What makes hostels such a powerful tool for saving money is not just the low nightly rates. It is the lifestyle that comes with them. Shared kitchens, social events, insider tips, discounted activities, and a travel community that genuinely looks out for one another. When combined, these small choices can extend a trip by weeks.

This guide explores exactly how hostels help backpackers keep costs low without losing the joy of the journey. Think of it as a practical, friendly companion for anyone planning a longer adventure on a backpacker budget.

1. Why Hostels Matter for Budget Backpacking

Hostels have always been the go to choice for travelers who want to keep their spending under control. Yet their value today goes far beyond cheap beds. The best hostels manage to blend affordability with creativity, comfort, and community. That mix is where real savings begin.

A quick snapshot of why they work so well for a backpacker budget:

• Nightly rates are consistently lower than hotels, especially in major cities.
• Built in savings features like shared facilities and communal spaces.
• Social environments that naturally lead to shared costs.
• Hostelworld’s filters and reviews make it easy to spot the best value options.

Most travelers discover that the money saved does not only stay in the wallet. It opens up opportunities to stay longer, see more, and experience destinations on a deeper level.

2. Price Comparisons That Make a Difference

One of the most obvious benefits of staying in a budget hostel is the direct price comparison with traditional accommodation. But travelers often underestimate how dramatic the difference can be.

Below is a simple example that mirrors common price ranges in popular destinations.

A few quick takeaways:

• Even in high cost cities, cheap hostels are reliably available.
• Savings compound on longer trips, especially for round the world travelers.
• Many hostels include perks hotels charge extra for, which increases the gap even more.

Based on widely published European accommodation price ranges, the difference between an average hostel bed and a budget hotel room can exceed €35 per night. This means that a traveler staying in hostels instead of hotels for three months can save over €3,000 just on beds. With those savings, you could add entire regions to your itinerary.

3. How Hostel Kitchens Save You Serious Cash

Cooking your own meals is one of the easiest and most practical ways to stretch your backpacker budget. Hostel kitchens transform the cost of travel, especially in countries where eating out adds up quickly.

A quick comparison helps show the impact:

Example daily food budget in Western Europe

• Eating out for every meal: €45 to €60
• Cooking most meals in a hostel kitchen: €12 to €18

That difference can reach €1,000 or more over a two month trip.

Travelers love hostel kitchens for more than just savings. They also become hubs of social energy. People share ingredients, swap recipes, and create friendships over simple meals like pasta or curry. Some nights, it turns into an international potluck without any planning at all.

Beyond the money saved on meals, shared kitchens often turn into social hotspots where backpackers naturally meet others planning dinners, night markets or pub outings. Across hostel chats in destinations like Chiang Mai, Medellín, Amsterdam and Valencia, travelers frequently invite others to cook together or grab food before heading out for drinks, showing how communal spaces reliably spark new connections. These spontaneous meetups, from shared tapas nights to food‑market crawls, highlight how budget hostels make it easy for solo travelers to find company without spending more.

Quick Tip: Buy groceries with other travelers. Shared ingredients mean lower costs and more interesting meals.

4. Free Events That Add Value Without Cost

Many modern hostels have evolved into mini cultural centers that care about helping travelers meet one another. The result is a long list of free or low cost events that add memorable experiences without draining your wallet.

Depending on the hostel, you might find:

• Free walking tours
• Morning yoga
• Bar crawls
• Game nights
• Movie nights
• Language exchanges
• Live music
• Sunset meetups
• Communal dinners or BBQs

The real value is not just saving money on activities. It is how these events help travelers connect. A free walking tour might introduce you to five people who later split the cost of a day trip. A quiz night might lead to new friends who share transport to the next city. In hostels, socializing naturally reduces spending.

Some hostels even host experiences that would normally be expensive elsewhere, like cooking classes or guided hikes. When these events are free, the savings are immediate and substantial.

The social energy of hostels really shows in the way travelers use Hostelworld chats to rally others for free or low‑cost activities. In cities across Europe, Asia and Latin America, messages regularly pop up from backpackers asking if anyone wants to join a free walking tour, meet for sunset at a viewpoint, attend a hostel trivia night or check out live music. These small, spontaneous invitations appear constantly in places like Bangkok, Prague, Amsterdam and Dublin, proving that hostels are not just a place to sleep but a built‑in network of people excited to explore together.

5. Hostelworld Deals, Discounts, and Price Filters

Hostelworld is known for helping travelers find cheap hostels, but it also offers tools that help backpackers maximize savings before they even book.

A few useful features include:

1. Price Sorting

Sort by lowest price to quickly compare the best value options in any city.

2. Flexible Date Search

Small shifts in arrival dates often reveal much cheaper options.

3. Multi room Filtering

Find dorms that match your comfort level, from four beds to classic 12 bed dorms.

4. Early booking deals

Hostels sometimes offer lower rates for early planners.

5. Last minute offers

Some properties lower prices when they want to fill remaining beds.

6. Location Map View

Staying slightly outside the absolute center often cuts prices dramatically.

The filter system makes it easier for backpackers to identify hidden gems that offer far more value than their nightly rates suggest. A well reviewed hostel with free breakfast, community dinners, and great facilities can effectively cut your daily costs in half.

6. How Discounts Extend a Backpacker Budget

Once you check in, the savings often keep going. Hostels frequently partner with local businesses to offer traveler friendly discounts, especially for tours, food, and nightlife.

Common discounts include:

• 10 to 20 percent off partner restaurants
• Lower prices for bike rentals or surf lessons
• Group rates on day tours
• Discounted museum tickets
• Cheaper club entry

These savings can reduce daily spending in ways that add up fast. A free drink voucher, for example, is not just a welcome treat. It might introduce you to a group that later shares a taxi or cooks dinner together.

Some hostels even organize group outings with exclusive rates. A €90 boat trip might drop to €55 simply because you booked through the hostel reception.

