Travel
6 countries you can backpack at any age (and why you might want to)
Trust us, backpacking isn’t just for the kids. There are countless benefits to exploring the world this way, no matter your age.
By Carolyn Tate
When you think of backpackers, you could be forgiven for thinking of toned and tanned twenty-somethings embracing a gap year, travelling around the world with only 2 pairs of pants and their parents’ credit card as back-up. But backpacking has had a bit of a glow-up lately, and it’s no longer just for the, ah, youthfully exuberant.
More and more older travellers are strapping on their backpacks and embarking on adventures across the globe. That’s because, with the right preparation and destination choice, backpacking can be an enriching adventure at any age.
Don’t let age hold you back
Backpacking offers unique benefits for the more mature traveller. It provides opportunities to step outside your comfort zone, form new social connections, and maintain physical activity through walking and exploration.
Backpacking is also generally a much cheaper way to travel, so you can do more of it. Plus it’s often the best way to meet the locals and really feel immersed in the places you’re travelling to.
The key is choosing destinations that offer the right balance of adventure, comfort and convenience.
Our favourite destinations for mature backpackers
New Zealand: Perfect for first-timers
New Zealand offers an ideal starting point if you’re new to backpacking, particularly if you’re travelling solo. Its compact size makes it easy to explore, while familiar driving laws and cultural similarities help minimise culture shock and communication challenges. It’s well set up for backpackers too, with a variety of hostels in cities, towns and even well off the beaten track. The diverse landscape, from subtropical forests to glaciers and pristine beaches, provides plenty of opportunities for adventure without overwhelming distances between destinations.
Don’t miss this advice too: 9 great solo holiday destinations
Japan: Where tradition meets convenience
Japan stands out as one of the safest countries for backpackers, combining rich cultural experiences with modern conveniences. The country's efficient bullet trains make travel between cities seamless, and affordable dining options are everywhere – from local restaurants to surprisingly good convenience store meals (even the supermarket sushi will blow your mind!). Clean streets, helpful locals, and a society built on respect make Japan particularly comfortable for mature travellers.
Thailand: Budget-friendly paradise
Thailand has earned a reputation as one of the most accessible countries for backpackers of all ages. The excellent exchange rate means you get great bang for your buck, and visa-free entry minimises your admin hassles. Thailand will give you an immersive experience, with its lush landscapes, ancient temples, and world-renowned cuisine. The well-established tourist infrastructure makes getting around remarkably straightforward.
Croatia: Mediterranean charm
If you’re more drawn to European adventures, Croatia offers an appealing mix of history and jaw-dropping natural beauty. The country's efficient public transport system and walkable cities make it ideal for a wandering backpacker. From ancient Roman ruins to pristine Mediterranean beaches and stunning national parks, Croatia offers a bit of everything without the overwhelming crowds of some of the more popular European destinations.
Fiji: Island life at your pace
Want something more relaxed? While we may think of Fiji as a resort destination, it also offers an ideal island-hopping adventure for backpackers, complete with pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and authentic cultural experiences – especially when you get off the beaten track. The slower pace of life and emphasis on relaxation makes it especially attractive if you prefer to take your time and get off-grid for a while. Plus, the backpacker accommodation is next-level – some have facilities and activities that would rival a high-price resort.
Vietnam: The perfect path to adventure
The great thing about backpacking in Vietnam is that it has a natural route built right in. The country's long, vertical shape creates an obvious north-to-south (or south-to-north) path that takes the stress out of navigation – you're simply heading up or down the country. You'll experience a feast for all your senses, from the vibrant chaos of city streets to peaceful rural landscapes. And when it comes to food, you're in for a treat – Vietnamese cuisine is full of flavour and lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, and your money will stretch a long way. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals make this a great choice, and because most travellers are following the same route, you can easily find company when you want it or peace and quiet when you don't.
Insider tips for a good night’s sleep
Wherever you decide to travel to, the key to happy backpacking is booking the right bed. Hostels and other specialist backpacker accommodations vary widely in what they offer and for what price. Some rival a luxury resort, others will pack you into triple bunks, sardine-style. Consider what your tolerance level extends to and book accordingly.
Unless you enjoy fighting with teens over who gets the bottom bunk, it’s wise to book a private or twin room well in advance. Most hostels offer them, or at the very least a quad room where you only have to share with a maximum of 3 others. Regardless of how many roommates you have, pack a good set of ear plugs, an eye mask and some room deodoriser. Don’t think on that last one too hard, just pack it.
Bathroom sharing is another consideration: some hostels have ensuite rooms, others will see you schlepping down the hallway to queue behind 20 of your new friends for one of 2 shower stalls. Research where you hope to stay, read the reviews (backpackers love leaving detailed reviews) and decide what works best for you.
Finally, whether you want to cook in a shared kitchen or plan to eat out each night is also important. If you plan to save a stack of money and cook in-house, you’ll want to suss out the kitchen facilities anywhere you plan to stay. While it can feel daunting to go ‘full backpacker’ like this, the kitchen is often where international friendships are made, so it’s worth making at least one meal or 2 on your travels.
If you can’t face any of the above, feel free to backpack by day and stay at 5-star lodgings by night – there’s no ‘right’ way to see the world, after all.
More top tips for stress-free backpacking
Prioritise your health: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance, a small first aid kit and any necessary medications before you set off.
Prioritise comfort: Invest in comfy walking shoes and a high-quality, lightweight backpack – and get your backpack professionally fitted for maximum support.
Secure your belongings: Use a padlock for lockers or your backpack to keep valuables safe in communal spaces.
Choose your season: Consider traveling during shoulder seasons when crowds are smaller and the weather is mild.
Pack light but smart: You can generally wash clothes at most hostels, so don’t take more than you need. That said, always ensure you have 2 good pairs of shoes in case one pair gets wet – trust us, you don’t want to be walking around in sopping shoes for too long.
Stay connected: Carry a fully charged phone, portable charger and download maps for offline use.
Plan ahead but stay flexible: Book key accommodations and transport in advance, but leave room for spontaneous adventures. That’s the thing about backpacking versus regular travel – you never know who you might meet along the way and where the road might take you.
Feature image: iStock/blackCAT
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