February 22, 2012

Backpacking Essentials Part 2

When packing for your backpacking holiday, being prepared is very important. In addition, it is a challenge to get everything into one bag because travelling light is the true aim of the game. For hiking holidays, a camping rucksack that straps to the body is the best choice. The holiday will include a lot of walking and therefore means that everything should fit in the one bag. Many shops cater to the needs of the backpacker or the hiker and provide backpacking equipment and hiking equipment for all your needs.

All weather trousers, coats, jackets and long sleeve tops should be at the top of the list for hiking holidays. Because you are not able to carry too many items, it is best to choose a quality pair. The last you want is to have no more clothes because they have torn or been damaged half way through the holiday. The joy of backpacking is to see some obscure places; means there may not be an opportunity to go clothes shopping. Backpacking stores will have sturdy walking boots that are appropriate for hiking and walking a great distance. Be aware that these are not just trainers

Depending on where you go, be aware of local and cultural expectations, sometimes the last thing you want is to be singled out as the tourist, or thought to be disrespectful of the culture. For example, female backpackers should carry a scarf or head tie, and think twice about only carrying short shorts.

The whole experience will most likely provide you with much excitement and entertainment in itself and a camera is a good thing to carry to capture all the fun moments to make your friends jealous on your return. Things like, alarm clock, torch, money belt, a good book should find a place in the rucksack if there is space.

When purchasing the travellers rucksack, it may also have space to carry a sleeping bag. Even if you are staying in a hostel, sometimes they charge extra for bedding. It is an extra saving if you can bring your own. For those who are hiking and camping, you will need to carry a tent anyway and therefore the sleeping is absolutely essential. In addition, pack some plastic cutlery and a bowl. And do not forgot the mosquito repellent!

ESSENTIALS FOR BACKPACKING

PASSPORTS – So you have decided that backpacking is the holiday choice for you. You have even decided where to go. What do you need to do first? Initially you will have to ensure you have a valid passport and Visa that is required for the country of choice and for the duration of stay. Information about obtaining a Visa for the country you want to travel to can be found from the relevant embassy, or on the website. For travelling within the European Union, you will need a full valid passport that will not expire while you are out there. It is easier now to pass through customs if you have an EU passport and only travelling to an EU country. It is advantageous to also carry another form of identification with you for when at the airport.

Secure storage of your passport at all times is advisable when you go on your travels. Security is not always guaranteed. For backpackers, and hiking holidays, locations taken are normally off the beaten track and may result in losing belongings or falling at risk to theft.

INSURANCE- Travel insurance is something that is important to have regardless of the type of holiday or where you go to. Nobody wants to have to use it or think of accidents on holiday. Holidays and travelling are a time of relaxation and enjoyment. However it is better to just do it and be safe and not sorry.

There is a separate and specific insurance cover aimed and backpackers and some aimed at gap year students. The difference with Backpackers insurance is due to the nature of this type of travel. For example, because accommodation is often in hostels or in more than one location, insurance can cover potential loss of items. It can provide mugging benefit and repayment of student loans for gap year students. For the adventure, sports and activities, insurance will cover you for any accidents that may occur. In addition, you can choose for short or longer cover and rates are fairly low if you are on a low budget. Before you travel, prepare with insurance cover.