The beauty of these discounts is that they blend seamlessly with the social experience, turning savings into stories.

7. Seasonal Savings That Make a Big Impact

Timing matters when planning a long budget trip. Prices shift throughout the year, and even popular destinations include windows of affordability that make a huge difference for backpackers.

Factors that influence seasonal pricing:

• Weather
• Local festivals
• University terms
• Holiday periods
• National travel seasons

Shoulder seasons spring and autumn often deliver the sweet spot. Fewer crowds, lower rates, and more availability. Many travelers find these months more relaxed and far cheaper.

Hostelworld seasonal savings strategy:

• Use filters to compare prices month by month.
• Watch for hostels that drop prices significantly outside peak times.
• Check flexible date options to identify cheap arrival days.

A shift of two weeks can change a €42 dorm bed into a €23 one, especially in cities like Lisbon, Melbourne, or Vancouver.

Travelers who plan their route around seasonal patterns often stretch their trip by several months with little change in quality.

8. Hostels as Natural Social Hubs for Solo Travelers

Backpackers rarely stay solo for long. Across hundreds of chat messages in dozens of cities, travelers consistently use hostel chats to find others for spontaneous meetups, pub crawls, group dinners or a simple walk around town. Messages like “Hey, I just arrived, anyone else solo travelling?” or “Anyone up for drinks tonight?” appear constantly in destinations from Chiang Mai to Dublin, Amsterdam, Medellín and beyond.

This pattern shows how hostels act as built‑in social engines. People land in a new place, drop their bags, open the Hostelworld app, and immediately find others heading to night markets, hiking trails, beach clubs or free walking tours.

A few of the most common social behaviours across hostels worldwide:

• inviting strangers to rooftop bars, jazz clubs or karaoke
• organizing last‑minute group hikes or scooter trips
• creating Instagram or WhatsApp groups to expand the circle
• sharing taxis to events, beaches or party districts

The sheer volume of these messages shows how easily friendships form when travelers stay in hostels.

9. Community Sharing and Social Savings

Backpackers rarely travel alone for long. Hostels make meeting others natural, and this sense of community directly leads to shared costs.

A few examples:

• Cooking group meals together.
• Splitting taxi rides to the airport.
• Group discounts on activities.
• Sharing SIM cards or leftover groceries.
• Swapping gear instead of buying new items.

This shared economy is one of the most underrated advantages of hostel travel. The community mindset not only reduces spending but adds meaning to the journey.

It is a reminder that budget backpacking is not only about cutting costs. It is also about the people who help you along the way.

10. Private Rooms vs Dorms: Smart Choices for Your Budget

Not every traveler wants to stay in dorms all the time. Private rooms in hostels offer a comfortable middle ground. They cost more than dorm beds but still significantly less than hotels, especially in major cities.

Why private hostel rooms are still budget friendly:

• Access to the same communal kitchen
• The same free events
• The same discounts
• More privacy without hotel costs

Here is an example comparison to show how meaningful the difference can be:

If you mix in a private room every few weeks for rest, you still maintain an affordable overall budget.

11. Planning a Budget Backpacking Route With Hostels in Mind

A key part of staying within a backpacker budget is planning a route that takes advantage of affordable regions and hostel availability. Hostelworld’s map view helps identify the best areas for cheap hostels, plus neighborhoods that offer easy walks to major attractions.

Here is a simple approach that long term backpackers often follow:

1. Start in low cost regions
Places like Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, or Latin America offer an incredibly low cost base.

2. Mix in moderate cost countries
Think Portugal, Greece, Mexico, or Vietnam for the perfect balance between affordability and activity.

3. Save high cost cities for shorter stays
Use your hostel savings from earlier legs to enjoy places like Copenhagen or Vancouver without stress.

4. Stay longer where prices are low
The longer your stay, the lower your average cost becomes, especially in affordable areas.

Hostels make this flow easy because they exist at every price level.

12. Why Hostelworld Helps Travelers Go Further for Less

Hostelworld plays a big role in helping backpackers make smart, budget friendly choices. The platform highlights reviews, amenities, and deals in a clear way that makes decision making simple.

Some reasons travelers rely on Hostelworld:

• Accurate reviews from real backpackers
• Clear breakdowns of amenities
• Filters that help travelers match their budget
• Reliable maps and directions
• Exclusive hostel deals
• A huge community that supports budget travel

The platform is designed to empower travelers with the information they need to spend less and travel more. For anyone planning a long adventure, those savings quickly become transformative.

Hostels Turn Budget Travel Into a Longer Journey

Budget backpacking is not about cutting fun from a trip. It is about stretching your adventure so you can experience more of the world without draining your funds. Hostels support that goal in every way. Affordable dorm beds, shared kitchens, free events, community connections, discounts, and seasonal savings all work together to make travel more accessible.

With Hostelworld, backpackers can compare prices easily, find cheap hostels that match their style, and make confident choices that save money from day one. The result is a longer, richer, more meaningful journey.

Hostels are not only a place to sleep. They are the reason so many people can travel further, stay longer, and create unforgettable memories along the way.

If you are planning a budget friendly adventure, hostels are your secret weapon. And Hostelworld is where every great backpacking story begins.

Download the Hostelworld app to start booking now

FAQ: Budget Backpacking

The post Budget Backpacking: How Hostels Stretch Your Trip Further appeared first on Hostelworld Travel Blog.

Jump straight to:

1. The best time to visit Belize
2. Belize visa
3. Travelling around Belize
4. Accommodation in Belize
5. Best places to visit in Belize
6. Belize itinerary
7. Belize costs
8. Belize food
9. Belize culture
10. Belize safety
11. Belize travel advice

Best time to visit Belize

Belize weather is rainy. Really, really rainy. So rainy, in fact, that the six-odd feet of feet of precipitation that dumps down on Belize City every year is more than the annual rainfall of London, Paris and Berlin combined. So it’s no surprise that the brief three-month dry spell between February and April — combined with the Christmas and New Year’s crowds that roll in over December and January — form Belize’s high season, while the wettest months (September and October) are the quietest for travellers.

