store, a souvenir shop at the foot of an ancient monument, or an all-inclusive beachside resort, they overpromise and underwhelm, overprice and underdeliver.
They can also be the difference between a great trip and a flat-out disaster, and in some cases, they can even influence the way you think about a certain city, country, or culture.
Luckily for you though, most tourist traps are garish and therefore relatively easy to spot.
That is if you know what you’re looking for.
So, if you want to make the most out of your next backpacking adventure, check out our 5 tips for avoiding tourist traps like a pro.
The most common tourist trap you’re likely to encounter is the restaurant with menus in multiple languages and flags adorning every page. Complete with poor translations that leave you wondering whether you can actually order fried baby seals or if what they really mean is fried baby eels.
Not to be defined only by their questionable list of dishes though, these places almost always have a smooth-talking host with a movie star smile stationed out the front, with the goal in mind to catch your eye and shepherd you into the dimly lit establishment with promises of free bread and an endless supply of olives.
Before you even know what’s going on, you’re looking at a menu that’s clearly designed for tourists, with dishes from what appears to be every country in the world… except for the one you’re visiting.
Don’t give in and trade speed and convenience for quality and authenticity. It most definitely ain’t worth it.
If you’re the type of individual who prefers asking for restaurant recommendations in-person, rather than putting your faith in an online review site, here’s a little hack you’re going to love.
The next time you check into your accommodation, ask the employees where they like to eat without actually asking for the ‘best’ place since ‘best’ can mean different things for different people.
Instead, hit up a person working behind the desk or the resident tour guide as to where they’d go if they had to take someone special out for a specific occasion, such as an anniversary dinner, boozy birthday lunch or even breakfast with their beloved mother.
This way you can avoid run-of-the-mill recommendations and quickly find a place to eat you know the locals go to.
Funnily enough, the most famous places in the world don’t advertise themselves as being ‘world-famous’.
You probably won’t run into a hiking company in Nepal that offers tours of the world-famous Mount Everest, nor will you see guided walks around the world-famous Buckingham Palace.
You may, however, eat the worst steak of your life at a world-famous Argentinean restaurant (located in Vietnam), or feel cheated by Mother Nature when you fail to see the world-famous sunset (on the windswept steps of Mongolia).
The best places don’t need to advertise themselves as being ‘world famous’, because the immutable laws of attraction dictate that if something is worth seeing, people will make the effort on their own, hackneyed slogan be damned.
First-time travelers and backpackers may feel daunted by public transport in a foreign country.
Crowded trains in India, for example, can be a nightmare for people who value personal space, and nobody will begrudge you a desperate prayer before boarding a chicken bus in Central America. But the truth is that public transport isn’t so bad in the sense that it offers two distinct advantages.
The first of which is the fact that it’s affordable, which is especially important if plan on staying outside of the main tourist zone, and the second is that it gives you a chance to really immerse yourself in a different culture to the point that you’ll feel like a true local… minus the giant backpack.
Facebook groups can be a powerful tool in helping you peel back the touristy façade and discover where to go for the best food, sights, and things to see.
Expat groups are particularly helpful as they allow you to engage with people in the know who are often ready to share their experiences, given they’ve probably fallen for a few tourist traps themselves.
Asking them what they do on the weekend to pass the time will give you plenty of ideas for your own itinerary, as well as starting a discussion about the places they love to take their out-of-town friends to when they visit. Not to mention local restaurants and businesses will also regularly post in the group, meaning you can keep tabs on upcoming events or special occasions and avoid a serious case of FOMO.
Drones have soared in popularity and quality in the past few years, however, not everyone can fly one! The thought of flying a drone can be overwhelming and if you want to film with one the challenge can increase substantially. Furthermore, drone video editing is not a simple hobby as it requires skill and learning.
You may have experimented with flying a drone as a hobby, perhaps capturing some amazing shots and now you are keen to enhance your skills. If you are serious about drone video editing, you need to be aware it will require research and commitment. This article will offer you some simple editing techniques to make your shots look more dynamic, interesting, and professional.
When using drones in your work, there are a few technical points to consider. The ten tricks below will outline some skills to improve your drone video editing while giving you the ability to capture your exciting adventures from an aerial perspective…
Inexperienced drone users tend to jolt the camera to the left and right attempting to get another shot. This isn’t necessary as during editing you can smooth out movements to create sweeping imagery going from one shot to the next. A professional drone shot should feel natural and organic.
Once your angle has been found, simply do a careful, slow-motion panning action with the drone. By moving the drone instead of the camera, you are on the correct path to capturing your perfect shot.
Natural light is a drone’s best friend. Plan to shoot your video during the “golden hour” (just before sunset) or first light (just after dawn). The light at these times will provide the necessary dramatic contrast to really set your video above the rest, plus the colors will be warm and ethereal, captivating your audience.
