As a backpacker in my 30s who has explored on a budget, I’ve experienced firsthand the joys and challenges of life on the road. From the bustling streets of Mexico to the remote trails of Peru, I’ve learned that backpacking is about much more than just cheap travel, it's a lifestyle and a mindset that embraces adventure, freedom, and connection. In this post, I’ll answer some of the most common questions I’ve come across, especially for those wondering if backpacking is still relevant and whether it's possible to start, even in your 30s or beyond.
In this post we are going to look at some common questions including what is a backpacker? Is 35 too old to go backpacking? And how much money do you need for a year of backpacking?
If you want a full insight into how go get started backpacking then check out our blog post on backpacking in 2024.
What is a backpacker?
Backpackers are often drawn to experiences that immerse them in the local culture, environment, and adventure. Some of the most common activities backpackers enjoy include:
Exploring nature: Hiking, camping, and visiting national parks or remote beaches.
Cultural experiences: Visiting museums, historical landmarks, and engaging with local traditions.
Socialising: Meeting fellow travellers in hostels, joining group tours, or attending local events and festivals, and some pretty wild nights out.
Adventure sports: Activities like scuba diving, rock climbing, or surfing.
Budget travel experiences: Backpackers frequently seek affordable experiences, from street food to free walking tours.
What are the values of backpackers?
Backpackers are often driven by a unique set of values that shape their travel experiences. These include:
Freedom and independence: Many enjoy the flexibility of travel without strict schedules.
Minimalism: Living with fewer possessions, focusing on experiences over material goods.
Authenticity: Seeking genuine connections with locals and experiencing a destination beyond tourist hotspots.
Sustainability: A growing number of backpackers are conscious of their environmental impact, choosing eco-friendly accommodations and reducing waste. Check out our environment causes tab to learn more about some global issues such as deforestation | Our Oceans | Consumerism and Coral Bleaching. You can also find ways to get involved and help causes.
Community: Whether through hostel stays or shared experiences, backpackers value meeting like-minded travellers.
Mental Health: (this one is important to me) You may be burnt out or just a bit fed up with your current circumstances, getting out into the world can really help put a fresh perspective on life and help you re evaluate your goals, ambitions and what you want from life.
The Age Questions
Is 35 too old to go backpacking?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! While younger travellers often dominate the backpacking scene, people of all ages, including those in their 30s, 40s, and beyond, embrace the backpacking lifestyle. In fact, many older travellers find they have:
More financial stability: Offering the ability to splurge on certain comforts, excursions or extended travel.
Greater life experience: Bringing a different perspective and possibly deeper connections with locals and the journey. My point above on mental health being my own. Check out the about page to find out more above me (Jack, hello) and why I set this website up.
The key is adaptability and finding the type of backpacking experience that suits your current lifestyle and preferences.
Is backpacking still a thing?
Yes, backpacking is still very much alive! While the rise of digital nomadism and budget airlines has altered the way people travel, the backpacking ethos of budget-conscious, adventurous, and immersive travel continues to thrive. With new regions opening up, the trend has shifted slightly, but backpackers still flock to destinations like Southeast Asia, South America, and Eastern Europe, while also seeking out emerging travel spots.
How much money do you need to be a backpacker?
The amount of money needed for backpacking can vary greatly depending on the destination and the travel style. However, on average:
Daily budget: A backpacker can get by on as little as £10–£25 GDP per day in budget-friendly destinations like Southeast Asia or Central America.
Accommodation: Hostels range from £5–£20 per night, with higher costs in Western countries.
Meals: Street food and local eateries can keep meal costs down, often under $10 a day in many countries and if you cook for yourself you can really minimise what you are spending, good hostel choice is key for this, look for one with a kitchen and a top tip ... take food with you if you are heading out for the day.
Transport: Using local buses or trains instead of flights helps save money.
The thing that is often overlook however is excursions. You may be being frugal with your money, but I tend to think with some areas, what is the point in going if you do not going to do some of the excursions on offer. For example when in Colombia I decided to head into the amazon, flights were £70 from Bogota and a 3 day excursion set me back a few hundred pounds. All in I had spend close to 500 for this one aspect of the trip but it was incredible and given me memories that will last forever. Check out my post on 3 days in the Amazon. That said if you are on a shoe string then it is possible to travel cheap!
How much money do you need for a year of backpacking?
I have addressed this more comprehensively in the where to begin backpacking in 2024 blog above but lets look at some rough numbers below:
Budgeting for a year of backpacking depends on where you plan to travel, but the average cost can range from £10,000–£20,000 USD. Here's a rough breakdown:
Southeast Asia or South America: Around £10,000–£12,000 USD for a year.
Europe or North America: Upwards of £20,000 USD due to higher costs.
Africa or Central Asia: May fall somewhere in between, with variations depending on specific countries.
To stretch your budget further, consider options like swapping work for accommodation, lots of hostels offer work for a set period of time (3 months for example) in exchange for a bed and food allowing you to explore places quite deeply for an extended period.
I travelled for 6 months in 2022 in Central and South America and when through around £1000 a month including excursions like boating the across the San Blas islands, to get from Panama to Colombia (check out the blog below I can highly recommend the experience).
How do backpackers survive?
Backpackers often adopt specific strategies to make long-term travel sustainable:
Budgeting and frugality: Careful spending, choosing budget accommodations, and cooking your own meals are common.
Side hustles and freelancing: Many earn money while travelling by taking on remote work, teaching English, or volunteering in exchange for accommodation.
Adaptability: Backpackers often make adjustments based on their environment, from finding local markets for food to embracing slower travel to cut down on transport costs.
Packing smart: Backpackers carry only the essentials, avoiding unnecessary expenses on extra gear or luxuries.
Unusual travel times: This one may be obvious, but if you have more time to travel you can avoid peak travel times so can bag yourself a great deal check out Skyscanners last minute options. You can really save some money. Click below to see if there are any deals going to your dream destination.
Final Thoughts
I hope this quick common backpacking question has been helpful and answers some of yours. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions relating to backpacking or leave a question and or advice in the comments if you wish to impart your own wisdom.
For the curious explorer
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