Planning your backpacking trip

Planning ahead for your backpacking adventure can help ensure a smoother and safer journey. Take time to research your intended destinations, understand visa requirements, and prepare for potential health and safety challenges. 

Researching your backpacking destinations

Before setting off on your backpacking adventure, it's crucial to research your intended destinations thoroughly. Understanding official travel advisories, entry and visa requirements, available activities, transport, laws and customs will help you navigate unfamiliar environments. 

Check travel advisories and travel alerts

Always check official travel advisories before and during your backpacking journey. These provide crucial information about safety concerns, political situations, and health risks in your destination countries. 

Australian backpackers should regularly check Smartraveller for up-to-date travel advice issued by the Australian Government. Smartraveller uses a four-level travel advisory system: 

• Level 1: Exercise normal safety precautions 

• Level 2: Exercise a high degree of caution 

• Level 3: Reconsider your need to travel 

• Level 4: Do not travel 

You can also stay updated with travel alerts from Fast Cover which provide information about events that may impact your travel plans.

Learn more about how to choose a safe travel destination for your next holiday and visit Fast Cover’s Travel Guides to learn more about your chosen backpacking destination.  

Check entry and visa requirements for your backpacking destination

Generally, most countries offer visa free travel for short-stays for tourism. Many Aussies choose to go on working holidays or travel as digital nomads while backpacking. If you plan to work during your backpacking journey, ensure you have the appropriate work visa or permit. 

For example, the Destination Thailand Visa is geared to Workation for digital nomads, freelancers and remote workers wanting to spend an extended period of time in Thailand. Japan also offers Digital Nomad Visas for those wishing to work in Japan as digital nomads and Canada offers the International Experience Canada program for Australian citizens wishing to work and travel in Canada.  

Working on a tourist visa can result in significant penalties, including deportation and future entry bans, so knowing your entry and visa requirements well in advance will prevent issues at border crossings and immigration checkpoints. To find more information on entry and visa requirements specific to your backpacking destination, visit our entry and visa requirements hub. As entry and visa requirements vary significantly between countries and can change over time, it is your responsibility to verify entry and visa requirements with the relevant embassy, consulate or government body responsible for visas, foreign affairs or immigration.

Any advice is general advice only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation, or needs. As entry and visa requirements for your travel destinations may change over time, it is your responsibility to verify entry and visa requirements with official government authorities such as the relevant embassy, consulate general, department of foreign affairs or department of immigration of the countries you plan to visit.

Entry and visa requirements for backpacking in Europe

Europe is a popular destination for Australian backpackers. Europe’s Schengen Area consists of 29 European countries which allow visa-free travel between member states for up to 90 days within any 180-day period for Australian citizens and eligible residents. 

Key considerations when backpacking in Europe: 

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned return date 

• Understand the difference between the Schengen visa exemption and the Schengen visa, and track your days carefully 

• Be aware that some European countries like the UK and Ireland are not part of the Schengen Area and have their own entry and visa requirements 

For detailed information, check Fast Cover's Europe visa requirements.

Entry and visa requirements for backpacking in Asia

Popular destinations in Southeast Asia like Thailand, Bali, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore and the Philippines attract many Australian backpackers with their affordability, rich cultures, and beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re backpacking across the Great Wall of China, exploring the foothills of Mount Fuji in Japan or exploring Jeju Island in South Korea, you’ll need to know the entry and visa requirements for your destination.

Entry and visa requirements for backpacking in North America

North American destinations including the USA and Canada are popular destinations for Aussie backpackers. The International Experience Canada (IEC) program allows Australian citizens aged 18-35 to work and travel in Canada.

The IEC program is particularly popular among Aussie backpackers as it allows them to travel and work in Canada on a Working Holiday. However, as with all destinations, there are specific entry and visa requirements Aussies must meet before travelling abroad. 

