The Backpacker's Guide to the UK | ||||||
Backpax Magazine |  | |||||
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Preparing for your backpacking adventure Forward planning is needed for any trip, and while a backpacking holiday offers you more flexibility and freedom than a traditional holiday, the more planning you can do ahead of time for your backpacking adventure the better. Here we take a look at some things to consider before your trip. Journey planning It’s a good idea to make a basic journey plan before you set off. Make a list of places that you really want to see, and do some research into the transport options that will get you there. Also look into accommodation options in the area – are there any hostels or campsites nearby? Or will you have to book hotel or bed and breakfast accommodation instead? Accommodation With your journey plan in mind, it may help to pre-book some of your accommodation. There’s nothing worse than turning up in a town or city only to find that the only hostel in town is fully booked. Look out for hostels that provide airport and train station transfer direct to your hostel as this can save you money on transport too. Documents Remember to pack up all of your travel tickets together in a safe place. If you have purchased insurance, keep a copy of your insurance documents with you too so that you have all the relevant details to hand should you need to get in touch with your insurer. If you plan to work while you’re on your trip, remember to take a few CVs with you too. Medication If you are on any regular medication, make sure that you have enough to last you for the duration of your trip, plus a little extra should you lose some on the way. You can get in touch with your doctor ahead of time to arrange a larger prescription so that you have everything you need. Your backpack This may sound obvious, but invest in a decent backpack! You want as much back support as possible, and you may want to look out for backpacks that come with wheels attached so that you can give your back a break from time to time too. Money Carrying a lot of cash with you is not a good idea, although it helps to have some with you for emergencies. A debit or credit card is much safer, and you’ll be able to withdraw cash from ATMs wherever you go. Keeping track of the funds in your bank accounts can be difficult while travelling – who wants to spend their holiday trying to track down their local bank branch? Set up an online or telephone banking account before you set off so that you can keep tabs on your balances via your mobile or the internet instead. Most of the major banks such as the Alliance & Leicester now have savings and current accounts that you can manage online or via phone. | ||||
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