During the flight of your drone, aim to map the flight path close to large elements such as rock faces and trees. By doing this, depth and motion will automatically be added to your video.
A common difficulty for drone pilots is when, during shooting, the drone banks a little too much and the blades show up in the frame. Our top tip to avoid this is to fly the drone up until the point you want the shot to end. After this point just fly the drone backward and reverse the video during the editing process.
Maintaining the natural movement in a scene as much as possible is the dream for any videographer. Sometimes however it is necessary to attach a filter to your camera to improve the video quality.
Examples
In the world of drone video shooting, flying backward can modify a shot from an establishing shot to a reveal! When flying backward you should be able to notice details being recorded such as trees, buildings and people from a whole new aspect.
Only once you have found your own unique shooting perspective will you truly separate your drone video editing from the rest. Always be on the lookout for extraordinary opportunities and locations (just be sure to avoid flying above crowded areas).
It is essential to avoid your drone video edit appearing to slow on screen. This commonly happens in shots of large-scale environments. If this occurs it is advisable that when editing the footage, it is sped up, as this adds extra movement to the sequence.
To create a professional edit, you must ensure the frame rate is never at 30 frames per second (as this will make your video look like reality TV)! Your video should always be shooting at 24 fps, assuming you want to shoot in 4K resolution to get that quality movie edit on your video. Shooting in this resolution means you will capture the tiniest details and give you the option to crop the frame during editing.
We all appreciate the beauty of drone shots, however, they can be overused. If you want to succeed in the drone video editing business, you must pick your highest quality, exceptional shots. Only capture your drone footage when it is necessary for your video as this will give it the high impact it deserves.
You have the drone, the camera and your unique vision. Get creative by following these 10 expert tips and you will start to see the results in your footage. Finally, please take care when operating drones, know the laws in the area where you are planning your shoot and remember, drones should be treated as tools, not toys!
The rustle of the wind in the leaves, the crackle of the campfire, the quiet of dawn as the sun rises, nothing compares to the beauty and serenity of camping. It’s no wonder that many of us want to spend more time in nature and less time cooped up in the office. Luckily, we find ways to get away and enjoy nature while we can.
If you’ve ever considered dropping everything and backpacking, car camping, or even hiking across the country, you have probably wondered how others make it work financially. Here are some of them.
For most of us, it comes naturally to want to capture the beauty of our surroundings. If you hike with a camera or a smartphone, don’t forget to take the time to take some photos. Documenting your expedition isn’t just a great way to preserve your favorite memories, it’s a way to share those memories with others.
If you want to make a little extra cash, you can sell your photos to stock photography websites or to campgrounds to use on their websites. Most stock photo sites like Shutterstock will pay you a royalty or a percentage of the price of the photo, so you can make anywhere from $3 to $80 per photo.
You can also find little markets to sell your photo prints to when you stop by towns. If you want to take the time, you can also offer your photos to be printed and sold through photographic art websites. They will often buy the rights to your pictures or pay you a commission when one sells.
The latest trend in outdoor gear brands is to show people how durable and helpful their products are through real hikers and campers using their gear to the extreme. They can put a boot in a mechanic step tester non-stop for ten weeks, but nothing beats the real thing. Companies want to show that their products can hold up under real conditions.
Check out some of the big brand’s websites and see if they’re looking for testers. Or try emailing them and asking to test their products. Even if they don’t advertise the need, many will still want you to try out their gear. Even if they don’t pay you, you can often score some free, or highly discounted, merchandise. Most companies want to capture part of the growing outdoor industry.
Share your stories. Share your pictures. Keep your friends and family up-to-date on your progress. As a blogger, you can keep a record of your trip and make a little extra money. All you have to do is register your expedition’s domain name, design your site with a template, and start writing. You can even make a little extra on the same site by selling your photographs.
What should you write about? Write about anything that comes to mind. People want to know what you’re up to. Not many people get to drop everything and getaway. Your experience is unique, so your stories and updates will naturally interest your audience. If you pick up enough followers, you can even find sponsors and affiliate partnerships to help promote the best gear.
If you tend to get lonely out there in the wilderness, you can become a guide temporarily. These jobs allow you to live outside and enjoy nature and the company of like-minded people.
As a guide, you can teach novice campers and hikers how to survive and make an impact on our natural world by sharing sustainable and Earth-friendly practices. Guides need the know-how of camping and hiking, but they also need to have people skills. Some of the best hikes I’ve been on have been with people didn’t know at first. It’s especially exciting to teach kids and young adventures about nature and survival.
