backpacking dangerous travel

• Backpacking
• National Parks

Is Backpacking Safe? What the Numbers Say

• by Jared Wilder
• July 15, 2022 July 21, 2022

Yes. Just to avoid any ambiguity, the answer is yes – backpacking is very safe , and, in many ways, it’s safer than living in a big city. While there are still a bunch of different ways to get yourself injured or killed, most of them can be avoided with preparation and common sense. But, fears persist (even with me), so I decided to put out an article on the subject today.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• The truth about whether backpacking is more dangerous than regular life,
• All the different ways you can find yourself in mortal danger,
• And a few tips for getting yourself out of (rare) trouble

Let’s get into it!

How Dangerous is Backpacking?

It’s not really that dangerous, especially when you do things the right way. Hundreds of thousands of people go on backpacking trips each year, and the vast majority are pretty uneventful. Still, though, there is a small number of backpackers who don’t make it back in one piece, and an even smaller number of them who don’t make it back at all. Backpacking safety skills mitigate nearly all of the risks, though, and there is no reason to assume you’ll be in danger when backpacking!

Backpacking Safety Statistics: What the Numbers Say

There aren’t any readily available numbers that relate specifically to backpacking; instead, most statistics are simply for the “hiking” category, which backpacking falls into . We could just take those numbers for hiking and apply them directly to backpacking, but I think the statistics would be skewed.

Backpacking requires more time, money, and preparation than hiking; it’s natural to assume that the average backpacker will be safer, more prepared, and more cautious than the average hiker. So, we can’t just use injury and mortality statistics from hiking to make any judgments about the relative safety of backpacking.

But, since hiking is the only activity that we’ve got statistics for, let’s go ahead and look at those anyway. Here are the numbers on hiking safety:

• This number includes backpackers. It should also be noted that a fourth of these deaths are suicides, which means your chances of dying on accident are significantly lower than the numbers make it seem.
• This is probably related either to an overestimation of fitness or another health issue. To put it simply: the older or more out of shape you are, the more likely you are to get hurt. Age isn’t nearly as important as fitness, though, it’s just a correlation.
• You’re more likely to hurt your ankle than any other body part.
• Murders are incredibly rare, less than 5 per year in the National Parks System.
• Compare that to the half million missing persons cases in the US in 2021, out of a 330 million population.
• The two most deadly , Denali and Virgin Islands national parks, have accounted for 71 deaths since 2010 although they only make up 0.003% of yearly national park visits.

Note: Many of these statistics were sourced from RV and Playa . We didn’t do any of the actual number gathering (just a little crunching), and we don’t want to take credit from the people who did.

What do these statistics say about backpacking safety?

Not a whole lot. There are hundreds of millions more people who go on a hike each year than go backpacking. Most, if not all, of the deaths and injuries in those statistics occurred during day hikes and not backpacking trips. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if the average number of backpacking deaths in the US was less than 5 per year!

Is it true that missing persons in national parks are uncounted?

This is a rumor that goes around from time to time; I first heard it from my mother, who heard it from some cable TV show that makes money from paranoia. It states, essentially, that somebody is “fudging” missing persons numbers by not reporting the number of people who go missing in national parks in the official statistics. But, does it have any truth behind it? Is there actually some sort of unwritten policy that pretends nobody goes missing in the national parks?

No! That should be obvious, given that we’ve already talked about the number of people who go missing. As of 2018, there were 60 unresolved missing persons cases in the US National Parks System; this means that not only are they keeping track of who goes missing, the majority of those who do go missing are eventually found!

Different Ways to Die on a Backpacking Trip

Okay, so we know that backpacking is statistically incredibly safe. But, that doesn’t mean a person can just walk out into the woods and assume they’ll be fine. Let’s run through some of the most common ways you can die while backpacking:

• Falls: All it takes is one foolish step to take a tumble you won’t get up from. Most backpacking trails won’t take you somewhere that dangerous, but the principle is the same: falls happen, and when they do, they’re deadly as hell.
• Medical emergencies: A medical emergency at home is already deadly, but being miles and miles away from help makes it a new challenge entirely. Forgetting prescription
• Sanitary concerns: There are no bathrooms, no soap dispensers, and no toilets on a backpacking trail. This means that backpackers have to take a lot of extra caution to keep their hands, mouths, and food clean. Nobody wants dysentery when they get home! Furthermore, knowing how to source clean, potable water is another life-saving backpacking skill , as even the cleanest mountain streams are generally unsafe to drink from directly.
• Environmental dangers: Extreme heat, cold, and storms are nothing to mess around with. Joshua Tree National Park, for example, can kill you in an afternoon!
• Rockslides: Firstly, this is not at all common. That said, rockslides are unpredictable and very dangerous.
• Animals: Bears come to mind first, but snakes, moose, and mountain lions can also be deadly in the wrong situation. As long as you’ve got bear spray and you aren’t stupid enough to approach a Bison at Yellowstone , though, you don’t really need to worry about being killed by an animal (I say this as someone with an intense and irrational fear of bears).
• Other backpackers: This one is not something you should ever truly worry about. But, still, there are weird and violent people in all walks of life. Solo backpackers, especially women, should be aware that even in the backcountry, you can’t let your guard all the way down.

10 Pieces of Essential Hiking Gear that Can Save Your Life

1. personal locator beacon.

A PLB ( personal locator beacon ) is essentially a GPS with an SOS button. If something happens, you can press the SOS button and the nearest authorities will be given your location, and, depending on which PLB you have, you may also be able to share info with them.

The PLB I’ve used in the past is the Garmin InReach Explorer , and it even let me send customized messages to people back home, letting them know how and where I was!

2. Map and Compass

Yeah, you can download maps on your phone, but you can also drop your phone in a stream or overestimate how long the battery will last when you’re taking lots of photos and videos. Buying a map and pairing it with a simple compass might feel like a small waste of money, but you’ll be glad you have them in an unpredictable emergency.

Everybody’s got one, but not all of them are high-quality, and many of them are very, very rusty. Just picture a recent commute home from work, and that truth becomes clear. Make sure your brain is ready to go, prepared by reading up on the trail and any potential dangers, and make sure you use it on your backpacking trip!

4. Extra Food

You’ll always want to have at least one day’s worth of extra food, even if it’s just a bland nutrition bar that’s made to give you enough calories to survive. If you overestimate your hiking speed, injure yourself, or lose a lot of time to weather or other constraints, you’ll be glad you packed enough to sustain yourself.

5. Water Purification

This, like many other items on the list, should already be part of a complete backpacking gear list , but it’s worth mentioning here anyway. Not having clean water to drink is the most effective way to die a miserable death, whether from dehydration or horrible sicknesses from water-borne germs.

Another item that you should never leave the parking lot without, and one that can save your life in 500 different ways. Pick out a good knife, put it in your pack, and carry on.

7. Bivy Sack

Sometimes, an injury can prevent you from even being able to pitch your tent. In these cases, a bivy sack – pretty much just an emergency blanket that doubles as a last-resort shelter – can save your life. Emergency bivy sacks are cheap, light, and easy to pack. While most backpackers don’t bring one with them, they really should be part of your packing list.

8. Bear spray

In the rare case that you do have a dangerous animal encounter, bear spray is the most effective and safe way to save yourself . Just point and spray – the bear, moose, or mountain lion will be too busy dealing with the burning sensation to attack, and you can get out with your skin intact.

9. First aid kit

We won’t spend too much time on this one, because I’m really not sure who would actually need this explained to them! Get a first aid kit, use it when you need it, simple as that.

10. Firestarter

Being able to start a fire can keep you warm enough to survive, it can heat food and boil water to make it drinkable, and it can be used to give rescuers your location. Those are three ways that fire can keep you alive in a way that nothing else really can. Firestarters are very cheap and very easy to fit into a pack – never leave the parking lot without one!

6 Backpacking Safety Tips for Surviving Sticky Situations

1. It’s okay to stay home

If you aren’t feeling up to it physically (maybe you’re burned out from work or family and backpacking would be too exhausting), you can just stay home.

If you looked at the weather report for your trip, and it’s looking dicier than you feel comfortable with, you can just stay home.

If you just don’t feel like it all of the sudden, you can just stay home.

The point is this: there is no shame at all in staying home, especially if you feel like going through with a planned trip would be unsafe. People have a tendency to want to follow through, but that desire isn’t always healthy. If you think you might be safer postponing or canceling your trip, for whatever reason, just go ahead and make the call.

I’ve canceled a backpacking trip at the last minute because I was just too tired from a few weeks of travel to safely make the planned hike in the past. While I still kick myself from time to time, I’m happy I did that. Who knows what idiotic decision my tired brain might have made?

(In fact, there was another time my tired brain made an idiotic decision that brought me within 3 inches of a deadly fall… but that’s another story)

2. Preparation makes the biggest difference

You don’t have to be the most meticulous person in the world, but you do need to do the necessary prep work:

• Pack appropriately
• Understand your gear and your body’s physical limits
• Read up on the trail, the region, and the weather

Doing those three things really isn’t all that hard; the people who die on backpacking trips are often the people who failed to do one or more of them.

3. Read the weather

We still haven’t figured out how to control the weather, so it’s up to each backpacker to read weather reports and understand what kinds of hazards they may encounter. Cold weather, hot weather , and violent weather can all affect backpacking safety concerns, and you’d do well to know what you’re facing ahead of time.

4. Don’t try to make any furry friends

Take pictures, videos, and thoroughly enjoy the experience of seeing a glorious creature on the trail? Hell yes.

Try to get closer to the animal, pet it, or (God forbid) ride it? Have fun at the hospital.

This may be beyond obvious to you, as it is to most people. That still doesn’t stop people from trying to befriend bears, bison, and other wild animals at national parks and getting themselves injured or killed.

Honestly, I’m not sure who holds the most blame for that, though – Disney for making dangerous animals adorable, the public school system for failing people that badly, or the people themselves for leaving all their brain cells in the car. Either way, wild animals are best appreciated from a safe distance.

5. Drink more water

Don’t just drink water, and don’t just drink X amount of water to check an arbitrary box. Just drink more water! Dehydration is incredibly deadly, and most Americans don’t drink enough water as it is.

So, on a backpacking trip, drink some water. Then, drink more water. Then, drink more water. Then pee.

6. It really, really is okay to stay home

Seriously – the only thing worse than canceling/postponing a backpacking trip is dying on a backpacking trip that you should have canceled or postponed. It’s really hard to do that, though, which is why we’re adding it to this list twice.

Backpacking, while very safe, has lots of potential dangers. Weather can be deadly, as can medical events, injuries, and animal encounters. Beyond that, fatigue and exhaustion can be just as dangerous as anything else. If you aren’t prepared for the rigors and dangers of backpacking, disaster can strike at any time.

If you’re about to embark on your first backpacking trip , you should be aware of the things you should avoid doing. Don’t put yourself at risk of a fall just for a picture. Don’t engage with wildlife. Don’t hike too far or exhaust yourself. And, don’t forget to enjoy it!

Many things that would be “tiny problems” if you were with others can turn into “cause of death” when you’re alone. Injuries, getting lost, becoming dehydrated, you name it – hiking alone makes it much, much more dangerous.

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6 Essential Safety Rules For Backpackers

By: Author Guest Blogger

Posted on Last updated: October 23, 2021

Terrifying for some but thrilling for many others, backpacking is a fundamentally exciting way to experience the world.

Without a fixed schedule to limit your options or overcrowded tourist spots to dampen your enthusiasm, you can get off the beaten path and enjoy unique adventures, with every trip bringing new horizons and fresh challenges.

Most of the terror it inspires in some people stems from the freedom and lack of structure being intimidating, of course — but not all of it.

There are other compelling reasons to be wary of backpacking, with the most notable being that it’s relatively dangerous.

The beaten path doesn’t feature any surprises, but it’s very safe. Leaving it puts you at risk.

Does this mean you should be reluctant or even afraid? No, of course not.

Backpacking isn’t that much riskier than any other form of travel: it just requires you to follow some key safety rules.

If you can do that, you probably won’t experience any significant issues.

To help you proceed with care, here are six essential safety rules for backpackers.

Table of Contents

Arrange comprehensive travel insurance

Pack basic medical supplies, research an area before you visit, keep friends updated on your location, safeguard your money and valuables, take company whenever possible.

Just about anything can go wrong, no matter how careful you are, but certain problems are more common to backpackers than other travelers.

Take injuries, for instance. If you slip and break your leg while hiking overseas, will you be able to cover the medical care?

It’s not uncommon for a traveler to end a hospital stay with a massive bill they can’t afford to pay.

The solution here is to ensure that you have travel insurance to cover those core needs. There are now holiday insurance options that cover you for healthcare and the money you could lose due to your journey being negatively impacted by restrictions stemming from COVID-19.

Line up a comprehensive policy, and you can proceed with confidence.

If you’re away from civilization, even a simple cut on your finger can cause huge problems.

Similarly, a poorly-timed headache can leave you unable to focus properly on taking necessary safety precautions.

This is why you need to pack basic medical supplies to treat cuts and dampen any pain you might experience.

It’s easy to find travel medical kits , so choose the biggest one you can carry around.

It’s vital to know your enemy, and a backpacker’s greatest enemy is their immediate environment.

The natural world holds more than its fair share of threats, be they animals, geographical features, and weather conditions — and the more you know about what you’ll be facing, the better you’ll be able to protect yourself.

This calls for extensive research.

You may not know exactly where you’ll be going, but you’ll know the broad area, and you can use that to form a solid idea of what the temperature will be and what wildlife you’ll encounter.

You won’t be caught out in the bitter cold in just a T-shirt and shorts or struggle to get through bramble patches because your clothing can’t stand up to the friction.

Now that smartphones are common and internet access is reasonably easy to achieve almost anywhere in the world (mobile hotspots are affordable), there’s no reason not to keep friends updated about where you’re going.

The more dangerous the area, the more important it is to be clear.

That way, if you don’t check back in by a specific time because you’re stuck somewhere, they can call for help (and possibly save your life).

Even though the pandemic has reminded people of the importance of community spirit, it hasn’t changed human nature, and there are still plenty of pickpockets around.

Relying on the decency and kindness of strangers will always be a risky move.

Due to this, you shouldn’t make the core mistake of keeping all your valuables in a conspicuous place.

If those vital things (including your money and passport) get stolen, you’ll be left in a challenging position.

So don’t make it easy. Keep different things in different compartments. Lock them, if you can .

Fill other pockets with less essential items, so it’s harder to tell where the most important things are.

And don’t be too quick to trust the people you meet. Enjoy their company, but take your time to decide whether they’re trustworthy.

The solitude of backpacking can be extremely nice, but it’s always safer to be part of a group — so if you have the opportunity to travel with someone, you should take it.

Vet them first to ensure that you can trust them, of course (don’t just leave with someone you just met), but always be aware that there’s strength in numbers.

You’ll also enjoy your backpacking more if you can break up the parts alone with some group adventures.

This story is brought to you in partnership with Post Office.

This post was written by a guest contributor. Please reference the author's byline in the post above for more information. If you would like to guest post on Go Backpacking, please read our submission guidelines . For information on advertising opportunities, go here .

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Is Backpacking Safe? Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip  

  March 31, 2023

By   Keith Terrell

It’s the age-old question asked by potential backpackers everywhere — is backpacking safe? Travel inherently involves risk, from a flat tire on a road trip to a sketchy Airbnb listing. But is backpacking any more dangerous than other forms of travel?

Backpacking can be a very safe activity if the proper safety precautions are taken. Make sure to research the area you plan to visit, bring the necessary supplies, and stay alert to potential dangers on your route.

In this blog post, we'll go into the reality and tips for a safe and enjoyable backpacking trip and show you how to minimize the risks associated with backpacking, such as learning about the country, taking a first-aid kit, and avoiding known dangerous areas.

So let's jump right in and explore backpacking safety and learn how you can enjoy the trip while protecting your well-being.

Table of Contents

Precautionary Measures to Take Before Departure

Personal safety equipment and accessories, health and physical activity maintenance, friends and companionship, security protocols in different countries and locations, environmental hazards to be aware of, what should i do to minimize the risk of injury while backpacking, are there any risks associated with backpacking that i should be aware of, what safety measures should i take when backpacking, backpacking safety tips.

Backpacking safety is of utmost importance when it comes to taking a trip. Different travelers have different safety standards, but there are some basic considerations that can help make your backpacking trip more enjoyable and secure.

First and foremost, always travel with a companion or in a group if possible. Traveling alone is not only lonely, but also makes you more vulnerable to pickpockets or harassment in unfamiliar places. Try to make sure that your companions are knowledgeable about the areas you will be visiting. That way, you'll feel safer knowing that someone is looking out for you and helping you stay alert to potential dangers along the way.

Another thing to keep in mind is to blend in with the locals. Dressing appropriately and speaking the language of the region should put locals at ease, leaving less room for negative misinterpretation. If you are traveling through countries where there are health risks, such as malaria zones or certain rural towns with poor sanitation, you can protect yourself from disease by keeping your vaccinations up to date.

Finally, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and have a travel itinerary before you set off to stay safe on the road. Before you leave home, find out about your destination so you have a good idea of what to expect when you arrive. If you plan ahead, you will be better prepared for all eventualities and reduce the risk of something going wrong on your trip.

These steps should set any traveler on the path to a safe and enjoyable backpacking adventure — but it doesn't end there. It's important to take precautions before you leave to ensure both your physical safety and peace of mind while abroad. Let's move on to the next section, which will give you a better insight into how to prepare for an unforgettable trip on the road.

It is important to take extra precautions before you set off on a backpacking trip. Preparation is key to avoiding potentially dangerous situations and having a safe and enjoyable experience.

Taking the time to research basic information about your destination will help you familiarize yourself with your surroundings and how best to get around. This includes understanding the language, learning some common phrases and customs, being aware of local traffic rules,  and being aware of risk factors such as crime or political tensions.

In addition to understanding your surroundings, it is also essential to plan each leg of the journey carefully to minimize any potential risks during the trip. This includes notifying friends or family of the itinerary, reviewing travel policies (e.g. airline or car rental policies), obtaining all necessary documents (e.g. visas and insurance cards), packing carefully (avoid bringing valuable items or large sums of money), securing accommodations, researching areas ahead of your visit, and if necessary, storing items safely. Planning ahead can help reduce the stress related to unexpected situations during the trip.

Whether you bring a companion or travel alone, it is important to be aware of your surroundings to protect yourself from danger. Even if you are traveling through generally safe areas, you should remain vigilant and think of your safety first before venturing into unknown territory. Believing that "it won't happen to me" only increases the risk of becoming a victim of theft or getting lost.

If you take these precautions before you leave, you can reduce your anxiety and make the journey more enjoyable. After all the necessary preparations have been made, you can enjoy the adventure knowing that adequate precautions have been taken against unexpected mishaps.

In the next section, we will talk more about how important personal safety equipment and accessories are for making sure that every journey is as safe as possible.

When traveling in the wilderness, often far from civilization and its safety measures, it is important that you carry extra safety items as a backpacker. Personal safety equipment can range from pepper spray and tasers to whistles and alarms. These useful items should be tailored to fit individual needs, based on the environment, taking into account weather conditions and the exact route you’ll be taking.

If you carry these items in an easily accessible place such as a pocket or bag, you can defend yourself in the event of a dangerous situation.  Data from studies show that most people carry some form of defense with them when they are out and about, legally or illegally. This suggests that although many might argue that carrying additional safety measures is unnecessary, the majority are usually prepared for any possible situation.

Just as important as carrying weapons is having the right knowledge about personal protection and basic self-defense tips. Being aware of your surroundings and knowing exactly how to react in these unpredictable scenarios can give you an advantage over a potential criminal.

The measures you take to stay safe while backpacking will undoubtedly vary depending on your needs or comfort level; nevertheless, it is of utmost importance that you equip yourself with the necessary safety gear before setting out. From this point on, you can use the rest of the trip to focus on maintaining your physical well-being and health during this rewarding experience.

When out in the wilderness, it is important for backpackers to bring personal safety items tailored to individual needs and environmental conditions. Knowing basic self-defense tips and how to respond in dangerous situations can also help keep a person safe.

Taking measures to remain safe should be considered before going on a backpacking journey, as this ensures you are able to focus on your health and safety.

Maintaining health and physical activity are two aspects of backpacking that should not be ignored. Most backpackers want to be far away from civilization for as long as possible, but it is wise to remember that wild experiences come with risks. A lack of health and physical fitness can bring dangers.

It’s important to remember that before engaging in any outdoor activity, your body must be well-conditioned. Taking regular walks throughout the week and stretching before a journey can help ensure an increased level of physical readiness p. Additionally, making sure you have enough food and water while avoiding strenuous physical activities during extreme weather can help protect your body from over exertion or dehydration.

To further improve health and physical preparedness, it’s important to consistently get a good night’s sleep outdoors by investing in high-quality sleeping bags and tents provided by trusted manufacturers; this reduces exposure to insects or animals that can transmit diseases.

To ensure safety, backpackers should also bring along first-aid kits and wear protective gear such as helmets and knee pads if necessary. The combination of healthy practices and active risk management will reduce possible injuries or fatigue caused by internal or external influences that may occur during backpacking trips.

After acknowledging the significance of personal safety gear, it is crucial to also consider external factors that may pose a threat to backpacking security. This includes being mindful of our surroundings, such as the terrain we are navigating and the location of our campsite.

Security Considerations When Backpacking

When backpacking, ensuring your safety and security is crucial. Many parts of the world pose an increased risk of criminal activities, such as pickpocketing and theft. While remaining vigilant and aware of potential dangers is important it is also essential to approach the situation realistically.

On the one hand, some countries have high crime rates, and travelers should exercise caution by keeping their belongings safe in containers or hidden on their person. On the other hand, some crimes that target travelers may be exaggerated. Therefore, being mindful and open to new experiences can make backpacking more enjoyable without compromising safety.

Additionally, backpackers are advised to register at local embassies so they can receive travel warnings or emergency assistance if needed. They should also make sure to research local laws, customs, and acceptable behaviors before leaving and while on their trip. It is also recommended to stay with groups at night for extra security and rely on public transportation if possible.

When backpacking, it's crucial to prioritize security for a safe and enjoyable trip. Simple practices like staying in a group at night, researching local laws, and remaining vigilant can make a big difference. Having good friends as travel companions is also always a great idea for added companionship and fun.

Backpacking can be an exciting adventure, and having good friends or travel companions can make the experience even better. While solo travel provides freedom and independence, the value of togetherness and companionship should not be underestimated.

Traveling alone can pose challenges when unexpected situations arise, such as car breakdowns, language barriers with locals, or needing help with photography. Having a trusted companion with you can provide an extra layer of protection and support, and should be taken into consideration when deciding whether to travel solo or with a companion.

Find someone who has the same interests as you so that traveling together is fun, but also gives you the opportunity to go exploring and adventuring on your own if you want. There are various online platforms for travelers interested in meeting other adventurers from all over the world. Joining a group tour is another option to consider if you do not have any personal contacts doing the same trip as you.

Apart from the safety aspects, a buddy also offers the opportunity to find cheaper accommodation and transport. Most hostels offer discounts for couples, which can significantly reduce the cost of accommodation. If you want to carpool to another city or country, having two people in one vehicle can also reduce travel costs. Having someone to accompany you for part or even all of the journey can add an extra sense of reliability and comfort.

Ultimately, the number of people on the journey depends on personal preference. To choose the right type of backpacking experience, it's important to consider both options and prioritize safety. After discussing pre-departure considerations, let's focus on security measures while traveling abroad.

If you are traveling with one or more companions, it is important to know the security protocols of other countries and locations. While it is not possible to fully ensure safety in every situation, there are some basic guidelines to stay safe.

It is always best to research the specific laws and customs of the places you plan to visit. In Some places, photography may be restricted and prohibited in sensitive areas such as religious sites or government buildings. Additionally, it’s also important to be aware of any organizations that may cause a threat to your safety. Familiarize yourself with local dangers, such as known hotspots of theft or violence.

When it comes to deciding whether a destination is safe, opinions vary widely. On the one hand, some believe that backpacking can provide an immersive experience that allows travelers to interact with local cultures and gain an understanding of other people and places. On the other hand, any type of travel comes with risks and dangers , including safety concerns in less developed countries. No matter what you choose, it is important to take all precautions when traveling abroad, from researching possible dangers beforehand to taking extra care during the trip.

It is also important to remember that no matter where you are traveling, a good support network can help ensure a safe journey. Whether you are traveling with a friend or relying on the advice of locals, having someone looking out for your safety can be invaluable on a backpacking trip.

By remaining vigilant and taking the proper precautions before and during your travels, you can ensure that your journey remains enjoyable and safe throughout. With this knowledge in mind, we now turn to other factors to consider when traveling — namely environmental hazards. From wildlife encounters to natural disasters, there are numerous hazards that every backpacker should be aware of when visiting an unfamiliar country.

When backpacking, it is important to be aware of your environment and the potential environmental hazards that may occur during your trip. Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires can disrupt a route or prevent a traveler from continuing their journey. Other environmental hazards you should consider include extreme weather conditions, animal attacks, extreme temperatures, altitude sickness, and the risk of contracting diseases from contaminated water or food.

When deciding whether or not to continue on a planned route in areas known for natural disasters, travelers should consider their own safety and that of the people around them. If a natural disaster is imminent, it is best for travelers to be prepared with extra supplies and knowledge of how to respond. If heavy rains or storms are expected in the region, travelers should postpone their trip until the safety protocols mentioned in the previous section are stable again.

Animal attacks are rare, but there are ways to reduce the risk of being injured by wild animals. Staying away from areas where dangerous animals such as bears or mountain lions are present should keep you safe. Knowing what behaviors to avoid when interacting with certain types of animals can also help you avoid conflicts in nature.

Extreme temperatures can also be detrimental to a traveler's health if proper precautions are not taken. Areas of extreme heat or cold should be researched prior to entering to know what measures to take during the stay. In hot climates, it is especially important that travelers stay hydrated and wear clothing that is comfortable but still protects them from the sun's rays. The same applies for cold climates: look up the average temperatures before your trip and make sure you pack the appropriate clothes .

Altitude sickness is another factor to consider by following safety protocols if you plan to hike high up in the mountains or on hills with various elevation changes. Symptoms range from dizziness and difficulty breathing to rapid heartbeat, nausea, headaches, and more. It is important to know your limits at higher altitudes to avoid overexerting yourself during strenuous activities such as hiking or climbing steep terrain.

