/r/backpacking

Photograph via snooOG

A subreddit for traveling backpacking and wilderness backpacking, not restricted to one or the other. All posts must be flaired "Travel" or "Wilderness"

A reddit for Backpackers who are traveling around the world. Here you will find anything and everything on the topic, from transport, accommodation, food, health, and gear.

Link flair is now required. Add these to any new posts. There are two categories:

  • Travel: Travel Backpacking in urban or semi-urban areas
  • Wilderness: Off-grid Hiking or Camping

Rules and posting guidelines:

  1. All posts must be flaired "Wilderness" or "Travel"

  2. Submissions must include a short paragraph describing your trip. Submitted content should be of high-quality. Low effort posting of very general information is not useful. Posts must include a trip report of at least 150 characters or a short paragraph with trip details.

  3. This is a community of users, not a platform for advertisement, self promotion, surveys, or blogspam. Acceptable Self-Promotion means at least participating in non-commercial/non-self promotional ways more often than not.

  4. All photos and videos must be Original Content

  5. Be courteous and civil. Polite, constructive criticism of ideas is acceptable. Unconstructive criticism of individuals and usage of strong profanity is unacceptable.

  6. Follow Rediquette.

If you have any questions, or are unsure whether something is ok to post, feel free to contact the moderators.


Related SubReddits:

Outdoors Related Subreddits:

Gear and Food:

/r/backpacking

5,288,706 Subscribers

2

Tips for my first backpacking trip

Hi everyone!
Lately, I’ve been planning to go on a post-graduation trip for a few months (up to a year, or until I feel like it's time to come back home). I was thinking of using platforms like Worldpackers and Workaway to find opportunities (if anyone has experience with these platforms, I'd love to know which one you think is more worthwhile).

I have no idea where I want to go — when I think about it, I feel like I want to go literally everywhere, as long as the destinations are budget-friendly and ideally have cultures different from my own.
I'm currently 21, living in Italy, and I should graduate in about a year and a half.
I'm a very introverted and shy person, and I've often missed out on experiences that could have been interesting simply because of fear. Now, I feel a strong desire to "go on an adventure" and break free from the patterns I've created in my life, In fact, I'm currently in therapy to improve and grow.
I'd love to explore places around the world and connect with kind, welcoming, and lovely people, and most importantly, I need to step out of my comfort zone.

That said, I wanted to ask you to share your experiences and advice. I'm particularly interested in budgeting (even rough estimates), potential destinations, personal experiences, and anything else you'd like to share. I'm all ears :)
Thanks to everyone who replies!

0 Comments
2025/02/01
14:01 UTC

1

Budget tent

Hi, Does anyone have any recommandations for a good 2 person wildcamping/ stealth camping tent? I'm looking for one thats not too heavy and is also green or brown so its stealthy. Also based in europe so i do not have to pay huge import taxes.

Thanks!

1 Comment
2025/02/01
12:37 UTC

1

Where to go remote backpacking/ camping in Nebraska?

Me and my 5 friends want to go on a fishing, camping, and backpacking trip anywhere within a 2 hour drive of Omaha. We don’t want something super close but also not too far. We also don’t want to be near people and want our campsite to be along water. We also have a small bass boat that we would like to bring with us if possible. Does anyone know of any places like this? I appreciate any help

3 Comments
2025/02/01
08:59 UTC

2

Bringing a Small Portable Fan to Turn On While Sleeping

Hello everyone!

So I'm in the early stages of planning a central/eastern European trip this July/August, and was doing some research on hostels. I've noticed a lot of them (especially in Germany) don't offer air conditioning in the rooms.

A side effect of the medication I take is that I tend to get hot and sweat a bit easier than others, and this is aggravated by sleeping in air-conditioning-less environments. And if I get too hot while sleeping (especially if I'm jetlagged) I wake up feeling super nauseous which is never fun lol.