Some trail guides are assigned to distribute information and help campers and hikers learn more about the history of the trails. This will help make you more knowledgeable about the history of our outdoors and wildlife, too. If you’re considering a job as a camping guide look into getting a camping survival kit.
Backpacking or camping across the country will take some time. Why rush? You can always take a break and be a campsite host for a while. If you find yourself not wanting to leave a particular camp, ask the park or owner if they’re interested in trying out a host.
As a host, you make sure campers are respectful of the property and safe. You can also help struggling campers be more comfortable and confident. This can be a great way to save money by not paying for a campsite and earn you a little extra for food and supplies.
You’ll meet loads of great people and maybe even learn more about the region.
Properly prepare for your trip with everything you need and nothing you don’t. If you don’t have quite as much time, you can always consider car camping across the country.
Hiking across the country truly is a dream that few people get to live. If you’ve considered letting it all go and getting out there in the wild, learn as much as you can before you go. Prepare for emergencies and have a blast. If you find you need to make a bit of cash, try out of these ideas and be as resourceful as you can. Happy camping. Happy hiking. And happy memories!
Whether you’re traveling for several weeks, or even just a weekend, there’s one thing you don’t want to do: over-pack. It’s a pain to schlep around an oversized bag, and carrying around stuff you don’t actually need is unnecessary! Use these proven tips to travel light (and cheaply) during your next trip.
One of the best ways to prevent over-packing (and overspending) is by planning ahead. Specifically, when it comes to what you’re going to be putting in your suitcase, put in some thought ahead of time and make an actual packing list that will help guide you. A great way to do this is by having a standard list, loaded up with all the basics you’ll need for every trip, saved on your computer that you can use as a reference every time you need to pack for a trip.
For those shorter jaunts or business trips where you only need essentials and a personalized travel wallet to hold your tickets, boarding passes, credit and debit cards, etc., it's often useful to consider smaller luggage options like Eminent mini suitcases or similar compact travel bags. So, such suitcases, by their compact size, naturally encourage you to limit your packing to essentials, in line with the principles of traveling light. Plus, it's much easier to keep track of fewer items in unfamiliar locales, reducing the chances of leaving something behind. They also fit comfortably into overhead compartments, eliminating the hassle of baggage claim.
When you make a list, you put in the extra thought and attention to put together thoughtful well-planned outfits and outfit combinations. This prevents over-packing and throwing last-minute items that you won’t actually need in your suitcase. Another great secret is to pack garments that can easily be color coordinated (try a capsule wardrobe), so you’re maximizing outfit combinations and minimizing the number of packed items.
Think about the last trip you took where you packed more than two pairs of pants. Could you have gotten away with one pair? Chances are, you probably could have! When in doubt, one pair of jeans may be all you need for your trip. Jeans can be dressed up or dressed down, and go through several wears before needing to be washed.
Same thing with shoes – how can you minimize the number of pairs of shoes you plan to pack for your trip? Depending on what your travels have in store for you, you may be able to get away with one pair of sneakers or casual shoes. Although flip-flops or sandals don’t take up that much room in your suitcase either. If you travel in your primary shoes, you may not have to worry about packing shoes in your suitcase at all! As a rule of thumb, you should always wear your heavier shoes on the plane (or in the car).
An easy way to lighten some of your load when packing is by paying close attention to the fabric and materials of the clothes you're packing. Lighter materials will translate to a lighter total weight in your suitcases. When in doubt, opt for cotton, linen, and lightweight athletic gear that’s easy to transport and won’t weigh you down.
You should also take into account fabric when you’re packing your suitcase. Certain materials pack better than others. For example, spandex-based dresses can easily be rolled (without wrinkling easily), which will save space.
If you’re traveling for over a week, it’s in your best interest to plan to do laundry. That way you won’t have to pack over a week’s worth of clothes, which can be heavy and cumbersome. When you plan to do laundry, you take away some of the pressure of making sure you “packed enough clothes.”
Even if you’re traveling to Europe or somewhere else abroad, it’s pretty easy to find either a Laundromat or a laundry service to assist you with doing laundry. Especially if you choose to stay in a hostel, you’ll be able to save a lot of money on lodging, and most hostels come with laundry facilities that you can use as part of your stay. Plus, your body and peace of mind will thank you for not having to lug around two weeks (or more) worth of clothes.
A lighter suitcase will always be less of a hassle when traveling. Plus, it will prevent you from having to check a bag. Or you could avoid that worry completely by opting for a road trip – you can even check out new Hyundai specials.
Armed with these secrets, you’ll be able to travel lightly and cheaply for your next trip, no matter where you happen to be heading. Who knows? With these tips you may even be able to get away with taking just a carry-on suitcase on your next trip overseas!