The final environmental hazard that all backpackers should be aware of is the risk of contaminated water and food. This hazard is particularly prevalent in developing countries, as riparian areas are often overused for bathing and lack infrastructure for sanitation. It is important that travelers in these places only use bottled water for drinking, ensure that all food has been thoroughly cooked before consumption, avoid drinking tap water if possible, and ensure that fruits have been washed before consumption.

Overall, backpacking inherently comes with risks due to the lack of familiar comforts and reliance on unfamiliar terrain. However, by being mindful of the environment and following basic security tips, backpackers can enjoy their journey safely and minimize the chance of unexpected situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

To minimize the risk of injury when backpacking, it is important that you equip yourself with the right gear. Invest in a good quality backpack, boots, and clothing to make sure your body is protected and supported while you are traveling.

Additionally, you should prepare yourself physically for your upcoming trip. Try light exercises such as walking, swimming, and hiking to increase your strength and stamina so that your body can better cope with steep trails or long distances. Lastly, always be aware of the weather conditions. Know when it will be particularly hot or cold outside so you can dress accordingly.

Taking these precautions will help ensure that your backpacking trip is both safe and enjoyable!

Yes, there are some risks associated with backpacking that everyone should be aware of. One major risk is injury and accident due to the often unpredictable and strenuous nature of backpacking. You should always make sure to pack the proper supplies such as a first aid kit, food, water, and appropriate clothing so that you can handle unexpected situations. Additionally, backpacking in unfamiliar terrain increases the risk of contracting various diseases, like Lyme disease.

If you are hiking in areas known for disease transmission, you should take some extra precautions, such as using a tick repellent and wearing long trousers and sleeves. Finally, if you plan to visit remote places, be sure to research the area beforehand and always let somebody know where you plan to go and when they should expect you back so they can alert authorities if necessary.

When backpacking, it's important to understand the risks and take proper safety measures to mitigate them.

First and foremost, plan ahead. Before embarking on your trip, thoroughly research the area you’ll be visiting, including the local weather and political climate. Make sure you have a map of the region and put together an itinerary that includes campsites and travel routes.

Next, make sure you’re properly equipped for your journey. Invest in quality gear, such as appropriate footwear, clothing layers for changing temperatures, a first-aid kit with essential medications or supplies, a knife for cutting ropes or fabricating tools for survival, a flashlight and extra batteries, a fire starter system in case of emergency situations, and water filtration products.

It's also wise to remain vigilant of your surroundings when backpacking. Pay attention to signs of dangerous wild animals such as bears or other predators that inhabit the region. If possible, travel with a partner or a group of people and keep track of each other at all times.

Finally, remember to be respectful of local customs wherever you go. Familiarizing yourself with local laws or expectations will help you avoid inadvertently breaking any rules or traditions by mistake.

If you take the time to prepare in advance and respect your environment during your trip, you can enjoy backpacking without compromising your safety or that of others.

Keith Terrell

About the author

Keith is a one bag traveler and the owner of Backpacks Global. His go to backpack is the Osprey FarPoint 40.

Backpacking Safety for Solo Women: Understanding and Managing Risk in the Backcountry

W hen sharing news of an upcoming thru-hike, one of the most common questions I get — right up there with “Where do you poop?” and “Where do you shower?” — is “Are you going alone?” I do understand the concern. As a woman, it has been instilled in me to never walk home alone. Therefore, how could it be safe for me to go backpacking alone for thousands of miles in some of America’s most remote backcountry?

Is backpacking safe for solo women? I feel safer walking alone in the backcountry than I do walking alone in my hometown.

Along with the anxieties everyone carries with them on a long or short backpacking trip, women have to juggle the additional fear of dangerous encounters with other people. I’ve been lucky enough to have experienced primarily pleasant encounters with strangers while backpacking. Because of this, I am quick to disregard gender-specific safety concerns as overreactions.

However, I acknowledge that there are women who have had damaging interactions on and off the trail, which can cast deep shadows across seemingly benign scenarios. These experiences should not be glossed over or dismissed.

In this article, I attempt to tackle the following question: “Is backpacking alone as a woman safe?” Forgive me for the spoiler, but I’ll tell you now that the answer is, of course, “it depends.”

First, we will hear from some solo woman thru-hikers about their experiences on the trail, before taking a look at the statistics we have available for crime in the backcountry. Finally, I’ll leave you with some safety tips and tricks I use when backpacking alone to reduce both my actual risk and my perceived feeling of danger.

Interviews with Solo Female Thru-Hikers

In order to do justice to this complicated topic, I reached out to three of my talented, accomplished, and amazing thru-hiker friends to highlight their experiences as women in the backcountry. Even with their input, the four of us represent a minuscule cross-section of the hiking community and women in general. As we’ll discuss later, dangerous human interactions on the trail are extremely rare, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t occur.

It’s also worth noting that the factors that contribute to (or detract from) “feeling safe” will be different for everyone. With infinitely varied backgrounds and personalities — traumas, triumphs, triggers, sense of self, confidence, self-understanding, comfort being alone — the journey is different for everyone.

As individuals navigating a bottomless and terrifying list of “what ifs,” we must each decide for ourselves what we are comfortable with, while treating those of differing views with compassion and empathy. Ideally, everyone would feel and be safe while thru-hiking alone. Despite this unified goal, the path to reach it will be unique for each individual and none is more valid than another.

Madelyn “Wrong Way”

Wrong Way, whom I met on the Colorado Trail in 2022, pushes through the most challenging conditions of a thru-hike with grit, determination, and an unyielding love of playing Euchre over dinner. She hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2021, finished the Colorado Trail in 2023, and — along with her cool and fun friend (me!) — will be embarking on the Continental Divide Trail in 2024.

Wrong Way and me at the top of Hope Pass on the Colorado Trail in 2022.

Backpacking Alone

Wrong Way is quite comfortable backpacking alone. As she puts it, “I feel much more confident being alone on trails than I do on sidewalks. I think that most people in trail settings truly and absolutely want to see each other succeed.” This is a sentiment that shows through during an encounter she had with a fellow hiker that made her uncomfortable.

Worst Interaction on Trail

She recounts a time on the Appalachian Trail when she received inappropriate texts and requests from an older man she had been hiking with. “When I called him out on it, he insisted they were meant for his wife, but we all suspected that he wasn’t being truthful, and he also never apologized.”

However, she knew that the fellow hikers she met on the trail would stand up for her if needed. “We heard that he left the trail shortly after, but even if we had run into him, the rest of my tramily would have made sure he kept a wide berth from our group.” Making friends was easy on the trail, and she mentions that “the Appalachian Trail, specifically, is so populous that I don’t think I would have ever been alone if I didn’t want to be.”

Safety in the Outdoors

Although comfortable backpacking alone as a woman, Wrong Way takes some steps to ensure her safety and peace of mind. “Although people don’t make me as nervous as they once did, I still carry pepper spray and a small knife that I keep with me in an accessible place, both on my pack and in my tent. (No, I don’t and will never carry a gun.)”

Alexa “Lady Scout”

Lady Scout walked from Mexico to Canada on the PCT in 2021 before returning home to New York to pursue her work at a nonprofit creating human rights documentaries. As a talented photographer and connoisseur of the alpine skinny dip, she brings an infectious joy to every moment on and off trail.

Lady Scout and me at the top of Georgia Pass. For anyone hiking the Colorado Trail, Georgia Pass is a wonderful place to watch a sunrise.

Starting with a Partner

Lady Scout started the PCT with her boyfriend at the time. “Starting with someone I knew, a seasoned hiker, and a man, provided the comfort and support I thought I needed. I am equally glad that we started the hike together, and that I broke up with him halfway through the trail.”

While it was emotionally helpful to have a partner with her to start the trail, she was easily able to keep going after splitting from her boyfriend while maintaining the social life she wanted to have. “At a certain point on a thru-hike, the only people around you are other long-distance hikers. The community gives a sense of comfort.”

Lady Scout recalls her worst on-trail interaction with another hiker. After finishing a particularly challenging day on the PCT, she went for a swim in an alpine lake, but noticed a fellow hiker would not stop staring at her. “I immersed myself as much as I could to cover my naked body, wishing … I could ask someone to bring me clothes without me calling too much attention. It was one of the moments in my life where I felt the most powerless.”

An encounter like this doesn’t stop Lady Scout from getting outside on her own terms. She routinely goes backpacking alone on the Appalachian Trail. “Sometimes, being a lone wolf on my weekend hikes is exciting because I do anything I want.” Additionally, she notes that “this incident does not stop me from getting naked in the woods. It does, however, make me cautious of anyone clueless about their creepy actions.”

On the topic of safety and peace of mind, Lady Scout acknowledges that “every situation is not a one size fits all for every hiker. Some folks are much more experienced with certain terrains or climates than I am. Some folks don’t hitch. I listen to my own internal idiot meter — aka, my gut instinct.”

Malena “Piss Bag”

I met Piss Bag — who is far kinder than her name implies — during the Big Eddy 50K ultramarathon in Annandale Minnesota. She is a talented ultrarunner and writer, and completed her first thru-hike on the Colorado Trail in 2023.

Malena (right) and me during the Big Eddy 50K. Nothing makes for a faster friend than meeting at a starting line and spending the next five hours together in pain.

Piss Bag both started and finished the Colorado Trail alone. “I knew it would be an incredible experience to do on my own, it would help increase my confidence as a woman in the outdoor space, and I knew I’d meet people along the way.” She adds, “Plus, I didn’t know anyone who could (or wanted) to take a month off of work to hike hundreds of miles and sleep in the woods.”

Like Wrong Way and Lady Scout, Piss Bag has very few reservations when it comes to spending time outside alone, explaining “Being in the woods, on the trail, and in my tent is when I feel best.”

However, she feels uncomfortable with hitchhiking and, when possible, will try to find alternate ways into town. “Standing on the side of the road with my thumb stuck in the air is a vulnerable and scary thing to do.”

She, thankfully, didn’t have any creepy or uncomfortable situations with other people on the CT, so I will instead leave you with her best encounter with a stranger.

Best Interaction on Trail

After a tough day on the CT, Piss Bag recounts, “I was sitting by the river, filtering my water, and — of course — crying. A man in his 50s or 60s shows up to wash up in the river. When I turned around to say hi, he noticed I was crying. He said ‘Oh honey, what’s wrong?’ Which just made me cry more… I unloaded all of my feelings on him and showed him my blistered feet. He gave me a towel to wash my feet, bandages for my blisters, and asked me if I felt safe and comfortable. Once I stopped crying and my feet were taken care of he said, ‘you are more than welcome to join my friend and me for supper.’ And, I did.”

She credits this man — trail name, Denali — for giving her a physical and emotional boost when she needed it most and inspiring her to continue with the trail.

This drives home what all long-distance hikers can tell you: generally speaking, most folks you meet on the trail are kind, supportive, and actively excited by the prospect of helping you succeed. Meeting these strangers and forming connections is one of the most underrated parts of a thru-hike.

So, let’s keep pushing into some other reasons why you shouldn’t be as afraid of being alone in the backcountry as you may think.

Statistics: Violent Crime and On-Trail Hazards

Due to the incredibly small sample size, there aren’t any concrete statistics breaking down dangerous interactions while backpacking by gender. As anyone who has had one of these encounters can attest, there isn’t a centralized reporting system set up to document them* and, even if there were, they would most likely be incredibly underreported.

However, we can use the limited statistics we do have to draw a few conclusions.

*Each of the Triple Crown Trail associations does offer some form of incident reporting, linked below:

• Appalachian Trail
• Pacific Crest Trail
• Continental Divide Trail

Return to top.

Violent Crime by Gender

While female backpackers and thru-hikers face an increased risk of unpleasant encounters with strangers — which is rooted in anecdotes rather than clear data — this is no different than women’s experiences in their hometowns.

And considering the data we do have , women in the United States aren’t clearly more at risk of violent crime — defined as murder/manslaughter, rape/sexual assault, or aggravated assault — than men. The gender with the most reported incidents varies from year to year, and often the reported numbers are similar.

Crime in National Parks

Now let’s look at the reported violent crimes in national parks compared to the crime rate across the United States.

This graph shows the violent crime rates in National Parks (2020) and in the United States (2022) shown logarithmically. Keep reading to see how to interpret this graph, but do not confuse this to mean that National Parks account for an eighth of the violent crime in America, nor that murder/manslaughter occurs half as often as aggravated assault. (Sources: USA , NPS )

Please do not misunderstand this graph; it is plotted on a logarithmic scale to even allow the National Park crime data to be visible. (A logarithmic scale is a method of displaying data so that relatively small values — in this case, violent crime in US national parks — are clearly visible alongside much larger values — in this case, violent crime incidents in the US as a whole.)

What this graph shows is that, for every one visitor to a national park in 2020, there were 0.0000025 violent crime incidents. For every one citizen of the United States in 2022, there were 0.003 violent crime incidents. In other words, a visitor to a national park is about 1,000 times less likely to be the victim of a violent crime than a citizen of the United States.

The reported crime rates suggest you are safer in a national park than in the rest of the country. So, in lieu of more representative data — recognizing that most long trails live largely outside the national parks — perhaps we are justified in drawing the conclusion that the rates of violent crime are significantly lower in our shared outdoor spaces than in America on average.

National parks might not be a direct proxy for our infinitely varied long trails, many of which spend a significant portion passing through “average” America, but their limited representation is still notable and valid. Some trails are almost entirely contained within national park boundaries (e.g. the JMT and the Wonderland Trail) and it is easy to create an original backpacking itinerary based on this same characteristic.

So while the sample size is too small and the correlation to backpackers, particularly thru-hikers of long trails, too indirect to draw any concrete conclusions, the data suggests you are more likely to be the victim of a violent crime in your hometown than you are on a trail. Of course, “average” America is in reality even more varied than our long trails, and hometown crime rates can be drastically different depending on where you call home.

Other On-Trail Dangers

This is not to say that backpacking is an inherently safer activity than sitting at home. Fatal accidents and life-threatening injuries do occur on our trails and routes — far more often than incidents of violent crime.

While the Appalachian Trail has seen 11 murders from 1974 to 2021, these account for a minuscule percentage of deaths on the AT. Falls, medical issues, and exposure to the elements account for over 100 fatalities during that same time period.

READ NEXT – Examining the Real Numbers Behind Violent Instances on the Appalachian Trail

Pacific Crest Trail Fatality Causes

The PCT has a little more information available regarding fatal on-trail incidents, with this chart showing the breakdown of the causes of the 16 known fatalities on the trail between 1983 and 2022. Of these 16 fatalities, four were women.

Many of the falls on the PCT stem from snowy and icy terrain, highlighting the importance of having the right skills and gear to be in the mountains during the shoulder seasons. (Sources: AT , PCT )

The data tells us that the most important thing you can do to prepare for a backpacking trip — regardless of your gender — is to educate yourself on the conditions you may encounter on your hike, along with the proper gear needed to navigate this terrain. The most persistent dangers you will face in the backcountry come from nature itself as opposed to other people.

You should feel excited about getting outside in all seasons and conditions — just make sure you have the right gear and experience to do it safely!

Statistical Conclusion: Is Backpacking Safe for Solo Women?

My point about these facts is twofold:

1. Don’t let stories of women being victims of violent crimes in the outdoors dissuade you from embarking on a backpacking trip of your own. Long-trail violent crime data in particular taps into an incredibly small sample size and covers an exceptionally uncommon occurrence.

Remember, violent crime rates in the outdoors are significantly lower than the national average — regardless of gender.

Furthermore, while non-violent harassment against women is crucial to consider, existing United States violent crime data doesn’t strongly implicate one gender as more at-risk than the other.

2. By a wide margin, the greatest dangers in the backcountry are environmental. The vast majority of fatalities and incidents in the outdoors are caused by natural hazards, which don’t discriminate based on gender. While not all risks can be mitigated, preparedness is the most powerful tool in a backpacker’s arsenal against physical harm.

So, why does it remain such a pervasive idea that women need to constantly fear strangers in the woods while men are seldom given this warning?

( Source: Violent Crime )

Perceived Risk and Feeling Unwelcome

As a woman, fears and expectations of a violent, gender-based crime have been ingrained in my mind since childhood. This fear has hindered me in the backcountry far more than any reality or lived experience. As a result, I hesitate to tout the bravery of backpacking as a solo woman: I never want to subconsciously enforce this fear for other women.

However, I do think another factor beyond societal conditioning contributes to this perceived risk.

The White Mountains are so close to roads and towns that — even as I finish up my NH48 list — I sometimes feel more nervous about camping alone here than in more remote wilderness areas out west.

Unwelcome Interactions

As with the data on violent crimes in the backcountry, the data on harassment in the outdoors is similarly sparse — yet extremely impactful. Though it encompasses more activities than backpacking, a survey by Outside resulted in 70 percent of respondents reporting that they’d experienced harassment. Other polls suggest that the majority of women recreating outside have experienced harassment or inappropriate behavior.

Just because an interaction with a stranger doesn’t lead to a violent crime doesn’t mean the experience was pleasant. In fact, non-violent, non-physical encounters can be devastating, yet completely commonplace. Ask any woman who has spent time outdoors (or anywhere), and as the data suggests, she will likely have a laundry list of creepy or degrading interactions with men in the backcountry.

Harrassment occurs at varying levels along a wide spectrum of malicious intent. Words are often used as violence against women, whether it is obvious or subtle, intended or accidental, laughed off or rejected at the time.

This is common both in the front- and backcountry. Gender inequality has many manifestations and while these interactions are seldom actually dangerous, experiencing them personally raises my feeling of perceived risk in the outdoors.

Sometimes, people will have the nerve to say inappropriate things to you — even on highly crowded trails such as Angel’s Landing.

Personal Examples of Uncomfortable Interactions

• I have had a man persistently ask where I was camping that night, and become agitated when I would not tell him the specific mile marker.
• A man looked me up and down before telling me, “someone like you should be careful out here.”
• A man pulled over to pick me up on the side of the road, only to drive away when he realized I was hiking with a male partner.

Would any of these interactions have led to a violent crime? The statistics say probably not. But, this does nothing to take away from how off-putting the experiences were and how long they have stayed with me.

Every time I venture into the backcountry, these experiences — and more — live in the back of my mind. I am no stranger to that bolt of white-hot anxiety that comes with the sound of footsteps in the dark or an “off” feeling while hitchhiking. Luckily, I take steps while hiking and camping to lower my perceived feeling of risk in the backcountry.

Backpacking Alone: Safety Precautions

Thru-hiking and backpacking will not be fun if you are consumed by this anxiety, regardless of how likely you are to actually experience a violent incident during your hike. Here are precautions you can take to mitigate some of the most common concerns I hear from other women.

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking as a solo woman has always been — and probably will always be — a contentious issue. While I personally feel very comfortable hitchhiking when near a popular long trail, I understand others’ hesitation. You are getting into a car with a stranger, and trusting them to drop you off safely, all while having almost no control over their actions.

Here are some of my favorite tips for safe hitchhiking:

Self-defense: Carry some sort of weapon or self-defense device. I move my Swiss Army knife from my pack to my pocket before getting in the car. Pepper spray (or bear spray) is another great choice. Caveat: it’s probably not a good idea to use it while in motion.

Safety in numbers: I also try to never hitchhike alone. Not only does having more people in the car reduce the pressure for you to carry on a conversation with the driver, but there is safety in numbers.

Inform others: Use your phone or satellite communicator to inform someone of the license plate of the car and your anticipated arrival time. And it doesn’t hurt to be obvious about this. Take a photo of the license plate, and let your ride see you do it.

Don’t be afraid to say no: If whoever pulls over gives you a bad vibe, don’t feel compelled to honor them with your presence. If they’re potentially intoxicated or something is just “off,” then give an excuse and let them pass.

Maybe you “left your phone at your last break and need to go get it.” Maybe you really need to poop. Plan ahead and have a few one-liners ready to go. Trust your gut and don’t be afraid to lie. You don’t owe anyone anything.

Keep essentials near: Keep your pack with you if you can (on your lap, at your feet, etc.). At a minimum, keep your wallet, phone, and self-defense device (if you have one) with you. Likewise, keep your satellite communicator easily at hand if you carry one.

Hitchhike in daylight: Not only will you be more visible to passing cars, but you’ll be safer too.

Be alert (and sober): You are vulnerable while hitchhiking, especially if you are alone. No matter how long the ride, try to be alert and sober the whole way so that you can react to any sketchy behavior.

Test the waters: Exchange a few words with your potential ride before tossing your pack in the trunk and calling shotgun. This will help you judge the driver’s sobriety and let your instincts sound any alarms.

Be clear about your needs and intentions: Let the driver know that you are a hiker in need of a resupply and where you are going. Be specific — town, business name, rough distance and time to get there. And if it’s a long way, start with an intermediate location partway to your destination. That way you don’t need to change your story if you want to end the ride early.

Check that the door works: Make sure you can unlatch your door. A sneaky way to do this is to pretend like you didn’t close it all the way the first time.

Choose your driver: If you’re trying to catch a ride from a trailhead or parking lot, be proactive and seek out a potential ride with someone who looks trustworthy. Chat them up before they get in their car rather than waiting for someone to take pity on you.

Be aware: Know where you’re going and the most efficient route to get there. Consider having Google Maps open with navigation on, and don’t be afraid to speak up if you don’t think that your driver is taking you the right way.

Wear a seatbelt: Even nice strangers get in accidents.

I will never pass up the opportunity to hitch a ride in the bed of a truck.

Or Limit Your Need To Hitchhike in the First Place

I’ve had a lot of fun with hitchhiking, and have met characters I never would have without sticking out my thumb. However, if you find hitchhiking to be an anxiety-inducing experience that you’ve come to dread, there are other options!

Many trailheads along popular long trails have trail angels or shuttle services you can contact in advance. They might not be free, but your comfort is worth it. It doesn’t matter how you get to town, just that you show up safe, happy, and ready for a huge meal.

Furthermore, some trails require more hitchhiking than others, or none at all. For instance, it’s possible to hike the entire John Muir Trail without getting in a car if you take advantage of mailing yourself on-trail resupplies. A few trails are more readily accessed by public transport than others.

And some ( AT *cough, cough* ) have enough resupply locations that you can choose which to visit. Perhaps if you carry extra food, you can skip the one town that requires a long hitch. So if the prospect of hitchhiking causes anxiety, then tailor your trail/section choice and resupply strategy to accommodate your reservations.

READ NEXT —   The Thru-Hiker’s Guide to Safe and Effective Hitchhiking

Camping Alone

Most of my anxiety when camping alone stems from irrational fears of bears, mountain lions, flash floods, and falling trees. However, it’s never fun to imagine an ill-intentioned person coming across my tent.

Here are some tips for safely camping alone:

Avoid roads: Camp at least a mile away from road crossings to buffer yourself against chance encounters with non-hikers.

Don’t broadcast: Wait to post location-tipping content on the internet until you’ve moved on.

Make your campsite appear gender-neutral:  Before going to bed, pack away or conceal any female-specific gear like shoes, clothing, and backpack so passersby can’t easily determine whether the campsite belongs to a woman.

Inform loved ones: Use a satellite communicator or phone if you have service to let someone back home know where you are camped each evening.

Actually stealth camp: Camp far enough from trail so that passersby won’t know you’re there. Bonus: this is also LNT.

Avoid known campsites: High-use areas such as the shelters on the AT can provide safety in numbers, even if you’re surrounded by strangers. However, this also makes them potential targets for nefarious acts. Particularly if you are alone, designated campsites can feel exposed in the worst way.

Be ambiguous: Keep your intended camp location to yourself. Even if you know exactly where you want to stop for the day, have an unspecific answer ready. If someone asks where you plan to camp, say something like, “Not sure. I usually just hike until it gets dark and stop there.”

Beautiful and remote spots are my favorite places to sleep!

Quite frankly, I prefer to camp with people because I enjoy the company. But, by taking a few precautions when picking a campsite, I prevent myself from getting in my own head about noises once the sun goes down.

This probably isn’t common advice in many aspects of your life, but I am an advocate for being rude, standoffish, and lying to people while backpacking alone.

Have you been approached by someone who is making you feel uncomfortable? Your fictional “husband” (6’7″, football player, very protective) is right behind you. Is someone insisting you tell them where you’re camping? End the conversation and keep on walking. Have you just gotten to town and someone is pressuring you to split a hotel room? Room is full.*

*Unfortunately, just saying “no” might not be the safest course of action. If someone truly means you harm, then using firm language might alert them to the fact that you’re suspicious of them. This might spur them to act in desperation, whereas a more nuanced, conversational (yet still definitive) response can get you on your way and out of their presence. While you have every right to walk away without engaging, the goal here is to remain safe, not maintain self-righteousness.

As women, we are often pressured by societal norms to maintain an air of grace and hospitality at the expense of our own safety. You do not owe anyone in the backcountry your plans, your location, your presence, or your small talk. When in an uncomfortable situation, say what you need to say — however you need to say it — to end the encounter safely.

Get Inspired

Finally, I find a lot of security and inspiration in following along on the journeys of other solo, female thru-hikers. Whether this be by subscribing to their blogs or following their Instagrams, I love finding a badass hiker and thinking “You know what? I bet I could do that too.”

Here are the Instagrams of the women mentioned in this article, if you are looking for inspiration:

Wrong Way: @madelyn_meanders

Lady Scout:      @ladyscout_

Piss Bag: @malofthemountains

Me (Double Dip): @k80.trail

Hopefully these tips — even if not necessary — will help you feel more secure in the backcountry. There isn’t any harm in being extra safe or extra cautious. But, don’t let the fear of something happening stop you from trying.

Backpacking Is Safe for Solo Women — Just Come Prepared

Finally, I want to leave you with this: men are statistically more likely than women to die or initiate search and rescue operations in the backcountry ( 80 percent of searches are initiated by males ), yet their place in the wilderness is rarely questioned, and they are less likely to be discouraged from recreating outdoors alone.

I will wait for the day when I hear someone tell a man, “don’t you want to go with one of your female friends, just in case your testosterone clouds your decision-making abilities?” Even then, I will continue to be a strong advocate for women embarking on solo backpacking trips.

Backpacking can be dangerous for anyone, regardless of gender, and the risks — whether environmental, animal, or human — are amplified when flying solo, as help might be out of reach. The best way for anyone to stay safe is to have the requisite skills, knowledge, gear, and good judgment to survive in the environment where they recreate.

