Common Myths About Backpacking

If you’ve ever considered going backpacking, chances are high you’ve heard horror stories from friends and family about why you shouldn’t go.

Fortunately, these horror stories are mostly myths, and backpacking can be just as safe, affordable, and comfortable as staying at home.

It’s Dangerous

The number one myth about backpacking is the danger involved. Too many people have heard sensationalized stories on the news about backpackers who went missing in a foreign country, or were allegedly wrongly accused of some kind of crime and sentenced to life in prison or death.

In most cases, backpacking in a foreign country is just as safe, if not safer, than staying in your hometown.

It’s always good to use common sense, but this travel option isn’t inherently dangerous. Most people around the world are good people, and the more you backpack the more you’ll realize this to be true.

It’s Too Expensive

While backpacking is known to be the cheapest way to travel, for many people the idea of being able to tour far-flung places around the globe sounds like something that would be too expensive.

If you’ve ever had someone tell you that backpacking was too costly, you should know that’s just a myth.

Backpacking can be extremely inexpensive, and can in fact be pocket friendly than living at home.

Places like Southeast Asia, India, China, Mexico, Central America, and South America are easy places to backpack, in addition to being cheap.

Even in more expensive places, such as the United States, Canada, Western Europe, Japan, and Australia, bargains can be found. So, wherever you’d like to backpack, don’t let anyone tell you it’s too dear.

Inadequate Medical Care

If your biggest fear is getting sick, or perhaps getting injured in some way, know that nearly all but the most remote areas have adequate medical facilities.

The odds of you getting deathly ill or hurting yourself while doing one of the many adventure activities backpackers often participate in are very low.

Most places will be able to take care of most illnesses or accidents that might occur during your travels. In all cases though, the best idea is to make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance before you board for your trip.

It’s relatively easy to get a reasonably priced plan, and while you might not ever need it, you’ll be glad you have it if you do.

You’ll Have To Sleep in a Total Dump

One big myth about backpacking is that in an effort to find the cheapest place to stay, everyone sleeps on dingy mattresses in roach-infested quarters. That simply isn’t true. Today, many hostels are incredibly clean, social, high-tech places.

In the best hostels, expect perks like free wi-fi, free breakfast, on-site bars and restaurants, and free tours to nearby sites of interest, in addition to basics such as clean showers and bedding.

With the Internet, it’s now easier than ever to check out hostels online to see what kind of ratings they have before booking.

You Will Be Lonely

If you’re traveling alone, as many people do, you might be worried that you’ll get lonely. While it’s true that you may feel a little lonely from time to time, you never need to be alone if you don’t want to be.

It’s incredibly easy to meet other backpackers and travelers, whether it be in your hostel dorm or on a walking tour of the city.

Oftentimes you’ll be surrounded by so many other people that you’ll probably long to be alone!