How to go beyond the definition of backpacking and learn what it’s like to be a true backpacker

There’s something about challenging yourself that’s within us all. We do it daily, whether we’re aware of it or not. It could be simply playing a mobile game or putting together a puzzle at home, to more serious situations like working harder for that well-deserved pay raise, or asking yourself how to be a better partner in your relationship.

Basically, without pushing ourselves, we CAN NOT know what we’re made of. We need to test our resolve and grow as a person. This goes to the heart of backpacking and why it’s so beneficial.

So if you’ve asked yourself “What is backpacking exactly, and is this something I should look into?”, then this article is definitely for you. In it, I’ll explain why it perfectly embodies the crossroads of adventure and self-discovery. How going on a transformative journey can transcend the ordinary and teach you some incredible things about the world and yourself. Interested? I hope so!

In this easy-to-follow guide, I’ll give my take on what the essence of backpacking is, why it’s important, the incredible benefits it offers, and a whole lot more. After you’ve finished with my article, you should have clear expectations of this exhilarating venture into the great wilderness of life. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it!

What is Backpacking?

First and foremost, let me tell you my definition of Backpacking. It certainly involves traveling, but I don’t feel it ends with purchasing a backpack, getting on a plane, and staying in cheap hostels in a faraway land. Backpacking means more than that. It’s not a way to travel, it’s a way of being. A challenge that forces you to look at the world from a different perspective.

It encourages you to step out of your comfort zone, meet new people, try new foods, confront your fears, and develop exciting interests. It is a complete transformation of oneself and an opportunity to break free of your limitations.

Backpacking is a unique way of exploring the world that involves self-discovery, connection, and self-reliance. It goes beyond the comfort of a hotel and the limits of a big city. It presents a life-changing approach to travel and attitude. Though it may seem exaggerated, those who embrace the backpacking lifestyle understand its priceless value.

Why is Backpacking Important?

Okay, now that we understand it’s more than how to travel the world, let’s go a bit deeper into the potential benefits backpackers experience. Some of which will forever change you. It’s hard to express in words, but I can personally say that I am a completely different person because of my travels, and more importantly, backpacking.

1. Connect with Nature

We, as busy humans, tend to forget that we used to live under the sun and stars. Before we had high rises, we had caves and huts made of sticks. We’ve come a great long way. It’s quite amazing when you think about it. The problem is we’ve lost sight of why spending time outdoors is important.

Unsurprisingly, there are countless benefits to your mental and physical health when you spend a good amount of time in the great outdoors. Ranging from improved mental clarity, reduced stress, and even a boost to your immune system! It can even sharpen your mind. Simply put, going and staying outside for longer periods does wonders for every single part of you.

2. Personal Growth

The saying goes, “If we were meant to stay in the same spot, we would have roots instead of feet.” You have to keep pushing yourself and when you go backpacking, you are constantly solving problems, using your head in all types of situations that are unable to be foreseen. It forces creativity.

From navigating trails to setting up camp, finding transportation, or communicating with people who don’t speak your language, you’re constantly pushed outside of your comfort zone. As long as you do it safely, these situations promote resilience, adaptability, and self-dependence.

3. Mindfulness

This is one of my favorite advantages of going backpacking. When you immerse yourself in a foreign land, it encourages mindfulness, or better put, living in the present moment. When you’re off exploring the world on foot, you tend to let go of the trivial things that completely lose their significance.

All of your problems that you think are problems, slip away. Issues at work? Not anymore. Neighbor getting on your nerves for their overhanging trees? Nope. Besides worrying about food, shelter, and warmth, there’s nothing that will distract you from enjoying your meaningful journey.

4. Unplugging from Technology

Nowadays we are hooked on our devices. It’s unavoidable for the most part even though there are plenty of studies showing the harmful effects of such addition. Our economy is built around it but sometimes you need a break.

When you step into the wilderness, hop from foreign city to city, or board a ship to voyage across the ocean, it allows you to unplug from all digital distractions. It’s hard to get cell service when you’re in the Himalayas. This in turn fosters genuine connections with fellow backpackers, the environment, and of course the friendly local faces. It’s like a hidden weight off of your shoulders!

5. Physical Fitness

As you can imagine, hiking with a loaded backpack provides an excellent full-body workout and is a great way to firm up your muscle tone, lose a few pounds (or kgs), and enhance your cardiovascular health, strength, and endurance. I suggest you start training before you go but either way, you’ll get into shape in no time. It doesn’t take much.

For instance, when I went on my 6-day hike across Iceland back in 2016 I lost 8 pounds carrying my pack across about 50 miles. I was wrecked and my legs and back felt ran over, but the feeling of accomplishment and the changes in my body was unmatched by anything I had ever really done before that.

6. Camaraderie

Another one of my favs and such a backpacking thing! When you’re out and about, you’re bound to meet fellow travelers from all around and learn about their lives. Some of the most amazing people I’ve ever met have been during my trips off-the-beaten-path. From retirees to those just out of school, each new acquaintance you collect can and will shape you in some amazing ways.

These shared experiences, the campfire conversations, the picturesque sunsets/rises, the crazy weird foods you’ll dare each other to eat, getting lost together, or simply resting and telling each other about your life back home are unparalleled. Sometimes a lasting connection will remain for the rest of your life. How cool is that?!?!

7. Minimalism and Simplicity

One of the most useful traits you’ll polish, while traveling with a backpack, is necessity. What do you actually need to carry? People tend to accumulate unnecessary things in their lives that sometimes muddle the waters of importance. We love to have “stuff”, but in doing so it can be a source of distraction for us.

Living on the road for a decent amount of time encourages, by proxy, a minimalistic lifestyle. Any added weight and you’re going to fee