By / MOOK Scenic Spots Home Travel Life Network Editorial Department
 

Being a backpacker for the first time, your feelings about the unknown journey are always filled with anxiety. What should you prepare? What should you pay attention to? There’s always so much to worry about. Here, we’ve specially put together some small reminders for first-time backpackers. Review these, get your mindset ready, pack your backpack, and set off bravely. No matter whether the scenery is good or bad, the trip will become nourishment that stays with you for life.

● A backpack is a better choice than a suitcase
The backpacking journey is full of changes and challenges. Carrying your luggage on your back is definitely much more convenient than dragging a suitcase.
● The less luggage, the better
One of the best parts of backpacking is learning to distinguish what you really need. Try to reduce your luggage as much as possible. If you’re even slightly unsure, don’t put it in your backpack.
● Sunglasses and a waist pouch are little tools for self-protection
In an unpredictable journey, your eyes are the easiest place to reveal your unease and nervousness. Prepare a pair of sunglasses to make yourself look more composed and feel more confident. Also, not every country has security as good as Taiwan’s. Keeping important items or cash in a waist pouch makes your trip more reassuring.
● Bring a notebook and a book
During transit, bring a book so you can immerse yourself in the world of words. It can help pass the time and ease loneliness. Or carry a notebook with you, and when you find a moment, jot down what you see or how you feel that day. When you look back after the trip, it’ll be full of memories.
● Research unfamiliar places beforehand
No matter where you’re traveling, try to read books or articles about your destination. Learn more about the local customs and culture so you can better adapt once you arrive.
● Give yourself more flexibility during the trip

No matter how much you plan as a backpacker, things won’t always go as planned. Build in more flexible time — maybe you’ll fall in love with a place and want to stay longer, or maybe somewhere else feels boring and you want to leave early.

● Carry important documents with you
Keep important items on your person so they’re under your control and you’ll feel more at ease. You can also copy important ID documents and keep them in your luggage — if the ones on you go missing, you’ll still have a backup.
● Prepare simple medications
Bring a small amount of motion sickness pills, stomach medicine, or painkillers, in case you feel unwell in a new environment.
● Inform family and friends of your accommodation or itinerary in advance
If you know your upcoming plans or have found accommodations, update your family and friends regularly. Aside from letting them know you’re safe, it also provides you with an extra layer of security.
● Body language is actually very useful
Don’t be afraid of language barriers — gestures are far more useful than you think. When you can do these things naturally, you’ll also discover your own growth and courage.
● Politeness and a smile are truly international languages

No matter where you go, showing friendliness and politeness is important. It might even help you meet some great people or see unexpectedly beautiful scenery.