Some people use traveling as an excuse to just lay on the beach and not lift a finger. Others can’t wait to get active in another country. Whichever side of the fence you’re on, these tips will help you increase your activity levels when you travel. You may even get back home feeling healthier than when you left!
Water acts as an antioxidant and gives your body valuable nutrients and minerals. By ensuring you drink plenty of water each day, you refresh and energize your body, and ensure that you can go for longer. This is even more important if you are traveling to a country that is really hot and humid. One of the best things you can do is invest in a water filtering bottle like the LifeStraw Go, so you can drink water wherever you are.
It’s tempting to think of pampering yourself a little more when you are traveling, but this isn’t necessarily going to help you keep fit and healthy. Got a hotel room on the top floor? It can be tempting to take the elevator. However, taking the stairs as much as you can is one of the best things you can do to remain active and work off some of those calories.
Another of the wonderful ways of keeping fit during your travels is to look at taking up some extreme sports. There are plenty of opportunities for this in the world, and this can give you an exhilarating and active experience. Often, activities like white water rafting and bungee jumping will be covered as part of your insurance plan meaning you can just go ahead and do them! What could be more fun than jumping off a bridge, attached to a bungee cord? The adrenaline is sure to get your heart beating fast.
Sightseeing is one of the best things because it allows you to check out the tourist attractions in the area, and you can also be a little active at the same time. A good example of this would be looking at visiting an active volcano. Climbing an active volcano, such as Mount Etna or Kīlauea, is a breathtaking experience and a great way of staying active. It won’t even feel like exercise when you have those kinds of views.
A good way to keep your active focus is to ensure that you track your movement. Wearing something like a pedometer or Fitbit is one of the best ways of doing this. You can track your progress and see how well you are doing, and know when you need to step it up a bit. This will help put you in the zone and inspired to keep moving.
Try to avoid public transport as much as possible, and instead try to walk or run everywhere. Walking when you travel is a great way to burn a lot of calories, and an even better way to explore your chosen destination. Don’t fancy walking or running? Even dancing around your accommodation will get that blood pumping in the mornings.
As you can see, these are some of the best ways of staying active while you travel, and getting that health kick while you see the world. If there is anything we’ve forgotten to include, please let us know in the comments below.
Packing for a ski holiday can turn out to be a herculean task. You definitely don’t want to leave important items at home. A snow trip means that you’ll be out on the slopes for most of the day so you need to be comfortable and anything less will likely see you racing towards the cabin to save yourself from cold. If you fail to pack the necessary items, the only choice you will be left with is to buy an over-priced outfit from the mountain.
Regardless of whether you’re skiing in North America, Europe, Asia, or South America, you should be warm and comfortable in your gear.
Effective base layers are the best way to keep your core temperature and should be at the top of your clothing packing list. You ought to layer up with thermals., these base layers are usually warm, lightweight, and comfortable. It will serve as a shield against the piercing cold. They can be folded up and squeezed into the tightest corners of your bag. So don’t worry about space.
Make sure that you pack waterproof and warm gloves or mittens and an adaptable pair of glove liners. Gore-tex is one of the industry-standard materials you should keep an eye out for. Your hands and fingers won’t even have a hint that they’re being pelted with chilly air as you ski downhill.
Anti-fog goggles are really important as you will want the clearest visibility possible. Be sure to get a wrap-around design so you don’t have snow entering from the sides. It is also preferable to go for a polarized google lens as this will reduce the glare associated with all that white snow. If not, at least make sure they are UV-rated.
A good quality jacket (and pants) is not only enjoyable to wear but also an extremely essential piece of your attire for a snow adventure. For the ladies, considering a one-piece ski suit for women can offer great warmth and a stylish alternative to the jacket and pants. You will feel a whole lot better after multiple falls when you’re wearing the right outer layers. Breathability is important as is the fit but don’t forget to get some funky bright colors to make it easier for your friends to spot you on the slopes. You should plan on investing a decent portion of your budget on a good jacket and it should last you many seasons.
Uncomfortable feet means less time on the slopes and a major chunk of time in the hotel. Feet get cold easily, and sweaty feet get cold even quicker. Invest in some quality woolen socks as this will keep your feet warm while allowing them to breathe. Your feet will thank you after a long day in boots.
Did you know that you lose most of your body heat through your head? That’s why it’s so important to keep your head nice and warm when out in the snow. A good beanie should be worn snuggly over your ears. If it’s really cold, go for a full-face balaclava.
After spending a few days in the mountains and getting acclimated, it is possible that you will feel comfortable in pants and a shirt or a soft sweater. But remember that temperatures do change a great deal in mountain resorts, so make sure to have more layers accessible.
A great pair of winter boots are also a must that you can use for strolling around the resort. Beyond any doubt, you’ll have your ski or snowboard boots on more often, yet once you’re off the mountain, you need to have comfortable and warm footwear for your leisure time.