Find the Right Trip for You

Violent crime is a small risk in the backcountry, yet this risk exists everywhere, and alone is not a reason to avoid the wild spaces that are historically safer than many towns and cities. So if you are considering a solo trip, then go for it. While backpacking is never risk-free, there are methods for mitigating these risks and finding a trail or original itinerary that matches your tolerance for certain dangers.

If you don’t feel comfortable hitchhiking alone, but want to be alone, then find a quiet trail where it isn’t necessary. If you want to find hiking companions, then pick a popular trail and go during peak season.

Unfortunately, staying safe on our trails isn’t always as simple as saying, “Just go, it’ll all work out.” But with a little bit of research and preparation, there’s a backpacking trip out there for everyone.

Pushing up my start time for my Mount Whitney summit attempt ensured I was able to get back below treeline before a thunderstorm hit. Had I slept in, I would not have had time to make it to the top.

Are you a woman considering a thru-hike or backpacking trip? Have you been putting it off due to a fear of going alone? Your concerns are valid, but they don’t need to disqualify you from pursuing your dream. Regardless of whether you want to be around others or find solitude, you should feel empowered to seek that experience.

And, if you’re still scared after planning your ideal trip, then do it scared, because it’s worth it.

READ NEXT —

• The Benefits of Solo Backpacking: 7 Reasons Hiking Alone Is Awesome
• Interview with Carolyn “Ravensong” Burkhart, 1st Woman to Solo Thru-Hike the PCT
• 7 Badass Woman Thru-Hikers Who Inspire Me To Hit the Trails

Featured image: A Katie Jackson photo. Graphic design by Chris Helm .

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To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.

Howdy! I'm Katie, a thru-hiker and ultrarunner based in Colorado, who loves long walks, tall mountains, and steaming hot chai lattes. After hiking the Colorado Trail in 2022 and the John Muir Trail in 2023, I leave soon on a 2024 thru-hike of the Continental Divide Trail. Follow along on my journey with the articles below, or through my photography on Instagram (@k80.trail).

Hey Piss Bag,

Your best interaction made me smile because I think I know Denali as well. Met him on the At in 2019. One of the best people I have ever met. Great post!

Best article I’ve read on this topic. Hats off!

Katie, first I’ll say hiking is far safer than walking alone in a city. Hikers, like you and I love the outdoors, peaceful and nature is the most beautiful thing ever. But to make you feel safer, try taking a self defense course. Not only will it help your confidence, it will help you physically. And pack things like first aid, a multitool, and study emergency first aid. Wishing you a happy, fun adventure!

I’ve been worried myself about doing a thru hike on the AT. Being a 6’3 270lbs bearded man. So I enjoyed this post and the tips. Thank you to the writer. Doing my best to not let fear stop me.

Hey Jase! I’m glad you found the tips to be helpful! I really think you should give the AT a go; it’s very populated and I’m sure you won’t struggle to meet people at all if you start at a standard time. It would be the adventure of a lifetime!

Very well written, presented and thoughtful. Thanks for addressing this. As a woman who has worked in remote locations with men, dropped from helicopters, traveling on 3 wheelers ( yep, awhile ago), I get holding your own, situational awearness, all that. But also as someone who’s had some hand to hand knife combat training, I have to say, thinking you can use a Swiss Army knife to defend yourself is a sorry illusion. You need a 6-7” fixed or locking blade that will penetrate the body cavity and get to internal organs. We women need to be brave, but we also need to be trained , informed and realistic. Be free, be safe.

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21 Best Countries for Backpacking in 2024

Looking for the best countries for backpacking?

You’ve come to the right article as I’m a full-time backpacker and I’ve travelled on a budget across three continents.

If you ask me, backpacking is the best form of budget travel, but unless you’ve spent hours researching, it can be hard to know where to start.

So I’ve done all of the hard work for you and put together this list of the best countries for backpacking.

Best Countries for Backpacking

There are lots of great routes for backpacking , which take you through multiple countries at once. I think it’s great to experience more than one destination in one trip, but you can also use these countries to create your own custom route. So let’s get into it!

1. Thailand

Average daily backpacking budget: $50 USD

Thailand is often considered the best country for backpacking , and I’m inclined to agree.

It’s got everything you could ever want from a backpacking trip: a strong culture, stunning natural landscapes, good weather, a network of hostels, street food, and most importantly, it’s affordable.

Backpacking in Thailand is one of the easiest places to start, and many people choose it for their first trip. It leads to priceless memories and you could easily spend a lifetime exploring it.

In fact, I’m heading back in January 2024 to go and check out some more of what Thailand has to offer!

Average daily backpacking budget: $30 USD

Vietnam is also a super easy country to visit on a budget. Lots of people will visit Thailand and Vietnam at the same time as part of the Banana Pancake Route .

In fact, Vietnam was named one of the cheapest countries to visit in the world . Just like with Thailand, it has everything a backpacker could want from a trip.

From the mountains in the north to the beaches in the south, it’s such a complete country and I can honestly use the cliche of “ it’s got a bit of everything ” because it’s true. I loved my time travelling on a budget in Vietnam .

As someone who studied history in school, I really enjoyed learning more about the Vietnam War, or the “American War” as it’s called in Vietnam. Visiting the Chu Chi Tunnels was surreal.

3. Indonesia

Average daily backpacking budget: $35 USD

Backpacking Indonesia is such a unique experience. Because there are so many islands, and each island is slightly different from the other, it’s like backpacking a load of countries within one country.

Indonesia is very affordable to visit and is a great place to learn how to travel on a budget , which is a craft that takes some time to perfect.

Bali is obviously the most famous Indonesian destination , and while yes, Bali is incredible, there is an endless list of other islands to visit. My personal favourite is Flores- as an animal lover, seeing wild Komodo dragons was amazing to me.

4. Australia

Average daily backpacking budget: $70 USD

Australia has one of the strongest backpacking cultures in the world. The surf culture in Australia fits in perfectly with the mindsets of the backpacking community, and the two combine seamlessly.

There’s a reason why nearly 200,000 people get their Working Holiday Visas each year , and that’s because the country is designed perfectly for backpackers. Australia has so many hostels, and loads of free and cheap things to do.

For example, when you picture Sydney, one of the first things you picture is the Opera House, right? It’s free to sightsee. Next, Bondi Beach? Free to visit. Australia is a backpacker’s dream come true.

Laos is another popular country to backpack in Southeast Asia- if you haven’t realised already, Southeast Asia is arguably the best region in the world for budget travel.

In my opinion, Laos is one of the most underrated countries in the area, as most people won’t spend as long here as they do in Thailand and Vietnam.

The natural beauty in Laos is unbelievable. Especially the waterfalls, they’re some of the best in the world, and so many people will skip over them. Take a look…

6. Nicaragua

Heading over to Central America, Nicaragua is the best country in my opinion. It’s got the perfect balance of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.

One of the reasons to go backpacking is the cultural immersion and the authentic travel experiences, and Nicaragua offers exactly that.

With its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cities, Nicaragua provides a diverse and enriching experience for any backpacker who wishes to visit. Plus, it’s affordable which is always a big selling point.

But it really is a beautiful country, it looks like something straight out of a dream.

Average daily backpacking budget: $40 USD

Peru is another backpacker’s favourite in the Americas, and it’s a staple country in the popular backpacking Gringo Route. It’s one of the best countries for backpacking in both definitions of the word.

For backpacking travel, Peru offers an abundance of priceless experiences, and it’s affordable too. Some of the best places to visit in Peru are genuinely unreal. Huacachina seems completely made up, but I assure you it’s real!

And for backpacking hiking, Peru has so many stunning hiking trails and paths. The best is, of course, the Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu. You simply can’t visit Peru without hiking to the wonder of the world .

8. Philippines

The Philippines offers a similar backpacking experience to Indonesia- because there are so many islands, it’s like visiting lots of small countries.

The most popular are probably Coron and Boracay, and they do not disappoint. The Philippines is the definition of “paradise”. It’s a dream come true.

And it’s really easy to visit on a budget too. As with many of these countries, lots of the best things to do are free such as relaxing by the beach, snorkelling, hiking, etc.

9. Guatemala

Guatemala, often considered as a hidden gem in Central America, is an exceptional destination for backpackers seeking an adventure without breaking the bank.

There’s something that all of these countries have in common and that is they have a wide range of things to offer, and they’re affordable.

Guatemala is another perfect example of a rich blend of Mayan culture, stunning landscapes, and a strong backpacking community. It’s an ideal place for a budget trip.

Most of the best things to do in Guatemala involve getting physically active, so if you love the outdoors, you’ll love Guatemala. It’s a volcano hike haven!

10. Cambodia

One of the best things about travelling on a budget is the new cultures you get to experience. Since you don’t want to spend lots of money, you often get more authentic experiences.

And Cambodia is the perfect place for culture. Angkor Wat is one of the most incredible things you will ever see in your life, and walking through it is indescribable. You have to be able to experience it to understand. In my opinion, it even beats Pompeii.

If you ask me, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia are an unbeatable combo. Backpacking these four countries at once is the single best backpacking trip you can take, if you ask me.

Average daily backpacking budget: $25 USD

Nepal is another of the best countries for backpacking which applies to both meanings of the word.

Backpacking Kathmandu and other places in Nepal is incredible, and it’s really easy to get by on a budget, but it would be impossible to visit Nepal without seeing Everest.

Whether this is by climbing it, hiking the Base Camp or maybe even taking a helicopter tour , seeing Everest is a must.

But aside from Everest, there are so many hiking opportunities such as the famous hike to Monkey Temple just outside Kathmandu.

12. Ecuador

Ecuador is a pretty small yet incredibly diverse country which is divided by the equator (cool, right?).

One of the best things about backpacking in Ecuador is, of course, the Amazon Rainforest . Taking a multi-day trek through the rainforest guarantees to produce life-long memories.

And who could forget the Galápagos Islands? They’re some of the most beautiful islands in the world and they’re famous for the Giant Tortoises which live there. The wildlife in Ecuador is second to none, that’s for sure.

13. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is one of the more expensive countries in Central America, but it’s so worth it. And even though it’s more expensive, it’s still cheaper than the cost of backpacking countries in Europe .

Just like with Ecuador, it’s an amazing country for spending time outdoors. Particularly if you’re a thrill seeker. Adventure activities are abundant , like zip-lining through the rainforest canopy or white-water rafting on the Pacuare River.

It’s actually very similar to Ecuador because another main drawing point is the wildlife. From watching sea turtles nest on the beaches of Tortuguero to spotting sloths and monkeys in the wild, the opportunities to connect with nature are endless.

There’s a reason it’s such a popular country to visit amongst both backpackers and “normal” travellers, and that’s because Costa Rica provides an extraordinary experience.

14. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is another country which I consider very underrated. It’s one of those countries where unless you hear how good it is, you probably would have never considered going.

I’d even go as far as saying the whole of Sri Lanka is a hidden gem to the mainstream Western world. How many people do you hear of going to the country? Unless you’re already “in the know” with the backpacking community, probably not very many people.

Sri Lanka has so many insane opportunities. The hiking is outstanding, the landscapes are spectacular, and the culture is so strong. It’s affordable too. Plus, animals.

Yala National Park alone offers the chance to see leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species. But the country as a whole is filled with opportunities.

And on top of this, the people are so friendly. Since tourism isn’t as large as in other countries, they’re very appreciative of backpackers visiting their country.

Mexico is a country that seems like it was designed with backpackers in mind – everything about Mexico suits the backpacking way of life.

Affordable? Check ✅. Natural beauty? Check ✅. Street food? Check ✅. Strong community of solo travellers? Check ✅. Easy transportation between destinations? Check ✅.

Everything about the country makes Mexico backpacking super easy, and super enjoyable too. From Chichen Itza to cenotes, or Lucha Libres to street food, Mexico is one of the best places for backpacking, no doubt about it.

Best Places for Backpacking: Special Mentions

If that list of the best countries for backpacking wasn’t enough for you, don’t worry, I’ve added some special mentions. I believe it’s possible to “backpack” every country on a budget, but naturally, there are some better-suited places for backpacking, and these are some more of my favourites.

16. Bolivia

Highlights:

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Includes diverse terrains from the Andes Mountains to the Amazon basin, offering breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures.
• Rich Indigenous Cultures: A country with a strong presence of indigenous peoples, Bolivia offers vibrant cultural experiences through its traditions, festivals, and crafts.
• Unique Geological Features: Home to unique natural phenomena like the Uyuni Salt Flats and colourful lagoons, providing surreal and unforgettable landscapes.

17. Croatia

Average daily backpacking budget: $60 USD

• Beautiful Coastline and Islands: Known for its stunning Adriatic coastline, dotted with charming islands, picturesque beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
• Rich Historical Sites: A wealth of historical and cultural heritage, including well-preserved medieval towns, ancient Roman ruins, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• Diverse Natural Landscapes: Offers a range of natural wonders from cascading waterfalls and lush national parks to mountainous regions, ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

18. Argentina

Average daily backpacking budget: $45 USD

• Diverse Landscapes: From the glaciers and rugged mountains of Patagonia to the lush wine regions and the vast Pampas, Argentina boasts a wide variety of natural wonders.
• Vibrant Culture and Tango: Known for its rich cultural heritage, especially in music and dance, with tango being a significant part of its identity.
• Culinary Delights: Offers a rich culinary scene, famous for its quality beef, wines, and a fusion of European and indigenous cuisines.

19. Colombia

• Breathtaking Natural Beauty: Features diverse ecosystems, including the Amazon rainforest, Andean mountains, and pristine Caribbean beaches.
• Rich Coffee Culture: World-renowned for its coffee, offering visitors the chance to explore coffee plantations and experience the coffee-making process.
• Vibrant Festivals and Music: Known for its lively festivals, colourful traditions, and a variety of music styles, reflecting its rich cultural diversity.

20. El Salvador

• Surfing and Beaches: Offers some of Central America’s best surfing spots and beautiful Pacific coastlines, attracting beach lovers and surf enthusiasts.
• Volcanic Landscapes: Known for its striking volcanic landscapes, with several active volcanoes, providing unique hiking and sightseeing opportunities.
• Rich Cultural Heritage: A blend of indigenous and Spanish influences, visible in its archaeological sites, artisan crafts, and traditional festivals.

21. Morocco

• Vibrant Markets and Medinas: Famous for its bustling souks and medinas, offering a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells, and a glimpse into traditional life.
• Desert Experiences: The opportunity to explore the vast Sahara Desert, offering unique experiences like camel treks and overnight stays in Berber tents.
• Diverse Landscapes: From the majestic Atlas Mountains to ancient cities and long coastlines, Morocco offers a rich tapestry of natural and cultural landscapes.

Best Countries for Budget Travel: FAQ

Below are some questions related to the best countries for backpacking along with my answers to each question.

Thailand is the best country for first time backpackers. It’s very easy to visit on a budget, there is an extensive network of backpackers throughout the country, and it’s got a little bit of everything to guarantee lifelong memories.

Lots of people backpack in Southeast Asia and Latin America as the regions are affordable, suiting them to budget travel. Thanks to their popularity, there is a network of backpackers in each region, with hostels throughout every country.

Backpacking is popular in Southeast Asia where there are thousands of travellers on a budget at any given time. Thailand and Vietnam are two of the most popular countries to backpack.

Australia is one of the safest places to go backpacking. The backpacking community in Australia is one of the strongest in the world, and it’s incredibly safe to visit too. The only downside is it’s one of the more expensive countries to visit on a budget.

Final Thoughts: Best Countries for Backpacking

And there you have it, a complete list of the best countries for backpacking.

Remember, my favourites are Thailand and Vietnam. They offer a wealth of experiences, and they’re so easy to visit on a budget.

Now that you’ve decided where to go, make sure to use my backpacking budget calculator to figure out how much you need to save for your trip.

Read more about backpacking:

• 15 Backpacking Tips For Beginners (Backpacking Travel)
• Is Backpacking Dangerous? Backpacking Safety Tips
• 15 Benefits of Travelling Solo (From a Full-Time Traveller)
• What is it like to Stay in a Hostel? (From a Full-Time Backpacker)
• Flashpacking: What is Flashpacking? & Flashpacking Destinations

Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Tips

How To Avoid Backpacking Dangers

Published: November 22, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Maisie Sommer

• Safety & Insurance
• Travel Guide

Introduction

Backpacking can be an incredible way to explore new places, meet new people, and create lifelong memories. It offers the freedom to venture off the beaten path, immerse yourself in different cultures, and challenge your own limits. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers that come with backpacking and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.

While the idea of embarking on a backpacking adventure may be exciting, it’s crucial to remember that unfamiliar environments and situations can pose risks. From petty theft and scams to natural hazards and health concerns, being prepared and informed is key to avoiding backpacking dangers.

In this article, we will discuss various strategies and tips to help you stay safe while backpacking. We’ll cover essential research, packing guidelines, accommodation choices, personal safety measures, and emergency preparedness. By following these guidelines, you can minimize potential risks and enjoy a worry-free backpacking experience.

It’s important to note that while these tips can greatly reduce the likelihood of encountering dangerous situations, it’s impossible to eliminate all risks entirely. Backpacking involves a certain level of uncertainty, and unexpected events may occur. The goal is to be well-prepared and equipped to handle such situations as they arise.

So, whether you’re planning your first backpacking trip or you’re a seasoned adventurer looking to enhance your safety measures, read on for valuable insights and practical advice to help you navigate the world of backpacking with confidence.

Understanding Backpacking Dangers

Before you embark on a backpacking journey, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the potential dangers you may encounter. By identifying these risks, you can better prepare, make informed decisions, and minimize your vulnerability. Below are some common backpacking dangers:

1. Theft and Pickpocketing: In crowded tourist areas, theft and pickpocketing can be a common occurrence. Be vigilant and keep your belongings secure by using a money belt, lockable backpack, or anti-theft bags. Avoid displaying expensive items and be cautious when using ATMs.

2. Scams and Fraud: Tourist destinations often attract scammers looking to take advantage of unsuspecting travelers. Be cautious of unsolicited offers, overcharging, fake tour operators, and ATM skimming scams. Research common scams in your destination and stay alert.

3. Natural Hazards: Depending on your destination, you may encounter natural hazards such as extreme weather conditions, wildlife, or dangerous terrain. Research local weather patterns, wildlife behaviors, and trail conditions. Be prepared with appropriate gear and follow safety guidelines.

4. Health Concerns: When traveling to foreign countries, it’s important to be aware of potential health risks such as foodborne illnesses, insect-borne diseases, or altitude sickness. Consult a medical professional before your trip to receive necessary vaccinations and medications. Pack a comprehensive first-aid kit and practice good hygiene.

5. Personal Safety: Being aware of your surroundings and using common sense is vital to personal safety. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Trust your instincts and be cautious when interacting with strangers. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, and inform someone of your whereabouts.

By understanding these potential dangers and taking appropriate measures to mitigate risks, you can enhance your safety while backpacking. Remember, knowledge is power, and being well-informed is the first step towards a safer backpacking experience.

Researching Your Destination

Thoroughly researching your destination is an essential step in ensuring a safe and enjoyable backpacking experience. By having a good understanding of your destination, you can make informed decisions, plan your itinerary effectively, and familiarize yourself with local customs and regulations. Here are some important aspects to consider:

1. Safety and Security: Before you travel, research the overall safety situation of your destination. Check travel advisories and government websites for any political unrest, civil disturbances, or high crime rates. Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers and the location of your country’s embassy or consulate.

2. Local Laws and Customs: Each country has its own laws and customs that should be respected. Research and familiarize yourself with cultural norms, traditions, and local laws regarding dress code, behavior, and photography. Understanding and respecting local customs will help you blend in and avoid unintentional offenses.

3. Transportation: Research the local transportation options available in your destination. Understand the public transportation system, including buses, trains, and subway systems, to navigate efficiently. Familiarize yourself with reputable taxi services and understand the safest modes of transportation in different areas.

4. Accommodation: Look for safe and reputable accommodation options in advance. Read reviews, check for security measures, and ensure that the location is in a safe neighborhood. Consider factors such as proximity to public transportation, well-lit areas, and positive guest experiences.

5. Local Customs and Etiquette: Understanding the local customs and etiquette is important to respect the culture and avoid any misunderstandings. Learn a few basic phrases in the local language, be mindful of appropriate attire, and observe local customs when visiting sacred sites or religious places.

6. Weather and Climate: Check the weather and climate conditions of your destination during the time of your visit. Pack appropriate clothing and gear, especially if you’ll be traveling to areas with extreme temperatures or seasonal weather patterns.

By conducting thorough research before your trip, you’ll have a better understanding of what to expect, how to navigate your destination, and how to stay safe. Taking the time to plan and educate yourself about your destination will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable backpacking experience.

Packing Essentials

When it comes to backpacking, packing efficiently and having the right essentials is crucial for a successful and safe trip. Here are some key items to consider when packing for your backpacking adventure:

1. Backpack: Invest in a high-quality backpack that fits comfortably and has proper support. Look for one with adjustable straps, padded hip belts, and multiple compartments for organization. Consider the size of your backpack based on the duration of your trip and the amount of gear you’ll need to carry.

2. Clothing: Pack lightweight and versatile clothing suitable for the climate of your destination. Opt for moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabrics that can be easily layered. Consider packing a mix of short and long-sleeved shirts, pants, shorts, a rain jacket, a hat, and sturdy footwear for hiking or walking.

3. Toiletries: Pack travel-sized toiletries to save space and adhere to airport regulations. Include essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and any necessary medications. Consider packing a microfiber towel that dries quickly and takes up minimal space.

4. Travel Essentials: Include a sturdy water bottle or hydration pack to stay hydrated throughout your journey. A multipurpose tool, such as a Swiss Army knife, can come in handy in various situations. Don’t forget to pack a headlamp or flashlight for emergencies or night-time activities.

5. Navigation Tools: Depending on your destination, it may be beneficial to have navigation tools such as a map, compass, or GPS device. These tools will help you stay on track and prevent getting lost. Additionally, consider downloading offline maps or using navigation apps on your smartphone.

6. First Aid Kit: Prepare a basic first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, adhesive tape, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications. Include items specific to your destination, such as insect repellent or altitude sickness medication.

7. Money and Documents: Keep your money, passport, identification documents, and travel insurance information in a secure and easily accessible location. Consider using a money belt or a hidden pouch to protect your valuables from theft. Make electronic copies of important documents and store them in a secure cloud storage service.

8. Electronics: If needed, pack the necessary electronics such as a smartphone, a charger, a power bank, and a universal plug adapter. Consider packing a portable lock or cable lock to secure your belongings when necessary.

Remember to pack only the essentials and avoid overpacking, as it can make your backpack heavy and cumbersome. Prioritize items based on their functionality and usefulness. By packing smart and efficiently, you’ll have everything you need while keeping your backpack lightweight and manageable during your backpacking adventure.

Choosing Safe Accommodation

Choosing safe accommodation is a crucial aspect of ensuring your safety during a backpacking trip. It’s important to select accommodations that prioritize security, offer reliable services, and provide a comfortable and safe environment. Consider the following factors when choosing your accommodation:

1. Location: Opt for accommodations located in safe and well-populated areas, especially if you’re traveling solo. Research the neighborhood and check for any safety concerns or high crime rates. It’s also helpful to choose accommodations that are conveniently located near public transportation, making it easier to explore without compromising safety.

2. Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews and ratings from previous guests to get an idea of the accommodations’ safety standards. Look for consistently positive reviews that mention security measures, friendly staff, and cleanliness. Take note of any negative comments related to safety or security concerns.

3. Security Measures: Confirm that the accommodation has proper security measures in place, such as 24-hour front desk service, surveillance cameras, secure locks on doors and windows, and well-lit common areas. Some accommodations might also provide lockers or safes for storing valuables.

4. Emergency Procedures: Ensure that the accommodation has clear emergency procedures in place, including fire exit routes, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers. Inquire about their response plans for medical emergencies or other unexpected situations.

5. Staff Assistance: It’s helpful to choose accommodations with knowledgeable and helpful staff members who can provide guidance and assistance when needed. They should be able to offer advice on local safety concerns, recommend safe transportation options, and provide information on nearby amenities.

6. Online Research: Utilize online platforms and travel forums to gather information and recommendations from fellow travelers who have stayed at the accommodations you’re considering. Their personal experiences can provide valuable insights into the safety and security of the establishment.

7. Budget Considerations: While it’s important to prioritize your safety, be mindful of your budget. Look for accommodations that strike a balance between safety and affordability. Remember that paying a little extra for security and peace of mind is often worth it.

By considering these factors and doing thorough research, you can choose accommodations that prioritize your safety and provide a comfortable and secure environment. Remember to trust your instincts and make informed decisions when it comes to your accommodation choices during your backpacking adventure.

Staying Aware of Your Surroundings

One of the most important aspects of staying safe while backpacking is staying aware of your surroundings at all times. By being vigilant and observant, you can identify potential risks and react promptly to ensure your safety. Here are some tips to help you stay aware of your surroundings:

1. Stay focused: Avoid walking around with headphones on or being engrossed in your smartphone. These distractions can make you an easy target for theft or put you at risk of accidents. Keep your attention on the environment around you, especially in unfamiliar or crowded places.

2. Observe people and behaviors: Pay attention to the people around you and their behavior. Be aware of individuals who may be acting suspiciously or approaching you with unusual offers or requests. Trust your instincts and remove yourself from situations that feel uncomfortable or potentially dangerous.

3. Be cautious in crowded areas: Pickpocketing and theft occur more frequently in crowded tourist areas. Keep your belongings secure by using a cross-body bag or keeping your backpack in front of you. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and keep your wallet and valuables in a secure location.

4. Plan routes in advance: Before venturing out, plan your routes and familiarize yourself with the area. Avoid walking in poorly lit or deserted areas, especially at night. Stick to well-populated streets and use trusted transportation options when available.

5. Trust your instincts: If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe in any situation, trust your instincts and remove yourself from it. It’s better to be cautious and take preventive measures rather than risking your safety. If you’re unsure about a specific area or activity, seek advice from local authorities or trusted individuals.

6. Stay informed about local customs and laws: Research and familiarize yourself with the local customs, traditions, and laws of the destination you’re visiting. Understanding the cultural norms and expectations will help you navigate social situations more effectively and avoid unintentionally offending or disrespecting locals.