The other side of all this tropical Belize weather? The heat. Temperatures hover between the mid 20s to low 30s year round across the country. It’s warmest in soggy June and coolest in relatively dry January, and the mercury rarely dips below 20 anywhere at any time of year. Belize is so small that you’ll hardly notice any difference in climate as you travel around — hot and humid is the weather forecast wherever, whenever.

Even during the rainy season, you’ll see heaps of blue sky poking through the clouds. Belize’s greyest month is September, where you can still expect as many sunshine hours — about 180 in total — as Edinburgh enjoys in the middle of summer. That’s why the country is so lush and green — especially in the interior, where there’s a slightly higher chance of rain year-round.

High season (December to April)

When the Christmas decorations go up in December, so do the hostel room rates. Belize’s high season stretches from the beginning of December to the end of April, when the rain rolls in and the crowds roll out. The price of your hostel bed can leap by as much as 50% between mid-December and mid-January — like most places, Belize’s travel hotspots are busiest over Christmas and New Year’s — then spike again over Easter. You’ll need a reservation (and a healthy bank account) over these periods, but the rest of the dry season is arguably the best time to visit Belize.

January’s dry weather signals the start of prime bird-watching season, and the calmer conditions also make it easier to spot marine life, too — the glassy waters during dry season supply the top snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities. This is also the time of year when whale sharks come to feed off the coast of southern Belize, particularly around the Gladden Spit Marine Reserve near Placencia over the full moons of March, April, May and June.

February means Fiesta de Carnaval in San Pedro, and Semana Santa celebrations grip Belize over Easter. One of the few downsides to visiting Belize late in high season is that there won’t be much lobster on the menu — February 15 begins crustaceans’ spawning season, and the fishing nets are put away until June, so you’ll go hungry if you were saving your appetite for dirt-cheap, ocean-fresh lobster.

Low season (June to October)

If you’re not afraid to get wet, budget travellers can save bucketloads while the rain buckets down. The showers start in June and July before persistent rainfall sets in during August, September and October, when the threat of a hurricane lingers. Savvy backpackers can sniff out bargain tours and accommodation but many places are closed, particularly around September, as rain plays havoc with the roads in remote rural areas.

Lobster season kicks off with a string of food festivals up and down the coast, particularly Caye Caulker, Placencia and San Pedro, as well as Hopkins’ mango fest. The fiesta continues into the Costa Maya Festival in San Pedro in late July, which brings Central America to Ambergris Caye to celebrate the region’s shared heritage.

September celebrations rumble from the Battle of St George’s Caye Day on September 10 until Independence Day on September 21, as every town across Belize throws their own patriotic parades, processions and parties. That’s pretty much the only reason to visit during the height of hurricane season, when many hostels close, unpaved roads are muddy, cave tubing is too dangerous and choppy waters ruin the diving.

 @michielton

Shoulder season (May and November)

May and November are perhaps the two best months to visit Belize. Like Goldilocks would say if she was backpacking through Central America, it’s not too rainy, not too crowded, and just right. High season winds down after Easter but the rain doesn’t really arrive until June, leaving a neat little window in May. Then the storms ease up in November but the tourists don’t really return until North America starts to freeze around Thanksgiving, making November a great time to visit too.

Need a sweetener? Punta Gorda hosts a chocolate festival in May to celebrate all things Maya, while on November 19, the beaches of the south coast are awash with rum and drums to toast Garifuna Settlement Day. Los Finados — Belize’s answer to Mexico’s Día de Muertos, with similarly colourful tributes to the dead — is another important date on the calendar on the first two days of November.

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Belize?

For most travellers, no visa is required to enter Belize. If you’re from the EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Japan, South Korea, Israel, most of Latin America, or several other countries listed on the Belize Immigration website, you can enter visa-free for up to 30 days.

You’re also exempt if you hold a multiple-entry visa or permanent residency for the US, Canada, or the Schengen Area. If your country isn’t on the visa-free list, check the immigration website for application details.

Entry Requirements for Belize

Entering Belize is simple whether you arrive by air, land, or sea. You’ll need:

• A valid passport

• Possibly proof of funds or onward travel (rarely asked)

You’ll receive a 30-day entry stamp, which you can extend monthly for up to six months at any immigration office across Belize’s six districts.

Belize Departure Tax

While most travellers don’t need a visa, everyone pays a departure tax:

• By air: US$55.50 (usually included in flight prices)

• By land or sea: BZ$40 or US$20 (cash only)

• Via Placencia water taxi: BZ$7.50 (US$3.75), which covers the PACT fee supporting Belize’s protected areas

Crossing Borders from Belize

Water taxis to Mexico, like the popular route from Caye Caulker to Chetumal, are busy with backpackers heading to Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or Cancún. Be prepared for strict customs checks — including sniffer dogs — due to regional drug trafficking.

You can also cross into Guatemala via San Ignacio to Flores, the only land border between the two countries. Despite a long-running territorial dispute between Belize and Guatemala, this route is safe and open for travellers. Just note the dotted-line border on maps — it’s symbolic, not an actual issue for visitors.

 @maher

Travelling around Belize

• Flying into Belize

Belize has two domestic airlines — Maya Island Air and Tropic Air — that run quick, convenient flights on small prop planes. The planes are tiny (some with fewer than 10 seats), and the routes are short but pricey. For example, Belize City to Caye Caulker takes just 10 minutes but costs around US$64, while a half-hour flight to San Ignacio starts from US$130.

