The Millennial’s Guide to Backpacking in 2020

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As the number of countries that successfully flattened the curve continues to rise by the day, more and more nations are also opening up to the idea of allowing citizens to engage in local tourism activities. Considering the great losses that global tourism experienced due to the pandemic, a lot of experts believe that domestic tourism has a lot of potential in helping destinations, as well as the businesses related to them, get back on their feet.

Some of the countries that can serve as testaments to this growing trend are Thailand and Japan. While Thailand is planning to provide subsidies to hotels and airlines, Japan will be offering various discounts to local tourists in an effort to revive tourism. Across the UK, local tourism initiatives are also being introduced. As BBC explained in one of their recent articles, it is now possible for many to take a holiday in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and England. Local tourists can travel as far as they want within the borders of the said countries and sleep in self-contained holiday accommodation.

If you are one of those people who would like to take this chance to visit some of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. There are certain thing you should take note of to ensure safe backpacking, here are some of them:

Pack face masks and disinfectants

One regulation that is still being practiced throughout the region is the mandatory face mask use in all public spaces. This reality makes it imperative for you to pack a reasonable number of face masks. If you will be packing surgical masks, make sure to educate yourself about the proper ways of disposing of them. If you will be using a cloth mask, make sure that it has at least three layers. Like the Casetify Reusable Cloth Mask reviewed by Wired, your mask should have an outer layer that ensures a snug fit and some additional layers that are capable of filtering common carbon particulates.

Of course, alongside face masks, you should also bring lots of hand sanitizer and alcohol. Since this product will come into contact with your skin hundreds of times a day, Health’s review of Pipette Hand Sanitiser mentioned that you should stick with those that are hypoallergenic and are capable of moisturizing the skin.

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Research travel routes and restrictions

Restrictions and rules differ from place to place, which is why impromptu backpacking trips that don’t take travel routes, accommodation, itineraries, and rules into consideration are no longer feasible. To ensure the safety of your trip, take the time to properly research the permits you’d need and the restrictions the places you wish to visit have in place. It would also be in your best interest to look for lodgings early on. Make sure to ask about the different sanitation practises they implement.

Bring plenty of multivitamins

Now, more than ever, prevention is better than cure. Make it a habit to bring plenty of multivitamins to your trip so you can ensure that your body has all the things it needs to stay strong and healthy. Go for products that serve multiple purposes, as many of today’s supplements can offer you a multitude of benefits. Case in point: the WrecOver Anti-Hangover Pills reviewed on PrettyMe claim not just to reduce the effects of a fun night out in the town, but to also promote good health with its combination of Vitamin B complex, Vitamin C, Zinc, Magnesium, Taurine, and Ginkgo Biloba.

Based on Women’s Health Magazine’s review of Symprove, it would also be a good idea for you to pack some probiotics that can strengthen your stomach, especially when you are enjoying meals you might not usually eat at home.


Backpacking may seem like a scary thing to do these days, but with the proper preparations, there will be nothing for you to worry about!

Photo Credit: Unsplash

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ST.ART Magazine