I lived in a dorm during my freshman year of university that didn't have A/C and I found there having a travel fan as well as a clip on small fan to place next to my bed helped a lot with regulating my temperature. Would it be rude to use something like this in a hostel dorm? I used it in a capsule hotel last year when I was extremely hot but I've never stayed in a hostel dorm so I'm not sure what the etiquette is and I don't want to disturb others lol. I know that most of the rooms will likely have openable windows and large room fans but I know that because of my medication side effects that probably won't be enough, especially if there is a heat wave.

Thanks for any advice :)

2 Comments
2025/02/01
07:58 UTC

0

Lost hostel key! HELP

I’m staying in a hostel in Guatemala and I realized I’ve lost my key. I don’t need it to get in and out but I’m not sure what to do. Will they charge me? Please help. This is the first time I’m backpacking and I’m so lost

5 Comments
2025/02/01
05:32 UTC

1

Chiang Mai -> Pai by Scooter: Renting and Luggage Questions

Hey everyone,

My girlfriend and I will be in Chiang Mai for few days and then plan to ride a rented scooter to Pai. We have a few questions and would love to hear your experiences and advice! 1. Are there any special scooter rental options for the Chiang Mai → Pai route? Maybe rental companies that specialize in this trip? 2. Our biggest concern is luggage: We both have pretty large backpacks and are wondering if there are scooters with luggage racks where we could secure our backpacks with straps. Has anyone done this before? 3. Are there motorcycles with sidecars available for rent? Or is that uncommon? 4. Is it even a good idea to ride this route with two people on one scooter? We know the road has a lot of curves and some steep sections. Is it doable with luggage, or is it too risky? 5. Are there alternative ways to transport luggage? Maybe a bus luggage service or another solution?

If you’ve done this trip before or have any good tips on scooter rentals, we’d really appreciate your insights. Looking forward to your advice!

Thanks in advance! :)

8 Comments
2025/02/01
05:26 UTC

0

How much can I expect to spend in 12 months doing South America?

Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, Chile, Brazil. Hopefully Uruguay and Paraguay. Not including flights there and back. Solo male, happy to do dorm hostels and buses.

25 Comments
2025/02/01
04:52 UTC

2

Looking for carryon rucksack recommendations

I am stating a 6 months long backpacking trip. I am carrying 55L main rucksack and thinking of carrying a carry-on rucksack of 30L. I am not finding any decent bag with laptop compartment, ample storage plus compact design. I don’t want bulky and big bag. Looking here for recommendations.

2 Comments
2025/02/01
04:12 UTC

27

Feedback on meal plan

24 Comments
2025/02/01
03:33 UTC

0

What Recruitment Agencies Would you Recommend for Australia?

Me (f,25) and my boyfriend (m,29) will be landing in Perth at the end of April, via a WHV 417. Though I’m, ofcourse, super excited for this new adventure, I’m also trying to do as much research as I can, now, in preparation for job searching later.

I keep seeing people vaguely suggest using recruitment agencies, but can’t actually find any specific ones! Please can you help us out, and list any recruitment / employment agencies you found particularly useful? :) (And maybe any ones you found poor, and to avoid..)

4 Comments
2025/02/01
01:07 UTC

1

Mytrip

Hey everyone, my girlfriend and I are traveling Thailand & Vietnam for 90 days starting in May and looking for advice on the best route!

Our plan so far:

  • Arrive in Bangkok, stay a few days.
  • Head north to Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai.
  • Fly to Hanoi and travel south through Vietnam ( Where else?).
  • Return to Thailand (not sure where—any recommendations?).
  • End in Phuket for some beach time before flying home.

Is this the best way to do it, or would you recommend a different route? Also, what’s the best way to get back into Thailand from Vietnam? Any must-visit places we shouldn’t miss?

Appreciate any tips—cheers!

0 Comments
2025/01/31
23:09 UTC

1

Banana Pancake Trail in 7 weeks

Hi all - I'm going to do the banana pancake trail this year and have 7 weeks to do it. I'm skipping the Thai islands as I'm already going to Indonesia and Philippines after this loop, and wanting to visit Thai islands by itself at some point in the future.

I wanted to get your thoughts on the itinerary I have - looking to get tips on where to spend more or less time at. Or if you have any tips on substituting any of the stops for something else - I'm open to hear it! I only booked the first week and my itinerary isn't set in stone, I just need to be in Pnohm Penh (really want to see Ankor Wat) by the end of 7 weeks.