Tropic and Maya both connect major destinations like Caye Caulker, San Pedro, Placencia, Punta Gorda, and Dangriga, with Tropic also flying internationally to Cancún, Flores, and Roatán.

Both airlines offer scenic flights over the Great Blue Hole and the reef — a splurge at around US$200+, but unforgettable.

Belize City has two airports: Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE), 16km from downtown, handles all international flights; Belize City Municipal (TZA) is closer and used for domestic routes. Always double-check which airport you’re flying from.

Most backpackers skip flying in and out of Belize due to the high cost of international flights. Luckily, there are easy land and sea connections to Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras, making flights unnecessary for budget travellers exploring Central America.

• Belize water taxi

A fleet of ferries putter between the mainland and the islands, particularly the well trodden route from Belize City to Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. How to get from Belize City to San Pedro and Caye Caulker isn’t difficult to figure out — Ocean Ferry Belize (five daily departures) and Belize Water Taxi (nine daily departures) are the two main operators, setting off from the Belize City ferry terminal near the Swing Bridge. On Ocean Ferry, the 45 minutes to Caye Caulker costs US$15 one-way and US$25 return, while the one hour and 15 minutes to San Pedro is US$23 one-way and US$35 return.

Belize Water Taxi is a little more expensive, but they’re also your ticket into Mexico. The daily boat to Chetumal in Mexico — your gateway to the Yucatán Peninsula, including Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Cancún — leaves Caye Caulker at 7am (US$55 one-way) then San Pedro at 8.30am (US$50 one-way).

The Thunderbolt boat also makes a daily run from Corozal — an untouristy town just south of the Mexican border — to San Pedro and back (BZ$50 one-way, BZ$90 return). Down the coast, the superbly named Hokey Pokey Water Taxi links Placencia with the mainland seven times a day, plus a series of charters between Placencia, Dangriga and Punta Gorda and ports in Honduras and Guatemala. Between the cays, water taxis are everywhere, and some river boats also chug around inland, such as the Lamanai Maya complex.

 @___yugen___

• Buses in Belize

To list every bus company in Belize would keep us here all week, and to transcribe their hand-scribbled timetables would take even more time. Long story short, there are loads of buses tackling three main routes out of Belize City, with most long-distance ones departing from the old Novelo’s terminal on West Collet Canal Street. One is the journey north to Corozal, en route to Mexico. The second goes west to San Ignacio, then onwards to Flores and the rest of Guatemala. Number three heads south, stopping in Dangriga, Independence (where you can hop on a water taxi to Placencia), and Punta Gorda.

All that competition means prices are consistently low. The bus from Belize City to San Ignacio, for example, takes a tick over two hours and costs around BZ$10, while the six-hour trip all the way down to Punta Gorda shouldn’t set you back any more than BZ$30. International buses are a little more pricey — you’ll pay more than BZ$100 for the twice-daily, 10-hour, air-conditioned ADO service from Belize City to Cancún via Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Express services are also often worth the extra couple of bucks, because they’re quicker and less crowded.

Although most buses in Belize are converted school buses shipped in from the United States, they’re not really like those sweaty, overcrowded chicken buses you see bumping through Latin America on TV shows. Sure, they’re hardly luxurious. But for a cheap way to cover the short distances between inland destinations, they’re perfectly fine.

• Driving in Belize

Renting a car can be a smart way to explore Belize on your own terms. Expect compact cars from around US$70–80 per day, with SUVs or high-clearance 4WDs around US$90–100 daily. If you split the cost with dorm mates, driving chapters like San Ignacio, Caracol, or Cockscomb Basin becomes much more affordable than booking repeated tours.

Road Network & Driving Conditions

Three main paved highways connect the country:

• Philip Goldson Highway to the north (toward Corozal)

• George Price Highway out west (to San Ignacio)

• Southern Highway heading south (to Placencia and Punta Gorda)

Secondary roads can be rough or impassable in the rainy season. A vehicle with higher clearance—ideally a 4WD—is recommended for rural journeys. Fuel runs about US$1.20 per litre, and distances are short—two hours to Corozal or San Ignacio, about four to Placencia or Punta Gorda.

Requirements & Rental Options

Most rentals require drivers aged 21 to 75, though the legal driving age in Belize is 18, and some locals may rent to younger drivers with a larger deposit. You’ll need a valid driver’s license (US licenses are accepted), a credit card, and proof of age.

Major rental brands like Avis, Budget, Hertz, Enterprise, and local operators such as AQ and Crystal operate from both the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) and downtown Belize City.

Safety Tips & Road Rules

Belizeans drive on the right side. Speed limits are typically 55 mph on highways, and 25–40 mph through towns. Seat belts are required in the front seat. Cell phone use while driving is illegal unless hands-free, and Belize has strict drunk driving laws (0 .08% BAC).

Avoid night driving, as potholes and unmarked speed bumps are hard to see in the dark. Road conditions vary and checkpoints are common—officers may inspect your license and registration.

Other Transport Modes

Golf carts, renting for similar daily rates, are popular in tourist towns like San Pedro and Placencia. Backpackers rarely use them but they’re a nice option if you don’t want to walk short distances around town.

Hitchhiking occurs in more remote areas too. It’s normal here, though bus prices are so low—generally under US$10—that it usually isn’t worth the risk for main routes.

Taxis Within Towns

Most taxi rides within Belizean towns cost a flat BZ$10, and airport transfers in Belize City typically cost BZ$50 for up to two passengers. Taxis are easy to avoid if you have a rental or use public buses.

Accommodation in Belize

Hostels in Belize are as laid-back as the locals — you can look forward to free rum punch, beachfront bars and hammocks hanging from every available hook. In the past, accommodation in Belize was difficult to book online — the backpackers of yesteryear just had to rock up on Caye Caulker and knock on doors to find a spare bunk — but the best properties are now listed so you can plan precisely where you’re sleeping.