7. Use official transportation and services: Stick to official transportation options, such as licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services. Avoid getting into unmarked or unofficial vehicles. When booking tours or activities, choose reputable providers with good reviews and recommendations.

Remember that staying aware of your surroundings is an ongoing practice. By being mindful, observant, and proactive, you can minimize potential risks and enjoy a safer backpacking experience. Stay alert, trust your instincts, and prioritize your safety throughout your journey.

Handling Money and Valuables

When backpacking, handling money and valuables appropriately is essential to minimize the risk of theft or loss. By implementing some practical strategies, you can safeguard your finances and belongings while enjoying your journey. Here are some tips for handling money and valuables:

1. Use a Money Belt or Hidden Pouch: Invest in a money belt or hidden pouch that can be worn discreetly under your clothing. This can protect your cash, cards, and important documents from pickpockets or opportunistic thieves. Keep only the necessary amount of money for the day in your wallet or purse, and leave the rest securely tucked away.

2. Avoid Flashy Displays of Wealth: Displaying expensive jewelry, electronics, or large amounts of cash can attract unwanted attention. Minimize your risk by avoiding flashy displays of wealth and keeping valuable items discreetly stored. Consider leaving valuable or sentimental jewelry at home.

3. Use ATM Machines with Caution: Be cautious when using ATMs, especially in unfamiliar or remote locations. Use machines located in well-lit and populated areas, and cover your hand while entering your PIN to prevent anyone from seeing it. Keep an eye out for suspicious devices or people lurking around the ATM.

4. Split Your Money and Cards: Avoid keeping all your cash and cards in one place. Split your money across different pockets, bags, or hidden compartments, so that even if one is lost or stolen, you still have access to funds. Additionally, keep a backup credit card or emergency cash in a separate location, like your accommodation safe.

5. Make Digital Copies of Important Documents: Scan or take photos of important documents like your passport, driver’s license, travel insurance, and credit cards. Save them securely on your smartphone or email them to yourself. This provides a backup copy in case the physical documents are lost or stolen.

6. Use Credit Cards or Travel Cards: Credit cards and travel cards offer a more secure way to carry money compared to cash. They provide protection against fraudulent charges, and many offer travel insurance, purchase protection, and emergency assistance. Always inform your bank or credit card provider about your travel plans to avoid any unexpected card blocks.

7. Be Wary of Scams and Spills: Be cautious of distractions and scams designed to divert your attention away from your belongings. Scammers may spill something on you or create a commotion to create confusion while an accomplice attempts to steal from you. Stay vigilant and keep your belongings close to you in such situations.

Remember, preventative measures go a long way in protecting your money and valuables while backpacking. By being mindful, organized, and aware of your surroundings, you’ll minimize the risk of financial loss during your journey.

Communicating with Others

Effective communication is vital for a smooth and enjoyable backpacking experience, especially when interacting with locals, fellow travelers, and service providers. It helps build connections, navigate unfamiliar environments, and seek assistance when needed. Here are some tips to enhance your communication while backpacking:

1. Learn Basic Local Phrases: Taking the time to learn a few basic phrases in the local language can go a long way in showing respect and developing rapport with locals. Simple greetings, thank you, and please are universally appreciated. Locals will often respond positively when they see you making an effort to communicate in their language.

2. Use Translation Apps or Phrasebooks: In situations where you don’t speak the language, technology can be your ally. Utilize translation apps or carry a pocket-sized phrasebook to help bridge the language gap. These tools can help you ask for directions, order food, or seek assistance when communication becomes challenging.

3. Non-Verbal Communication: Non-verbal cues can play a crucial role in cross-cultural communication. Use hand gestures or visual aids to convey your message when words fail. Be aware that gestures may have different meanings in different cultures, so it’s important to educate yourself on local customs to avoid misunderstandings.

4. Respect Cultural Differences: Respect and adapt to the cultural norms and customs of the places you visit. This includes understanding appropriate dress codes, religious practices, and social norms. Respectful behavior builds trust and fosters positive interactions with locals.

5. Be a Good Listener: Active listening is an essential component of effective communication. When engaging in a conversation, pay attention to verbal and non-verbal cues from the other person. Show interest by maintaining eye contact, nodding, and asking relevant questions. This will enhance your understanding and help build stronger connections with others.

6. Practice Patience and Tolerance: Backpacking often involves encountering people from different cultures and backgrounds. It’s important to approach these interactions with patience, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn. Embrace the diversity and be respectful even if you encounter different ideologies or customs.

7. Seek Local Advice: Locals are a valuable source of information and can provide insights into the best places to visit, eat, or explore. Engage in conversations with locals, ask for recommendations, and seek their advice when exploring their city or country. They may even share interesting stories or hidden gems that are not found in guidebooks.

Effective communication builds bridges and enriches your backpacking experience. By being open, respectful, and receptive to others, you’ll create meaningful connections and have a more immersive and memorable journey.

Basic Self-Defense Techniques

While it’s always important to prioritize caution and preventative measures, having basic self-defense knowledge can provide an added sense of security while backpacking. Below are some fundamental self-defense techniques that can help you feel more prepared and capable in case of an emergency:

1. Stay Alert and Trust Your Instincts: Pay attention to your surroundings and trust your instincts. If a situation feels unsafe or uncomfortable, prioritize your safety and remove yourself from the situation. Being aware and alert can help you avoid potentially dangerous circumstances.

2. Walk with Confidence: Projecting confidence can deter potential attackers. Walk with a purpose, keep your head up, and make eye contact with those around you. By appearing confident and self-assured, you may discourage opportunistic individuals from targeting you.

3. Utilize Verbal Skills: In some situations, using your voice assertively can help diffuse a potential conflict. Use clear and assertive language to set boundaries, express discomfort, or deter an individual from approaching you. The goal is to assert yourself without escalating the situation.

4. Maintain Distance and Create Space: Whenever possible, maintain a safe distance from strangers and individuals who make you feel uneasy. If someone approaches you too closely or invades your personal space, calmly but firmly create distance by stepping back or moving away.

5. Target Vulnerable Areas: If you find yourself in a physical altercation, aim for your attacker’s vulnerable areas. Target areas such as the eyes, nose, throat, groin, or knee joints. Striking these areas can give you a chance to escape and seek help.

6. Develop Basic Strikes and Blocks: Learning basic strikes and blocks can be beneficial in self-defense situations. Techniques such as palm strikes, elbow strikes, knee strikes, and open-handed blocks can help create opportunities for escape or create distance from an assailant. Consider taking a self-defense course or watching instructional videos to learn proper techniques.

7. Escape Techniques: Focus on learning practical escape techniques that could help you break free from holds or restraints. Some techniques include the elbow escape, wrist release, and simple joint manipulation. Again, training with a professional instructor can be invaluable.

Remember, self-defense is about personal safety and using techniques to create an opportunity to escape. It is always best to prioritize your safety and avoid physical confrontation whenever possible. Learning basic self-defense techniques can provide you with a sense of empowerment and greater peace of mind during your backpacking journey.

Staying Healthy During Your Trip

Maintaining good health is crucial for enjoying a safe and fulfilling backpacking experience. By taking proactive measures and practicing healthy habits, you can minimize the risk of illness and injuries while on your journey. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy during your trip:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in hot climates or during physical activities. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it regularly. Avoid drinking tap water in areas where it’s not safe; opt for bottled water or use a portable water filter.

2. Practice Good Hygiene: Regularly wash your hands with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer when soap is not available. Proper hand hygiene helps prevent the spread of germs and reduces the risk of illnesses. Avoid touching your face to minimize the risk of transferring bacteria.

3. Eat Healthy Foods: Seek a balanced and nutritious diet by consuming fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Explore local cuisine but also be mindful of food safety practices. Avoid street food or uncooked food that may pose a higher risk of contamination.

4. Protect Against Mosquitoes: In areas with mosquito-borne diseases, protect yourself by wearing long sleeves, pants, and applying insect repellent on exposed skin. Consider carrying a mosquito net for sleeping in places without proper screens or netting.

5. Get Adequate Rest: Backpacking can be physically demanding, so make sure to get enough rest to recover and recharge. Allow yourself time to rest and sleep to prevent exhaustion and maintain optimal health. Invest in a comfortable and supportive sleeping mat or pillow for better quality sleep.

6. Practice Safe Sun Protection: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and using sunglasses. Limit exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours and seek shade whenever possible.

7. Carry a Basic First Aid Kit: Pack a basic first aid kit containing essentials such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications. Familiarize yourself with basic first aid techniques to address minor injuries or ailments during your trip.

8. Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity to keep your body active and maintain your overall well-being. Explore the local surroundings through hiking, swimming, or other recreational activities. Stay active but be mindful of your limits to avoid injuries.

9. Stay Up-to-date with Vaccinations: Check if there are any recommended vaccinations or boosters for the destinations you’ll be visiting. Consult with a healthcare professional or travel clinic well in advance to ensure you are up-to-date with necessary immunizations.

Remember, prevention is key to staying healthy while backpacking. By prioritizing good hygiene practices, eating well, staying hydrated, and taking necessary precautions, you can safeguard your health and fully enjoy your backpacking adventure.

Emergency Preparedness

While we hope for the best during our backpacking trips, it’s essential to be prepared for emergencies that may arise. By taking proactive measures and having a plan in place, you can effectively respond to unforeseen situations and stay safe. Here are some key steps for emergency preparedness:

1. Share Itinerary and Emergency Contact Information: Before you depart, share your travel itinerary and contact information with a trusted family member or friend. Keep them updated on any changes to your plans. In case of an emergency, they will have essential information to assist you or notify authorities.

2. Keep Important Documents Secure: Make copies of your important documents, such as your passport, identification cards, travel insurance, and emergency contacts. Keep one set of copies securely in your accommodation and carry digital copies in a secure cloud storage service or encrypted email.

3. Know Emergency Numbers: Research and store emergency contact numbers specific to the destination you’re visiting. Be familiar with the local emergency services, including police, ambulance, and fire department. In case of an emergency, having these numbers readily available can save crucial time.

4. Learn Basic First Aid Skills: Enroll in a basic first aid course before your trip or familiarize yourself with basic first aid techniques. Knowing how to administer CPR, treat minor injuries, and provide assistance in emergency situations can make a significant difference in an urgent situation.

5. Carry a Well-Stocked First Aid Kit: Pack a comprehensive first aid kit with essential items such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, gauze, adhesive tape, tweezers, and any necessary prescription medications. Tailor the kit to your specific needs and destination, considering factors such as climate and specific activities planned.

6. Research Local Medical Facilities: Identify the location and contact information of medical facilities, clinics, and hospitals in the areas you’ll be visiting. Research the quality of healthcare services to ensure you know where to seek medical assistance if needed.

7. Stay Informed about Current Events: Stay updated on any local news, weather alerts, or potential safety hazards in your destination. Sign up for travel advisories and follow reliable news sources to be aware of any events that might impact your safety.

8. Have an Emergency Fund: Set aside an emergency fund that can cover unexpected expenses or last-minute travel changes due to emergencies. Having financial resources readily available can provide peace of mind during uncertain situations.

9. Trust Your Gut and Follow Local Authorities: In any emergency situation, trust your instincts and follow the instructions of local authorities. They are best equipped to manage the situation and provide the necessary guidance for your safety.

Remember, emergencies can happen unexpectedly, but by being prepared and informed, you can mitigate the impacts and respond effectively. Stay calm, assess the situation, and prioritize your safety and well-being during any emergency that may arise.

Embarking on a backpacking adventure is an exhilarating experience that allows you to explore new places, immerse yourself in different cultures, and create unforgettable memories. However, it’s important to be mindful of the potential dangers and take proactive measures to ensure your safety throughout your journey.

By understanding the risks, conducting thorough research, and making informed decisions, you can minimize the chances of encountering backpacking dangers. From choosing safe accommodations to staying aware of your surroundings and handling money and valuables wisely, each step plays a vital role in enhancing your safety.

Effective communication and basic self-defense techniques provide an added layer of confidence and preparedness. Remember to stay healthy by practicing good hygiene, staying hydrated, and being mindful of what you eat. Being prepared for emergencies, both in terms of having a plan and necessary supplies, is crucial for your overall safety and peace of mind.

As you embark on your backpacking adventure, embrace the excitement but remain vigilant and cautious. Trust your instincts, be respectful of local customs, and forge connections with fellow travelers and locals along the way. Each step you take to prioritize your safety will ensure a fulfilling and secure backpacking experience.

Remember, while it’s impossible to completely eliminate risks, taking the necessary precautions and being prepared can greatly enhance your safety. With thorough research, proper planning, and a proactive mindset, you can enjoy your backpacking journey to the fullest, creating cherished memories without compromising your well-being.

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South America

Is south america dangerous 11 tips to stay safe traveling south america.

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One question I received a lot recently after returning from my 4-months backpacking trip around the continent was “how safe is South America? ” This is an important question, and this guide will show you how to stay safe when backpacking South America!

Unfortunately, South America’s reputation in terms of safety is not the best, and the internet is full of horror stories about violence, robberies and various scams happening all over the continent. Therefore, my parents were not very happy about me traveling around South America for a couple of months. Several of my friends would never even step a foot on the continent because of these horrible stories out there.

However, is it really that bad? When I set foot on the continent starting in Colombia , I got to know many travelers coming up from the south and finishing their trips in Colombia. Several of them have spent multiple months in South America and faced a negative experience related to getting something stolen, etc.  Obviously, this was not the best welcoming to the continent I could ask for and I was afraid something could happen to me during my four months in South America.

Nevertheless, I’m back home again, and absolutely nothing happened! I wasn’t robbed, mugged, scammed or pickpocketed at all. Let me tell you my personal advice about how to stay safe when backpacking South America!

Be careful with Alcohol

I mentioned at the beginning that I was concerned about safety because of the negative stories I was told. Well, after asking for details of why someone got robbed, 90% of the time people’s stories started roughly with “…well, it was 2 am, I was quite drunk on the street s and then it happened…” The bottom line: be careful if you go out partying and if you get wasted. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying South America’s nightlife, but keep in mind that too much alcohol makes you careless and vulnerable, and keep in mind that you’re in a foreign city with people you might know only since a few hours beforehand. Leave your valuables at your hostel or hotel before you go out partying, and make sure that you know how to get (safely) back home. Same goes obviously for drugs – you don’t want to be completely blacked out somewhere in South America!

Leave your valuables at your hostel/hotel

There’s always a small risk of getting robbed or pickpocketed every time you leave your accommodation. In some places, this risk is lower, in other places, such as Quito, Rio de Janeiro, and Bogota, the risk is higher. Therefore, you should ALWAYS leave valuable things which you don’t need (passport, credit card, big amounts of cash) in your accommodation. Don’t take the risk and carry all your valuables through the streets, especially in the night and when you go partying. Only take some cash and maybe your phone and your camera if you need them.

Do your research

By this, I mean that learning about other’s experiences or doing research online can be very useful to anticipate common crimes and areas you should rather avoid

in the places you plan to visit. It is very useful to learn and read about common scams in a country before you visit, so that you know what might happen to be prepared. Doing that research is not about getting scared or losing your adventure spirit, it is just about being well prepared and understanding the local context.

Be careful in buses

Always take care of your belongings on public buses. Always keep your daypack with your valuables on your lap, never put your valuables in the luggage storage, in the overhead or even under your seat (people from sitting behind you could grab it). If someone comes to you, claiming to work for the bus company and asking you to put your bag on the overhead for safety reasons, don’t do it, it’s a popular scam in South America (especially in Ecuador). Be especially careful when the bus gets crowded and when many people, including passengers and food sellers; get on and off the bus. Be careful at bus terminals as well. If anyone offers you help and wants to put your daypack somewhere, refuse. I recommend using small locks to lock your bag. Be careful when you fall asleep in buses – I always try to wear sunglasses, making it harder for people to tell if I’m asleep or not. During night buses, put your valuables in your pockets, zip them up and put an extra sweater or jacket on top. I’ve talked to plenty of people who got their stuff stolen in these situations.

Be careful with taxis

This depends on the country and the place you’re in. While in most smaller cities and villages, taxis are fine to use, try to avoid random street taxis especially in the bigger capitals (Quito, Bogota, Lima,). There is a lot of crime happening with fake or stolen taxis. Try to use Uber or Easytaxi whenever you can (I always get a sim card for mobile internet). In Quito, the crimes involving taxis got so bad that the government introduced new rules, making it mandatory for each official taxi to have a specific license plate, a sticker on the car, two cameras inside and a red panic button for passengers. While Uber wasn’t launched yet in Ecuador in summer 2017, the app EasyTaxi was a good alternative that I used.

Some further remarks about taking taxis:

• Take care when exiting a car – leave the door open and ask the driver to help you get your bag out, making him/her exit the car before you leave. This prevents the driver from driving off with your bags in the car as soon as you exit (This isn’t very common, but it happened to people I know).

• Check on google maps or maps.me (works offline) the route that your driver chooses and ask if you feel like the taxi is heading in the wrong direction. Give your driver the feeling that you’re prepared and that you know where to go.

• Ask the driver to turn on the meter. In some countries or cities, metered taxis don’t exist. In this case, make sure to agree on a price before you enter the car and have a good idea of what is a fair price for the route you will take (ask locals at the bus terminal or in your hostel).

• If your driver wants to pick up a random person on the street, refuse, protest and in the worst-case scenario, get out of the car.

One last point to clarify – don’t get the impression that all taxi drivers are bad guys, this is certainly not the case and most drivers I had were very friendly, helpful and gave me recommendations and advice about their city. But as always, it’s good to be prepared.

Get information at your accommodation/hostel

That’s the first thing I do when I check in at a new place – I ask at the reception for a city map and ask for some further information – any areas to avoid? Is it safe to walk? How is it at the night? No one knows the neighborhood better as people working at your hostel, so take their advice.

Further, the situation in Latin America always changes so fast. Nicaragua was super safe to visit in 2017, but should be avoided because of violent protests in 2018. Colombia was one of the most dangerous countries a few years ago, but is completely safe to visit in 2017 and 2018 . You see – the situation always changes, so make sure to get updated information.

Time your arrival

When taking a bus or flight, I try to time my arrival so that I arrive during daylight. Sure, this isn’t always possible. In case you have a late or super early arrival, get some information before – how do you get to your hostel. Do they have a 24-hour reception? (if not, send them an email in advance).

Avoid certain areas (especially at night)

Every major city has areas that need to be avoided, so make sure to know them. It’s a no-brainer that you shouldn’t walk down dark allies, but that’s not everything. Furthermore, there’s also a big difference between daytime and nighttime. Let me give you some examples: While the area of Ipanema is one of the safest neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro , it’s dangerous to be at the beach during the night. While the historical center in Bogota is the place were all attractions and hostels are located, don’t walk around there in the night either. This might be surprising since these places are safe during the day and you might expect that the top tourist hotspots are always fine to visit, but this isn’t the case

Be careful when using ATMs

When taking out money, try to do it during daylight and if possible in a proper bank or at least in a closed building. Make sure that no one watches, put your money quickly in your pockets and be extra careful while walking back to your hostel.

Know the scams

In every region in the world, there are specific kinds of scams that you need to know in order to avoid them. A quick google research can help. Here are some common ones in South America:

• Suddenly, out of nowhere, there’s some slush / shit / whatever on your clothes, on your bag or on your face. Some locals approach you, offering their help, trying to clean it up. You’re confused, you’re distracted. And suddenly, the locals are gone, and so is your wallet or your phone

• Suddenly, there’s some cash lying on the ground, just next to you! You pick it up, you’re distracted – and your daypack is gone.

• Suddenly, you’re approached in a bus by someone claiming to work for the bus company and pushing you to put your daypack in the overhead, since it wouldn’t be allowed to carry it on your lap. He offers you help, the bus gets crowded, people get on and off. And your bag is gone.

• Suddenly, someone randomly talks o you on a bus, while your bag is on the floor. You talk, you’re distracted, and someone from behind grabs your back and takes out your valuables.

• Suddenly, someone bumps into you on the street, he/she apologizes – and your wallet is gone.

As a rule of thumb: Always be cautious if something unexpected happens, since it’s every scammer’s main goal to distract your attention. Again, don’t be paranoid, most people are kind and helpful, but also don’t be too naïve and careless.

Don’t be a hero

This one is very, very important. In case someone threatens you with a gun or a knife, DON’T fight back, DON’T discuss, just hand out your valuables. In Latin America, criminal’s threshold to actually use their weapons is very low and you definitely risk your life if you offer any resistance. Keep in mind: your life is more valuable than any material value. Same goes if you witness any crime or any robbery – don’t try to be the hero, just leave the place as soon as you can.

I hope I was able to give you a broad overview of how to stay safe in South America. It is not my intention to scare you.  Many people (including me!) travel South America for several months without anything bad happening to them. Nevertheless, the safety situation certainly is different than in Europe and it’s necessary to be prepared.

But now stop worrying and get ready for your South America adventure! Check out the ultimate South America bucket list for some inspiration for your backpacking trip.

Did you already pack your bag? Have a look at this South America packing checklist  from my friend Steph to make sure you don’t leave anything important behind!

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Patrick Muntzinger - German Backpacker

Patrick is the founder of the bilingual travel blog "German Backpacker" and writes on this website about his adventures and experiences exploring every part of the world!

Is Backpacking Dangerous?

By Anna Duncan

Backpacking is an increasingly popular mode of travel, as it allows travelers to explore more of the world in a shorter period of time and on a tighter budget. However, this style of travelling also carries with it some inherent risks.

While backpacking can be an incredibly rewarding experience, there is no denying that it can also be dangerous.

The most obvious danger that comes with backpacking is the risk of theft or violence. Many backpackers are young and inexperienced, and may not be aware of the risks they are taking when travelling alone. In some parts of the world, crime rates are higher than in other areas, making it important for travelers to always be aware of their surroundings and take appropriate safety precautions.

Another potential danger for backpackers is health-related issues. Exploring new environments can expose travelers to unfamiliar bacteria and illnesses, which can lead to serious health problems if not treated properly. Furthermore, many backpackers travel long distances in remote areas with limited access to medical care if something does go wrong.

Finally, accidents can happen at any time while travelling. In unfamiliar terrain or conditions, travellers may not be aware of potential hazards or dangers until it is too late. It is important for travellers to always take necessary safety precautions when exploring new places.

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Traveling Without a Passport

Is Backpacking in Europe Safe?

If you’re planning on a backpacking tour in Europe , one question that’s probably crossed your mind is, “is it safe?” It’s a reasonable question that nearly everyone considers before packing their bags and leaving for an adventure. But at the end of the day, you need a straight answer: is backpacking in Europe safe, or not?

Unfortunately, the answer isn’t that simple. There are dozens of factors that influence the safety of one’s trip through Europe, from where you stay to how you travel. Determining safety is entirely dependant on how you plan on traveling. Thankfully, with the right knowledge, tips, and resources, backpacking through Europe can be extremely safe and fulfilling.

Before you leave for your trip abroad, consider these tips and tricks to make sure your European backpacking expedition is a safe one.

Travel to: Europe

Safety tips for backpacking in Europe

Don’t hitchhike.

Hitching through Europe has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially as the millennial generation begins to travel. It’s affordable, relatively easy, and a way to meet new people. That being said, it puts you at serious risk. You have no idea who is driving you, or what their intentions are. And while kidnappings are somewhat rare, most people would consider hitchhiking an unnecessary risk.

See Also: Where to Find the Best Eastern European Christmas Markets

Read reviews

As you travel, you’re probably going to end up in dozens of hostels, bed and breakfasts, or Airbnbs. But before you book, make sure you take the time to read the reviews. If a fellow traveller has had a negative experience or felt unsafe, you can bet they’re going to post about it in the comments. Reading these reviews can help you avoid staying somewhere that might put you in a risky situation.

Check travel advisories

Most countries have a government-run travel advice and advisory resource that helps travelers make informed decisions about where and when they travel. This can be an incredibly helpful resource, highlighting local laws and culture, safety considerations, areas to avoid, and much more. Before and as you travel, you should be checking these sites to make sure your plans are still safe.

Keep important items close

Pickpockets and thieves have unbelievable methods of making your belongings their belongings. Airports, shopping centres, iconic landmarks, restaurants, and high-traffic areas in general are all targeted areas. Because it’s hard to avoid these places, you’ll need to keep your things safe. Money, passports, and important documents should all be kept as close to you as possible. Never put them in backpack pockets, suitcases, or pockets. The best place for them is in a money belt that’s under all of your clothes.

See Also: The Best Travel Yoga Mats

Travel with a tour company

If you’re set on traveling around Europe but want to keep safety as a top priority, consider travelling with a tour company. With professional guides, safe transportation, and well thought-out itineraries, you can rest easy knowing you’re being taken care of from the day you start to the day you finish. Hotels, tour sites, transportation, meals – it’s all taken care of. If you have safety concerns, your guides are with you every step of the way, meaning you can focus on traveling worry-free.

Safest countries in Europe

As mentioned earlier, European countries are for the most part safe. However, there are always countries that consistently rank favourably on the Global Peace Index, making them some of the best destinations for travellers looking to backpack through Europe without worry about their safety.

• Iceland – Iceland consistently ranks as the safest country in the world. Thanks to its high levels of education, strict regulations on drugs and alcohol, and extremely small population size, the country experiences some of the lowest crime rates worldwide. So if you’re looking for somewhere safe and beautiful to go, Iceland is your go-to.
• Denmark – For the most part, all Scandinavian countries are extremely safe, but Denmark is always at the top of the list. This colourfully-charming country is filled with half-timber houses, brightly painted storefronts, and medieval cobblestoned streets seemingly everywhere you go. Filled with beauty and history, this country is perfectly safe for every traveller.
• Switzerland – If you’re into snow-covered mountains, delicious chocolates, and amazing hiking trails, Switzerland is for you. Known for its extremely friendly locals, dislike of conflict, and world-famous landmarks such as the Matterhorn, this is one country you can tour through nearly completely carefree – so pay it a visit and don’t worry one bit.

