I know there are a lot of independent travelers out there but still...I would like to share my experience which I think best to apply and do if you travel as backpacker.
Before the trip
- Booked ticket (if necessary)
- Buy ticket during promotion. Don't forget to print the boarding pass.
- Booked hotel / guesthouse
- Since this is a budget travel so I booked cheap, accommodate, convenience but comfortable guesthouse.
- Do research on the country you want to go
- It is important to know anything relates to immigration documents or procedure of the country such as visa. This information can be referred to local authority website or experienced traveler.
- Also, it is beneficial to study about their culture and language. At least the basic one.
- Do your own itenarary
- Plan your day. It helps to maximize and smooth your travel.
- Get the direction how to get to the place and other related information such as operation hour, ticket fee, activities can be done etc.
- For Muslim traveler, you need to do a research on halal food and where to perform your prayer.
- Source of info would be blogs and local tourism website.
- Prepare your budget
- Overall budget must be under your means. Again, this is a budget travel so do not dare to spend more than your ability. ㅋㅋㅋㅋ.....
- Exchange money
- For me, this matter is quite critical. Of course you want something that profitable. From my experience, from the day you booked your flight ticket, always give an eye to currency matter. Especially if your destination is a high living cost country.
- Get the average rate of the currency and you can start monitor daily rate. At this level, Money Changer will be your 'best friend'. Buy once the rate is low or at par.
출발!!!
