Planning An Overseas Backpacking Adventure

Oversseas Backpacking Trip

What about an overseas backpacking adventure?  There are a lot of things you need to know when traveling from country to country overseas.  Traveling by backpack enables one the freedom to take their time, meet new people, and stop almost anywhere.

Even though you are going on a overseas backpacking adventure you still need to understand the basics behind safe travel abroad.  The following list outlines some of the best advice for taking a backpacking adventure  abroad.

To avoid a run in with the local authorities try to familiarize yourself with the customs and laws for each country.  Even if you think you may not enter a particular area read up on it anyway.

Is your passport current?  Make a couple of copies of it and stash them in different parts of your backpack or on you somewhere.  It would be a good idea to leave one with a family member at home, in case yours is lost or stolen. A copy could be faxed to the local authorities or American embassy.  Check online to see if any of the locations require a special visa or other paperwork besides your passport to enter.

Make sure your map is up to date.  You should check to make sure the map you are taking is current.  You do not want to plan a backpacking trip in an area that has recently been changed from wilderness to a shopping center.

Keep your family in the loop.  Just as you would when backpacking at home, you need to fill your family in on all your plans.  This is even more important when traveling out of the country.  You never know what can happen and nobody there is going to realize you may be in trouble.

Have  back up plan.  You can't just go back home very easy if your plans get messed up by weather or some other unexpected event.  Be sure you have an alternative plan in place so your trip is not ruined.

You should try to leave valuables at home.  You should hire a local tour guide and always travel in a group or with at least one other person.

Stay on public roadways and do not wander into locations that may be restricted.  The locals may be allowed to shoot first and ask questions later.

Travel smart and your backpacking trip will most likely be one of the most amazing experiences you will ever have.