Prices are seasonal — expect to pay around BZ$35-50 for a dorm and BZ$70-80 for a two-person private, but a bit more in high season, when you’ll need to make a reservation in advance if you’re travelling around Christmas, New Year’s and Easter. And there’s a couple of things to note with the price. Firstly, you’ll have to pay a 9% tourist tax on top of the rate listed. Secondly, a lot of places only take payment in cash. It will be noted in the hostel listing if so, but cash is king in South America so you should always be prepared, especially in rural areas.

 @lowerdoverbelize

Hostels in Caye Caulker

Not surprisingly, Belize’s backpacker hub is home to the best selection of budget accommodation in Belize. Dirty McNasty’s is the stuff of legend. Up and down Central America, backpackers ask each other ‘Did you stay at Dirty McNasty’s in Caye Caulker?’ — and being the biggest hostel in Belize, the answer is usually yes. The rooms are nothing fancy, but the atmosphere certainly is. This party hostel par excellence dishes up free breakfast every morning then scoops out free rum punch every evening, as well as offering free canoe rentals to paddle around the island.

Travellers Palm is another one of the top-rated hostels in Caye Caulker. Only 50 metres from the water, Travellers Palm boasts its own private dock and free-to-use kayaks, as well as a third-floor rooftop terrace slash kitchen with ocean views from the hammocks and lounges. Every room — both the clean, colourful dorms and the en-suite double-bed privates — has a fridge and a freezer, plus free tea, coffee and purified drinking water.

See more hostels in Caye Caulker

Hostels in San Pedro

Many backpackers skip Ambergris Caye altogether and head straight to Caye Caulker, so there aren’t many hostels in San Pedro for budget travellers who do choose to spend the night on this touristy atoll.

Sandbar is the go-to budget option, occupying a prime seaside location that would normally cost a fortune. Only a few blocks from the ferry terminal in the Boca Del Rio part of the island, Sandbar’s beachfront watering hole is kitted out with a small pool, plenty of hammocks and direct access to fluffy white sand that expensive resorts could only dream of. The aqua-hued 12-bed dorms and four-bed privates are equipped with privacy curtains, lockers and personal power points — and even though BZ$30+ is more than you’ll pay in other parts of Belize, it still represents great value for money in pricey San Pedro.

Sandbar

See more hostels in San Pedro

Hostels in Belize City

The country’s biggest metropolis is little more than a bus station to many backpackers, so you’re not exactly spoilt for choice when it comes to hostels in Belize City.

The Red Hut Inn is one dependable choice though, with four and eight bed dorms from BZ$30 and tidy privates from BZ$70. Although it’s about five kilometres (i.e. a BZ$10 cab ride) from downtown, the waterfront residential neighbourhood is a lot quieter than the city centre, especially on the roomy sun deck. The Red Hut Inn is also a good place to plan the rest of your Belize itinerary — the property organises car rental, private tours to Xunantunich and Altun Ha, plus electric bike rental to pedal around Belize City itself.

See more hostels in Belize City

Hostels in San Ignacio

Behind Caye Caulker, this town near the Guatemalan border is Belize’s second busiest backpacker destination — and that’s reflected in the excellent range of hostels in San Ignacio.

Bella’s is a good old-fashioned bohemian backpackers, from its fairy-lit rooftop full of new friends to the excellent kitchen and barbecue facilities. A family-run guesthouse close to the bars and restaurants of downtown San Ignacio, Bella’s also organises cave tubing trips and Maya ruin tours for guests of its cosy five and eleven-bed dorms and double-bed privates.

Bella’s Backpackers

A few blocks away on the banks of the Macal River, the Old House Hostel fills a stately British colonial home with a warm backpacker atmosphere throughout the sturdy timber dorms and one private room. You’ll often find owners Aldo and Davina chatting to guests on the balcony couches in the evening, if they’re not hosting live music in the creative art space slash Soul Project bar downstairs. The hostel also hosts a free walking tour plus trips to the ATM cave, Maya temples, waterfalls and all the other adventures that surround San Ignacio.

See more hostels in San Ignacio

Hostels in Placencia

Placencia is another place where baby boomers outnumber backpackers, meaning hotels outnumber hostels too.

Anda Di Hows Hostel — that’s ‘under the house’, if you don’t read Kriol — became the first real backpacker’s in the village when owner Pandora opened a single 10-bed dorm beneath the stilts that prop up her own home. A night in that room costs BZ$25, which is a bargain for this spectacular beachfront location at the southern end of the peninsula, especially when each bed comes with its own individual fan and locker, plus access to the kitchen, veranda, hammocks, barbecue, kayaks and snorkel gear. Quirky touches like the glass wall made of bottles in the bathroom and a curvy bar to mix your own drinks in the kitchen infuse plenty of character, and since Pandora lives upstairs, reception is pretty much open 24 hours.

See other hostels in Placencia

Hostels in Hopkins

Sitting in the middle of this serene Garifuna village, The Funky Dodo is Hopkins summed up in a hostel, with a vibe as relaxing as the town itself. This property is spacious, from the 14-bed dorm and the twin and double privates to the alfresco kitchen and the hammock-laden common areas, shaded by dangling palm trees just a stroll from the beach. Owners Roy and Anna can also organise a range of tours from just US$30, which is great value if you haven’t got a car — cave tubing, zip lining, snorkelling, plus expeditions out to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, Mayflower Bocawina National Park and a night-time crocodile spotting adventure are all possible here.

The Funky Dodo

See other hostels in Hopkins

Best places to visit in Belize

Belize might only be 290 kilometres long and 110 kilometres wide — roughly the same size as Israel, Slovenia or Central American compadre El Salvador — but this compact country packs plenty inside its bite-sized borders.

Belize islands

The Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest coral system in the world, home to over 100 coral species and 500 types of fish — and scientists say that’s just the beginning. Scattered along this reef are dozens of idyllic islands, or cayes, offering crystal-clear water, powdery sand, and an ultra-laid-back vibe.