See Also: The Best Airports with Yoga Studios in the USA and Europe

• Norway – Yet another Scandinavian country on the list, Norway isn’t far behind Denmark and Iceland on the global list of safest countries. If you’re a nature traveller, Norway is known for its beautiful fjords, insane hiking trails, and glaciers that will make you feel like you’re at the North Pole. Plus, if you travel with the right attitude, you can really achieve that Viking feel.
• Czech Republic – What many travellers consider to be a greatly-underrated European destination, the Czech Republic is a triple threat –  beautiful, historic, and safe. Home to a number of ornate castles, native craft beers, and beautifully preserved medieval cities, the Czech Republic is rising in popularity, thanks to it’s brag-worthy portfolio of security and beautiful destinations.

When backpacking in Europe, know that for the most part, you are safe. There are very few places that put you at serious risk and as long as you do your due diligence and practise safe travel tips, you will be fine. That being said, remember that if you are really worried about traveling through Europe, you can always opt to join a tour group to give yourself peace of mind.

Do you have any tips for backpackers in Europe? Let us know in the comments!

Jesse Warner

Jesse is a blogger and content creator who loves travel, the outdoors, and her dog, Molly. When she isn't planning her next trip, she can be found watching Netflix documentaries, enjoying time by the water, or eating soft-serve ice cream. Follow her on Instagram , Facebook , or check out her blog .

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Backpacking in alaska.

NPS / T. Vaughn

Hiking in a Remote Landscape

Backcountry Logistics

Food and Gear Prep: Planning is essential in Alaska, especially when fly-in backpacking. When landing in a remote area, there may not be groceries, gear or trash facilities available. You will want to have all you need ready for hiking and dispose of any trash before you load your plane or other mode of transport. You are dependent on your own resources here. Always pack plenty of food and fuel and carry emergency food rations. Come prepared with proper equipment and clothing, including weather-resistant outerwear, thermal layers and quality rain gear. You must be ready for changing weather conditions, as they often shift rapidly. Bear resistant containers are required in most areas. Bear spray and electric bear fences are effective deterrents. If you'll be carrying these with you, it's a good idea to practice their use before you leave for your trip.

Backcountry Electronics: Batteries for electronic devices often lose charge in the cold (even in summer), so bring a battery back-up or more batteries than you think you will need. It is highly unlikely there will be a place to charge your devices once you leave a big city or village. When hiking, it can be helpful to keep your batteries in a pocket on an inside layer; this will use your body heat to keep them warm for longer periods than inside your pack.

Trip Planning: Alaskan terrain is complex, often challenging, and ever-changing. For these reasons you may not hike as fast as you normally would on a trail or other cross-country routes in the Lower 48. As you plan your trip, always add more days than you may need, especially in the case that you or your scheduled pick-up does not arrive due to weather or high river levels.

Trip planning should not be measured by “miles per day” but rather with a “you get where you get” mentality. When hiking in a landscape that is unpredictable, it is best to go with the flow, have many options for potential campsites and try to not have a required daily end point. Give yourself room to relax, have fun, move around wildlife and make safe decisions.

Terrain and Vegetation

There are various terrain types in Alaska’s trail-less wilderness. Plan on covering roughly one mile per hour to allow for errors in navigation, route selection and tough going. Vegetation types can dictate the difficulty of hiking and can affect how many miles you may be able to go in a day. If you're not familiar with Alaskan terrain, be prepared to turn back and try a different routes. Give yourself plenty of time to get where you're going. You may encounter the following:

Steep scree slopes with loose, sharp rocks.

Wet, muddy bogs where feet can sink into the ground up to your knees. This is often very slow hiking, usually found in low lying areas and very buggy.

Tussocks, brushy and lumpy areas with uneven terrain and “ankle busting” hopping from one frost heave to the next.

Tundra, with ankle to knee-high brush, generally more “easy going” for Alaska.

Dense brush, with expert-level bushwacking. Thick, waist-to-overhead height alders and willows. This can be very frustrating and slow going for long periods. Bushwhacking is often unavoidable and requires both practice and patience. Willow and alder habitats can drastically impact your speed. When traveling through willow habitats be cautious of objects or gear hanging from your pack, stow away trekking poles.

Fast and cold glacial waterways that must be forded by foot or packraft. Often their depth is obscured by glacial sediment.

Long stretches of exposed coastline. Be sure to consult tide tables and know whether the tide is rising or falling. If you are planning to hike along coastlines, you may have to hike when the tide is low. Be aware of changing tides and routes that may be impassable, either because large mudflats or high water.

NPS / A. Lindholm

NPS / Lake Clark NP&P

Where the Wild Things Are

It takes everyone, cold, swift, remote.

Daylight: You may have heard of Alaska as the Land of the Midnight Sun and in the summer, it truly is! During the summertime, there is much more daylight for hiking. On the longest day of the year, Alaska may have approximately 14-24 hours of sunlight. During the spring and fall, areas can lose several minutes of light per day. Winter days are significantly shorter, with the shortest day having approximately 0-5 hours of sunlight. Be mindful that the actual amount of daylight varies with surrounding mountains. In areas with tall mountains, it is often dark well before sunset and remains dark until well after sunrise. If you'll be hiking in spring, fall, or winter, don't forget your headlamp! Mosquitos/biting insects: Mosquitos and other biting insects are common in Alaska. Be prepared with bug repellent and bug nets or use hats, long sleeve shirts and pants as a physical barrier to keep insects away from your skin.

NPS / A. Kirby

Alaskan adventures demand self-sufficiency and backcountry competence. If you master backcountry skills in this remote landscape, it may unlock a lifetime of adventure, beauty, and further exploration of America's most isolated and expansive wildernesses.

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Last updated: October 26, 2021

Is Backpacking Alone Dangerous? (4 Simple Truth About It)

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Is backpacking alone dangerous? Backpacking is a fun way to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re into hiking or camping alone or with a friend, it’s important to be prepared for anything.

This means having the right gear and knowing how to use it properly. It also means knowing where you are going so that you can avoid dangers like storms or dangerous wildlife. But what about backpacking alone? Is it safe?

Have you considered backpacking alone? If so, you will have a lot of questions. How risky is it, and what are the dangers? Which countries are safe?

Is it legal to travel alone in Asia? This article answers all those questions and more to let you know if backpacking alone is right for you!

Is backpacking alone dangerous?

The question of whether or not backpacking alone is dangerous is a difficult one to answer. It really depends on the person and their level of preparedness. In general, I think backpacking alone can be dangerous if you are not prepared or if you do not have the right mindset.

Backpacking alone should not be done by someone who is not prepared or who does not have the right mindset. The problem with being unprepared and having the wrong mindset is that you will be more likely to get hurt or lost.

If you are prepared and have a positive attitude, there is no reason why backpacking alone should be dangerous for you.

The first thing that people need to know about backpacking alone is that it does not mean going out into the wilderness without any help whatsoever.

You still need to take precautions even when you are traveling solo because there are dangers out there in nature that can cause harm, even if it seems like everything is going well for a while.

For example, bears are common in many areas of North America , and they can attack humans if they feel threatened enough by them (or just because they want food).

Bears aren’t the only wild animals in the wilderness, though; there are also mountain lions and other predators that could pose a threat if they feel threatened by a human being.

The other thing that people should know about backpacking alone is that you need to be prepared for emergencies and anything else that might come up during your trip.

Staying safe while exploring nature is important, but it’s also important to prepare for any situation that might occur so that you can handle the problem at hand and not get badly hurt or killed because of something unexpected happening near you.

When traveling solo, it’s important to have an emergency plan in place so that you know what to do if something unexpected happens. If something does happen, then having an escape plan means getting out of there as quickly as possible before the situation gets worse.

Read more articles: Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip

Key focus points

Is it safe to go hiking alone as a woman, why going backpacking with two people is safe, gear you will need for safe backpacking, safe ways to backpack alone.

If you are a woman, or even if you’re not, there may be some concern about going backpacking alone. Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing a route and staying safe in the wilderness:

Always check the weather before leaving on your trip. The best way to do this is by checking with a local ranger station or other outdoor organization that has access to maps and up-to-date information about trail conditions. Be sure to bring extra water if rain is in the forecast!

Always stay on marked trails when hiking alone so that it’s easier for someone else who might need assistance to find your location quickly.

Some people suggest keeping flashlights on hand just in case they get lost while hiking at night.

However, if they’re using them as safety measures, then having these items handy could make things worse if someone tries attacking them while they’re walking around trying out different areas at night (elevating tension levels).

Check out Trailspace’s article, “How To Survive Being Lost In The Wilderness,” for some good advice on what steps to take if you find yourself lost outdoors during the night.

There are many different scenarios in which you could find yourself lost in the wilderness, but one thing is for sure: it’s not fun.

If you’re ever stuck out there without a map or compass and don’t know any local landmarks, then this article will help guide you through finding your way back home safely.

Read more articles: Snakes in Spain

You might be wondering why backpacking alone is such a dangerous thing. After all, you may have heard stories about hikers being killed by bears or mauled by mountain lions on the trail.

Other dangers include dehydration, falling into a canyon, and getting lost in the forest for days without food or water.

However, there are numerous advantages to traveling alone, such as not having to deal with anyone else’s stinky feet or bad breath.

You don’t have to share your belongings with anyone else, and if something goes wrong during your trip—say, someone gets hurt—there’s no one around who can help them.

There are also some disadvantages associated with traveling alone: It can be more difficult to find company when traveling solo because most people prefer traveling together rather than solo.

You won’t always have someone there for moral support when things aren’t going well (e.g., if an injury occurs); it may take longer than expected since there’s only one person doing everything instead of two people doing half of what needs done; etcetera.

One of the biggest benefits of traveling solo is that it allows you to have more freedom and flexibility than if you were traveling with friends or family.

You can do whatever you want when you want without regard for anyone else’s schedule.

You also don’t have to worry about anyone getting left behind or feeling like they’re not “getting their money’s worth” out of the trip because they’re required to pay for themselves.

Read more articles: Snakes of Spain

The number of gadgets you’ll need depends on the length and type of trip you’re taking.

For example, if your backpacking adventure is going to be over a weekend and you don’t want to carry too much extra weight, a basic first aid kit should suffice for minor cuts and scrapes.

On the other hand, if it’s a multi-day trek through the wilderness with no access to medical facilities or clean water along the way, then having some additional gear like bandages is a good idea.

Antiseptic wipes or spray alcohol wipes (these are good for cleaning wounds), pain medication (ibuprofen or acetaminophen), antihistamines such as Benadryl that help relieve allergic reactions in case someone gets stung by mosquitoes or bitten by ticks, etc.

Disinfectant solutions such as iodine solution, household bleach diluted with water, etc.

Mosquito repellent creams, sprays, or compact mirrors attached to your backpack for quick reflections without having to take items out of your bag every time something happens.

Flashlights are always useful when walking around at night because most trails aren’t well lit up, so having one will keep everything illuminated enough so that if an emergency situation arises where someone has fallen into deep waters, they can be found.

During those hours where nobody can see anything clearly because it’s pitch black outside due to nighttime hours when camping outdoors away from civilization,

If you’re going to be camping or hiking in an area that’s known for wild animals such as bears roaming around or even mountain lions, then it’s important to have some items on hand like bear spray or pepper spray.

These are usually sold at outdoor stores and come in different sizes depending on how much protection you need. They are a sturdy knife with a sheath attached so that it doesn’t get lost easily if dropped by accident.

Read more articles: Backpacking with Eggs

To ensure your safety, here are a few tips:

1. Visit a place you know well. If you’re going to be traveling alone and staying in unfamiliar places, make sure it’s somewhere you feel comfortable and have been before.

2. Have the right gear for your trip. Having the right equipment will help you stay safe from the elements and emergency situations; not having it can put your life at risk in various ways.

3. Plan for emergencies. Think about what could happen on your journey or trip, such as getting lost in the woods or injured by wildlife, and then try to come up with solutions ahead of time—don’t wait until an emergency happens!

Also remember that bad weather conditions could make things harder than normal (or impossible), so always keep this possibility in mind when planning anything outdoorsy!

4. Don’t forget your cell phone. If you’re going somewhere remote , make sure that you have a way to call for help in case of an emergency or if something happens on the road (such as getting lost).

5. You should also tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return—just in case! If you follow these tips, you’ll be on your way to having a safe and enjoyable adventure !

6. Don’t forget your gear! Having the right equipment can help you stay safe from the elements and emergency situations. Plan for emergencies.

7. Think about what could happen on your journey or trip, such as getting lost in the woods or injured by wildlife, and then try to come up with solutions ahead of time—don’t wait until an emergency happens!

8. Also remember that bad weather conditions could make things harder than normal (or impossible), so always keep this possibility in mind when planning anything outdoorsy!

Final verdict

Overall, backpacking can be safe and fun if you do it the right way. First of all, planning is key. Make sure you have enough food and water for yourself, as well as extra supplies in case anything goes wrong on your journey.

Second, always bring a first aid kit with bandages for cuts and burns, as well as anti-venom for any poisonous bites or stings encountered during your trip.

Thirdly, take along some kind of communication device so that help can reach you quickly if needed!

Finally, remember that no matter what precautions are taken, there will always be risks involved when traveling alone, so just make sure to keep an open mind about other people who might join up with us along the way (as long as they aren’t too weird).

Read more articles: Rainbow Beach in Australia

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Safety Tips when Backpacking in the Backcountry

If hiking through the wilderness is at the top of your bucket list, you’re not alone. The beautiful scenery, epic trails, and campsites, and experiences of a lifetime make backcountry backpacking a major goal for any outdoor enthusiast. 

But, there’s a reason the idea stays on bucket lists and doesn’t get crossed off as often as other items. 

Backcountry backpacking can be dangerous, especially if you don’t take the proper precautions. If you’re a frequent backpacker, you already know some of the common injuries that can occur while hiking. But, you’re putting yourself at risk for things greater than blisters and scrapes when you’re exploring mostly-uncharted terrain. 

Still, if heading into the backcountry is a goal of yours, there’s no reason you can’t reach it with a little preparedness. Use the following safety tips and ideas as your ultimate guide to backpacking safely while in the backcountry. 

Perhaps the most important safety tip before you head out on your backcountry backpacking trip is to plan ahead as much as possible. That starts by making sure you pack the right essentials , including: 

• A map and compass or GPS unit
• Enough water and/or a purifier
• Fire-starter
• First aid kit
• Sun protection

You don’t want to overload your bag so it weighs you down. But, you’ll be happy to have these essentials on hand in case of an emergency, or just at the end of a long day on the trail. 

In addition to packing for your trip, you can also plan ahead by telling someone where you’re going. This should be typical standard practice even on shorter trips. But, it’s an especially important safety tip for more dangerous backpacking treks in the backcountry.

Let someone know exactly where you’ll be and when you’ll be there. If anything were to happen and people needed to look for you, they would have a better idea of where to find you quickly. 

Finally, prepare yourself by researching the weather and local terrain. What does the forecast look like for your trip? Knowing ahead of time will make it easier to make efficient packing decisions. 

Have Support

Your dog can be a welcome companion when backcountry backpacking

Backpacking is a great way to find yourself and take advantage of some peace and quiet in an overly busy world. But, when you’re tackling rough terrain, having some kind of support system is important.

That doesn’t necessarily mean you have to travel with family or friends. But, you might consider bringing your canine companion along with you. 

Dogs should always be trained if you’re considering taking them along for your trek. You can train them yourself, hire a trainer, or go for a really thorough option by signing them up for a board-and-train program .

Once they learn to listen and obey basic commands on the trail, going backcountry backpacking with your dog can actually benefit your experience. They will offer a source of companionship and motivation as well as protection. 

Keep in mind that there are extra things you’ll need to bring if you backpack with your dog . You might even consider getting them their own little harness pack to keep things like food, treats, water, and waste bags. 

Another safety tip for backcountry backpacking is to keep your phone with you to make sure you have support on your adventure. It might go against any “off the grid” ideas you have.

But, keeping your phone charged and with you at all times will give you a way to call for help, if needed. It will also give you a way to connect with people back home if you’re struggling to stay motivated or you’re dealing with loneliness.

Having a support system, whether they’re right next to you in the form of a furry friend, or a thousand miles away, can make a big difference. 

Expect the Unexpected

Planning and preparing will always be important when you’re heading out on a backpacking excursion. But, no matter how well-prepared you are, you can’t predict everything that will happen on the trail. You might run into things like: 

• Unexpected bad weather
• Changes to the land due to erosion 
• Wild animals that could be threatening
• Malfunctioning equipment

There are things you can do to better prepare yourself for some of these situations. For example, one important safety tip for backcountry backpacking is to prepare to protect yourself from the threat of dangerous animals by carrying a firearm.

Whether you’re by yourself or hiking with your kids, make sure you know how to properly store your gun , and that you’ve received firearm training before using it. 

For other unexpected situations, you have to be willing to think on your feet. Backpacking in the backcountry takes more than strength and stamina – it takes a sharp mind.

Some of the best survivalists in the world are only able to do what they do because of their outdoor knowledge and willingness to think outside the box. 

If you’re ready to cross backcountry backpacking off your bucket list, there’s no better time to do it. But, keep these safety tips in mind to make sure it’s a positive experience that you’ll feel confident about every step of the way. 

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Dan Matthews

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Avoiding Dangerous Situations

Traveling abroad is an incredible experience. You will see and experience things that you had no idea existed, meet fascinating people and learn about stimulating cultures. Hitting the road for the first time can be a life-changing moment.

Unfortunately, every year a small number of backpackers end up in dangerous situations that they could have avoided with a bit of common sense. Most backpackers make it out in one piece with a great story to tell and perhaps some cuts and bruises, others are not so lucky.

Armed with the right knowledge, it is relatively easy to steer clear of dangerous situations if you follow a few simple guidelines.

What’s in this Guide

1. Use Good Common Sense 2. Minimizing Risks 3. When the Worst Happens

1. Use Good Common Sense

The idea of  common sense  is a basic one for most of us, however, we feel it’s important that we list some of the ‘travel-specific’ ideas since we assume that not everyone who reads this will have traveled.

Don’t flash your cash

One of the most basic rules of all but still worth mentioning. Do not flash your cash or valuables. Don’t walk along the street with an iPhone sticking out of your back pocket. Try to avoid having a wallet stuffed to bursting point, instead keep perhaps twenty dollars in your wallet and the rest of your money hidden away.

Don’t believe everything you hear

If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Scams vary in scale and ambition all around the world. So if you have an alarm bell ringing in your head or feel uncomfortable, try to remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible.

Beware of sudden ‘Besties’

One of the best things about backpacking is you meet lots of really cool people, other backpackers and also locals keen to show off their country. What you must bear in mind though is that some of the friendliest people you will ever meet are those attempting to rob you or scam you into buying something you probably don’t want.

Keep an eye on your belongings

If you’re getting on a bus and you are told your gear needs to go on the roof or in the boot, make sure it gets put there. Don’t just trust that it will end up in the right place. If you are forced to leave your pack somewhere then try to put it at the bottom of the luggage pile, it is far less likely to be stolen that way.

Be wary of traffic

Many backpackers get in traffic accidents whilst traveling. Crashing a motorbike in South East Asia is so common it is almost a rite of passage. If you do choose to hire a motorbike, wear a helmet, it can save your life.

Research your destination

Before traveling, look up safety advice on the specific region you are visiting. Each country has its own scams so make sure you know what the risks are before visiting, you will then be far more likely to spot the warning signs and get out of any trouble you may find yourself in.

Get Travel Insurance

Ultimately, if something does go wrong you want to make sure you are protected. Read more about  why you need travel insurance  and get a quote  here .

2. Minimizing Risks

When it comes to avoiding dangerous situations abroad, the best course of action is to minimize risks before they become a full-blown problem. This means, for example, never having more money in your wallet than you can afford to lose.

One of the biggest danger’s abroad is in fact, yourself. The heady cocktail of cheap beer, exotic sites, and exciting new people can render many newbie travelers into a relatively vulnerable state. Do not let yourself get lulled into a false sense of security, by all means, have a great time but aim to minimize risks through the following steps.

Always have a plan

Heading out for a night out on the town with some new friends? Sounds great! Do you know your hostel’s address and do you feel comfortable finding it on your own if you get lost? Probably not… plan accordingly and make a note of your hostel's address and telephone number.

Note the exits

Whenever you enter somewhere new, make a quick note of the exits. If you’re staying in a hostel, be sure to know the best way out in an emergency.

Have the correct equipment

If you intend on going for an afternoon hike in the nearby hills, take a head torch. You don’t want to end up hiking in the dark. This can happen to even the most experienced of backpackers.

Don’t be ‘First’

If someone suggests something that sounds somewhat dangerous, such as jumping off a cliff into the sea after a few beers, don’t be the first person to give it a go. Hold back a bit and wait to make sure others have successfully made it before you, quite literally, walk off a cliff.

Trust your instincts

If something feels wrong, it probably is. Do not be concerned about appearing rude, walk away.

3. When the Worst Happens

If you find yourself being mugged, consider your options carefully. Resisting may sometimes be necessary but if a mugger is simply after the $10 in your pocket, give it to them. Do not have anything on you that you absolutely cannot afford to lose. If you take note of your surroundings and act accordingly, you shouldn’t find yourself in this position in the first place.

Always be aware that you are in a country which may have very different customs to what you are used to. Act with respect and do not do anything which may offend the locals such as walking into a temple with no shirt on. Do some basic research online to find out more about cultural taboos which may exist in the country you are visiting.

In conclusion, the best way to avoid dangerous situations is by minimizing risks and using common sense. Keep an eye on your surroundings at all times and don’t take any unnecessary risks, even if you are trying to impress your new backpacker buddies!

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6 Common Mistakes Travel Safety Experts Always See Tourists Make, and How to Avoid Them — From $5

Travel safety experts Kevin Coffey and Lloyd Figgins shared their best tips.

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Travel safety is something I had to learn the hard way. While studying abroad in Barcelona, my phone was snatched right out of my hand by a bicyclist. Like most people, I never thought it would happen to me. Now, with more travel experience under my belt, I want to share what I’ve learned along the way — and bring in advice from seasoned experts — to help you stay prepared for any safety challenges that might come up while you travel. 

I had the opportunity to speak with travel safety expert Kevin Coffey , a retired Los Angeles Police Department detective with extensive experience investigating crimes against travelers, and he emphasized, “People don’t think these things will happen to them, but they always do to someone." Similarly, Lloyd Figgins , who has over 20 years of experience in international security and has traveled to over 80 countries, including some of the world’s most dangerous regions, shared one of the biggest mistakes travelers make is failing to research their destination and understand the risks. “Your safety and security is your responsibility," he advised. "Get into the habit of owning it."

With insights from these experts, I’ve compiled the key dos and don’ts to help you avoid dangerous situations like pickpocketing and theft while traveling, as well as the best safety products to carry with you to be one step ahead of would-be thieves. 

Don’t: Travel without an Apple AirTag

Do: put one in every travel bag (even your carry-on), apple airtags 4-pack, reyke smart tag.

Using an Apple AirTag or a similar tracking device can be a game-changer when it comes to locating your belongings. While it's an obvious precaution if your bag is stolen or your checked luggage is lost, it's actually a crucial gadget to place in all of your bags (suitcases, backpacks, purses, totes — anything you might bring on a trip), according to Coffey. He stresses that you should especially stow one in your carry-on bag as it typically "holds your most essential items: laptop, medication, chargers, and toiletries," and, if you board last and there isn't room in the overhead bins, you'll need to check it anyway. “Travelers with tracking devices in their luggage have been able to direct airlines exactly where to find their property,” he explained. “I always tell people that you can’t afford to travel without a tracking device in every piece of luggage, or anything that could get lost or stolen.” He adds, “Whenever possible, try to hide them so they’re not easily found. If it’s lost in an airport or put on the wrong carousel, at least you’ll have a way to track it down.”

Pro tip : “When I check my bag, I do it with the mindset that I may never see it again. It sounds harsh, but I only pack items in checked luggage that I can afford to lose or replace.” — Kevin Coffey

Don’t: Use a paper luggage tag 

Do: use a metal, anti-theft luggage tag, gostwo 7-pack silicone luggage tags, ovener aluminum luggage tags.

In addition to using tracking devices, investing in a durable, anti-theft luggage tag for your carry-on is essential. Coffey explains that a common mistake he sees travelers make is only putting luggage tags on their checked bags and neglecting their carry-on (and the possibility that they might have to check it at the gate): “People don’t expect to lose their carry-on, assuming it will always be waiting for them after they check it." 

However, if your carry-on does end up gate-checked, the flight crew attaches a small tag with an elastic band. “If that flimsy band wasn’t secured properly or gets caught between other bags, it can easily stretch, break, or fall off,” Coffey warned. “Once that tiny tag is lost, the chances of finding your luggage decrease significantly.”

Coffey recommends opting for a sturdier tag with a more secure attachment mechanism. “I really like tags with a braided steel cable because they’re far less likely to break or be removed,” he added. Over at Amazon, you can stock up with the Gotswo 7-pack Silicone Luggage Tag Set or the Ovener Aluminum Luggage Tags , which come in a handy set of two.  

Don’t: Expect to have access to an outlet

Do: carry a portable charger, loveledi portable charger, iniu portable charger.

Portable chargers are essential for staying connected while traveling. Whether you're navigating unfamiliar streets or relying on GPS, a portable charger ensures your phone won't die when you need it most. Often, while exploring a new city, access to outlets is limited, and in emergency situations, a fully charged phone can be a lifeline. Figgins shares, “I always carry a power bank so I’m never without a way to communicate, even during power outages.”

Portable chargers also save you from the hassle of searching for outlets, which can be crowded or unreliable in public places. And on a plane, if you're unlucky enough to be without an outlet, a portable charger will keep your devices powered for entertainment or important tasks. With trusty power banks like the Loveledi Portable Charger and Iniu Portable Charger in your bag, you'll always have power at your fingertips.

Pro tip: “Most travelers have never walked through and practiced the recovery process of a phone that was lost or stolen. Sometimes, most people don't have their recovery passwords and Apple IDs and passwords when they're traveling to try to recover.” — Kevin Coffey 

Don’t: Depend on your phone's flashlight

Do: bring a portable flashlight, gearlight led flashlights, lighting ever led flashlights.

As our travel experts have noted, it’s crucial to be prepared for the unexpected while traveling. Whether you’re dealing with a power outage in a hotel, a remote Airbnb, or a campsite, a dedicated flashlight ensures you won’t be left in the dark. If you plan to explore at night — if it’s a walk, hike, or just the return from dinner — as Figgins advises, “A flashlight or headlamp is always useful .”

