10 Destinations for First-Time Backpackers

By: Samuel Plante

Costa Rica

This Central American country is known for its jungle and beautiful surf beaches! Costa Rica welcomes thousands of tourists every year, which makes it more and more accessible to beginner travelers! Locals are becoming more and more familiar with English, making travel easier and safer. The hostels even offer private shuttles, bringing you from one city to another, for about fifty US dollars. Carefree and safe! There are several hostels, for all tastes, and at affordable prices.

Our favorite attraction for backpack travelers in Costa Rica is: Tenoro National Park

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island and unincorporated U.S. territory with a landscape of mountains, waterfalls and the El Yunque tropical rainforest. This destination is a perfect place for a first trip, there are many tourist attractions and hostels. It is an Americanized Island, so again there are many landmarks and the change of scenery is light. Renting a car is recommended for this destination as bus travel outside the city of San Juan is more complicated.

Our favorite attraction for backpack travelers in Puerto Rico is: Flamenco Beach

Bali

Bali is an Indonesian island known for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, beaches and coral reefs. This destination is very popular for backpackers and over time, the country has adapted very well to receive them. This travel destination is inexpensive, the cost of living is very low. Several companies offer scooter rental, so the travelling is very pleasant. The hostels are very numerous across Bali as well as on the neighboring islands.

Our favorite attraction for backpack travelers in Bali is: Devil’s Tear

Peru

Amazon rainforest and Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan city high in the Andes mountains. Transport is rather easy to use, no need to book weeks in advance. You can even take night buses that will save you money on accommodation! For lovers of the outdoors, this destination will undoubtedly amaze you. No need to clutter with all your hiking equipment, many companies rent some at lower cost (sleeping bag, mattress, walking sticks …). This is very easy for those who want to combine both adventure and culture: you will not have to carry all your gear the rest of your trip.

Our favorite attraction for backpack travelers in Peru is: Laguna 69

Thailand

In addition to being an inexpensive destination, Thailand is an exotic destination for all tastes: a mix of skyscrapers in the heart of Bangkok, beaches paradise in the South Islands, through the mountains of the North! Moreover, it is easy to move cheaply, on the water, on the ground and in the air! For less than US $ 80, it is possible to go from North to South, in less than half a day! Thailand attracts more than 30 million tourists each year! It is almost impossible not to meet other travelers. In addition, the language barrier is minimal, since locals speak more and more English. We recommend downloading the Grab Car app for your short distance travel. It’s similar to Uber, it’s often less expensive than traditional taxis and prices are pre-established.

Our favorite attraction for backpack travelers in Thailand is: The town of Pai

Iceland

According to the Global Peace Index, Iceland is the safest country in the world! This North Atlantic island has gained popularity in recent years. It welcomes every year thousands of backpackers enthusiasts outdoors. Indeed, this Nordic country is known for its dramatic landscape dressed with volcanoes, powerful geysers, warm hot spring, majestic waterfalls and huge glaciers. Iceland is a place of choice for campers because it is possible to camp virtually anywhere on the island to the contrary. The majority of the population lives in the capital of Reykjavik where everything is found to start an adventurous expedition through the many attractions of the island.

Our favorite attraction for backpack travelers in Iceland is: Fjadrargljufur Canyon

Portugal

Breathtaking landscapes, unusual culture and friendly people, Portugal has everything to amaze the youngest and the oldest. No need to speak Portuguese fluently if you go on an adventure in Portugal, most locals speak English and even French! Security level, it is one of the safest countries in Europe. A rail system connects the big cities and a bus system makes it possible to move to the smaller ones.

Our favorite attraction for backpack travelers in Portugal is: Benagil Caves

New Zealand

New Zealand is a very developed and quite expensive country. Divided into two large islands: North and South Island, it is popular that travelers rent a van to turn their backpacking trip into a memorable road trip. There is indeed a big market for this type of van on site. (see this facebook group) According to the Global Peace Index, New Zealand is the second peaceful country in the world. Spread the word to your parents, they will not have to worry about your next solo trip! In addition, New Zealanders are very welcoming and friendly, and the local language is English, which simplifies contacts.

Our favorite attraction for backpack travelers in New Zealand is: Roys Peak

England

Guess what, everyone speaks English there! Many means of transport are available and if you go ahead, you can even get flights for a few dollars to other popular destinations in Europe. Many accommodations are available to suit everyone’s tastes: party hostel in London to cozy Bed and Breakfast in Norfolk. Plus, the big city of London has so much to offer that you can even get The London Pass allowing you to visit the most popular attractions at a great price.

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