The two main islands to visit are Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye.

Caye Caulker: Belize’s Backpacker Island

Caye Caulker is the beating heart of Belize’s backpacker scene. The entire island follows the motto “Go Slow”, and it delivers exactly that: no cars, just bikes and sandy paths. The reggae soundtrack, Rastafarian tour guides, and spicy Creole cooking make the Caribbean influence feel strongest here.

There’s not a huge list of attractions — and that’s the appeal. Spend your days swimming off docks, lounging at the Split, or hopping on a snorkelling tour to the nearby Hol Chan Marine Reserve. You’ll spot nurse sharks, sting rays, and schools of fish in water so clear it looks filtered.

 @maeganluckiesh

The Split & Lazy Lizard Bar

The most famous spot on the island is The Split, a narrow channel dividing Caye Caulker in two. You can swim here, but most people hang out at the Lazy Lizard, a waterfront bar with tables in the water and cold Belikin beers in hand. For more nightlife, I&I Reggae Bar and Koko King Beach Club keep the good vibes going after dark.

Surfing in Belize? Not Really

Because of the reef, surfing in Belize is basically nonexistent. There are no real waves around Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye. The only surfable spot is Long Caye near Glover’s Reef, but it’s remote and mostly for experienced surfers with their own gear.

Ambergris Caye: Bigger, Pricier, More Polished

Ambergris Caye, just north of Caye Caulker, is Belize’s largest island. It’s more built-up, more expensive, and attracts an older, resort-hopping crowd. The town of San Pedro is lively but lacks the easygoing charm of Caye Caulker.

Tour prices from Ambergris Caye can be double those from Caye Caulker, even for the same snorkelling sites. That said, it’s still a beautiful place — and if you’re curious, you can always visit San Pedro as a day trip from Caye Caulker via a short water taxi ride.

Belize City

Belize City is often a pitstop rather than an overnight stay for travellers, but it’s got enough to occupy a day or two. Only 100,000 people live in Belize’s largest city — there are four bigger towns in next-door neighbour Guatemala, for comparison — so it’s not as big and crazy as most Central American metropolises. Oh, and fun fact: it’s not the capital either. That distinction goes to Belmopan — a centrally planned city halfway between here and San Ignacio that backpackers should only really visit to extend their visa, if they need to.

There are plenty of places to visit in Belize City — the colonial architecture of the old town, the One Barrel rum factory and the stately Museum of Belize, plus the Maya ruins of Altun Ha and Lamanai and the rescued animals at Belize Zoo not far from the city. But steer clear of the waterfront Tourism Village and the attached Fort Street Plaza (or at least keep your wallet in your pocket while you’re there) — that’s the cruise ship terminal bustling where baby boomers pay a bundle for overpriced souvenirs to stuff into their suitcases.

Looking for Belize City beaches? You’ll be disappointed, because they don’t exist. But just wait for the islands Belize is famous for. Belize City nightlife, on the other hand, comes alive on Fridays and Saturdays — keep an ear out for the punta music pumping out of the venues along Newtown Barracks Road. It’s harder to find a good party during the week, though.

Belize jungle

While the coast brings Caribbean charm, Belize’s interior is all jungle and ancient mystery. Over 60% of the country is forested, and more than a third is protected land — even more than Costa Rica. This makes it the perfect place to escape the crowds and dive into lush, untamed nature.

Expect howler monkeys, jaguars, colorful butterflies, and toucans, along with misty jungle trails and remote Maya ruins.

San Ignacio: Jungle Base Camp

The town of San Ignacio, near the Guatemalan border, is the main base for jungle adventures. It’s laid-back, affordable, and packed with tour operators.

From here, you can head out to:

• Caracol: One of the biggest Maya cities in Central America, buried deep in the jungle. It once held more people than Belize City and still feels epic today.

• Xunantunich: Just a short trip away, near Benque, this site is smaller than Caracol but incredibly well preserved and easy to reach.

The ATM Cave: Ancient, Dark, and Unforgettable

No jungle trip is complete without the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave. It’s part archaeology, part adventure. You’ll swim, hike, and crawl through a massive underground cave lined with ceremonial pottery, sacrificial remains, and the Crystal Maiden, a calcified skeleton that sparkles in the dark.

Outdoor Activities in the Jungle

San Ignacio also gives you access to plenty of active experiences:

• Cave tubing at Nohoch Che’en

• Horse riding with Mountain Equestrian Trails

• Canoeing through Barton Creek Cave

• Ziplining at Calico Jack’s

• Wildlife encounters at the Green Iguana Conservation Project

Belizean Chocolate: Sweet Finish to the Forest

After all the hiking and caving, treat yourself with a visit to a cacao farm. Belize has a strong chocolate-making tradition dating back to the Maya. Tours around San Ignacio show you how it’s made the traditional way — and yes, you’ll get to taste plenty of samples.

Southern Belize

Garifuna Culture on the Coast

Southern Belize starts with the towns of Dangriga and Hopkins, known for their deep Garifuna roots. The Garifuna people, descendants of Africans and Indigenous Caribbeans who escaped slavery in the 1600s, bring a strong cultural presence to the area. Expect drumming on the beaches, simple village life, and a much quieter atmosphere than the islands or inland towns. It’s an ideal stop for travellers looking to connect with local culture away from the crowds.

Placencia: Picture-Perfect, But Polished

At the end of a long, skinny peninsula, Placencia offers some of the best beaches in Belize. Think white sand, leaning palms, and clear water that looks too good to be real. It’s more resort-heavy than hostel-friendly, but many still stop for the beach life and access to reef trips. From here, you can head to Glover’s Reef for remote diving and even the country’s only real surf spot at Long Caye.