Relying solely on your phone's flashlight isn’t ideal; it drains the battery, which you need for navigation and communication, and its light isn’t nearly as powerful as a standard flashlight. Worried about space? Compact flashlights, like the portable ones from GearLight and Lighting Ever above , are easy to pack, offering a much better solution without taking up much room.

Don’t: Put all your trust in the hotel or Airbnb’s door lock

Do: bring your own lock and door wedge, kerui door stop alarm, trustella original portable door lock.

When it comes to security, it's smart to take extra precautions, especially in hotels or Airbnbs. Bringing your own lock and door wedge provides peace of mind. As Figgins explains, “I always travel with a door wedge, which I place under my hotel room door from the inside. Even if someone has a master key, they still can't get in, and I can sleep soundly.” A door wedge creates an extra barrier against unauthorized entry, particularly in accommodations where you may not fully trust the door’s lock. These small, easy-to-pack versions from Kerui and Trustella greatly enhance your personal safety, ensuring you’re taking proactive steps to protect yourself and your belongings.

Don’t: Make yourself a target with overpacked bags

Do: pack light and efficiently, bagsmart 6-set compression packing cubes, jhx travel laundry bags, apple ipad (9th generation).

Overpacking can be more than just inconvenient — it can make you a target for theft, as it signals you're a tourist with (poorly packed) valuables. Figgins advises, “It’s tempting to bring every gadget, but my rule is to keep it simple and light.” If you’re unsure about an item, chances are you don’t need it. He continued, “Most travelers take far too much stuff they don’t need and will never use."

To pack smarter and stay safe, consider tools like packing cubes to keep things organized, travel-size toiletries, and versatile, lightweight clothing. If laundry is available, you can bring a laundry bag and pack even less. Opt for dual-function electronics, like a tablet that can serve as your laptop, e-reader, and entertainment device, reducing the need to carry multiple items.

Pro tip: “Build situational awareness into your travel. This means being aware of your environment, identifying what can cause you harm, and how you’re going to avoid it. These days, people are focused on their smartphones, rather than what’s around them. This means that they are distracted — and that’s what criminals want to see. Make yourself a hard target by being situationally aware and, more often than not, the bad guys will move to an easier target.” —  Lloyd Figgins

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What Is Backpacking? (What It Means In 2021)

While backpacking is a form of travel favored by youngsters, the truth is it's an adventure that anyone can enjoy, no matter their age. Staying in inexpensive accommodations and packing everything you need in a single backpack is, after all, quite liberating.

The best part is that you can be much more flexible with your plans with just a backpack in tow. Now is as good a time as any to start planning your next backpacking vacation.

What Does It Mean To Be A Backpacker?

To be a backpacker quite literally means having everything you need in a pack that is carried on your back. While travel has been around as long as mankind, traveling for leisure only took off during the 17th century.

One of the reasons why backpacking is so popular is the cost. Being able to carry all your stuff in a single bag can save money on check-in luggage. Backpackers also save money on hotels because they usually favor more affordable lodgings in a bid to experience local culture on a more intimate level.

Backpacking can be done with a group of friends or solo. Backpacking solo is challenging but still fun and is a great way to meet new people.

Different Types of Backpacking

Spiritual traveler.

Spiritual travelers are people who are fed up with the modern focus on materialism and want to experience the world on a spiritual level. They are perhaps students of Kabbala, Buddhism, or yoga.

They are searching for a more spiritual connection with the world and love to explore local religion and culture. Spiritual travelers usually prefer to backpack solo.

Hippie travelers hate commercialism. They travel around a country using local transportation and eating local food. You can easily spot a hippie backpacker by their clothing: tie-dye t-shirts, beaded hair, and fisherman pants.

Hippies usually avoid popular tourist areas since they are "too commercial." They prefer to travel from place to place by hitching for rides.

Gap Year-ers

This kind of backpacker is young. British, Kiwi, and Aussie kids usually take a break after high school and spend a year traveling outside their native countries before entering university.

They prefer to travel in groups, like to party, and usually stay in youth hostels to save money.

These backpackers spend most of their time partying and drinking. Mornings are usually spent in bed, and hangovers are common.

Partygoers are nocturnal creatures and like to explore bars and experience as many different drinks and cocktails as possible.

Backpacker Couples

Backpacking couples like to go on tours, spend time sightseeing, and do local activities. They can be found around the world and gravitate towards other couples.

Young couples like to explore by day and party by night. Older travelers like shopping and sightseeing.

Digital Nomads

Digital nomads carry their laptops , cameras, and iPads with them, combining their work with travel. You can usually find them in local internet cafes working during the daytime and exploring into the night.

Backpacking Vs. Hiking Vs. Camping: What Are The Differences?

Some people use backpacking, hiking, and camping interchangeably, thinking that they are the same. However, there are a few significant differences.

Backpacking Vs. Hiking

Backpacking typically refers to a vacation where exploring new cultures and experiences is the main focus. Hiking often involves physical activity, such as trekking and exploring the great outdoors.

Both backpackers and hikers usually carry all their gear in a single backpack. However, backpackers tend to travel for longer periods and don't intend to stay in one place for a long time. Hiking backpacks are often designed to carry more equipment at once.

Backpackers explore the wilderness, cities, countries, or anywhere in the world that allows travelers. Hikers can also travel around the world but prioritize exploring hiking trails, outdoors, and nature.

Backpackers Vs. Campers

Backpackers prefer to move from one place or another. They like to explore local culture, food and go sightseeing. Campers prefer to stay rooted in a specific area. They see camping as a way to unplug from society and like the solitude of the wild.

Backpackers travel to one or many destinations and countries during their trip. Campers drive to a campsite and relax.

Backpackers have the option to stay in hotels, hostels, inns, and other forms of accommodations. Campers usually stay in tents, caravans or sleep under the stars. backpackers should consider other things such as theft of bags when moving from city to city.

What To Bring Backpacking: Must-Have Gear Guide

Seasoned backpackers know that it takes a lot of planning and advanced preparation to ensure that your adventure starts on the right footing.

Here are some items you should always have on your backpack.

Traveling For Leisure

• Passport, especially if you're traveling abroad.
• Travel documents like tickets and itineraries.
• Phone and gadget chargers
• Water bottle
• Medicine or first aid kit
• Flip flops for hostel bathrooms

Traveling For Outdoors Or Wilderness

• Enough clothing and underwear to last the entire trip.
• Food and water
• Medicine and first aid kit
• Solar gadget charger
• Cutlery and cooking implements
• Tools for cutting wood
• Firestarter
• Walking poles
• Sleeping bag
• Spare batteries
• GPS, compass, and maps

How to Become a Backpacker: Tips for Beginners

Backpacking is not just an economical way to explore the world but also a way to experience new things. If you're thinking about backpacking but unsure of how to do so, we have some tips on how you can become a backpacker.

• Start small If going abroad intimidates you, start with something in the next state. You can easily drive there and make a day trip out of it. Nearby locations are also easier to plan and don't cost a lot of money. Plus, you can always turn around and go home if you feel uncomfortable.
• Invest in a backpack It's essential to invest in a backpack that is high-quality . Don't just pick the cheapest one you see. Find something that is reasonably priced and versatile. It should be big enough to hold your possessions for the entire trip and comfortable to wear.
• Plan your itinerary Even if you're only going for a day , having a plan will make you feel secure. If you're visiting a new city, you can include places of interest, and you can find reviews of restaurants and local delicacies online. For backpackers going into the wild, having an itinerary will prevent you from forgetting things. Include necessary information like trail length, break times, and food to eat during the whole trip.
• Prepare physically and mentally Outdoor backpackers should increase their stamina before going on a hike. Remember, a backpack can be heavy when it is laden with food and equipment. Carrying it for long periods can be exhausting. Solo travelers may find backpacking a little mentally challenging, so being mentally fit is essential. Aside from this, waiting for hours in airports when flights are delayed is both physically and mentally draining. Be prepared for this and have a contingency plan on how you can entertain yourself when unexpected things like this happen. A book is always a good choice.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Is backpacking dangerous.

There will always be dangerous locations but avoiding them is easy. Read blogs, travel guides, and forums to understand where you should and shouldn't travel.

Experience will also have a significant impact on your perception of danger because it affects your reactions. For example, encountering a bear during your backpacking trip is dangerous, but knowing how to act during this situation can make a big difference.

How much water should I carry during backpacking?

It depends on how long you plan to travel. As a general rule, backpackers usually carry 1 liter of water for every 2-hour hike.

You can also opt to carry water filtration and purification devices (like LifeStraw ) so that you can safely drink from local water sources or for longer trips and lighter backpacks.

How much does it cost to go backpacking?

Cost depends on the destination and duration. Going abroad will always cost more compared to local adventures. You have to pay for plane tickets, lodgings, and food. The longer you stay, the bigger the bill.

Backpacking is a great way to see and explore nearby destinations and far-flung countries. This cheap travel method attracts young people, empty nesters, and retirees because it makes them feel young, and experiencing new cultures is an enriching activity.

Next time you get the travel itch, consider backpacking. It will not only save you money, but it can also open doors to new experiences and adventures.

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Should you travel to dangerous countries.

The world is filled with countries that are seemingly off limits to any mere mortal traveller. With tales of extreme danger, endless conflict and terrorist attacks filling the headlines, is anywhere safe to travel to? And should you travel to those countries that are deemed unsafe?

How Not To Get Murdered, Killed Or Kidnapped On Your Gap Year.

The media is rife with tales of backpackers coming to a sticky and untimely end on their gap years, salivating over details of all the monsters that lurk in the shadows the second you get off that plane. Listen to these expert tips instead of the media hype and learn how not to get murdered, killed, kidnapped or even worse on your once in a lifetime backpacking trip. 

The Reality Of Fear And The Truth About Travel Safety.

Fear of becoming a victim of crime continues to dominate almost every discourse on gap year or independent world travel, despite the facts and the statistics showing that relatively speaking it is no more dangerous than staying at home. I want to use my experience and background to give all potential travelers some perspective on the issue of travel safety and provide you with some real, practical advice. 

5 Easy Tricks To Avoid Being Robbed On Your Gap Year.

Expert tips on how to avoid being robbed on your gap year

Gap Year Safety: The Ultimate Guide To Safely Travelling The World For Sale Now!

Worried or nervous about taking a gap year? Want to keep yourself and your belongings safe and risk free? Need real, practical safety advice from the experts? Then you need this book!

Hi, I'm Michael! I'm a former nurse turned published author and world travelling professional adventurer! I have spent over twenty years travelling over 100 countries and I want to inspire you to do the same! Want to know more about me? Just click here!

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Hurricane Helene Forces Appalachian Trail Hikers to Pause Trips

Some southbound thru-hikers are facing tough choices on the at after helene left trails across the region damaged, flooded, or closed..

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Trail organizations and National Park Service officials are recommending hikers in the southeast put any on-trail plans on hold until further notice as the region assesses damage from Hurricane Helene.

Yesterday, Helene hit Florida’s Gulf Coast as a Category 4 hurricane, forcing several counties to evacuate and leaving millions without power. As the storm moved through the southeast, it weakened to a tropical storm and then to a tropical depression. Still, it has produced catastrophic flooding levels throughout the southeast and southern Appalachians. As a result, many land managers are asking visitors to stay away until further notice. This is putting a strain on some SOBO Appalachian Trail thru-hikers  many of whom are currently making their way through southern Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Georgia.

The destruction wrought by Helene isn’t just affecting hikers along the AT. Dangerous flooding has impacted at least two Appalachian Trail towns: Erwin, Tennessee—where rising floodwaters left more than 50 people stranded on the roof of a local hospital today —and Damascus, Virginia. In Damascus, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy has had to close the visitors center until further notice.

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Forecasters say that Hurricane Helene has caused more than a foot of rain in some areas. Because of this, many trails in the southeast now have downed trees, completely saturated trails, washed out pathways, dangerous water crossings, blocked roads, and many other hazards. Great Smoky Mountains National Park received over 8 inches of rain at the now-closed Newfound Gap; officials suggested that hikers avoid backcountry travel due to potentially dangerous stream crossings. Large sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway also remain closed as authorities assess damage and remove hazards.

Hikers who have any upcoming travel planned to the region should consider postponing and exercise caution, especially during active high wind and flood warnings. Even after the storm passes, hazards can remain both in town and on trail, and emergency service response times can be delayed. Some areas in the southern Appalachians are also facing a heightened risk of landslides due to the rain.

Hurricane Helene’s death toll has reached 42 people as of the time of publication.

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Home » South America » Colombia » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Colombia Travel Guide (2024 Edition)

After travelling in most of the South American countries, let me tell you why I think you should put Colombia on your backpackers’ wishlist.

With chilled surfing beaches, enchanting jungles, fruits you’ve never seen before, bustling cities, lost cities, crazed parties, and a culture full of music, color, and food, are enough reasons to make this country a MUST GO. Far from that dangerous image portrayed by the media, Colombia is today one of the most flourishing countries in South America that receives tourism and welcomes travelers with open arms, a big smile, and for me, the best coffee in the world .

The first feeling when I got there was a bit chaotic. However, I felt comfortable quickly. Locals, in general, are extremely friendly, and when I needed help there was always someone willing. Backpacking in Colombia is, without a doubt, an amazing experience that you will remember for the rest of your life. Yes, it can be challenging but it’s so rewarding!

This backpacking Colombia travel guide will teach you the ropes for an amazing backpacking trip – the cheapest way possible. You’ll get meaningful travel tips, from my own experience, in this natural jewel.

Anticipation is the key when booking places, and food… well that’s cheap everywhere.

Vamos pa’ Colombia parce!  Bien pueda! 

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Why Go Backpacking in Colombia

Colombia is a South American country that is rich in ecological and cultural diversity. It is all at once a giant party and adventure central, and can also be mellow and peaceful, once you get away from all of the noise. The big cities are famous for their nightlife, all-night parties, and of course, dancing. Each city has its own unique flavor, colorful buildings, and colonial architecture.

The coast is brimming with beautiful post-card beaches and the attractive locals to match. The coastal areas have plenty of awesome places to go surfing or diving too.

The mountainous, humid, super green interior is a whole other world of Colombia. Think dense jungles, rivers, lost ancient cities, and remote indigenous communities. No matter what your idea of a good time is, there is something interesting and fun to get into around every corner. Modern-day Colombia is a place thriving after decades of trauma inflicted by narco-traffickers, guerrilla activity, corruption and general political instability.

Backpacking in Colombia is one hell of an adventure. Now let us take a look at some of the best Colombia backpacking itineraries to help you get an idea of where to go and what to do in this truly special country.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Colombia

Get information on Colombia travel itineraries and backpacking routes, maps, travel tips, safety, things to do, and much more. Most of all you will walk away with all the inspiration you need to make the most of your trip whilst traveling in Colombia on a budget.

Backpacking Colombia 2 Week Itinerary #1: The Caribbean Side of Colombia

If you’ve only got two weeks, there’s no point rushing. Pick a region and see it properly. I’d suggest the Caribbean side of Colombia, for obvious reasons.

Start your trip in Cartagena , perhaps fresh off the boat? After a few days, head to Santa Marta , the jump-off point for  Minca – a charming mountain town – and the stunning Tayrona National Park. 

Get a bit off the beaten path, and head east to Cabo de la Vela  (where the desert meets the sea) and Punta Galinas,  where you can feast on fresh seafood amongst the Caribbean and sand dunes.

Doubling back to Cartagena , head to nearby Playa Blanca and  Tolú (mangrove) before heading to  Islas de San Bernardo (white-sanded islands).

Have an extra week? You can catch a flight to the Caribbean Islands of Providencia and San Andrés. Have two extra weeks? Well, check out the 4-week itinerary below…

Backpacking Colombia 4 Week Itinerary #2: Colombia’s Highlights

Fly into Bogota , Colombia’s capital and enjoy the amazing food and nightlife. Stay a night or two, you may as well. Then, head over to the picturesque town of Barichara .

After that, you should take the long bus to San Gil , an adventurer’s paradise and one of my favourite places in Colombia. Here you can kayak, paraglide, and bungee jump!

Next, get the bus to Santa Marta . It’s not my fav place in the world, but you should stay the night and use it as your base for cooler places like Minca , Tayrona National Park and other amazing Caribbean destinations. Oh, and make sure to arrange a multi-day trek to  Ciudad Perdida.

Afterwards, pitch up at postcard-perfect Cartagena for a while before heading south to  Medellín;  once known as a dangerous city, it’s now a trendy and safe nomad haven.

Make sure to spend a good few days in Medellín. I’d say a minimum of three days is needed here… especially if you’re gonna party…

Next, head to Jardin for just a day or two before visiting Valle de Cocora , just outside Salento . Go to a coffee finca  (farm)   and stock up on some coffee.

Last but not least, continue south to Cali , world famous for their salsa joints. Make sure to take a class! It’s one of the best memories of my Colombian adventure. You can easily get back to Bogota from Cali, which ends the perfect round trip.

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Best Places to Visit in Colombia

Now that we’ve covered some of the best travel itineraries for backpacking Colombia, let’s jump in and explore some of the top places to visit in Colombia on your adventure…

Backpacking Bogota

Major cities have a special vibe that makes them unique, and Bogota is definitely one of those. There is a huge amount to do here; I highly recommend going on the graffiti tour and doing a day trip to explore the truly spectacular Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira.

If you love museums, like I do, then the Gold Museum ( Museo del Oro ) is a must. After that, Zona Rosa is a great place to go for drinks in the evening.

Bogota sometimes gets a bad rap amongst Colombian backpackers on account of its’ rainy climate and gritty atmosphere. However, I love it and highly recommend exploring winding streets, doing some of the free walking tours ( grab an umbrella just in case ), and checking some of the bars of La Candelaria before heading to Baum for some Techno. There, I promise you, you are going to have so much fun and dance all night.

Backpacking Medellín

My favourite place in all of Colombia, and for sure on my top 5 cities in Latin America, Medellín packs a lot of punch and is one of the best places to live if you’re a digital nomad in need of a break. You can get here with any of the daily and direct flights from Bogota in just about an hour. The buses can be slow and take between 10 to 11 hours.

The very touristy El Poblado area is where most backpackers base themselves, but I far preferred the quieter Envigado. Be sure to go on the Real City walking tour, officially the best walking tour I have ever been on.

Guatapé is a popular day trip from the city but the real highlights of Medellin are simply wandering around, enjoying a cerveza in a pool hall, a soul-releasing, free salsa lesson, or chilling out in one of the parks.

If you are a foodie, this city has some Colombian street food . Arepas, empanadas, and salchipapa are impeccible.

Medellin has a tarnished reputation on account of Pablo Escobar. Think carefully about whether you want to go on a tour to find out more about the history of the cartel.

You have to check out Comuna 13 and the unique transformation that art has made into this previously devastated neighbourhood. They’ve successfully turned around from violent narcotraffic times, with a grand flare.

Lots of graffiti, music, art, dance groups improvising and showing their movements, and small cafes with amazing views of the neighbourhood. You witness the power of art in changing the environment of an entire community: a great example of resilience in the country and Latin America.

If you want to backpack Medellin and have a little more budget to work with, an aerial helicopter tour of Medellin is a unique experience. The prices vary depending on group size, but I recommend Fly Colombia City Tours .

Expect to pay around $80 USD per person for a 15-minute / 40km flight. The views are exceptionally stunning – plus who doesn’t want to go for a ride in a helicopter at least once, right? Special thanks to Luisa from Fly Colombia City Tours for helping us organize this flight!

If you can get a group of 5-6 people together from your hostel, you can get a better per person price (maximum 6 people in the helicopter). Book in advance and let Fly Colombia City Tours know the Broke Backpacker sent you! Ask for a flight around sunset time for the best photography light!

Backpacking Cartagena

The Old Town is well worth visiting and there are some great beaches nearby like (the very popular) Playa Blanca. This town has no shortage of tourists, hustlers, and prostitutes, all of which are unfortunate aspects of traveling here.

Venturing beyond the Old Town and main touristy areas will offer a rewarding glimpse of real Cartagena. Backpackers more accustomed to off the beaten path destinations are going to hate Cartagena.

Cartagena’s safety might be a bit questionable, so be careful. I heard countless stories of backpackers being forced to buy cocaine at extreme prices after they were given a “free” sample. Like literally they were marched to the ATM and forced to pull out millions of pesos, otherwise, the five angry young men who were pretending to be their friend just minutes before would beat them to a pulp. Don’t be that backpacker. Instead, go scuba diving.

For scuba diving, hit up the Rosario Islands. I was able to go scuba diving with a fantastic dive shop called Diving Planet . Their bi-lingual guides are professional and the day or overnight dive trips they offer include van transport and boat transfer, lunch, and all the scuba equipment. The Rosario Islands are one of the best places in Colombia for scuba diving and have many affordable accommodations , so don’t miss out!

If you are tired of the standard rice, beans, and plantains and want to try the best falafel in Colombia, go to Novo Kebab.

Backpacking Santa Marta

There is almost nothing in Santa Marta to get particularly excited about; however, there are lots of truly amazing places nearby. It’s a hub for Northern Colombia but I recommend basing yourself in nearby Taganga. Personally, I liked this city a lot simply because it has a real backpacker and expat scene and none of the stupid shit you find in Cartagena.

Plus, there are plenty of great places to stay in Santa Marta too.

Also, this is the gateway for tours and excursions to the Tayrona National Park, some pretty epic beaches, and the famous excursions to the archaeological site Ciudad Perdida (Teyuna) located in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Be aware of the high temperatures – these places can get extremely hot during the midday.

Santa Martas Hostels are the best option for a few nights. For a cheap place to stay in town with a fun party scene (and a pool), I recommend staying at Drop Bear Hostel.

If you want to go for a kick-ass motorcycle adventure into the mountains or around the coast, hit up my friends at Adrenaline Addicts (they share the building space with Drop Bear Hostel).

Backpacking Taganga

Love it or hate it, Taganga has something for everyone. This is a beachside party town famous for its drug scene but there is a huge amount more to Taganga than at first meets the eye.

Consider staying in Casa Moringa for a truly unique experience; living it up in a mansion overlooking the sea. This small town is one of the cheapest places in the world to learn to scuba dive so if that’s your bag, you’ve come to the right place. Be sure to grab a bite to eat in the incredible Baba Ganoush restaurant.

Backpacking Tayrona National Park

An easy hop from Taganga, Tayrona National Park is a truly stunning oasis of pristine beaches backing onto untamed jungle. Probably with some of the most beautiful beaches on the Caribbean coast, in my opinion.

In a day you can hike through the tropical forest, see some of the local flora and fauna, and swim in waters full of life. You can sleep in the national park, but you must reserve in advance, or you can do the tour on the day.

Yes, you’ll find mosquitos, high temperatures during midday, and probably hard walking paths at some point, if it rained the day before. But believe me, this is one of those places that is worth visiting in Colombia.

Hiking Ciudad Perdida

The trek to the Lost City takes 5 days and it’s an amazing experience. You will cross raging rivers, slide down muddy banks, and bathe in crystal-clear pools on your way to the city above the clouds. The city itself is amazing and receives very few visitors; go now before the word gets out.

It can be a demanding experience. Consider your physical and mental state when deciding when and how to do this tour. And my personal advice would be to get some good hiking boots and enough insect repellent.

Backpacking Minca

Just a couple of hours away from Taganga, the cool hills of Minca are perfect for backpackers wanting a bit of respite or to go hiking in the jungle. You can get some cheap local transportation and in 30 minutes you can get to this small town nestled in nature.

Top things to do in Minca include yoga, motorbike adventures, hiking, and of course a visit to the legendary waterfalls in the area. Avoid Pozo Azul, as it is always too busy and commercialized to be enjoyable. I personally enjoyed Marinka Falls, even though it was quite crowded.

In terms of organized activities in Minca, there are many operators to choose from. I recommend going with our friends at Fototrails for awesome photography, hiking, and cultural day trips.

Natasha and her husband run eco and cultural adventures showing the real side of Minca and the Sierra Nevada. They take guests on backtrails and off-road adventures for the treks so people can experience a unique and solo hiking experience away from the crowds. Broke Backpacker readers can get 5% off of any of the activities they offer by mentioning this article!

Another cool part about what Fototrails does: they work with local families and farms to offer locals a sustainable income and take groups of 6 or less for minimum impact on the environment. If you are looking for an affordable place to crash, their small guesthouse is called Casa Iguana (located by the health centre). Check them out!

I also highly recommend staying at Casa Elemento, book in advance. Bring insect repellent as I got destroyed by sandflies in Minca! If Casa Elemento isn’t your thing, there are many other awesome hostels in Minca that offer a super comfy bed and a place to rest your head.

Backpacking San Gil

From the Minca area, you can take a bus to San Gil. The bus takes around twelve hours, yes I know a bit too much , so I recommend travelling at night. When you get there, you will feel the change of air, fewer tourists, and lots of nature to discover and enjoy. You can easily spend a couple of days in San Gil and be sure to go paragliding over the incredible Chicamocha Canyon.

San Gil is the adventure capital of Colombia; if you’re after rafting, caving, or trekking this is the place to go. Be sure to grab a brownie from Gringo Mikes – they are amazing.

Backpacking Barichara

One hour outside of San Gil lies the picture perfect town of Barichara with it’s cobbled streets, fancy restaurants and great day hikes. It’s well worth spending a night.

Backpacking Salento and the Coffee Region

A firm favourite with backpackers, Salento is a great place to spend a few days unwinding, trekking, sipping coffee, and resting your head in comfy and cute Salento hostels . I highly recommend exploring the Cocora Valley on a day-hike. La Serrana is a great place to base yourself; check out their awesome safari tents!

Filandia is another town you should check. There are not many local attractions, but you should check El Mirador a 35-metre tower with 360° views of the area. And after that head to the main square to have a nice local coffee and chill while watching and hearing the bustling streets full of the birds singing at dusk, children playing after school and adults talking and laughing while having their deserved beer after a long day at the coffee plantations.

Depending on where you are, I would suggest checking some direct flights if you are up in the north or a local bus if you are somewhere in the area, but you should get here 100%.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Colombia

Colombia is a country packed with hidden gems. Some of the places on Colombia’s Pacific coast, mountains, and jungles are difficult to reach. Anytime a place has difficult access, it is a sign that adventure awaits!

