Backpacking refers to a low-cost, independent and budget international travel. Backpackers usually take a trip which does not require fixed itineraries and is flexible, allows plenty of freedom to explore with ample fun and relatively long periods of travel to exotic and far-flung destinations. Backpacking also involves using public transport system as a means of travel. Backpackers prefer youth hostels to traditional hotels, length of the trip may vary and they have a interest in meeting the locals as well as seeing the sights. Backpacking trips involve literally carrying your backpack across nations, as well as across one’s own country. Backpackers carry most things that they need in a custom-designed special pack hunched over their shoulders.
The main purpose of backpackers is to go about ‘rambling’ or hiking or even cycling around the countryside and usually more than eager to explore the world and are very friendly and adventurous, and will give just about anything a go. They don’t give a second thought to climbing steep mountains or fording cold rivers. They usually carry up-to-date backpacking equipment, including sturdy hiking boots, slimline waterproofs, fully adjustable packs. Some simply wear canvas shoes, shorts, t-shirt, sunglasses and a credit card. The diet of backpackers is usually very simple as they have limited funds, and prefer to pay by working as they travel. This enables them to make new friends, work for a living, and are also not tied down at the same time. However, some prefer carry their own food with them, which often includes a mix of canned and dried food, full of vitamins and proteins to boost their energy levels.
Some backpackers are tech-savvy adventurers who prefer to travel with a cell phone, digital camera, iPod and a laptop. One of the most essential beliefs of backpacking is the sense of community, either in the form of staying at a dormitory or in a hostel with a self-catering kitchen and communal TV room, sharing rides with other travelers, purchasing a bus or train pass and also save money at the same time. Backpackers often love to share their stories and hear new ones, which allows them to share experience, to learn from one another and also make a long term friendship.
However, there are certain survival skills that every backpacker must have. They need to have navigation skills to follow the correct trailhead and orienteering skills to determine the present location and devise a route to somewhere more desirable. They also need to be aware of first aid skills in case of dealing with minor injuries like splinters, punctures, sprains and even treating hypothermia, heat stroke, dehydration and hypoxia, that may be encountered during their tour.