Here are some bonus valuable tips on how to get ready for a ski trip. These might just improve your vacation.
Skiing trips require a considerable amount of energy and will leave your muscles sore whether you’re an experienced skier or snowboarder, or a beginner (especially if you’re a beginner as you’ll be falling a LOT).
The better physical fitness you have, the more you’ll have the capacity to keep going up and down the mountain. Squats and other leg intensive exercises will help you prepare. It will also be important to have a good cardio base so you don’t end up too puffed after each run.
If you are taking your own skis or board on the trip, get it tuned up before your first run. This will give you a nice edge to work with and make those turns a whole lot easier. Wax up too as this will see you gliding past everyone on those pesky traverses or flat sections.
Nothing compares to a hike, especially in a mountainous region. There are adventures to be had along the way, and the promise of a gorgeous summit view as a reward. Food tastes better here, and it never feels like a workout at the gym. However, if you consider yourself a newbie and have no idea how your super outdoorsy friends became such experts, remember that when it comes to hiking the safety rules are pretty basic. Once you get those down, you can start expanding into more challenging areas (like snowshoeing in the mountains or overnight camping).
First, remember that how to get there matters. Choosing a vehicle like a Volkswagen Atlas SUV lets you carry all your gear while also allowing you to navigate tough terrain. Few of the best hikes have nicely paved trailheads. And if you do need to car camp? You definitely want a sizable and safe machine. Whether you rent, borrow, or buy, simply getting to the trailhead is the first task. Having chosen a vehicle, here are six ways to stay safe on the trail.
Disclaimer: This is a collaborative post with MJV Media
It sounds pretty basic and like common sense, but it’s astonishing how many people wander. There is a multitude of risks when you do this. Off-trail is where dangerous native animals, from snakes to cougars, call home. It’s easy to get lost. There might be poison oak. If you do get lost, rescue teams are going to be looking on trails well before off of them. Plus, it’s easier to spot people on trails from overhead (i.e. search helicopters) than in the wild. If you can’t tell where a trail ends, it’s best to turn back.
The more people you hike with, the safer it is. Many mountainous regions have no Wi-Fi. If you get hurt, you’re going to be in a sticky situation. Although it can feel great to hike alone, it simply isn’t a safe option. Stick to neighborhood solo walks. If you don’t have friends that hike, that’s okay. There are plenty of open hiking groups always looking for new members. This is also a fantastic way to learn more about hiking skills and expand your social circle.
This amount will depend on you, the length of the hike, and the heat. Higher heat means more water. If you want to minimize the amount of water you carry (it can be heavy!) hike in the early morning and finish before the temperatures peak. A CamelPak can help with carrying water and you’ll always have a straw nearby. You likely already have an idea of your own dehydration schedule but plan for at least eight ounces per hour for challenging hikes.
Mountainous areas get sudden snowfall and fierce weather earlier than valleys. For new hikers, choose the spring and autumn months or early in the morning in the summer. Avoid winter hikes until you get a little more experience. If you do hunger for a snowy hike, join a skilled group and crew that can help you on your first few treks. However, even if you do follow weather reports, there can be surprises. If it looks like the weather is taking a nasty turn for the worst, turn back. You can always try another day.
Even if it’s hot out, long pants might be your only defense from a dangerous bite or poison ivy. Baggy and lightweight pants can actually be more comfortable and keep you cooler than something like Capri yoga pants. Wear socks that can be pulled up high, too. Hiking boots are a must, though you might be able to get away with gym shoes for a short and easier hike.
A simple first-aid kit can be a literal lifesaver. It can also make hikes a lot more comfortable if something like a blister from your new hiking boot happens. But what exactly is meant by defense? The answer to this question depends on where you’ll be hiking. Carrying police-grade mace is always a good idea and can be used on many mammals (besides humans). Consider what kind of risks are in the region you’ll be hiking and plan accordingly. A knife is always a good idea, as well as a whistle.
Finally, make sure you pack protein-rich food and snacks. You need to keep your energy levels up as you hike, and especially so if you get lost. Dress in layers, and even if it’s supposed to be warm out tuck a long-sleeved jacket into your pack. Planning for worst-case scenarios in a reasonable fashion is always a safe bet.
Travel. It’s a good thing, right? It inspires us to learn about new cultures, meet new people and live lives of adventure. But there is a darker side. With the negative environmental impacts of air travel and the harmful effects of mass tourism, travel can begin to look less glamorous. Enter, sustainable travel…
Would you rather be sustainable or unsustainable when you travel? The answer is probably “yes”, right? It’s a bit like asking if you’d rather pass your driving test or fail it. But, you’re probably still left wondering “what is sustainable travel?”.