Far fewer people make the effort to get out and really explore. Depending on what you like to do, you should have no problem leaving the Gringo Trail behind in search of some truly rewarding experiences. There is so much awesomeness to get into whilst backpacking Colombia, that your adventure is up to you and your motivation to put yourself out there. Read on for helpful information regarding trekking, diving, and surfing in Colombia later in this article.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

10 Top Things to Do in Colombia

If you’ve been on a backpacking trip through Colombia before, you’ll know there are ALWAYS more awesome things to do. It’s a big country, with a lot of variety on offer. But here are some things I’ll recommend, especially for you. 😉

1. Take a graffiti tour

Get to know the Colombians through some of the country’s best street art. Their insane street art reflects the sorrows, joys, passions, and concerns of these people – strongly connected to nature and its effervescent way of being.

One of my favorite places is Comuna 13 in Medellin. Once, the most dangerous neighborhood in the world is, today, a reflection of how art can change – not only the image of a neighborhood but also the lives of those who live there.

I recommend taking a guided tour through Comuna 13 since you’ll be able to have some unique insights.  Always good to remember, respect the locals and collaborate with art whenever you can!

2. Trek to the Lost City

The amazing 5-day trek to Ciudad Perdida takes you to some of the most beautiful, sweaty, and far reaches of Colombia. You’ll explore a national cultural treasure from another time.

Along the way, you’ll get to walk through sacred ground of the native people and observe birds, animals, plants, flowers, and trees, unique ONLY to this corner of the world. You will also cross some native villages, which you might be able to greet and get to know them.

And to be honest, this hike was one of the most difficult of my life. I was so happy to visit the Lost City with the support of a guided tour where experienced people know what’s coming ahead. It’s hard to prepare yourself for this combination of heat, humidity, and altitude in this national park.

Though that doesn’t mean to say you won’t be able to do it! If you’re in a pretty good physical condition, the rest is mostly mind over matter.

3. Drink coffee in Salento

Colombia’s famed coffee region has some of the best brews in South America. The region is large but well distributed enough to visit in a week, hopping from town to town.

Chill people in a village vibe, incredible landscapes, people open to chatting, and probably one of the best coffees I’ve ever tried in my life. When I was there I had the opportunity to try an organic coffee from a local farm worked by local women. And I can tell you that the difference is impressive. Flavors, smells, body, and acidity are so evident that it makes you wonder if what you have been drinking before is really coffee.

Visiting a traditional coffee farm is the best way to learn about the process of producing it, the people who carry it out, and even taste the house’s coffee. It’s one of those unique experiences that remains etched in my memory.

4. Hike the Cocora Valley

The Cocora Valley is home to some of the best natural scenery in the country and the tallest palm trees in the world. The valley is easily accessed from Salento and from this town, you can take a day tour to explore Cocora Valley and also visit a specialized coffee farm.

This gigantic valley is full of vegetation, an incredible forest, thousands of national trees, the wax palms of Quindío, as well as a great diversity of flora and fauna.

I warn you, mosquitoes are not very forgiving. Be prepared and bring insect repellent , comfortable shoes, and plenty of water.

5. Visit an indigenous community

Get to know what traditional life is like for people living the way they have been for centuries. It’s an amazingly eye-opening experience that few get to see. You can support their amazing lifestyle by buying local handicrafts and artisanal pieces.

Their culture is a very important part of their identity and they should always be treated with respect. Remember these people are not exhibits in a museum.

6. Hire a motorbike and discover hidden nature beauties

Hire a motorbike and explore some of Colombia’s gorgeous countryside. The routes in Colombia are in * fairly * good condition to explore by motorbike (if you’re a confident rider!).

This gives you more than one option to get to a place, you can take alternate routes if you like adventure experiences, and you can stop in places that public transportation could never. 

Some of my best memories are meeting and connecting with local people, and let me tell you that the motorbike was the way to get to those places and people.

7. Go scuba diving

If you love to dive, Colombia’s north coast has some world-class dive sites. It is also possible to obtain your PADI open water diving certificate if you don’t have one. You can obtain your certification with Diving Planet based in Cartagena.

8. Go head-to-head in the bars

As Ernest Hemingway once said, “If you want to know about a culture, spend a night in its bars.” Pool halls and bars are a big part of Colombian culture.

I had so much fun playing Tejo in Los Amigos, Salento. Tejo is kind of like cornhole but much more… explosive!

9. Visit the Tayrona National Natural Park

This area of Colombia’s Caribbean coast is famous for its palm-fringed coves, coastal lagoons, tropical forests, and rich biodiversity. It’s perfect for a day trip or organize yourself to go camping and spend a few nights in this incredible natural paradise.

If you like adventure and getting into nature, you can find ruins of an archaeological complex built by the Tayrona civilization that is accessed through forest roads. Be prepared for this type of visit. Water supply, insect repellent, hat, and solid hiking boots.

10. Get your dancing shoes on

Stay until nightfall and discover the Colombian nightlife. As well as being the salsa capital, cumbia music is worth following too.

If you don’t know how to dance you will surely learn from any Colombian. Music, dancing, and drinking are part of their culture.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Backpacker Accommodation in Colombia

Accommodation costs vary across the country with Medellin and Cali being some of the most expensive places to stay. In general, the good places fill up fast so you will want to try and book in advance. It’s possible to get a dorm bed for around $12 but a double room will often cost just $25 so if there’s two of you, you can have a private room most of the time for no additional cost. Colombia’s eco-tourism scene is growing rapidly, so you’ll also find plenty of sustainable accommodation options throughout the country.

If you want to save money on accommodation, make sure you pack your camping hammock , especially if you’ll be trekking or hiking through the jungle.

And as a quick insider tip: If you want to see all – and we mean ALL – hostel options in Colombia, be sure to check out BOOKING.COM . You can even filter your personal travel needs to find the perfect place for you.

The Best Places To Stay in Colombia

Some unique experiences in colombia.

From surfing and trekking to paragliding and caving, Colombia is an adventure playground. You can do some activities really cheap but it’s worth haggling; you can often get 10% off what appears to be a fixed price. Colombia is also home to some of the best diving in the world… well, OK, some of the cheapest places to learn to dive in the world.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Trekking in Colombia

Colombia is home to some fine trekking opportunities. From multi-day hikes to the Lost City to exploring river valleys and stunning misty mountains, there are many options at your fingertips. If you love getting out in nature as much as I do, Colombia will not disappoint. There are numerous Colombia national parks and reserves to choose from. For longer treks, it is easy to find a guide. Here are a few of the best treks in Colombia to get you stoked on some hiking!

Lost City Trek : This hike through the Colombian jungle will certainly be a highlight of your backpacking trip.

Cocora Valley : Some of the best day hikes in Colombia can be found in a region famous for its coffee and stunning scenery.

Sierra Nevada de Cocuy : Snow in Colombia? Here you can find peaks are as high as 5,330 metres above sea level. You have you your own gear and a good sleeping bag , you can probably do the hike without a guide.

Chingaza National Park : This park north of Bogota has some fantastic treks to do in the mountains. Some of Colombia’s most spectacular mountain views can be had here!

Chicamocha Canyon: At Chicamocha there is a ridge hike that can be undertaken as a day trip, finishing in a small colonial village. This hike is a must if you’re in the area.

Los Nevados National Park:  This area of Colombia truly has it all. Experience some of the most diverse landscapes in the whole country. A trek here will certainly get you off of the beaten path.

Tatacoa Desert: Desert in Colombia? Go see it for yourself! Hike, bike, and explore this unique part of the normally quite tropical Colombia. Check out this great article for more information about what to do in Tatacoa.

Scuba Diving in Colombia

Love Scuba diving? Me too. Colombia has tons of places to take on some epic dives. Providencia and Santa Catalina, a smaller island to the north, is home to the  third largest coral reef barrier on earth , and includes over 40 dive sites.

If Providencia is the accessible best of Colombian diving, Malpelo is the harder to reach version: a jagged rock in the Colombian Pacific, it can only be reached by boat, and divers can only visit here as part of an organized trip on a dive boat. It’s worth the time and money for sure; Malpelo is one of the best places in the world to dive with sharks, including hammerheads, whale, and the rare sun ray shark. People have reported schools of up to 500 sharks around Malpelo. That’s right. 500.

Another Pacific diving spot, Gorgona, is a rugged island, formerly used as a prison, which now serves as a nature reserve and a prime breeding area for humpback whales.

As mentioned, the Rosario Islands offer good diving that is relativley accessible compared to some of the other destinations this list.

Scuba Dive Colombia on a Liveaboard Trip

There are so many places worth diving in Colombia, I highly recommend joining a Liveaboard trip in Colombia if you can swing it. You get to wake up on a boat every morning and explore the wonders of the underwater world in Colombian seas…

If you are a serious scuba diver looking to check out some of Colombia’s best and most remote dive sites, Liveaboard is your ticket to paradise in that regard.

Scuba dive by day, chill on the boat by night, and of course eat tasty food along the way.

Diving journeys don’t get any better than this.

Surfing in Colombia

Another favorite past time for backpackers and locals a like in Colombia is surfing. Colombia has some amazing surfing beaches on both its Northern Caribbean Coast and its Western Pacific Coast. Surfing in Columbia is gaining popularity as this beautiful country opens it’s doors to the rest of the word. Palomino is a great spot, so check out the best hostels in Palomino before you go!

The surfing beaches on the Caribbean coast are much easier to access, more backpacker oriented, and tend to be a bit calmer. The Caribbean beaches are the best if you are a beginner learning how to surf, or you just want to get out and catch a few waves.

The Pacific Coast, while much harder to get to, has some of the best surfing in South America. The beaches around  Nuqui  are the best in Colombia and are an adventure lovers dream.

Joining an Organized Tour in Colombia

For most countries, Colombia included, solo travel is the name of the game. That said, if you are short on time, energy, or just want to be part of an awesome group of travelers you can opt to join an organized tour. Joining a tour is a great way to see a majority of the country quickly and without the effort that goes into planning a backpacking trip. However—not all tour operators are created equal—that is for sure.

G Adventures is a solid down-to-earth tour company catering to backpackers just like you, and their prices and itineraries reflect the interests of the backpacker crowd. You can score some pretty sweet deals on epic trips in Colombia for a fraction of the price of what other tour operators charge.

Check out some of their awesome itineraries for Colombia here…

Colombia Backpacking Costs

This is, perhaps, one of the cheapest countries you can find in South America. Yes, it’s even cheaper than in some Southeast Asian countries. However, travel costs vary when backpacking in Colombia – depending on how you do it. If you’re a budget backpacker, sleeping in a dorm bed, hitchhiking, eating street food, and catching local public transport brings down your travel costs per day considerably.

Prices vary depending on the time of year. In high season, you can expect to pay a little more than in the low, rainy season. The difference is minimal, but you will have to deal with shortages of accommodations.

In touristy areas like Cartagena and places near the Caribbean coast, you will be paying 3 times more than in places with less international tourism. The big cities will give you a greater range to play with.

Couchsurfing and camping are the best ways to make it on a budget. For a single tent, you can expect to pay between $5 and $7 dollars.

For tight-budget travellers, cheap food is everywhere. You can find the plato del dia for $2 – $3 dollars, and believe me, that’s enough food for all day.

Buses are cheap. But if you are thinking of crossing the country, consider domestic flights with budget airlines. You will be able to find them at reasonable prices, saving you time and other expenses of traveling by land.

If you are modest and conscious, backpacking Colombia on a budget can be done for $15 USD per day or less. But if you like tours and unique experiences you can easily hit $50 USD per day.

So budget travel in Colombia is more possible than ever! Your money will go far here and you can help out a lot of people with your tourism.

A Daily Budget For Colombia

Although Colombia is cheaper than other Latin American countries, it’s so easy to blow your budget. So keep track of your spending!

Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to spend on your backpacking Colombia adventure…

Money in Colombia

The local currency in Colombia is the peso known as COP. Find out how much your money is worth today by using the up-to-date converter below.

I encourage you not to bring a large amount of money. Get a good exchange rate with your local bank and enough money for the first days. The rates offered by airports are the least favourable. If you didn’t get pesos before coming, then change the minimum amount possible to cover your transport into the city. From there, it’s easy to find currency exchange houses. Expect less of what I just mentioned as the current currency conversion.

To exchange large amounts of money, the best option is the local bank Bancolombia (physical branch). Be prepared to go early and wait in line.

I recommend bringing a fee-free debit card or credit card. You can use them in big cities but not that much in small towns, so it’s good to plan ahead. Bancolombia’s ATM allows you to withdraw a maximum of $2,700,000 pesos per transaction and charges you an extra commission – a fee of 2.5% – which is one of the best rates. For all matters of finance and accounting on the road, The Broke Backpacker strongly recommends Wise – The Artist Formerly Known as Transferwise! Our favourite online platform for holding funds, transferring money, and even paying for goods, Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks.

But the real question is… is it better than Western Union? Yes, it most certainly is.

Travel Tips for Broke Backpackers

To keep your spending to an absolute minimum whilst during your Colombia travels, I recommend sticking to these basic rules of budget adventuring….

• Camp: With plenty of gorgeous natural places to camp, Colombia is an excellent place to take a good quality tent . Make sure to bring some insect spray, as you don’t want to get eaten alive.
• Cook your own food:  I took a small  backpacking gas cooker with me to Colombia and cooked a lot of my own meals whilst hitching and camping. You will save so much money per day by preparing food yourself.
• Hitchhike:  In Colombia, it can be easy to thumb a ride and it is an ace way to keep your transport costs down and instead spend it on smashing experiences. So hitchhike as much as you can when backpacking Colombia.

Why You Should Travel to Colombia with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC! If you’d like some more tips on how to save the world , be sure to watch the video below.

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Best Time To Travel To Colombia

Because of its close proximity to the equator, Colombia doesn’t get classic seasons and the day/night balance doesn’t really change much either. However, the country does get a few rainy seasons which are worth bearing in mind particularly if you are headed up to the North when Caribbean, tropical typhoons can be considerable.

It is generally agreed that the best time to go to Colombia is in December – March when the Andes are drier. These are the months when most of the festivals are happening and if by any chance you happen to be there in February, you should go to one of the most epic festivals in South America… el Carnaval de Barranquilla! I stayed in some awesome hostels in Barranquilla where I met some backpackers who I went to the festival with.

September to October are the wettest months although I experienced floods in November too. The rainforest can be wet all year round, and the coast is seriously hot.

What To Pack For Colombia

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Below I have provided essential information and Colombia travel tips for your backpacking adventure, including the best time to travel to Colombia, how much to budget for Colombia, and a guide to Colombian cuisine.

Staying Safe in Colombia

Yes, people have plenty to say about Colombia: security, drug traffickers, and other news intended to generate fear. Safety and security in Colombia is something to take into account – but not to panic about.

A while ago the situation was complicated to visit this beautiful country as a tourist. Let me tell you that today things are very different. In recent years they’ve seen a big increase in the level of security and falling crime rates. Most people backpacking in Colombia never have any problems – but there are cases of people still getting scammed or robbed. Today the population takes care of tourism because they understand that it is beneficial for everyone.

In most cases, the usual travel safety practices are enough. For my daily life (phone, money, and keys) I use a backpacker security belt; it’s better than carrying it in your pockets. Pickpockets, in big cities, are professional .

Don’t show off things of value, don’t carry a lot of money with you, and avoid going in tourist mode with your cell phone taking photos unless you want to see your phone disappear before your very eyes. When checking your phone on the streets, look around and do it briefly. At night, stay away from non-tourist areas and be wary of overly friendly people. If someone’s getting a bit too close, that’s your sign to back away.

It should also be noted, that druggings with sedatives do happen in Colombia – and it’s as common to happen to men as it is women. Although rare, it’s something to be aware of. ALWAYS keep an eye on your food and drinks and never accept cigarettes from strangers. This beautiful country has changed for the better. Today beautiful smiles greet you and a predisposition to good attention is what stands out. You can have a perfectly safe trip in Colombia. But – like anywhere – it pays to keep your wits about you.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n Roll in Colombia

Colombia has a pretty saucy reputation when it comes to drugs & sex, especially in Pablo Escobar’s hometown Medellin. It’s well known for both growing & selling cocaine, you can even snag a gram for as little as $7. No wonder it’s so popular among many travellers in South America. For tips on how to stay safe whilst getting fucked up in Colombia, check out Blazed Backpackers 101.

Cocaine tourism is on the rise in Columbia. I guess it’s not every day that you have the chance to take a “special tour” to make and snort your own cocaine! Just be careful with drugs especially abroad. No one wants to be locked up in a foreign jail. You can usually pay off the police if you get into trouble, just don’t go selling or raking up a debt with a drug lord.

Colombian women are typically beautiful and exotic. Their sexy moves and seductive dancing can be pretty hard to resist, plus they love foreigners too. Just be respectful and treat the women here like you would back home and you’ll have no problem. Many explorers backpacking Colombia are unsure of what to expect but this is a country with a welcoming people, stunning landscapes & great parties!

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Colombia

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

How To Get Into Colombia

The main way to get to Colombia if you’re overseas is by plane, flying into Bogota International Airport. This is typically the cheapest place to fly in & out of; however, there are other international airports around Colombia that you can also fly into.

The easiest land crossing borders are from Venezuela & Ecuador as they have road access. Most backpackers use the Carretera Panamericana boarder crossing from Tulcan in Ecuador to Ipiales in Colombia. In Venezuela the main crossing is on the Caracas-Bogota road from San Antonio in Venezuela to Cúcuta in Colombia.

Many backpackers coming to travel Columbia from Panama, enter by boat. This is mainly because of the Darian gap between Panama & Colombia consisting mainly of large undeveloped swampland & forests. This no mans land is predominantly run by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), who have a long track record of assassinations, kidnappings & violations of human rights. If you’re coming to Colombia after your backpacking Central America trip, consider travelling by boat via the San Blas, it’s a once in a lifetime trip and one of the best things I have ever done.

The only land crossing from Peru & Brazil into Colombia is located in the far southeastern corner of the Colombian Amazon. You can reach the Leticia crossing from either Peru or Brazil via riverboat.

Entry requirements for Colombia

Most nations around the world don’t require a visa to backpack Columbia, which is awesome! Most nationalities get 60-90 days free to travel Colombia, just check what rules & regulations may apply for your country.

How To Get Around Colombia

When it comes to getting around Colombia, the distances can be a problem. There are lots of long distance buses which vary in price depending on the company, I recommend booking buses in advance during the high season. Flights can sometimes be very cheap so it is worth considering internal flights on occasion. Hitching isn’t common but is totally doable.

Traveling in Colombia by Public Transport

There are many modes of public transport to navigate your way around the cities in Colombia when backpacking. Bogota, Cali & Medellin have massive transport systems similar those in Europe & the United States. City buses have a flat fare no matter how far you’re going in the city. They range from pimped out old American school buses blasting Latino music, to modern air-conditioned buses. The price ranges between 600-1650 COP depending on the type of bus.

Tuk-tuks & moto taxis are common around tourist areas, just make sure you agree on a price before you get in. Taxi’s are super cheap & easy to use when travelling short distances. Make sure you get in a metered taxi! There are so many fake taxi’s around just be careful, make sure the taxi has a meter & there are no other passengers in the taxi as this is a common robbery tactic.

Hitchhiking in Colombia

Hitchhiking in Colombia isn’t that common, mainly due to paranoia about the security situation in the country. Not everyone here is a drug lord that wants to kidnap you for ransom money. You can hitchhike throughout Colombia; it’s such an awesome experience! Have faith there are good people out there, keep your wits about you & follow my hitchhiking tips .

Onward Travel from Colombia

The cheapest way to leave Colombia is by bus. There are international buses that you can catch from any major city. One can reach neighboring Ecuador or Venezuela in a matter of a few hours depending of course on where you are departing from.

Bogota and Medellin are home to major international airports of you need to catch a flight back home. Flying in South America can generally be expensive. I recommend using the bus systems as much a possible.

Colombian Culture

The people of Colombia definitely are what makes is such a special country to go backpacking in. From the late 1970’s through the 1990’s, the Colombian people endured a whole hell of a lot of trama, war, and terrorism. The conflicts between cocaine drug lords, police, mercenaries, and communist guerrilla groups rattled Colombia to the very foundations of its society.

Modern day Colombia is a place that couldn’t be more different than those dark times in its history. Much of Colombia and its people are thriving. Meet some locals and find out what daily life is like in Colombia in 2018.

Dating in Colombia

Gringo’s and Gringa’s will find themselves very popular with the natives in Colombia. Both local men and women can be quite direct and forward when it comes to showing affection!

Colombians are not exactly shy about their sexuality. However, the country is nominally Roman Catholic and contraception is not always widely practised, so be sure to take matters into your own hands. Many Colombians live with their parents until marriage so if you want some privacy with your Colombian companions, the done thing is to rent a hourly motel – and there are plenty of them.

My experience of travelling Colombia as a single man was that I was rarely in need of female company. However, I did find that local girlfriends did want to get “serious” a lot faster than I was used to so be careful with people’s feelings.

Useful Travel Phrases For Colombia

Navigating Colombia is gonna be pretty damn tough if you don’t learn some Spanish. Besides, it is such a useful language to know; you can speak it in over 20 countries! Check out this post for some Colombian slang . 

Here are a few helpful  travel phrases with English translations for your backpacking Colombia adventure:

Hello –  Hola 

How are you? – Cómo estás?

What is your name? – Cómo te llamas? 

Very good – Muy bueno/a

Beautiful – Hermoso/a

Can you give me a discount? – Me puede dar un descuento? 

How much does this cost?  – Cuánto cuesta? 

Do you have a lighter? – Tienes un encendedor? 

What? – Cómo?

Where? – Dónde  ? 

No plastic bag –  Sin bolsa de plástico

No straw please –  Sin pitillo por favor

No plastic cutlery please –  Sin cubiertos de plástico por favor

Shit – Mierda ! (a very light weight insult)

Shit eater – Come Mierda (for better effect!)

Two beers please – Dos cervezas por favor 

Down that beer! –  Acaba la cerveza!

Can you give me a ride – Me puedes dar un aventón?

Cheers –  Salud

What To Eat in Colombia

The food is cheap, tasty and plentiful. There is plenty of street food around with arepas, empanadas and meat on a stick being some of the staples. If you’re eating out, expect to pay between five to ten dollars for a decent meal.

If you’re after a hearty lunchtime meal & aren’t watching the carbs, try out Bandeja Paisa. It consists of rice, plantains, avocado, minced meat, chorizo, black sausage, fried pork rind & a fried egg chucked on top. My favourite dish was by far empanadas, they’re a great snack & are filled with a variety of toppings. Check out this post for even more info on some of the best Colombian dishes to try .

A Brief History of Colombia

One name and one product come to mind when thinking about Colombia’s recent history: Pablo Escobar. The guy is famous the world over for formally being one of the worlds richest men and Cocaine kingpin. Escobar’s reign in Colombia brought the country to its knees. In the 1980’s and 1990’s, Escobar was responsible for ordering the killings and bombing that resulted in tremendous loss of life in Colombia. We are talking deaths in the tens of thousands. Police, judges, lawyers, journalists, rivals, civilians, guerrillas: everyone was affected.

In addition to the infamous cocaine trade, Colombia had active guerrilla revolutionary movements happening since the 1960’s and was effectively engaged in civil war until recently. Some revolutionary groups like FARC, are still active today.

On November 6, 1985, the M-19 guerrilla group stormed the Colombian Palace of Justice and held the Supreme Court magistrates hostage, intending to put president Betancur on trial. In the ensuing crossfire that followed the military’s reaction, scores of people lost their lives, as did most of the guerrillas, including several high-ranking operatives. Both sides blamed each other for the outcome.

There was truly so much going on in Colombia, so much violence, that the state was on the verge of collapse.

Early 1990’s in Colombia

Following administrations had to contend with the guerrillas, paramilitaries, narcotics traffickers and the violence and corruption that they all perpetuated, both through force and negotiation. Narcoterrorists assassinated three presidential candidates before César Gaviria was elected in 1990.

Since the death of Medellín cartel leader Pablo Escobar in a police shootout during December 1993, indiscriminate acts of violence associated with that organization have abated as the “cartels” have broken up into multiple, smaller and often-competing trafficking organizations. Nevertheless, violence continued as these drug organizations resorted to violence as part of their operations, but also to protest government policies, including extradition.

Although the FARC and ELN accepted participation in the peace process, they did not make explicit commitments to end the conflict. FARC ended peace talks in the year 2000.

Modern Day Colombia

As I mentioned before, Colombia is now a nation at peace. You can see it in the streets and in the mountains. People aren’t terrified there might be a bombing or a shooting at any moment. Colombia is not totally free from problems certainly. Like any developing country, Colombia is still trying to eliminate poverty and social inequality. Colombia’s future is bright. Like Peru, Colombia has one of South America’s fastest growing economies.

I am deeply happy for Colombia and its people, that they have finally found relative calm after the totally fucking crazy 1980’s and 90’s. Keep doing your thing Colombia!

Working in Colombia

Because of it’s general awesomeness, Colombia is very popular for expats. Medellin is the most popular spot although Bogota offers the most varied and lucrative opportunities. That said, if you are looking for work an English teacher then you can quite probably find something pretty much anywhere in Colombia.

Visas For Colombia

To work in Colombia you will need a work visa. These are pretty easy to obtain for most western passport holders once you lined up a job and it is common to enter on a tourist visa and then upgrade it whilst in the country. The fee for the M5 Visa is $280.

Volunteer in Colombia

Volunteering overseas is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good in the world. Volunteering continues to be very popular all over the world.

Colombia is a developing country so there are lots of opportunities for volunteers willing to donate some time and skills. Volunteer English teachers are in pretty much endless demand across Colombia and I enjoyed a very joyful spell teaching in Cartagena. More unique opportunities include working in the rainforests, nursing Jaguars and maybe helping out a coffee farmer.

Want to find some more volunteering opportunities in Colombia? Signup for Worldpackers , a platform that connects local hosts with travelers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39. 

Not only do they make the process so much simpler, but Broke Backpacker readers also get a sweet discount on the signup fee just by using the code BROKEBACKPACKER !

Teaching English in Colombia

Teaching English is a very popular way for for expats to make their way in Colombia. Pay varies widely. A fully qualified teacher at a top university (degree + TEFL or CELTA) could earn $1800 per month which goes pretty far in Colombia but an unqualified backpacker teacher at regular school may have to make do with $900.