Valid passports

Always ensure your passport: 

• Is valid for at least 3–6 months beyond your planned return date, based on the entry requirements of your destination 

• Has sufficient blank pages for visa stamps 

• Is in good condition without significant damage 

• Is kept secure throughout your journey 

Learn our key tips on keeping your passport safe while travelling. 

Visa exemptions and duration

Many countries offer visa exemptions or visa-on-arrival options for Australian tourists visiting for short periods. However, these exemptions typically come with strict time limits. 

If you're planning to backpack for longer than the visa-free period allows, you'll need to: 

• Apply for an appropriate visa in advance 

• Plan border runs or visa extensions if allowed 

• Understand the penalties for overstaying (which can be severe) 

Electronic travel authorisation documents

Many countries now use electronic travel authorisations instead of traditional visa stamps. These systems typically require: 

• Online application before travel 

• Payment of a processing fee 

• Approval confirmation to show at immigration 

Always keep digital and printed copies of your electronic travel authorisations. 

Arrival cards

Many countries require visitors to complete arrival cards at immigration checkpoints or online prior to arrival. These typically ask for: 

• Personal information 

• Passport details 

• Purpose of visit 

• Accommodation address 

• Declaration of items you're bringing into the country 

Be honest when completing these forms, as false declarations can result in significant penalties. 

Sufficient funds for backpacking

Some countries require proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. This may involve: 

• Showing bank statements 

• Providing evidence of onward travel 

• Demonstrating accommodation bookings 

Research these requirements before travel and prepare the necessary documentation. 

Planning your itinerary

A well-planned itinerary provides structure while still allowing for spontaneous adventures. Consider: 

• Realistic travel times between destinations 

• Rest days between intensive activities 

• Buffer days for unexpected delays or extended stays in places you love 

• Weather patterns and seasonal events 

• Local festivals or holidays that might affect your plans 

While backpacking often involves flexible planning, having a general framework helps ensure you don't miss must-see locations and can budget your time effectively.

Planning your backpacking activities

The activities you plan to enjoy during your backpacking adventure can significantly impact your itinerary, packing, and safety preparations.

Organising travel insurance for activities while backpacking

Many backpackers enjoy activities such as hiking or trekking at high altitudes, jet skiing, riding a motorcycle or skiing that may not be automatically covered by their travel insurance policies. When considering travel insurance for your backpacking trip, it's important to consider if the type of activities you plan to do will be covered under your travel insurance policy.

• Sports and Leisure Activities: Fast Cover's list of Covered Sports and Leisure Activities provide cover for a wide range of activities.

• Adventure Activities: Fast Cover's optional Adventure Pack provides cover for many more adventure activities for an added premium.

• Ski and Snow Sports: Fast Cover's Snow Sports Plus Policy is available to provide cover for costs associated with ski and snow sports whilst overseas.

Always check the eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limits that apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.

Understanding your transport options

Transportation is a crucial aspect of backpacking, affecting both your budget and safety. Different regions offer varying transport options, from efficient train networks in Europe to tuk-tuks in Southeast Asia. In many backpacking destinations, particularly in Southeast Asia, motorcycle and scooter rentals are popular. However, these come with significant risks, especially if you're inexperienced. Always wear appropriate safety gear, follow local road rules, and consider whether your travel insurance covers motorcycle, moped and scooter use  

For detailed information about transport in specific destinations, refer to Fast Cover's travel guides.

What to consider for backpacking transport options

Here are some things to consider when looking at transport options for your backpacking trip:

• Research the reliability and safety of local transport including properly licensed taxis and ride sharing apps 

• Understand typical costs and research tourist passes 

• Learn about common transport scams in your destination and how to avoid inflated tourist pricing 

• Consider overnight transportation for longer journeys to save on accommodation 

• Research licencing requirements and International Driving Permits 

• Consider whether your travel insurance covers you for riding or being a passenger on a motorcycle, moped or scooter 

• Consider if your travel insurance offers cover for rental vehicle excess if you chose to rent a vehicle 

• Evaluate the trade-offs between cost, comfort, and safety 

Coverage for riders and passengers with Fast Cover's Motorcycle Pack

Fast Cover’s Motorcycle Pack is an optional extra available under our International policies that may provide cover to you for being the rider or passenger on a: 

• Motorcycle,  

• Moped, or 

• Scooter.