“How does it work?”
“What do I need to do?”
“Is it even possible?”
This post is going to teach you everything you need to know about sustainable travel and introduce some ways you can be more environmentally responsible on your next trip!
Sustainable travel is an environmentally conscious form of seeing and experiencing the world.
It’s all about considering the environment with the choices we make on the road and choosing to lessen our impact on the Earth wherever possible.
The whole point of sustainable travel is to allow you to enjoy your backpacking adventure while lessening the negative impacts you have on a given destination and the world, as a whole.
It just takes little changes here and there and, they may not seem like much on their own, but collectively they add up and make a significant difference (especially when you consider all of the other backpackers that read this too).
Although it may feel like a pain in the ass, at first, traveling sustainably will soon become a breeze to you, and – as that happens – you will begin to feel much better when you travel and you’ll be having a far more positive impact on the places you visit.
Do some research into which countries are the most environmentally sustainable to visit.
By visiting these countries and putting your money back into sustainable and ethical tourism practices, you are encouraging other nations to do the same. This will slowly begin to happen as sustainable travel becomes more popular in the backpacking community.
Check out Ethical Traveler’s Top 10 Ethical Destinations 2018
This isn’t the cheapest way to fly so I wouldn’t recommend it to budget backpackers but if you have the money to spare, booking non-stop flights will help reduce your carbon footprint while traveling.
Planes use up most of their fuel when taking off and landing so if you have a journey with multiple layovers, you’re going to be taking off and landing at least twice as much as flying direct.
Check out our guide – Everything You Need to Survive a Long Flight
Packing and traveling light is something we can all do and something that most of us can get better at.
More weight = more fuel = more harmful/less sustainable
Consider this when you’re loading up your backpack and try to be as brutally honest with yourself as possible. It may even help you to travel with a slightly smaller backpack.
I use the Osprey Farpoint 40 which is accepted as a carry-on, on almost all flights.
It’s quite a well-known fact that we should save paper whenever possible and recycle it after we do use it. Well, using e-tickets to get through security, etc. at airports completely takes paper tickets out of the equation.
After being questionable when they were first introduced, the technology behind e-tickets has greatly improved and now, they should be everyone’s go-to choice when traveling through airports.
If you’re going to be doing a lot of moving around within your travel destination, consider making use of public transport.
Instead of flying domestically – which is very environmentally destructive – why not make use of night buses or overnight trains?
Yes, you may spend a bit more time in transit but it will often be cheaper and you’ll get to see so much more of the country traveling this way. Not to mention, this is a much better example of sustainable travel!
If you’d rather avoid public transport, why not make a little road trip out of your travel adventure.
When traveling with a group of friends or family, this will be more sustainable (even if you hire a real gas chugger).
If you have space, you could consider also picking up hitchhikers. Sustainable travel at its finest. And, you’ll also get the chance to make a new travel friend.
For those ultra-sustainable backpackers, consider hiring a hybrid or electric car.
Check out our guide – Road Trips
Having access to safe drinking water is not only a backpacking essential, it is also a life essential.
And, in many popular backpacking countries, tap water isn’t safe to drink. So, it’s an excellent idea to buy a BPA-free, refillable water bottle to take with you on your travels. This will mean you can avoid spending money on plastic bottles every day and this is also far less wasteful and more sustainable.
If you are backpacking in a country without safe drinking water, what you can do is buy huge containers of water, store them at your accommodation and fill your bottle up each day before you head out.
Straws (plastic straws, anyway) are one of the most wasteful inventions.
The best thing to do is to just avoid them, outright.
If you do insist on using them, I would advise getting a metal straw. These are reusable and far more sustainable.
This may be slightly surprising but showers actually use up less water than baths do.
Since we’re backpackers, chances are we’ll never really have the opportunity for a bath anyway, but there are still ways to save even more water when showering:
If you have a chance, take a natural shower at a waterfall or a bath in a river like Rob Greenfield
Lots of accommodation that offers laundry services, will usually keep all guests’ laundry separate and wash everything independently (even if one person only has a few items).
You could just gross it out and skip on doing laundry while you’re away or if you – like me – want to have clean clothes, consider doing a joint set of laundry with whoever you’re traveling with.
Many places charge on a “per load” basis so you’ll be saving money as well as demonstrating what sustainable travel is all about.
Do you wash your towels every day back home?
Well, why should you do it while traveling?
Instead of getting your towels washed after every shower, just hang them up to dry. If you’re staying in accommodation that provides cleaning services, this is the universal sign that means “don’t take my towel”!
Whenever you leave your Airbnb, hotel – or whatever accommodation you’re staying in – remember to turn off all lights, TVs, and air conditioning.
When done every day, this can make a significant difference.