Placencia is also a popular jumping-off point for trips to the Great Blue Hole — Belize’s most iconic dive site. You can scuba dive, snorkel, or take a scenic flight over this massive offshore sinkhole. At over 300 metres wide and 125 metres deep, it’s a top-tier destination for divers, especially those certified to go deep and explore the ancient stalactites below. It’s pricey, but it’s a true once-in-a-lifetime dive.

 @nicossuave

Cockscomb Basin & Wildlife Encounters

Inland from Hopkins and Placencia, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the world’s only dedicated jaguar reserve. While the cats are rarely seen, the trails are excellent, the waterfalls refreshing, and the wildlife abundant — with good chances of spotting tapirs, toucans, deer, and more. It’s a great add-on for nature lovers looking to explore the jungle without heavy crowds.

Punta Gorda: Low-Key and Off the Map

Further south, Punta Gorda is a quiet fishing town that rarely makes the highlight reels — which is exactly why some travellers love it. Once mainly used for ferry access to Guatemala, it’s now a relaxing spot to spend a couple of days. Visit the nearby Maya ruins of Lubaantun and San Antonio, hike through Rio Blanco National Park, or explore Blue Creek Cave, where jungle meets underground river in a serene, under-the-radar setting.

Belize itinerary

With the bars and beaches of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula to the north and the tropical jungle of Guatemala to the west, Belize is a stepping stone between two of Central America’s more famous attractions — and that means it might be hard to find more than a couple of days in your schedule for Belize. If so, make Caye Caulker your number one priority.

Short stays

If you’ve only got four days, staying entirely on Caye Caulker might be your best move. This laid-back island is just a 45-minute ferry ride from Belize City and offers the quintessential backpacker vibe: sandy lanes, peaceful beaches like the Split, cold Belikins, slushy Lazy Lizard Juice cocktails, and plenty of seafood.

Island Life: Lounge, Eat & Chill

You could spend all four days floating in the paddling pool at the Lazy Lizard, snacking on lobster burritos, and sampling free rum punch at Dirty McNasty’s. That’s exactly how many travelers define “vacation mode” on Caye Caulker.

Optional Day Trips: Reef Snorkeling Tours

If you want to explore Belize’s reef, you can book a full-day snorkeling tour to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley. These trips depart from Caye Caulker, include lunch and snorkel gear, and cost around US $90–100 per person.

5-Day Itineraries: Add a Mainland Trip

On a five-day plan, you can do another day snorkeling or take a day trip from Belize City. From the city you can visit ATM Cave tubing, explore Maya ruins like Altun Ha or Lamanai, or enjoy nearby wildlife sanctuaries such as Crooked Tree or the Belize Zoo. Given Belize’s small size, almost any point of interest can be reached in a day.

Border Hops to Guatemala or Mexico

If your itinerary continues to Guatemala or Mexico, you can easily cross borders after your island adventure. From Caye Caulker, ferry back to Belize City and hop on a bus to Flores for Tikal. To enter Mexico, take the Water Taxi to Chetumal.

7-Day Belize Itinerary: Island Plus Mainland Highlights

With a week, split your time: four days on Caye Caulker, then launch into a mainland portion. If you’re heading to Guatemala, base yourself in San Ignacio for cave tubing, ATM Cave, Xunantunich, and other ruins. Going toward Honduras? Explore Garifuna culture in Dangriga and beaches in Placencia, before ferrying to Puerto Cortés and onward to the Bay Islands.

Longer Belize itinerary

Belize may be small, but a 2-week itinerary gives you plenty of time to explore its islands, jungles, beaches, and Maya ruins.

Start on the Islands: Caye Caulker (3 Days)

Most backpackers skip San Pedro and head straight to Caye Caulker, where the vibe is more relaxed and budget-friendly. Spend your time snorkelling, sunbathing, and enjoying laid-back beach bars. This is the ideal place to unwind and get into the rhythm of Belize.

Short Stop in Belize City (2 Days)

While Belize City itself isn’t a must-see, it’s a useful base for day trips to nearby wildlife reserves and Maya ruins. Stay a night or two to explore the surrounding area before heading inland.

Explore the Jungle: San Ignacio (3 Days)

Head west to San Ignacio, Belize’s top adventure hub. The ATM Cave is a must — a Maya archaeological site reached by swimming and wading through a cave system. Other highlights include cave tubing, Caracol ruins, and waterfalls in Mountain Pine Ridge. Most tours cost around US$100, so consider carpooling or renting a vehicle to save.

Head South: Hopkins or Dangriga (2 Days)

These laid-back towns on the coast are perfect for wildlife and culture. Explore Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the world’s only jaguar reserve, go ziplining in Mayflower Bocawina National Park, or visit a Maya chocolate factory. Mornings are best for wildlife hikes before the heat and tour groups arrive.

 @bbaker

Beach Time: Placencia (2 Days)

Placencia offers some of Belize’s best beaches and snorkelling. If you’re here between March and June, you may even spot whale sharks near Gladden Split. This is also a launch point for diving trips to the Great Blue Hole, especially for certified scuba divers.

Slow Down in Punta Gorda (1–2 Days)

End your trip with a couple of quiet days in Punta Gorda, a peaceful spot in the far south. Visit nearby Maya sites like Lubaantun, explore Rio Blanco National Park, or go caving at Blue Creek Cave. From here, it’s easy to continue on to Guatemala or Honduras.

Adjusting the Route

If you’re heading to Tikal or Flores next, reverse the itinerary — explore the coast first, then finish in San Ignacio before crossing the border. Coming from the south? Flip the trip and move north toward Mexico.

Got More Time?

Extra days are best spent slowing down in your favorite places. You could also check out Corozal or Orange Walk in northern Belize, both of which offer access to Lamanai, Crooked Tree, and the Rio Bravo Conservation Area. Otherwise, don’t be surprised if Caye Caulker draws you back in — that island has a way of turning a few days into a few weeks.

