Kia ora! Hello!

Most of my traveling has been backpacking and shortly when you read the list of pros below you will understand why. If you haven’t done it before, start off with smaller/medium rooms (they usually come in options of 4-12beds, the more beds the cheaper) to allow you some peace, and if you can jump on a tour for a week first then the serotonin will hopefully take over the potential fears of traveling alone.

Pros of Backpacking:

1. Freedom: It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and make spontaneous decisions about where to go and what to do. You are not bound by rigid itineraries or tour schedules.
2. Adventure: Backpacking is all about embracing the unknown and stepping out of your comfort zone. It allows you to experience thrilling adventures like hiking, camping, and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.
3. Cost-Effective: Tends to be a budget-friendly way of traveling. By staying in hostels, cooking your own meals, and using public transport, you can significantly cut down on expenses compared to traditional forms of travel.
4. Cultural Immersion: You have more opportunities to interact with locals, immerse yourself in the local culture, and gain a deeper understanding of the places you visit. This can provide a richer and more authentic travel experience.
5. Physical Fitness: Backpacking often involves physical activities like trekking or walking long distances with your backpack. It can improve your fitness level, stamina, and overall well-being.

Now as with everything, there are always the negatives. Allow me to keep it real with you and share those.

Cons of Backpacking:

1. Uncertainty: Backpacking comes with inherent uncertainty, such as not knowing where you'll sleep each night or what challenges you may encounter along the way. This can be stressful for those who prefer structure and predictability.
2. Limited Comfort: Staying in budget accommodations like hostels to keep it cost effective means sacrificing certain luxuries. Shared dorms, basic amenities, and crowded common areas may not be suitable for everyone.
3. Safety Concerns: Traveling with only a backpack means you need to be cautious about personal safety and security. Depending on the destination, you may encounter issues such as theft, scams, or unsafe areas. Proper research and taking necessary precautions are essential. Ensure you have padlocks for your bags and/or hostel lockers.
4. Physical Demands: Because you are usually carrying a heavy backpack for extended periods this can be physically demanding and may pose as a challenge for some people.
5. Loneliness: Although backpacking can be a great opportunity to meet new people, it can also be a lonely experience at times. Solo travelers may feel isolated, especially if they struggle with making new connections or experiencing language barriers.

Even after all of that, backpacking is still my most preferred method to travel when heading overseas!