Fast Cover’s Rental Vehicle Excess Benefit

Fast Cover’s Rental Vehicle Excess benefit may provide cover for the rental vehicle excess component of your rental vehicle insurance with your car hire company in your backpacking destination, up to the specified limit in your travel insurance policy. This benefit applies to a: 

• Sedan, hatchback, or station wagon,   

• Four-wheel drive or minibus/people mover, or  

• A campervan or motorhome (up to 4.5 tonnes), 

rented from a licensed motor vehicle rental company (including vehicles rented from peer-to-peer carsharing platforms).

Eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions, and limits apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs. 

Staying connected while backpacking

Maintaining communication with family and accessing important information while backpacking is essential for both convenience and safety. 

Consider these connectivity options: 

• Local SIM cards may be the most cost-effective option 

• International roaming may be convenient but potentially expensive 

• eSIMs are increasingly popular and easy to switch between countries 

• Portable Wi-Fi devices may be useful for sharing connections among multiple devices 

• Relying on accommodation and cafe Wi-Fi may be budget-friendly but less reliable 

Before departing, research the connectivity options in your destinations. Some countries require identification to purchase SIM cards, while others have restrictions on certain communication apps or websites. 

Setting up regular check-ins with family or friends at home can provide reassurance for both you and your loved ones. Establish a communication plan, including what to do if you're out of contact for longer than expected. 

Understanding local laws while backpacking

Each country has unique laws and cultural norms that visitors must respect. Ignorance of local laws is rarely accepted as an excuse for violations.

Legal considerations for backpackers

Consider researching local laws in your backpacking destination on these key areas:

• Dress codes, particularly at religious sites 

• Photography restrictions 

• Alcohol consumption regulations 

• Drug laws (which are often extremely strict in many popular backpacking destinations) 

• Cultural taboos and respect for local customs 

In many Southeast Asian countries, drug offenses carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences or even the death penalty in some cases. Even if you come from a country with more liberal attitudes toward certain substances, always respect and follow local laws. 

Traffic laws vary significantly between countries. If you plan to drive or ride a motorcycle, ensure you understand local road rules, licensing requirements, and insurance regulations. 

Remember that consuming excessive alcohol can lead to situations where you're more vulnerable to accidents, theft, or other risks. Many travel insurance policies may not cover incidents that occur while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 

Knowing what to pack for your backpacking trip

Packing appropriately for your backpacking trip helps ensure comfort, safety, and preparedness for various situations. The key is to pack light while including all essentials. ​

Packing tips for backpackers

Consider these packing tips for your next backpacking adventure: 

• Research the climate of your destinations during your travel period 

• Pack layers for adaptability to changing weather 

• Include a basic first aid kit  

• Bring proper footwear for your planned activities 

• Select clothing that's respectful of local cultural norms 

• Include security items like padlocks for hostel lockers 

• Pack a quick-dry travel towel to save space 

• Consider a money belt or secure pouch for important documents

Luggage and Personal Effects Insurance

Fast Cover’s Luggage and Personal Effects benefit may provide cover for theft, loss, or damage to your luggage and personal items. If you're backpacking with high-value items, you can declare many of them as specified high-value items to help cover them for more than what they are currently covered for under the standard policy terms and conditions.

Eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs. 

Understanding common health risks for backpackers

Being aware of potential health risks allows you to take appropriate precautions and enjoy your backpacking adventure with reassurance. 

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Backpackers should be aware of the risk of sexually transmitted infections. To reduce risks: 

• Practice safe sex by using barrier protection like condoms 

• Be aware that STI rates can be higher in some regions 

• Consider pre-travel STI testing and post-travel testing if needed 

• Seek medical attention promptly if you experience concerning symptoms.

