If you thought backpacking holidays were just the domain of 18 year olds on their gap years, think again! There are many advantages to seeing the world while carrying your luggage on your back – and there’s absolutely no age limit to it! Travelling with a backpack instead of a suitcase means you can keep your hands free for more important things, like your camera or a drink! Plus, backpacks tend to be less cumbersome and don’t pose an issue if you’re walking down an unevenly-surfaced path or facing a staircase.
We’re giving away an Osprey Farpoint/Fairview Trek backpack over on our Instagram page! Click here to enter.
Comparing luggage is an age-old backpacker tradition, and more likely than not when you have a group of them together, most will have an Osprey pack. The US-based company has been a favourite for over 30 years now. It offers an extensive range of backpacks to cover all manner of travellers; from the hardcore, multi-day hikers to casual traipsers and even adventurous kids too.
Osprey has just added two new products to its range, the Farpoint (men) and Fairview Trek (women) backpacks. Each bag offers exceptional functionality with features like dual internal compression straps in the main compartment to keep your gear neatly organised, zippered top and hipbelt pockets for easy access to important items and a sleeve carrier for a laptop or tablet. The Farpoint and Fairview Trek backpacks also allow for super comfortable carry thanks to the AirSpeed back panel and LightWire frame.
We’re giving away an Osprey Farpoint/Fairview Trek backpack over on our Instagram page! Click here to enter.
We’ve found 6 of the best off the beaten track backpacking destinations to inspire your next holiday:
1. Haida Gwaii, Canada
The remote Haida Gwaii islands are full of history, culture, lush rainforest and wildlife. The islands have been inhabited by the Indigenous Haida Nation for over 10,000 years and are still full of ancient totems and remnants. The Haida Gwaii islands are ideal for adventure travellers, with activities like hiking, cycling, fishing and camping all on offer.
2. Indonesia
While Indonesia, of course, receives tens of millions of tourists a year – with many backpackers amongst them – most stick to just Bali, leaving the rest of the country ripe for uninterrupted exploring. There’s much more to see in Indonesia, such as Sumatra for lush forests and unique wildlife. And for unspoiled snorkelling experiences, head to Raja Ampat Islands for pristine waters and hidden lagoons.
3. Ireland
Ireland, with its lively cities, friendly locals and breathtaking landscapes, has much to offer to travellers seeking unique and authentic experiences. Go beyond Dublin and venture to areas like County Mayo on the west coast, which is often considered one of the most picturesque parts of Ireland. The region still has evidence of Ireland’s prehistoric past and many locals still speak Irish there.
4. Egypt
According to Ute Junker in the latest issue of Vacations & Travel magazine, “there is no such thing as a typical day” when you’re touring Egypt. From exploring its ancient wonders to roaming the bazaars and sampling the street food, there’s so much to discover in the African nation. Get off the beaten track by heading to some of the lesser known sites like the temple for the pharaoh Hatshepsut.
5. Lithuania
Ditch the crowds in Greece and Croatia and head for the beaches of Lithuania. Though the water will be slightly chillier in the Baltic, the Eastern European nation still promises a lively, unique coastal holiday experience in summertime. The small resort town of Šventoji is a great option for families, plus it’s full of historic artefacts to explore and enjoy.
6. Brazil
Escape the crowds of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo and head to northeast Brazil instead. There’s plenty to discover in this region, including the crystalline waters at Morro de Sao Paulo, beautiful landscapes of Chapada Diamantina National Park and colourful streets of Salvador.
