The Asian Continent is both very large and very diverse ecologically speaking. Therefore, it is impossible to create a one-size package for seven backpacking tips for Asia but these general rules should get you by safely through your backpacking venture anywhere in Asia. The first thing that you must do is to make certain that you are prepared for any circumstances.
Backpacking in Southeast Asia is going to be much different than backpacking in Northern China. Both are definitely in Asia but the climates vary greatly. Southeast Asia is mostly tropical with occasional mountains and volcanoes while Northern China is a harsh and sometimes freezing cold landscape mixed with open plains, mountains and some very large rivers as well. Therefore, the first of the seven backpacking tips for Asia is to define where you are going and to look at the local weather conditions.
The second of the seven backpacking tips for Asia is to always remember to bring cold weather and rain gear with you. Even in the tropics when you are backpacking you are going to be off the beaten path. There are cool breezes that blow in off the ocean and with the humidity added in, these can quickly deplete your body heat and leave you shivering and possibly feverish even in temperatures that seem relatively mild.
The third of the seven backpacking tips for Asia is to carry plenty of water with you when you go hiking. As a general rule it is best if you can carry at least two days minimal supply with you. While you may encounter many water holes, there is no telling what is upstream of where you are and finding yourself sick in the middle of the mountains or even simply off the beaten path can have severe repercussions if the locals are not adequately equipped to come up and fetch you when you take sick.
The fourth of the seven backpacking tips for Asia is to take at least a three day supply of food. While this may sound burdensome at first, it is actually very easily accomplished. Energy gels are a great source of carbs, potassium and enough fuel to keep the body alive should you become lost. Any additional food items should be high in carbohydrates though some protein intake is good too if you can manage it.
The fifth of the seven backpacking tips for Asia is to always be aware of any environmental anomalies or hazards that may be around where you plan to go backpacking or hiking. East Asia is full of earthquakes, tsunamis, tropical storms, volcanoes and other natural hazards. Western Asia has many of the aforementioned hazards and in some cases, much worse.
The sixth of the seven backpacking tips for Asia is always letting people know where you are going to be hiking. Nobody is going to help you if nobody knows that you are lost. While it may be true that if you do not know where you are going, any path will take you there, not just any path will lead you to a safe and happy return. Should you happen down the wrong trail, somebody needs to know which direction you were headed in before you took the wrong turn so that they can search you out.
The seventh and final of the seven backpacking tips for Asia is to never go backpacking or hiking alone. If one person gets injured, the other can always go to find help but if you are out in nature alone and get injured, you are quite literally on your own and the price could be more than you want to pay. Use common sense and these seven backpacking tips for Asia and you should be fine though, no matter where you are hiking.
Post Credits
- Refreshing Drink of Water On A Hot Day by Pinksherbet & Tuna cans by 49873808@N00