Be aware that some travel insurance policies may not provide cover for claims arising from STIs. Be sure to check the relevant PDS for terms, conditions, limits and potential exclusions that may apply. 

Risk of tattoo infections

Getting a tattoo can be a memorable souvenir of your backpacking adventure, but carries health risks if not done safely. If considering a tattoo while backpacking: 

• Research reputable studios with good hygiene practices 

• Ensure needles are new and sterilised 

• Check that the studio uses proper infection control measures 

Be aware that travel insurance typically doesn't cover complications from elective procedures like tattoos.

Traveller's diarrhoea

Regions Affected: This common ailment can affect travellers worldwide but is particularly prevalent in regions with different food preparation standards or water source treatment systems than Australia, including parts of Asia (such as Bali and its infamous Bali Belly), Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.

How is it Transmitted? Typically through contaminated food or water, including ice cubes made from untreated water and uncooked foods washed in untreated water.

Symptoms: Frequent loose stools, stomach cramps, nausea, and sometimes vomiting or fever.

Treatment: Most cases resolve in a few days with proper hydration. Oral rehydration solutions, rest, and a bland diet can help. Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or persistent.

Cholera

Regions Affected: Primarily affects areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water, including parts of Africa, South Asia, and some areas of Southeast Asia.

How is it Transmitted? Through contaminated water or food, particularly in areas affected by natural disasters or humanitarian crises that disrupt water and sanitation systems.

Symptoms: Severe watery diarrhoea, vomiting, and leg cramps, which can lead to rapid dehydration and shock if untreated.

Treatment: Immediate rehydration with oral rehydration solutions or, in severe cases, intravenous fluids. Antibiotics may be prescribed to shorten the duration.

Hepatitis A

Regions Affected: Widespread in regions with poor sanitation, including parts of Africa, Asia, Central and South America, and Eastern Europe.

How is it Transmitted? Through contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person.

Symptoms: Fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).

Treatment: No specific treatment exists, but most people recover completely with rest, adequate nutrition, and fluids. Vaccination before travel is highly effective in prevention.

Hepatitis B

Regions Affected: Prevalent in parts of East Asia, Southeast Asia, the Amazon Basin, the Caribbean, and sub-Saharan Africa.

How is it Transmitted? Through blood and body fluids, including during unprotected sex, sharing needles, or using unsterilised equipment for tattoos or piercings.

Symptoms: Similar to Hepatitis A, but can also include joint pain. Some people develop chronic infections that can lead to liver cirrhosis or cancer.

Treatment: Acute infections typically resolve on their own. Chronic infections may require long-term treatment with antiviral medications.

Hepatitis C

Regions Affected: Found worldwide but more common in certain parts of Africa, Central and East Asia, and Eastern Europe.

How is it Transmitted? Primarily through blood-to-blood contact, including sharing needles or using unsterilised medical or tattooing equipment.

Symptoms: Often asymptomatic initially; may include fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, and jaundice when symptoms do appear.

Treatment: Direct-acting antiviral medications can cure most cases, but early detection is important.

Tuberculosis (TB)

Regions Affected: Prevalent in many parts of Asia, Africa, and South America, particularly in areas with high HIV rates.

How is it Transmitted? Through the air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes, or speaks.

Symptoms: Persistent cough, chest pain, fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and fever.

Treatment: With a combination of antibiotics for six months or longer.

Typhoid

Regions Affected: Common in parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America with limited access to clean water and sanitation.

How is it Transmitted? Through contaminated food or water, often in areas with poor sanitation.

Symptoms: High fever, headache, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhoea, and a distinctive rash in some cases.

Treatment: With antibiotics, though antibiotic resistance is increasing in some regions.

Yellow Fever

Regions Affected: Parts of sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America.

How is it Transmitted? Through mosquito bites, typically in jungle or forest areas.