3 days - Bangkok

4 days - Chiang Mai

4 days - Pai

2 days - Chiang Rai/Chiang Khong (Really just in transit to get to the slow boat)

2 days - Slow boat

3 days - Luang Prabang

4 days - Vang Vieng

3 days - Hanoi (flying from Vang Vieng to save time)

4 days - Ha Giang

4 days - Cao Bang

4 days - Cat Ba Island

2/3 days - Ninh Binh

2 days - Phong Nha

3 days - Hoi An (flying to Pnohm Penh to save time)

4 days - Pnohm Penh

Thank you in advance!

0 Comments
2025/01/31
23:02 UTC

1

Cabo Polonio/Punta del Diablo in Uruguay

Just trying to plan some further travel in Uruguay, as I have been enjoying my almost-week here, before I head to Argentina to hike Patagonia. I was wondering if anyone had been to Cabo Polonio or Punta del Diablo and could advise whether they are nice/worth it?

1 Comment
2025/01/31
23:01 UTC

36

New hack (at least for me)!

My Sea to Summit cup doubles as a stove lid!

8 Comments
2025/01/31
22:59 UTC

0

The BEST thing in Canada to experience once in your life!

If you ever plan to come explore Canada the #1 most mind blowing thing to experience is Shambhala Music Festival. 100% it will change your life!

If interested, check out our documentary video we made about our experience https://youtu.be/PzpEDyTL74I?si=rS4aGcBfliq8cU3P

0 Comments
2025/01/31
22:17 UTC

2

Backpack for work equipment

I know this isnt technically the right place for this but i figure out of all subreddits this would be the best place to ask.

We need a backpack to carry our equipment.

The equipment we carry is a 4"x11"x9" ~20 pound box. Our current problem using a traditional backpack is it kills the armpits and lower back over an 8 hour period. It tends to sit on our lower back and pulls on the armpits annoyingly. We are looking for something to hold this and only this and be as comfortable as possible over a long period of time.

Dimensions are Depth x Height x Width, all in inches

6 Comments
2025/01/31
21:21 UTC

0

Warm women’s puffer coats?

I’m looking to buy a puffer that’s warm and packable. I typically run cold so warmth is a big factor for me. I also have larger hips/ shoulders along with a short torso so it makes fitting a jacket harder. Anyone have any recs? Im currently looking at the ghost whisperer or the feathered friend’s Eos jacket, but im not sure they’d work for my body type. Any recs would be appreciated

13 Comments
2025/01/31
20:14 UTC

1

15 Hour Layover Panama City

Hi all. I have a long layover in the city and am thinking of touring around for the night. I will be tired so just taking safe transport. Are there any areas worth checking out for a casual drink (alcoholic/alcoholic)? I enjoy playing cards, pool, and anything related to live music. As always, meeting new people! TYIA

0 Comments
2025/01/31
19:31 UTC

3

Salkantay - Chaullay or Lucmabamba?

Hi, I'm looking at doing the Salkantay trek at the end of March. I don't have a lot of time, so I'm looking at doing 4 days, 3 nights: Soraypampa - Chaullay or Lucambamba - Aguas Calientes. I plan to take a vehicle from Chaullay to Lucambamba.

Any opinions on which place might be preferable for staying Chaullay or Lucambamba?

Thanks!

0 Comments
2025/01/31
19:28 UTC

0

Gregory vs Osprey

Gregory vs Osprey

Hey guys! Would love an opinion can’t decide which one to get. I know they have different sizes but these two are my only option. I’m in the medical field and would be using this mainly for hospital duties.

Gregory rhune 22L vs Osprey Proxima 30L

Need thoughts and opinions on which one should I get. It’s not the size but more of the functionality and looks for me thanks!

18 Comments
2025/01/31
17:18 UTC

54

Thoughts on beginner kit?

