1. Travel with a group of friends who have the skills and experience to organize safe backpacking trips
Your first backpacking trip can be challenging, so it's best to travel with a group of experienced friends. They know the route, anticipate potential issues, and know how to solve problems. In today's digital age, finding like-minded and passionate travelers is just a click away. However, to ensure safety, choose groups with a good reputation. It's highly recommended to meet in person, chat, and get to know each other before committing to any group.


2. Discipline and Team Spirit
Once you've found the right backpacking group, the next step is to set aside your ego. Teamwork requires everyone to be part of the collective spirit. Respect each other's opinions. Healthy debates are fine, but avoid arguments. Especially, follow the group's rules and listen to everyone's suggestions, cooperating fully with the group leader. If you've entrusted them with the task of leading, it's important to show respect and gratitude sincerely.


3. Always Carry Essential Medical Supplies
To ensure your health and safety, don't forget to pack all the necessary medical supplies. Pain relievers, fever reducers, flu medication, skin ointments, insect repellents... It's better to be over-prepared than under-prepared. These items are small and compact, so make sure to bring them along.
You'll definitely need them! Imagine going camping in a forest surrounded by mosquitoes and ticks. What would happen if you didn’t bring any bug repellent or ointment? It could be dangerous, right?


4. Learn to Adapt to Scarcity
If you’re used to being pampered at home, be prepared for a completely different experience when backpacking. There won't be any lavish meals, no pizza, fried chicken, or bubble tea. Instead, you'll have to settle for basic foods like bread and cereals. Get used to living with minimal resources.
Sometimes even phone signals will be weak, and you won’t have unlimited access to the internet. But make the most of it and enjoy the beauty of nature, experience new things throughout the journey. It’s all part of the adventure.


5. Protect Yourself
Taking care of and protecting yourself is not just about staying healthy or driving safely, but also about maintaining a healthy and respectful sense of fun. On a backpacking trip, there will be both men and women in the group.
Spending time together and helping each other in beautiful, romantic natural settings may lead to feelings developing. While this is completely natural, it’s important to maintain boundaries so that the trip remains a cherished, fun memory.


6. Always Carry Cash
Of course, this is a must. When traveling to remote areas, card payments won't be an option. So, make sure to bring cash for essential expenses and to prepare for any unforeseen situations that may arise.


7. Do Thorough Research Before You Go
Don’t travel with the shallow mindset that all you need to do is take photos and show off, trying to impress others with your so-called worldliness. Take the time to research your destination. Learn about its culture, lifestyle, history, and the significance of the wonders you're eager to explore.
Only by understanding the local culture and connecting with the people there will you truly appreciate the meaning of your travels. Travel to escape your worries, broaden your horizons, and enrich your soul.


8. Make Sure Your Health is Up for It
Unlike a package tour where you'll be pampered by a company’s staff who takes care of everything for you, on an adventure trip, you'll be fully responsible for yourself. This means your health must be in top condition before you embark on such a journey.
With a long journey involving steep climbs, wading through streams, trekking through forests, and sometimes scrambling up cliffs, you need to be physically fit. Remember, backpacking is not for those who are weak or frail.


9. Pack Only What You Really Need, and Keep It Light
If you're a girl looking to have a great time, leave behind your princess attitude and embrace the spirit of adventure! The motto of backpacking is simple: "Grab your backpack and go!" No need for oversized suitcases, fancy dresses, high heels, perfumes, or jewelry. What you really need are comfortable, lightweight sneakers, high-traction hiking boots, and minimalist clothing and gear that prioritize safety and practicality.


10. Transportation is Key
You won't be flying in luxurious airplanes or riding in air-conditioned cars. The most useful transportation options are motorcycles, bikes, and walking.
Depending on your situation, motorcycles or manual bikes will be more practical. Leave behind the stylish scooters; they won't help in this case! It's essential to check your vehicle thoroughly before you go. Make sure to service it, top off the fuel, and pack repair tools in case of a breakdown on the road.

