Backpacking has long been a rite of passage, whether you’re stepping out into the world post-exams, taking a well-earned sabbatical, or finally answering that call for adventure. But it’s more than just slinging a pack over your shoulders and heading off with a vague idea of where you're going. Done well, backpacking can be exhilarating, empowering, and life-changing. Done badly... let’s just say you’ll have some interesting stories.
At The Leap, we’ve helped thousands of travellers, of all ages and experience levels, get out there with purpose, confidence, and curiosity. So, whether you're prepping for your first big trip or fine-tuning your next, here’s our ultimate guide to backpacking like a pro.
Let’s start with the backpack itself. You do not need to pack for every possible scenario. Trust us, you won’t wear half the clothes you bring.
Top tips:
And remember, laundrettes exist all over the world.
Backpacking isn’t about ticking off the top 10 sights, it’s about discovering the soul of a place. While there’s nothing wrong with seeing the classics, the real magic happens when you step off the well-trodden path.
Choose experiences that take you deeper:
The Leap’s programmes are designed to help you travel with meaning, connecting you to people and projects that most travellers never see.
Ask yourself: Why are you travelling? Are you looking for independence? A break from routine? A deeper connection to the world?
Getting clear on your goals can shape your trip, and your experience. If your aim is personal growth or a meaningful contribution, then group volunteering, like our programmes in Kenya or Peru, might be a better fit than solo island-hopping.
When you know your why, you make better decisions, from where you go, to who you travel with.
Backpacking doesn’t mean living off instant noodles (unless you want to). But it does mean being savvy with your spending so you can go further and do more.
Smart budgeting tips:
Also, don’t forget to factor in travel insurance. It’s not optional.
Safety is often a top concern for solo travellers and first-timers, and rightly so. But with the right preparation and attitude, backpacking is no riskier than everyday life.
Our golden safety rules:
Backpacking isn’t always glamorous. You’ll get lost, miss buses, and sometimes question your sanity. But guess what? These are the moments that make the experience.
Push through the challenges:
Growth happens in the stretch. You’ll be stronger, wiser, and more adaptable because of it.
One of the best parts of backpacking is the people you meet along the way. From bus-stop conversations to deep chats under the stars, these relationships often become the highlight of your trip.
That’s why we design our group programmes to bring together like-minded people at the same life stage - whether that’s school-leavers, gap year students, midlifers, or custom-tailored groups. You’re never too old (or young) to form meaningful friendships around a shared purpose.
You’re a guest in someone else’s home. So, travel kindly:
Travel isn’t just about what you take from a place, but what you give back.
Overplanning can kill spontaneity. Leave room for the unexpected: a local invitation, a festival you hadn’t heard of, a detour to somewhere incredible.
With that said, do plan your entry well, especially if joining a programme like The Leap. We’ll help you sort flights, vaccinations, and packing lists, so you arrive prepped and ready to go.
You’ll think you’ll remember everything, but you won’t. Capture the highs, the lows, the weird food, the incredible views, the quiet moments. Your journal becomes your time capsule.
Even better, use your stories in future uni or job applications to show your resilience, initiative, and sense of adventure. Bonus points if you complete our International Volunteering Diploma and rack up those UCAS points too.
Backpacking is more than a summer holiday, it’s a doorway into a bigger, bolder version of yourself. Whether you’re heading out for a few weeks in the summer or a full gap year, we’re here to help you make it meaningful.
Backpacking is incredible, but it can also be overwhelming if you’re starting totally from scratch. That’s where The Leap comes in.
By beginning your travels with one of our fully supported programmes, you’ll get the perfect balance of structure and freedom. You’ll arrive in a new country with a ready-made team of like-minded adventurers (your future best mates), expert support on the ground 24/7, and a chance to make a real impact through community and conservation projects.
Whether it’s for a few weeks in the summer before uni or the start of a full-blown gap year, a Leap gives you the skills, confidence, and connections to travel further, safer, and with more purpose. You’ll leave not just with incredible memories, but with a clearer sense of who you are and what kind of traveller you want to be.
Think of it as your launchpad into independent adventure, with a whole lot of support (and fun) along the way.
Vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and a spirit of resilience - Colombia is a country like no other. Our 4-week programme takes you beyond the tourist trail, immersing you in local communities, conservation projects, and adrenaline-fuelled adventure.
From the mystical Andes to the Amazon rainforest, Peru is a country of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Our 4-week programme takes you off the beaten track, where you’ll contribute to community and conservation projects, while embracing adventure in one of South America’s most iconic destinations.