Backpacking is a low-cost way of travel. The main purpose is to experience the "real" destination rather than the packaged touristy version of it. Why backpacking? To travel cheap and hassle-free. Why cheap? By spending less you can go longer and further. Let's talk and share about backpacking and low-cost travel in this thread. You may also post here your travel notes, stories, and itineraries. [hr] Some tips. 1. Itinerary Before you travel, make a detailed itinerary: destinations and places you will visit, estimated costs, time and duration of visits, transportation and accommodation details, etc. Find info and reviews from sources like books and internet, or simply ask around. 2. Transportation You can usually get flight tickets cheaper if you book it long before the flight date, or during the promotional time. To reach your destinations, avoid taxi, learn how to commute, use public transport. 3. Accommodation Research and get the most inexpensive place that is still acceptable to your personal standard. Location is important. Book the place beforehand if you travel during holiday season. 4. Travel Document Passport, etc. are needed especially if you travel abroad. Some countries require you to have visa or other kind of permit to enter. 5. Pack as light as possible Bring only necessary things in a medium size backpack, or a small backpack + small handbag, or anything that can be easily carried for long distances. Don't forget useful stuff and gadgets like cellphone, maps/gps, camera, etc. 6. Be flexible, bring more than enough cash Because you don't know what might happen. Prepare for the unexpected. 7. Meeting other travelers Talk with them, sometimes you'll get some valuable information. 8. Be careful and keep your cool Even in the most awful situation. Especially if you're alone, don't look confused/nervous/etc. when you feel you're lost because if you do you'll be an easy target of bad guys. 9. Trust yourself Don't trust people you just meet easily. 10. ... Maybe more later