Symptoms: Initially fever, headache, and muscle pain, potentially progressing to more severe symptoms including jaundice, bleeding, and organ failure.

Treatment: No specific treatment exists; supportive care focuses on managing symptoms. Vaccination is highly effective for prevention.

Zika Virus

Regions Affected: Parts of the Caribbean, Central and South America, Pacific Islands, and some areas in Southeast Asia.

How is it Transmitted? Primarily through mosquito bites, but also through sexual contact with an infected person.

Symptoms: Mild fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes), though many infections are asymptomatic.

Treatment: No specific treatment; rest, fluids, and paracetamol for fever relief are recommended.

Malaria

Regions Affected: Tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and the Pacific Islands.

How is it Transmitted? Through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes, which typically feed at night.

Symptoms: Cyclical fever, chills, sweats, headache, muscle pain, and sometimes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

Treatment: With antimalarial medications specific to the region and strain of malaria. Preventive medications are available for travellers.

Dengue Fever

Regions Affected: Tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas of Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

How is it Transmitted? Through mosquito bites, primarily from mosquitoes that feed during daylight hours.

Symptoms: High fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding (such as nose bleeds or easy bruising).

Treatment: No specific treatment exists; management focuses on relieving symptoms and maintaining adequate fluid levels.

Chikungunya

Regions Affected: Parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and more recently, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

How is it Transmitted? Through mosquito bites, primarily from mosquitoes that feed during daylight hours.

Symptoms: Sudden onset of fever, severe joint pain (often in the hands and feet), muscle pain, headache, fatigue, and rash.

Treatment: No specific treatment; management focuses on relieving symptoms, particularly joint pain.

Japanese Encephalitis

Regions Affected: Parts of East Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Western Pacific.

How is it Transmitted? Through mosquito bites, primarily in rural agricultural areas.

Symptoms: Most infections are asymptomatic, but when symptoms occur, they can include fever, headache, vomiting, confusion, and difficulty moving. Severe cases can lead to seizures, paralysis, and coma.

Treatment: No specific treatment; supportive care focuses on managing symptoms. Vaccination is recommended for travellers spending extended time in affected rural areas.

Health preparations to organise before you travel

Preparing for health challenges before your trip begins is one of the most important steps in ensuring a safe and enjoyable backpacking experience.

Consult your doctor before backpacking

Schedule a pre-travel health consultation at least 4–6 weeks before departure to:

• Discuss your itinerary and potential health risks

• Review your current medications and get prescriptions for your journey

• Receive recommended vaccinations

• Get advice on preventing common travel ailments

• Discuss any pre-existing health conditions and how to manage them while travelling

This consultation is particularly important if you have ongoing health conditions or are taking regular medications.

Vaccinations and immunisations for your backpacking destination

Vaccination requirements vary by destination, so speak to your doctor about recommended vaccinations for your particular backpacking destination. Common travel vaccinations include:

• Hepatitis A and B

• Typhoid

• Tetanus-diphtheria

• Yellow fever (required for entry to some countries)

• Japanese encephalitis (for rural stays in certain regions)

• Rabies (for remote travel or animal work)

• COVID-19 (requirements vary by country)

Some vaccines require multiple doses over several weeks, so plan your doctor's visit well in advance of your departure.

Medical documentation

Prepare and carry important medical documentation, including:

• A summary of your medical history, including allergies and chronic conditions

• List of current medications (with generic names)

• International vaccination record or certificate

• Contact information for your regular healthcare providers

• Health insurance details and emergency contact information

Store this information both digitally (in a secure, accessible location) and as physical copies. Consider translating key information into the languages of your destination countries.

Travel insurance for existing medical conditions when backpacking

If you have an existing medical condition, Fast Cover may be able to provide some cover for your backpacking trip. You'll need to complete a medical screening process online or call our Aussie based sales team.