For quite some time I’ve been wanting to get into backpacking but have not had anyone to go with/learn from. A few other friends are also interested in going so now seems like a better time than any to get started. How are these Near Zero bundles? Eventually the plan would be to upgrade items as they wear out with better quality items but these initial trips will be short and close to home to get some experience. Currently in the Blue Ridge Mountains in SW VA. I know I’ll need other items to add to the pack to have a successful trip, but just to get the bulk of the basics. Any insight is appreciated. Thanks!

144 Comments
2025/01/31
15:32 UTC

1

Cold camping -25c

Hi,

I am new to backpacking.

If you managed to stay dry on your hike, should you stay fully clothed when sleeping ? Then you could remove layer if you feel too warm.

Or is it a better practice to sleep in thermal underwear and rely only on your gear to keep you warm?

I have a x therm neo air, bivy, liner, inner and outer shell of the Canadian army sleep system.

Thank for sharing your experience!

21 Comments
2025/01/31
14:18 UTC

19

Anyone know the brand/model of this backpack?

I’ve been looking and doing lens searches and am coming up with nothing! Anyone recognize it?

12 Comments
2025/01/31
13:41 UTC

1

Moving between cities

hey! im planning a backpacking trip in europe and im not sure if i should book the flights between cities way before hand, or buying it a day o two before i’m planning on leaving. im wondering this because maybe i plan on staying in rome for 5 days, and wanting to leave after three but having my flight already bought would be a problem... any thoughts?

2 Comments
2025/01/31
12:28 UTC

1

26 y/o looking for itinerary suggestions for Europe (April)

Hi folks! I have 10th April to 4th May blocked off and I want to hit the northern lights. But I don’t know where to head after that. I was considering heading southwards to Netherlands/Portugal but I’m a little confused on that front. I ideally don’t want to hit warmer places (someone under 10-15° C) because I don’t want to have the hassle of packing for both the heat and the chill. I also want to end my trip with a few days (maybe 3/4) in Munich to spend time with a friend and then fly back home. Can someone please help this directionless soul out? I’d be forever grateful.

For reference, I enjoy nature and parties and food and meeting people to share my experiences with. I don’t really have a budget in particular but I do not want to waste my money on tourist traps. I prefer to stay in hostels where I can meet like minded people and I’m considering a euro rail pass for my commute for a change from my usual flights/drives this time. Thanks in advance!

1 Comment
2025/01/31
07:58 UTC

0

Help Shape the Future of Group Travel Planning

Hey fellow travelers! 👋

I'm working on solving the headaches of group travel planning, and I'd love to hear about your experiences. If you've ever tried coordinating a trip with friends or family, you know the challenges of managing schedules, preferences, and keeping everyone on the same page.

This quick 5-minute surveyy focuses on:
• Your group travel planning frequency
• Common challenges you face
• Features you'd find most helpful
• Your thoughts on potential solutions

Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/129PvtfhwAXX2RgKREUCRa4RlIi-wxZRFDAxof8p0Te8/edit

This link is also on my profile description^

Your insights will be incredibly valuable in developing a solution that actually helps travelers like you. All responses are anonymous and will only be used for product development.

Thanks in advance for your help! I'll be actively monitoring this post if you have any questions.

1 Comment
2025/01/31
05:54 UTC

3

How many days is onwardticket valid for?

They say it has two options of 3days and 14days but some online reviews say that even if you get the 14day, you will see that it has disappeared from the system after 3days, once you check the flight online.

I need a throwaway ticket that is valid for atleast 14day and preferably more than that around 20days. Do you know any?

2 Comments
2025/01/31
04:52 UTC

0

Passing Through Honolulu?

Do your plans include a stopover in the tropical islands of Hawaii (USA)? There are some affordable hostels here in Waikiki Beach, great hiking nearby, plus other wonderful sightseeing. Let me know if you need some advice or have questions. Love the backpacking tribe!! Happy to help.

0 Comments
2025/01/31
04:21 UTC

0

Wanting to start

Hello!! My boyfriend and I (22F and 22M) are wanting to start backing, specificity East Asia. I’m more concerned with how much money needs to be saved first! I will take all the advice related to money or not!! :)

4 Comments
2025/01/31
03:35 UTC

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