Backpackers – yes the dreamy travelers with those rustic or cool backpacks are the real globetrotters! Have you been thinking of travelling to Southeast Asia for sometime? Southeast Asia has many destinations that budget tourists include in their itineraries, so much that the region has been dubbed as the ‘Backpacker Trail.’ Despite various topographical differences around the region, Southeast Asia is a popular tourist destination because it is relatively safe and inexpensive to visit. There are several activities to partake in, as well as some breathtaking natural and historical monuments to see.

If you’re planning your first trip to Southeast Asia, check out these backpacking travel tips!

Flexi Budget

Many people enjoy travelling in Southeast Asia because it is quite inexpensive, and if you are extremely frugal, you can get by on as little as $20 per day. However, if you budget roughly $40 per day to offer yourself a few luxuries and activities, you will be able to find plenty of activities and nice lodgings in most countries in the region. Some countries have comparatively higher costs. Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia (outside of Kuala Lumpur) are among the most affordable nations to visit, while Singapore and Brunei are among the most costly in the area.

Keep an Eye Out for Local Events and Weather Reports

One thing to consider is aligning your timetable with some countrys’ most important events of the year. You’re sure to have a fantastic time in Thailand for Songkran in April, or Laos for the Boun Bang Fai Rocket Festival in May. These can serve as focal points for your trip as they’re also very inexpensive highlights due to them being enormous community events in which everyone participates.

Domestic Travelling

Most countries have minimal public transportation outside of major cities, thus most overland excursions will be conducted by private bus operators. Ferries are an inexpensive way to travel between islands in the Philippines and Thailand. If it’s feasible for you, take the more contemporary and safer buses. Do some research on the local businesses to see which ones have the safest drivers and don’t overcrowd each bus.

Accommodation

Depending on how far you want to stretch your budget, you can find hostels with beds for under $10 and private double rooms for roughly $20 per night. It’s better to book a place for a night or two before you arrive, then shop about once the jet lag has worn off to discover the best offer. Southeast Asia is a good place to stretch your budget because it has reasonably priced accommodations.

Just Go with the Flow!

When backpacking, there’s always the possibility that something will go wrong. Be prepared to face any adversities, be wise and gentle while dealing with locals. Respect and abide by local rules, regulations and culture, and your trip will go by without a hitch.

While you roam around with your backpack bags in Southeast Asia, you’ll almost certainly encounter a lot of other visitors and backpackers, so be willing to change plans on the spur of the moment to try something new. Keep your safety in mind, go with the flow, and have one of the most unforgettable adventures of your life!

Our Recommendations

We’ve compiled a list of some of the greatest backpacking brands for your consideration as you plan your next adventure. The items in this list were chosen because they are both widely used and highly recommended. All you have to do is look!

• Osprey Packs

Website: Osprey Packs

Where to Buy: Lazada
NewsFeed’s Rating: 5/5

Osprey is a well-known brand that many people trust! They are a company founded in 1974 that designs long-lasting, high-quality products, with a great emphasis on minimal environmental impact. They offer backpacks suited for day trips, hiking, travelling and everything in between, and are widely esteemed to be reliable. The Osprey Fairpoint 40 is a great backpack of theirs that many can use as a one-pack travelling bag!

• Timbuk2 Bags

Website: Timbuk2 Bags

Where to Buy: Shoppee / Zalora
NewsFeed’s Rating: 4.5/5

Timbuk2 is another brand that is well-known among backpackers are others alike. Their famous backpack, “Timbuk2 Classic” has been around for good reason for well over 30 years. They offer affordable and durable backpacks that can commute well, even on a bicycle! While many have said it has minimal padding for a laptop, it makes up for having simple pockets to keep your items well-organized without confusing features, with a weather-resistant liner for maximum protection.

• TropicFeel Backpacks

Website: TropicFeel Backpacks

Where to Buy: Amazon
NewsFeed’s Rating: 4/5

TropicFeels’ products are custom-designed for travelling, so you can expect plenty of unique features tailored for world-trotters. The TropicFeel Shell backpack is very versatile as it is fully customization with a maximum capacity of 40 litres, thanks to their detachable bag add-ons. With their products, it is easy for you to pack everything you need for any occasion! Try it out!