Leave the “do not disturb” sign up on your door whenever you go out (unless your room absolutely needs to be cleaned). This will lessen the amount of harmful chemicals that are used in common cleaning practices.
Also, who needs their sheets and towels washed every single day?
The two most sustainable ways to travel around your destination. While most backpackers cannot avoid flights completely, we can reduce the negative environmental impact we have by traveling like a local.
Get around by foot or hire a bicycle wherever possible and reduce your carbon footprint while working on your fitness. Not only are these methods more environmentally friendly, but they will almost always be cheaper too!
Check out our guide – How to Hitchhike Safely
You know the free toiletries you are provided in most hotels and some other accommodation?
Well, after you leave, the remains will likely be thrown out and never reused.
To stop this from happening, just take the leftovers with you. This will save you some money also!
Another great product to add to your toiletries kit is an eco-friendly hygiene product like LastObjects’ reusable swabs.
Any Western goods you find on the road will most likely have had to be imported at great cost and environmental expense.
Reduce your carbon footprint by sticking to local goods and vendors. This also helps the local people and the local economy.
Again, any of the famous chain restaurants you encounter will also have been imported.
Stick to the local supermarkets and restaurants.
A well-known backpacker secret is to go where the locals go. Not only will you usually find the cheapest local food in the area, but you’ll also find the most delicious places to grab a bite!
Check out our guide – Food & Drink Safety
If you’re planning on visiting the local supermarket during your stay, bring bags with you (or just stuff everything into your backpack).
People are trying to get plastic bags banned in many countries and we can help with this by refusing to use them at all.
Do not ride elephants (this is popular in countries like Thailand) or agree to see any shows featuring performing animals.
Those that do (often without even knowing it) are contributing to the illegal capture and brutal torture of these animals for the sake of profit.
Not to mention that riding elephants can actually cause lasting damage to the creature’s spine.
Now, this is something we’ve all heard of (and one that most of us probably do).
But what about on the road?
Well, the principle remains the same. Recycle whenever you can. Be sure to ask your accommodation about their recycling policies. Obviously, it’s preferable to stay at accommodation that is already environmentally aware and is taking steps towards sustainability.
If you feel like going the extra mile, why not pick up bits of trash that others have left behind?
If you bring an empty backpack with you, you could pick up a fair bit.
Never be afraid to ask questions when it comes to sustainable travel.
Ask restaurants
Ask your hostel or hotel
Ask fellow backpackers. Maybe they can give you some insight as to what you can be doing to travel more sustainably.
This issue isn’t going to be solved by staying silent.
And with that…
The more of us that are aware of these issues in the backpacking community and the more of us that become aware of sustainable travel, the more of a difference we can make.
So, this doesn’t just stop with you. Once you learn and begin to implement these more sustainable travel habits into your backpacking adventures, start to show others how they can do the same.
Even if it’s just one person!
If you liked this post and found it useful, please share it with your backpacking circle and on social media!
Traveling is fun and this is the reason why we all love vacations. However, the traveling thrill comes with its fair share of challenges. For most people, the question is how to maintain the balance between having fun and remaining healthy. It is very critical to ensure that you take good care of your body, soul, and mind at all times. We have compiled some tips that will help you stay healthy while you are on your travel adventures.
Whether you are at home or traveling, staying hydrated is one of the guaranteed ways of boosting your health. The need for hydration is even higher when traveling. This is because, while traveling, you may be exposed to high temperatures, low pressure, and low humidity environments, hence leading the body to lose more water. Always carry enough water when you are going on a long-distance road trip. However, the real answer to hydration is to always carry a reusable water bottle with some water purification pills. This way, you can get water at every stop and purify it on your own.
In some destinations, you can also find additional hydration options. For instance, in the US you can find specialized services to help travelers stay hydrated and healthy. If you're feeling particularly dehydrated, you might consider trying IV therapy in San Diego to quickly replenish fluids and essential nutrients, ensuring you can continue enjoying your travels without interruption.
There is probably nothing that synchronizes your body, soul, and mind better than Yoga. The art of yoga on your travel will help you embrace peace and spiritual healing. For this reason, always make sure you pack a yoga mat when traveling. During long-hour journeys, you may encounter swellings dues to blood circulation issues. Yoga and therapeutic hot water baths can help relieve these symptoms, and the experience is even more restorative when they’re part of a yoga wellness retreat surrounded by nature.
The secret to a healthy life is healthy eating. It is common for most people to use their travel time as the time to let go. You don’t want to waste your entire year of healthy eating on a one-month vacation. While indulging a little is okay, maintain some level of discipline. Take time to look for proper nutrition at all your destinations. Stick to healthy travel snacks other than falling for the sugary options. When you lodge somewhere, try to find healthy restaurants. You can even stay focused on your keto diet while traveling. All you need to do is find restaurants that serve meals that are in line with your healthy eating habits. For an easy, travel-friendly option, consider Carnivore Snax — a convenient way to stay on track with your nutrition goals wherever you go.
