How to Backpack in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia, which consists of Cambodia, Laos, Myanbar, Thailand, Vietnam, Brunei, East Timor, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Singapore, is a backpacker's paradise. Low prices, white sand beaches, and warm climates beckon travelers from around the world.
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Instructions
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Pack light. Before you go, pack a range of clothing that you can layer. Bring conservative clothing and beach clothing. Don't obsess over what to bring, and leave space for purchases during the trip. Southeast Asia is overrun with backpackers at any given time, so there are a multitude of tourist and local shops where you can buy whatever you need.
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Prepare for humidity. Depending on the time of year, Southeast Asia can be almost unbearably humid. Bring lightweight, breezy clothing that will allow for ventilation without being too revealing. Linen is a popular choice.
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Respect local religions. Southeast Asia has a multitude of fascinating religions. When visiting temples, it is generally considered respectful to cover your shoulders and remove your shoes. Bring a sarong to cover bare shoulders or to use as a makeshift skirt. When in doubt, do what locals are doing. Be aware of local religious traditions and demonstrate respect. For example, in most Muslim countries, it is considered rude to eat in public during Ramadan in the daylight hours. Research before you go, and make every effort to comply with social standards.
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Talk to other travelers. During peak travel season and even in the off-season, many Southeast Asian countries are packed with backpackers. Other travelers are an incredible resource for tips, tricks, and suggestions for activities. Backpackers are always willing to share stories, and hostels are the perfect environment to meet up. Ask other travelers if they'd like to get a meal, share an activity, or just get a beer.
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Don't avoid all backpacker rituals. If something is "always done" by backpackers, there's generally a good reason. It's tempting to go off the beaten path--and you should--but try a few of the major activities. Attend a Full Moon Party in Thailand, go river tubing in Laos, and take the elevator to the top of the KL Towers in Kuala Lumpur.
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Embrace the unfamiliar. Backpacking is all about new people, new experiences and new cultures. Try a SCUBA diving course, ride an elephant, or simply order a new kind of noodles from your hostel kitchen.
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Take culinary adventures. In Southeast Asia, backpackers have access to a bounty of cheap, excellent food. Try street food, restaurants frequented by locals and sample local specialties. Foreign food can be difficult on the stomach and on the mind, so indulge in familiar comfort food every so often.
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Shop around. The beauty of backpacking is the freedom of choice. If one hostel seems too expensive, try another. Menus are often posted outside of restaurants, so check out a few before choosing one. If you don't like one town, move on to the next.
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Use common sense. Don't eat food that looks like it's been sitting out. Don't go down that dark alley late at night. Drink bottled water, and take malaria pills if it's mosquito season. Watch out for scam artists and pickpockets, but don't obsess. When in doubt, err on the side of safety. Travel in Southeast Asia is generally as safe as you make it.
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Be flexible. This is the number one step to reduce backpacking stress. Many Southeast Asian countries are developing nations and are notorious for travel delays, miscommunication and cancellations. Go with the flow and stay relaxed, and your backpacking trip will be a life-changing experience!
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Tips & Warnings
Prepare for heat, but bring a heavy sweater or light jacket for cool nights.
Bring shower shoes.
