Go Light On Your Budget & Luggage - Backpacking

India (SANEPR.com) September 19, 2008 -- Backpacking is one of the best ways to see the world, in the shortest amount of time and least amount of money. Backpacking is one of the best ways to travel light. Backpacking also allows for cheap travels.

Learning how to pack as lightly as possible is an important backpacking skill. The first thing you need is a lightweight and well-built backpack. A quality backpack should have heavy zippers, pockets and flaps that close easily and stay closed, and lots of easy accessible compartments. Buying a backpack with a lock can be important as well. This is extremely important if you are at a crowded train or staying at a hotel or hostel.

Backpackers and other budget travelers can also opt for a backpack with wheels. If you are carrying a mini-closet all the time, these wheels will be so much easier on your shoulders and you can wheel the backpack from place to place with ease. But in the event you need to carry these rolling backpack, it may be heavier. So decide which one is better for your travel preference and style.

A good approach to packing is to include a few quality and versatile items of clothing and combine them in new ways for variety. Packing a few accessories, such as scarves, ties and jewelry take up little room in the backpack, and they provide new ways to wear the same clothes. If you are not too bothered about these, then leave them out totally. After all, a little weight can amount to a lot when you have been backpacking for a few days.

As for toiletries, only include travel size for your cheap travels. Shampoos, conditioners, deodorants, toothpaste and even toothbrushes - be sure to gather these travel size items for your cheap travels.

It is also important to get a good pair of comfortable walking shoes. Shoes take up a lot of space in your backpack, so stick with one pair of good shoes. One good rule of thumb when packing your backpack is to include items that are not easily or cheaply purchased at your travel destination, and leave items you can easily purchase at your travel destination.

One important travel consideration for those who wear glasses is to pack an extra pair of glasses. Investing in a hard sided case and packing it in your backpack could potentially save you a lot of money and trouble if you lose or break your glasses.

Here are some other travel tips for the first-time backpacker on a cheap travel.

• Invest in a good quality hiking map or guide. Pay attention to the notes and precautions. When estimating the time it will take to hike to your travel destination, always overestimate.

• Research the weather patterns and always be prepared for the worst weather. Always pack some sort of rain gear.

• Dress appropriately, in layered clothing, no matter what time of year. Be sure to pack clothing that will allow you to be prepared for sudden changes in temperature or weather. It is best to wear breathable materials, such as polypropylene or wool to allow perspiration and moisture to be wicked away quickly.

• Determine how much weight you can comfortably carry, and pack appropriately. Many first time backpackers try to take too much gear, and end up unable to carry during the trip. The weight of the backpack should be no more than one quarter of your weight, and it is best to take only what you need.

• Always pack a first aid kit and be prepared with some basic first aid training. Carry a GPS system or satellite phone if you will be traveling far into the back country, and leave a schedule with the local trail ranger and with friends at home.