While there are some locations where you have no access to a gym facility, you will never miss a chance for hiking when traveling. No matter where you go, always make a point to have a morning run or an evening run to make sure that you keep your body fit. To ensure that you maintain your workout routine, find the closest hiking trails to your hotel and have some 2 to 3 hours of hill climbing or just walking on rough terrain. You will find that you lose more weight and stay fitter when you hike than spending too much time in a gym facility.
Natural mud baths have some therapeutic properties that can help you replenish your mind and soul. You may choose to indulge in a natural spa such as the dead sea saltwater bath or the Colombian mud volcano. Whichever the case, a careless mud bath will help you give your pores some boost, leaving you more fresh and healthy. This will also help rejuvenate your skin and give you a fresh glowing look.
The whole point of vacations and travel is to get away from the artificial world and get in touch with nature. Those who enjoy their travel time know that it is not okay to keep on following news or receiving work emails. If you want to have peace of mind, you need to give your phone a break. You can either get rid of all electronics for a few days or completely lock yourself from the digital world for the entire vacation. This will help you focus on yourself, diet, health and spiritual being.
There is no compromise about the fact that you need to sleep. Even though you love to party, having at least 8 hours of sleep every day will help you stay focused and enjoy your travel more. Depriving yourself of sleep will lead to fatigue and tiredness, which may lead to illnesses. Avoid staying on your phone until morning.
While you may spoil yourself with a drink from time to time, do it responsibly. Avoid intoxicating amounts of alcohol to a state that you forget yourself. This is not healthy for you and will not help you enjoy your travel. Never drink when getting on a plane or when driving.
It is not always easy to maintain a clean bill of health while traveling. However, by maintaining a little discipline, you will find it very possible and enjoyable. Stick true to your personality, avoid junk foods and get yourself at peace with the environment.
Without a doubt, moving is one of the most challenging things you will ever live through. It is a challenge moving from one home to another, or from one state to another. But, moving to a different country brings a whole new set of challenges.
We are going to give some step-by-step tips on moving. We will focus on the most challenging moves, (to another country) and you can reduce the steps as needed to meet your move.
For a seamless relocation experience, consider hiring Bailey's Moving and Storage, a trusted company known for its reliable moving and storage solutions.
It is best if you allow yourself plenty of time to prepare. You will be able to be more efficient, and there is less chance of things going wrong if you have time to work them out. The first thing you should do is contact a company with experience to help you with international moving. They can give you first-hand advice on what you will need and how long the shipping will take. You should also check with your state government officials regarding what they require for the move. Make sure you have your passport, immunization records, visas, and identification.
Of course, you will need:
This may sound strange, but you would be amazed at the people who chose a general destination and have little knowledge of the actual town or city they are moving to. Just because the place looks awesome on a postcard, or you had a layover there on doesn’t mean that the place is perfect for you! Search for charter flights that would ease up the burden of moving and enjoy your new destination! This will give you time to find a new doctor in the new area. The laws concerning medicine and the availability of particular drugs may be something you will have to deal with.
You live in the age of technology. Reach out and start building your network. Visit some of the businesses in the area. Look for groups on social media and start making friends and connections.
If you are moving to another country, you do not know what technology laws hold. There are often hackers who attack the devices travelers have. Be sure to change your passwords and do not overlap them. Be sure your spyware and virus protection is up to date. Put screen locks on all your devices. Treat your devices as you would a credit card. Be very careful where you use them and do not assume they are safe.
Keep a copy of everything in your wallet, front and back. If it is important enough to be in your wallet, copy it. Keep the list and a list of medications and emergency contacts in another bag. If your wallet is lost or stolen, this will help you contact the right companies to have your cards canceled and replaced.
Banking is pretty important. Check with your bank and find out if there are any branches or sister companies that are in the place you are moving to. Make sure your debit cards work internationally. Let your bank know of your plans. If your bank sees an unusual charge from a city across the globe, they may lock your card until they can contact you. Considering the time differences, this could be a problem if you are trying to pay for dinner or rent a hotel room.
Be sure you have some cash, and at least $200 in traveler’s checks that you can cash at a bank if there is a problem. Do not forget to educate yourself on the money exchange rate. What may be enough to rent a room here, may not be the case in another country.
It stands to reason that if you move something, it is going to cost something. Now, if that something is something that you do not want to part with, then wrap it up. But, if it is something that you really do not care about or if it is something that will costs less to replace than to move, donate it, have a yard sale, or give it away.