If you want to teach English from your own home, then you can try teaching English online. Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills! It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to  start teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English ,  TEFL courses  open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on  teaching English abroad .

Final Advice Before Visiting Colombia

Colombia is a beautiful, beguiling land and you are sure to fall in love with it. Stay safe and enjoy your trip!

• Check out the hostels in Colombia to book yourself a dope stay. 
• Our ultimate Colombia packing list has all the info you’ll ever need. 
• Sort out your Colombia travel insurance before your trip.  
• We’ve also got where to stay in Bogotá covered with our epic guide.
• Colombia is just the start of your awesome backpacking trip around South America .
• Get your  international SIM card  organised to avoid hassle.

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23 Comments

This is a brilliant page! Covers everything.. thank you 🙂

Hello Will! We’re heading to Colombia—Cartagena and Medellin in March. Great info here. Any updates?

Hey! I’m going to the Taryona region Jan 21 to 27 starting by arriving by plane in Santa Marta. I want to combine maybe taganga, Minca Casa Elemento, and then Costeno Beach Surf Hostel and then go back to Santa Marta to catch my flight to Bogota on the 27. Is that the order I want to go in? How does transport work? Do you have any links about busses etc? Thanks for the help if you can! I have all the details on backpacking Uruguay beaches if you want to trade 😉 South America’s best kept secret!

Wifey and I LOVE Colombia and always stay in Envigado (been 3 times now) and have made some real nice local friends. The lifestyle there is wonderful, great foods, weather, nightlife, street atmosphere it has the lot. And all at a very affordable price. Your list has certainly given us more ideas and reasons to go back which actually we can’t wait. Thanks for making us miss it even more (if that’s really possible).

Hi Will, I am planning to visit colombai this year, reading your page helped me how to be prepared for backpacking, very useful page, thank you

Hey Guys If you’re going to San Gil I highly recommend Karla, is a girl in who helped us a lot in our stay there. She speak a good English, she was our guide and drove us where we need, and helped us in all that we needed like a accommodation, San Gil was much better that we thought thank to Karla. Her number is 3183928463

Hola Will Se que has estado en Venezuela, por ello quiero que me ayudes con ciertas recomendaciones respecto a lugares para visitar en especial sus playas, resorts o sea si son lugares en el mar caribe venezolano, mejor. Soy de Ecuador, espero nos vistes.

Any thoughts on Cali? Is it worth stopping there for a couple of days? I have heard it’s pretty dodgy safety wise.

I probably wouldn’t bother with Cali, the cities re all similar and Bogota and Medellin are definitely the best… Cali should only be on the list if your a die-hard Salsa fan… Safety wise, it really is fine – 3 months and no problems. Currently in Venezuela, significantly more dodgy and yet, still fine. Don’t trust the media or sensationalist news-reports, unless your a total god-damn idiot and attempt to buy coke off a cop, you will be fine.

When I was in Ecuador I thought of visiting Columbia. Did you go dancing while you were there, and if so what type of dancing did they introduce you to? Great pics and I love that you can haggle for a reduced price.

I had a crack at some salsa, it wasn’t the salsa I am used to from Europe though, apparently my foot-work was all wrong; I had the twirls down to a T though! 🙂

This looks like a rundown of my itinerary. There are so many amazing things to see and do in Colombia! Salento and Tayrona were my favourites. I also loved the adventure sports in San Gil and the trekking to the Lost City!

Thanks for the post! Heading to Colombia in July (yes, far far away). Staying in Cartagena/Santa Marta for 11 days for surfing, diving and snorkelling. Will look into Taganga a bit further.

Hope you make it to Ecuador, as it is such a great place and got back from there a few weeks ago. Happy travels!

Thanks Renee! Definitely head to Minke and Taganga, you’ll have an ace time! 🙂

Will!! Still travelling strong I see 🙂 hope you are having an awesome time. Loving the website, it’s giving me the serious travel bug! Still loving Exeter though, so will be here for a little while.

Hope you are well x

Sam!! I WAS THINKING ABOUT YOU LIKE LITERALLY YESTERDAY! How’s it going? I’ll be popping into exeter at some point, we should grab a coffee! And yes, still travelling – what else am I going to do, learn to cook? I don’t think so… :p

Super useful post! Thanks for sharing this. Next year I’m hoping to settle down for a while in South America and I’ve been hearing more and more great things about Colombia. Really looking forward to checking it out.

Thanks Charlie! Medellin is definitely a great place to settle, I’ve been here six weeks; loving it! 🙂

Colombia has been on my list for a while. Ciudad Perdida sounds amazing. Googling it now.

It’s an incredible trek! Don’t miss out, go NOW before it becomes crazy popular!! 🙂

Nice post, got three weeks in Colombia this summer so this is useful. You fancy doing one for Ecuador too? 😉

I notice there is supposed to a high malaria risk across much of Colombia, including most of the Pacific Coast – did you bother with antimalarials?

I never bother with anti-malarials and I’ve been to some pretty malaria-esque destinations, you should be fine matey! I’m not headed to Ecuador I’m afraid – onwards to Venezuela tomorrow!! 🙂

Hi Will, nice blog, but where did you stay? those hostels sound super expensive! We traveled around Colombia for a month or so and paid $5-$10 for a dorm bed and around $17 for a private room, I agree awesome and cheap place for adventure activities, super friendly people, awesome country. We are new to the blogging game, what we spent each per day can be seen below, if any of your followers are interested, what we did, where we stayed and how much we paid can be seen at http://stingynomads.com/colombia/ Signing up for your blog! Safe travels

Avg of what we spent Transport: 284 700 COP ($97.93) total, $3.15 avg per day

Food (shopping): 400 100 COP ($138) $4.45 avg per day

Accomodation: 510 500 COP ($175) $5.70 avg per day

Activities: 231 000 COP ($79.50) $2.56 avg per day

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Backpacking Vietnam – The 15 Things to Know Before You Go

If you’re thinking about backpacking Vietnam, the first thing you need to know is that you definitely should! Now that decision is made, here are the essential travel tips to help make the most of your Vietnam backpacking adventure!

1. How long do you need to backpack Vietnam?

2. how much does it cost to backpack in vietnam, 3. where to go when backpacking vietnam, 4. what’s the best vietnam backpacking itinerary, 5. what’s the best time to visit vietnam, 6. what’s the weather like in vietnam, 7. is backpacking vietnam safe, 8. how do you get a visa for vietnam, 9. how to get around in vietnam, 10. how should you dress in vietnam, 11. what to pack for vietnam, 12. is street food safe in vietnam, 13. three things avoid in vietnam, 14. what vietnamese words should you know, 15. our favourite hostels in vietnam, a final note about backpacking vietnam.

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our  disclaimer  here.

Vietnam might be the perfect destination for backpackers, especially for those who are travelling to Asia for the first time. The people are incredibly welcoming, the infrastructure for tourism is well organized, and there is a huge variety in landscapes, culture, food, and interesting things to do.

Beyond that, Vietnam is still extraordinarily cheap, so you can backpack on a budget and still have a great time.

I’ve travelled to Vietnam so many times now that I’ve lost count. I’ve been there as a solo backpacker , as a cycle tourist , as a house and pet sitter, as a volunteer, and most recently as a temporary expat in Hoi An.

These adventures have taken me from the far north-eastern border with China all the way to the southwest coastal border with Cambodia , and all stops in between.

If it’s your first time backpacking in Vietnam, the tips below will help you make the absolute most of your journey to Vietnam.

So read on for your guide to…

Backpacking Vietnam – The 15 Things You Must Know Before You Go

Don’t miss these posts! Our best Vietnam travel advice , our guide to solo travel in Vietnam , and our guide to transformational things to do in Vietnam .

Even though it looks small on a map , that narrow strip of land is deceiving. Vietnam is about a thousand miles from north to south, and on slow trains and overnight busses, this is a huge distance. Not only that, but across this distance there’s a huge variation in culture, food, landscape, and atmosphere.

We’ve spent close to a year in Vietnam over the course of at least 7 different trips and have still not seen everything there is to see or learned nearly as much about the culture as we’d like!

Alas, you probably don’t have unlimited time to spend wandering Vietnam’s many incredible destinations . If not, here are our recommendations for what you can see in the time you have.

One month to six weeks

If you want to cover the three main regions of Vietnam – north, central, and south – without flying or rushing from place to place, you’ll need at least a month. Six weeks will give you a better chance to get off the beaten track, spend some time relaxing on the beach, and to avoid hellish 15-hour bus rides!

Three weeks

If you have 3 weeks or less, we recommend concentrating your visit in the north and central regions of Vietnam. Leave the south for another time unless your main goal in life is to visit beautiful beaches . If that’s the case, go beach and island hopping in the south and add in some adventures in Dalat and the Mekong Delta.

If you only have two weeks or less in Vietnam, just visit the north or the central region. The north is better for rugged adventures and breathtaking wild scenery, while central is better if you want a combination of history, culture, and beaches.

If you only have one week in Vietnam, reconsider whether it’s worth going. If you only have a week of vacation, it would be much better to travel somewhere in your home country – you’ll have more time to enjoy yourself and less stress.

If you’re planning one week in Vietnam as part of a Southeast Asia trip, think again. With limited time, it’s much better to just go to one country and spend longer there, than to try and pack several countries into a couple of week’s vacation!

The great news about Vietnam is, even though it’s a hugely popular backpacking destination, you can visit very cheaply and still have a great time. Backpackers with a sense of adventure and a tight budget can still travel in Vietnam for under $15 per day.

Here are some typical costs of things in Vietnam:

• A filling banh mi or noodle soup from a street stall is less than $1.
• Hostel beds, in nice hostels with lots of amenities, cost $5–10.
• A clean and comfortable double hotel room is about $12–20 per night.
• A 5-hour bus ride will run you about $6.
• A pair of elephant pants is $3–8.
• A street food tour is $15–25.

Not including your flights or visa, for three weeks in Vietnam, budget $500–700. This leaves room for a few nights of more comfy accommodation, a few tours, and some nicer meals.

Handling Vietnamese dong

In Vietnam, the currency is Vietnamese Dong (VND). It is used for everything except paying for your visa on arrival. For that, you will need USD or Euros.

Dong is one of those currencies which can be desperately confusing because there are so many zeros.

$1 USD is worth about 23,000 VND. 100,000 VND is a little less than $5.

When dealing with currency like this, it’s important to always pay attention and take your time when paying for things.

It can be all too easy to hand someone 500,000 VND instead of 50,000! I have done it countless times. While most Vietnamese people are very honest and will point out your mistake, there are always a few bad apples waiting to take advantage of rich, mathematically challenged foreigners.

Wondering how to handle tips? Check out our guide to tipping in Vietnam!

We love travelling in Vietnam so much – there are seemingly endless options for fun, adventure, beautiful landscapes, and deep cultural experiences.

Our don’t-miss highlights for backpacking Vietnam include:

Northern Vietnam

• Hanoi, just an amazing city
• Sapa / Ha Giang, for incredible views and cultural immersion
• Bai Tu Long Bay / Cat Ba Island, a little touristy but you really have to see those karsts
• Tam Coc / Ninh Binh, luscious inland karst landscapes

Central Vietnam

• Phong Nha , incredible caves and a small village experience
• Hoi An , touristy but so pretty and unique in Vietnam
• Hue , great food and imperial history
• Da Nang, beach city with lots of nightlife

Southern Vietnam

• Mui Ne , budget beach destination
• Dalat, for highland trekking and the Crazy House
• Ho Chi Minh City , big city life in Asia
• Can Tho, to experience the mighty Mekong Delta

This is a just a shortlist of places to visit in Vietnam. For a more detailed look at our favourites, check out our Vietnam 2-week itineraries and our guide to transformational things to do in Vietnam .

While there is no optimal route for backpacking Vietnam, we can make some suggestions based on variations in the length of time you have there and where you plan to go next.

Need help to plan your trip? Use our recommended Vietnam itineraries for two weeks in northern, central, or southern Vietnam. Add them together for 4 or 6 weeks!

Here’s a route that you can expand or reverse, depending on how much time you have and which other countries you are visiting.

10 days to 2 weeks in Vietnam

If you only have 10 days or 2 weeks in Vietnam, we recommend travelling only in the north. Fly in and out of Hanoi.

• Day 1–3: Soak up the culture in Hanoi
• Day 4–5: Trek in Sapa or Ha Giang
• Day 6–8: Cruise Ha Long Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay
• Day 9–11: See the karsts in Tam Coc
• Day 12–13: Stay at a homestay in Mai Chau
• Day 14: Back to Hanoi for your flight

3 or 4 weeks in Vietnam

If you have more time, you can also visit central Vietnam. After your northern adventures, head south to go:

• Day 15–18: Caving in Phong Nha
• Day 19–20: See the Imperial Palace in Hue
• Day 21–23: Take in the night life in Da Nang
• Day: 24–28: Visit the ancient city of Hoi An

You can then fly out of Da Nang or return to Hanoi and fly from there.

5–6 weeks in Vietnam

If you have even more time, then you can also add the south to your itinerary. Lucky you! From central Vietnam, you can make the long trek south by train or bus.

• Day 29–31: Beach time in Nha Trang or Mui Ne
• Day 31–33: Trek in Da Lat
• Day 34–35: Marvel at Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 36–39: Boat trip on the Mekong Delta
• Day 40–42: Luxury beach escape on Phu Quoc

Arriving from Laos

If you’re coming overland to Vietnam from Laos, you have a couple of options.

• You can take the bus from Vientiane to Hanoi but that’s 18 hours of pure torture!
• Make your last stop in Laos at Muang Khua and then take the bus across the border, arriving in Dien Bien Phu . Much better option.

Leaving via Cambodia

If you plan to leave Vietnam and head to Cambodia , do it! We love Cambodia too.

There are two main routes out of Vietnam and into Cambodia.

The first option is to go by bus, or bus and boat, from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh. You can break this up by stopping in Chau Doc overnight.

The second option is a little more adventurous. Take the bus south to Hat Yai and then travel by hired scooter across the border to Kep. This is how I did it last time and it was a great independent adventure.

For backpackers heading to Vietnam, the best time to go is right now .

Seriously. Vietnam’s long coastline and varied geography means that it has three distinct climate patterns (or more). Since the weather varies so much from place to place, it’s hard to find a specific month or two when everything will be perfect everywhere.

Plus, budget travellers tend to have a better tolerance for “adventurous” weather and we are happiest when fewer people are around – meaning we can get better deals on accommodation and tours!

Here’s what you can expect from the seasons in northern, central, and southern Vietnam.

Northern Vietnam Weather

Best time to backpack: October & November, March

In northern Vietnam the best weather is from October to December, when it’s usually sunny but not unbearably hot — although we have sweated buckets in October plenty of times!

December is high season, so if you can go earlier in the year, you’ll find everything less crowded and less expensive.

For backpackers, March is also a great time to go north. It’s just before rainy season and not usually too hot. You’ll see fewer crowds than in December but it can still be busy at this time of year.

Central Vietnam Weather

Best time to backpack: February–April

The rainy season on Vietnam’s central coast tails off towards the beginning of February, making this month the ideal time to visit. Book your ticket for after the Tet holidays, which can close down lots of places for about a week as locals celebrate their new year.

If you’re a beach bumming backpacker, June to August are perfect in central Vietnam. It’ll be too hot to do much sightseeing but it will be perfect beach weather almost every day.

We lived in Hoi An during November and December last year and really loved it. The weather was often cool and rainy but we also had plenty of hot sunny days to get out and explore. Hoi An is quieter at this time of year too, so you’ll have fewer crowds to wrangle.

South Vietnam Weather

Best time to backpack: Jan–March

Southern Vietnam has the least volatile climate of the three regions, with temperatures remaining hot but bearable throughout most of the year. Rainy season is from May to November — but the rain tends to fall in a predictable pattern with a short mega-downpour every afternoon.

This leaves the rest of the day for sightseeing, and keeps the dust down, too.

It can be very busy in December, especially in Ho Chi Minh City, when prices will rise accordingly. Wait until late January to visit for cool(ish) weather plus a less crowded experience.

Safety First!

We don’t leave home without travel insurance and neither should you. World Nomads is ideal for short-term travel — affordable, great coverage, and responsive. For long-term travel, check out Safety Wing .

Get Insured!

Yes! Vietnam is a very safe country to travel in. Whether you’re a solo female traveller, travelling with small children, or going as part of a group, you’ll find little to worry about in Vietnam.

Throughout my many months of travelling in Vietnam, in both busy cities and remote mountain areas, both alone and as part of a couple, I have never once felt threatened or had an unpleasant incident.

In fact, by far the most dangerous thing about Vietnam is trying to cross the street in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City!

Of course, as with any place you go, a little common sense goes a long way.

Just like anywhere, there are bag snatchers and scammers and dodgy guys in Vietnam – so always be aware of your belongings and surroundings to make sure you’re not a target.

Don’t get so drunk you don’t know what you’re doing and don’t wander around alone in unfamiliar areas late at night. Same stuff you’d do anywhere in the world to stay safe.

Still worried about safety? Read our guide to solo travel in Vietnam to find out what it’s really like!

Vietnam has a slightly more complicated visa system than the other countries in Southeast Asia. The requirements vary depending on which passport you hold, how long you want to stay, where you’re arriving, and whether you need multiple entry or not.

Almost everyone will need to start by getting a visa letter from an online visa agency before you arrive in Vietnam. Bring your letter with you to the airport or land border and apply for your visa when you arrive.

Need your visa? Our quick and easy guide to Vietnam visas will get your sorted in minutes, no matter what passport you have.

Another bonus for backpackers in Vietnam is the organized and inexpensive transportation network. The system is super easy for travellers in Vietnam to get around!

Here are our favourite ways to travel in Vietnam.

The bus network in Vietnam is extensive and unless you’re going somewhere really crazy, you won’t have a problem getting a bus. Usually, you can book your bus ticket at your hostel, and someone will come and pick you up to take you to the bus station. You might pay an extra dollar for the service but it’s totally worth it! Busses are also extremely cheap in Vietnam.

They are usually slightly run down sleeper busses, where the seats recline three-quarters of the way and there’s a raised spot for your legs to stretch out. If you’re taller than about 6 feet, they can be pretty uncomfortable, so you might want to limit your time on the bus.

Busses can also be noisy, bright and smelly, so don’t plan on getting a great night’s sleep. I have found it possible to get some shut-eye on a few overnight bus rides though, so it can be done.

Recently, some bus companies have introduced snazzy VIP busses with bigger, comfier seats, better air conditioning, WiFi and more. So if you hate busses, you might want to look into this option, which costs a little more but might be worth it.

We use 12go.asia to book our bus and train tickets in Vietnam.

There are internal flights in Vietnam and since the country is so huge, it can be tempting to fly. We say “don’t do it!”.

First of all, there’s a climate crisis on, so you don’t need to be adding extra CO2 into the atmosphere. Second, you came to experience Vietnam, so why spend your time flying over it? Third, Vietnamese airlines are notoriously unreliable so you will almost certain face flight delays and spend hours sitting in the airport instead of soaking up the culture.

If you’re short on time, plan a Vietnam itinerary that is focussed on one region of the country. You’ll find plenty of amazing experiences without having to fly.

The train network is limited in Vietnam. You can take the train from Ho Chi Minh City to the west coast and up north along the coast, but stations are often pretty far from tourist destinations. The few trains I’ve taken in Vietnam have been pretty uncomfortable and noisy. Along with frequent delays and a higher cost, I would recommend taking the bus instead.

Buying a cheap motorbike and driving around Vietnam yourself is a popular option which will give you lots of freedom to come and go as you please. However, traffic in Vietnam is utterly crazy so if you’re not an experienced driver, take the bus instead. No one wants to spend their Vietnam holiday in the hospital.

Unlike some of the neighbouring countries, where religion (or sexism) dictates a certain kind of clothing, there is no strict dress code in Vietnam. In cities and small towns, most Vietnamese people wear Western-style clothing and in the cities, some women wear extremely revealing outfits. In remote areas, many local people still wear their traditional costume and are generally more conservative with their clothing.

As a tourist, you can choose to wear just about anything. It’s OK to wear shorts, tank tops, short dresses and whatever else you might pack for hot weather.

However, to show respect for your hosts and for those in the community who are more conservative, covering up a little bit is not a bad idea.

For women, I’d recommend leaving your super short shorts at home, along with your low-cut tank tops and extra tight mini-dresses. For guys, avoid wearing your chest-revealing sleeveless shirts except at the beach.

If you’re visiting temples or other religious sites, you will be asked to cover your shoulders and knees. This is where a sarong and a light scarf can come in handy.

To help deal with the hot weather and protect your skin from the sun, light loose clothing with long sleeves and long pants works best.

Our biggest tip about packing for Vietnam is to pack light!

There are a few great reasons for this:

• In Vietnam, many hostels and hotels are hidden down narrow alleys where cars can’t go, so you will be carrying your luggage quite a lot.
• Hotels are usually narrow and tall, with no elevator, so be prepared to lug your bag up multiple staircases as well.
• If you don’t pack something you need, it can usually be bought in Vietnam easily and cheaply.

Packing made easy! Use our comprehensive packing list (with printable checklist) for Vietnam to be sure you don’t forget anything.

Yes! And no! There are a huge range of street stalls in Vietnam and they are only as safe as the person who runs them makes them.

Once, in Vietnam, we were sitting waiting for our food at a street stall when we saw the cook tip some honey from a jar into the dish and then, before putting the lid back on the honey, she LICKED THE EDGE OF THE JAR to clean away the excess honey.

So gross and potentially virulent.

However, most street stalls are not run like this and we highly recommend you try at least some street food during your trip.

Here are a few safe ways to eat street food in Vietnam.

• Take a street food tour. These are run by pros who already know where the best stalls are and have already fed the same food to other tourists, so you know you’ll be safe.
• Look for stalls with long lines or crowds. If locals will spend extra time in line at a stall, you know that the food is not only clean, but delicious. Don’t forget to check who is in that line. A more diverse crowd, including women and children, indicates a better offering. While if it’s just a line of local workmen, they are probably not as picky with what they eat.
• Eat at local mealtimes. Vietnamese people eat early. Usually 7am for breakfast, 11am for lunch, and 6pm for dinner. If you’re eating street food, go at those times so you’ll get freshly prepared food.
• Bring your own cutlery. Often in Vietnam, while the food is great, the chopsticks are disgusting. Bring your own portable cutlery, like these ones we use , for cleaner street eating.

Are you vegan or vegetarian ? You don’t need to miss out in Vietnam! Just grab our guide to finding vegan food in Vietnam .

There’s not really a lot you have to watch out for in Vietnam. But there are a couple of things we recommend you avoid in Vietnam.

Avoid Mosquitos

If you’re a frequent reader of this blog, you’ll know that I almost died of malaria a couple of years ago. I’ve also had dengue fever a couple of times and so has Stephen. The good news is, we have never gotten mosquito-borne illnesses in Vietnam.

The bad news is, malaria and dengue fever do exist in Vietnam, along with Zika and Japanese Encephalitis. Wear your mosquito repellent and cover your arms and legs during the peak mosquito hours near dawn and dusk.

Avoid taxi scams

We don’t know why but all around the world, taxi drivers seem to take great pleasure in scamming their customers. They’ll either overcharge, pretend they don’t have change, or drive you around in circles to up the fare. To avoid this, we use Grab (a ride-hailing app) whenever we can.

If it’s not possible, then hop into a Mai Linh or Vinasun taxi which are reputable companies with (mostly) honest drivers. Whatever you choose, bring small change with you and always follow your route on the map so you can keep track of where you are and where you’re going.

Avoid bag snatching

Not a huge problem in Vietnam but bag or phone snatching does happen. It works like this. Motorbike driver sees unaware tourist dangling their camera, bag, or phone near the side of a busy street. Driver revs the engine, grabs the item, and drives away. Say goodbye to your stuff. You will never see it again.

To avoid this, either wear a backpack or cross-shoulder bag or carry your shoulder bag on the shoulder that’s away from the street. If you have to check your phone, don’t do it while walking. Instead, step into a doorway or corner away from the street to look.

Most Vietnamese people in tourist areas speak at least enough English that you will be able to get by without learning any Vietnamese. But where’s the fun in that?

Hello = xin chào ( sin chow ) Please = làm ơn ( lahm uhn ) Thank you = cảm ơn ( kahm uhn ) Yes = dạ ( ya ) No = không ( khohm ) I am vegetarian = tôi ăn chay ( toy ahn jai )

It’s very hard to pronounce phrases correctly but at least you’ll get a few smiles for trying!

When it comes to hostels and other inexpensive accommodation, Vietnam is the best country in Southeast Asia. Hostels tend to be of very high standard, staff are amazingly friendly and helpful, and you can get a comfy, safe bed for $5 or less per night!

It’s almost always worth spending a dollar or two more instead of getting the absolute cheapest bed you can find. A couple of dollars can take you from dingy cockroach-infested fleapits to a gorgeous boutique hostel with all the bells and whistles. Totally worth it!

• Hanoi: Nexy Hostel – Comfy full-privacy beds, plus great spaces for meeting people and hanging out.
• Hanoi: Old Quarter View – Spacious well-equipped rooms with lots of social spaces and daily free beer.
• Hoi An: Tribee Bana Heritage Hostel – Located right in Old Town, this hostel is famous for their amazing list of activities.
• Ho Chi Minh City: Prei Nokor – Small and extremely clean hostel, with comfy beds and perfect location.
• Ho Chi Minh City: The Art Nice to Home – Cozy and friendly, on a quiet street but centrally located.
• Phong Nha, Ninh Binh, Can Tho: Nguyen Shack – In three off-the-beaten path locations, Nguyen Shacks offer bargain beds in a beautiful setting.

Many backpackers to Vietnam make the huge mistake of trying to cover too much of the country in a single trip. Though it looks small on a map, Vietnam is deceptively huge and it can take a long time to get between destinations.

When planning your trip, stick to one or two regions and immerse yourself in the variety of activities available there. We want you to meet local people and get a chance to experience a few transformational activities! If you try to do too much, your memories of Vietnam will mostly be of long, uncomfortable bus journeys!

By planning more activities in fewer locations, you’ll get to see and experience the best of Vietnam.

We hope these tips for backpacking Vietnam are a huge help in planning and taking your trip. Our goal is to help you make every journey a transformational one, where you come back home a little different than when you left. If you have any questions about backpacking in Vietnam, give us a shout on Instagram or by email .

♥   Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

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