To find out more about our medical screening process, and how the policy will apply in relation to an existing medical condition, please read and consider the PDS for eligibility criteria, terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits that apply.

Fast Cover's medical benefits

Fast Cover's international travel insurance policies include:

• Overseas 24/7 emergency medical assistance

• Overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses

• Overseas emergency dental

• Overseas emergency medical evacuation and repatriation

to help cover you if you become unexpectedly injured or sick while backpacking overseas.

Eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limits apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.

Safety risks and tips for backpackers

While backpacking is generally safe, understanding common risks and taking precautions can help ensure a trouble-free journey.

Choosing safe accommodation for backpackers

Your accommodation choices significantly impact your safety while backpacking. Consider these tips:

• Research locations thoroughly before booking, avoiding areas with high crime rates

• Read recent reviews from other travellers, paying attention to safety comments

• Choose hostels or guesthouses with 24-hour reception and secure storage options

• If arriving at night, pre-book accommodation rather than searching upon arrival

• Request rooms that aren't on the ground floor or directly accessible from the street

• Ensure adequate fire safety measures and emergency exits

For solo travellers, particularly women, consider female-only dorm options where available and trust your instincts if a situation feels uncomfortable.

Transport safety for backpackers

Transportation safety varies dramatically across different backpacking destinations. Keep these tips in mind:

• Research the safest transportation options for each location

• When possible, travel during daylight hours

• Use reputable transportation companies, even if they cost slightly more

• Avoid overcrowded vehicles or those in visibly poor condition

• Keep valuables secure and within sight during transit

• Be wary of unofficial taxis or transport offers that seem too good to be true

• If renting vehicles, ensure they're in good condition and you have appropriate insurance

Sexual assault risks for backpackers

While the vast majority of backpacking experiences are safe, it's important to be aware of sexual assault risks and take precautions:

• Stay alert, particularly in unfamiliar environments or when using alcohol

• Trust your instincts if a situation feels uncomfortable

• Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers

• Learn about local dating customs and social norms

• Consider carrying a personal safety alarm

• Know the local emergency numbers and location of your country's embassy or consulate

If an assault occurs, seek medical attention immediately and report the incident to local authorities and your country's consulate.

Risk of alcohol and methanol poisoning for backpackers

Alcohol consumption can pose specific risks for backpackers, particularly in regions where regulation of alcoholic beverages may be limited:

• Be wary of extremely cheap alcoholic drinks, which may contain methanol or other harmful substances

• Stick to sealed, branded beverages when possible

• Avoid homemade alcohols unless from trusted sources

• Watch your drinks being prepared when possible

• Recognise that travel insurance may not provide cover for incidents where you were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the event

Methanol poisoning from contaminated alcoholic drinks has caused injuries among travellers, particularly in parts of Southeast Asia. Symptoms include vision problems, dizziness, nausea, and confusion, and require immediate medical attention.

LGBTI backpackers' risks

LGBTI backpackers' should research the legal status and social attitudes regarding sexuality and gender identity in destination countries:

• Some countries criminalise homosexuality with severe penalties

• Public displays of affection may be culturally inappropriate regardless of sexuality

• Research LGBTI-friendly accommodation and establishments

• Connect with local LGBTI organisations for current information and support

• Consider adjusting social media privacy settings when travelling in less accepting regions

For current information, check Smartraveller's advice for LGBTI travellers in specific destinations.

Money safety for backpackers

Protecting your financial resources while backpacking helps ensure your trip can continue smoothly:

• Carry multiple payment methods (cash, cards, digital payment apps)

• Use a money belt or hidden pouch for larger amounts of cash and important documents

• Only carry the cash you need for the day in accessible pockets

• Be aware of common scams in each destination

• Use ATMs inside banks when possible and check for skimming devices

• Inform your bank of your travel plans to prevent unexpected card blocks

• Keep an emergency fund separate from your main money source

Be particularly vigilant in crowded areas, tourist spots, and transportation hubs where pickpocketing is more common.