Okay, so you wanna know how I stayed safe on that crazy long backpacking trip? Buckle up, it’s a story!
First off, I planned. I mean, seriously planned. Before I even thought about packing, I spent weeks researching my route. I looked at weather patterns, potential dangers (like dodgy areas or wildlife), and emergency services along the way. I wasn’t just winging it, I had spreadsheets, maps, and even printed out backup plans. Yeah, I was that person.
Then came the gear. This wasn’t just about having a good backpack. I invested in a solid first-aid kit and made sure I knew how to use everything in it. I also got a satellite communicator. Expensive, I know, but being able to send a message even when I had zero signal was a lifesaver. And a personal alarm! Small, but loud, and definitely a deterrent.
Before I actually left, I told everyone my itinerary. My family, my friends, even my slightly nosy neighbor. I set up a system where I’d check in with someone every few days. If they didn’t hear from me, they knew to raise the alarm. It felt a bit dramatic at the time, but it gave me (and them) peace of mind.
On the road, trust your gut. Sounds cheesy, but it’s true. If a situation felt off, I bailed. Didn’t matter if it meant changing my plans or walking an extra mile, I always prioritized my safety. There was this one time in South America, I was supposed to stay at this hostel, but the vibe felt weird. The people hanging around were giving me the side-eye, and the place just felt run-down. I booked a room in a different place a few blocks away, and it was the best decision. Turns out, the hostel I was going to stay at got raided by the cops that night.
Blend in. I tried not to look like a tourist loaded with cash. I dressed simply, didn’t flash expensive gadgets, and learned a few basic phrases in the local language. Knowing how to say “help,” “police,” and “I’m lost” in the local language can save your butt.
Secure your stuff. I used a Pacsafe bag protector thingy for my backpack. It’s basically a metal mesh that you can lock around your bag to prevent theft. And I never, ever left my bag unattended, even for a second. Also, I always kept copies of my passport and important documents separate from the originals.
Be aware of your surroundings. I know, duh, but it’s easy to get caught up in the scenery or lost in thought. I made a point of paying attention to what was going on around me, who was nearby, and any potential escape routes. I also avoided walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
Stay healthy. Getting sick or injured far from home is a recipe for disaster. I was careful about what I ate and drank, made sure I got enough sleep, and wore appropriate clothing for the weather. And I listened to my body. If I felt tired or run down, I took a break. No point pushing myself to the point of exhaustion.
And finally, be adaptable. Things rarely go according to plan. Flights get delayed, buses break down, and sometimes you just have to change your route. Being able to roll with the punches and adjust your plans as needed is key to staying safe and sane on a long trip.
So yeah, that’s pretty much it. It wasn’t always glamorous, and sometimes it was downright stressful, but I made it through in one piece. And now I’ve got a whole bunch of stories to tell!