Belize costs

How expensive is Belize?

Belize is one of the pricier countries in Central America, especially compared to neighbors like Guatemala or Honduras. Prices are more in line with Caribbean islands, particularly in popular tourist spots like San Pedro and Placencia, and during high season (December to April).

If you’re coming from other Central American countries, be ready to increase your daily budget.

Daily Costs in Belize

• Budget travellers can get by on US$30–40 per day, including food, transport, and dorm accommodation.

• With a few extras — like a private hostel room and seafood dinner — aim for US$50 per day.

• Tours are the biggest extra cost, averaging US$70–100 each.

Accommodation & Transport

• Dorm beds: US$10–15

• Private rooms: from US$35

• Local buses: rarely more than US$10

• Taxis: usually around US$5 per ride

Caye Caulker and San Ignacio are more budget-friendly than San Pedro or Placencia.

 @charleslesliejr

Food & Drink Prices

Food is affordable by Western standards but slightly more expensive than in neighboring countries.

• Local meals: US$5

• Grilled lobster: around US$10

• Belikin beer: about US$2

• Rum: even cheaper

• Street food: from a couple of Belize dollars

Tours and Activities

Belize’s main costs come from day tours, as many top attractions are remote and need guided access.

• ATM cave, Caracol ruins, Cockscomb jaguar reserve, and Hol Chan snorkelling: typically US$75–100+ per tour

• Great Blue Hole: from US$200, mostly worth it if you’re a certified diver

• Car rental: starts at US$50/day — can save money for groups

Entry fees are usually low (e.g. US$5 for Xunantunich, US$15 for Belize Zoo), but transport and guides add up.

If you’re on a tight budget, pick the experiences that matter most. For example, if you’re heading to Tikal or snorkelling in Honduras, you might skip similar tours in Belize and save that cash for food, drinks, or travel elsewhere.

Belize currency

Belize uses the Belizean dollar (BZ$), but US dollars are accepted almost everywhere. The exchange rate is simple: BZ$2 equals US$1. So if your dorm bed costs BZ$20, you’re paying US$10.

At the time of writing, that’s around €9, £8, or CA$15 / AU$15 / NZ$15.

Paying in Belizean or US Dollars

Prices are often listed as BZ$ or US$. If you’re unsure which currency is being quoted, just ask.

• Big expenses (like tours): usually in US dollars

• Everyday purchases (meals, groceries, local transport): usually in Belizean dollars

Belizean Cash: Notes and Coins

• Banknotes: BZ$2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 — all feature a young Queen Elizabeth.

• Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents, plus $1 coins.

Getting Cash in Belize

Rather than paying high fees at currency exchange booths, it’s smart to pay in US dollars and ask for change in Belizean dollars. This trick works well if you’re only in the country for a short stay.

You’ll need cash on hand. Credit and debit cards are accepted at some hotels and restaurants, but many places — including hostels — only take cash.

Using ATMs in Belize

ATMs can be unreliable. Some don’t accept foreign cards or run out of cash frequently. Your best bet is to use:

• Belize Bank

• Atlantic Bank

• ScotiaBank

These banks have branches in most towns travellers visit. Still, it’s smart to carry a backup card or keep a small emergency stash of cash tucked away in your bag.

 @epicurrence

Belize food culture

Belize’s cuisine is a delicious blend of Caribbean, Central American, and African influences, much like its people. Staples like rice, beans, coconut, and seafood form the foundation of many dishes — especially in coastal areas where the catch of the day is king.

Expect to find snapper and grouper on most menus, along with barracuda steak, tangy ceviche, and grilled lobster (especially affordable and fresh along the coast). Just note that lobster season is closed from February 15 to June 15 — any lobster served during that period is either frozen or illegally caught.

Mestizo and Maya Cuisine

The inland town of San Ignacio is the best spot to try Mestizo and Maya dishes, rich with local spices and tradition.

• Caldo – A hearty chicken soup infused with Maya spices like annatto (a nutty, peppery seed).

• Escabeche – Chicken in a tangy, onion-heavy broth.

• Chimole (Black Dinner) – Chicken in a dark, spicy marinade.

These groups also gifted Belize with some of its most popular street food:

• Cochinita Pibil – Melt-in-your-mouth slow-roasted pork with pickled red onions, wrapped in tortillas.

• Tamales – Ancient Maya pockets of chicken, pork or veg steamed in banana leaves.

• Panades – Deep-fried tortillas stuffed with smoked fish, topped with cortido (a spicy onion-vinegar sauce).

• Garnaches – Fried mini pizzas topped with beans, cheese, onions and cortido.

• Salbutes – Similar to garnaches, but topped with chicken, cabbage and peppers.

Creole Comfort Food

Creole cuisine is hearty and filling, typically centered around rice and beans with a protein.

• Bile Up (Boil Up) – A signature dish with boiled eggs, fish, pig tail, cassava, sweet potatoes, plantains and more, all drenched in tomato sauce.

• Fry Jacks & Johnny Cakes – Belizean breakfast staples, served sweet or savoury.

• Cow Foot Soup – Exactly what it sounds like — a gelatinous, savory soup.

• Stretch Mi Guts – A Creole dessert of chewy toffee, amusingly named and very sweet.

Garifuna Specialties

The Garifuna people, descendants of West Africans and indigenous Caribs, contribute a variety of plantain- and cassava-based dishes:

• Seré – A rich fish stew simmered in coconut milk.

• Ereba – Dense cassava pancakes, often served with seafood.

The Royal Rat and Other Exotic Eats

For the adventurous foodie, Belize offers gibnut, a large rodent famously served to Queen Elizabeth in 1985 — earning it the nickname “royal rat.” Usually grilled or stewed, it’s a prized local delicacy. Other rodents? Not recommended.

Belizean Drinks: From Beer to Seaweed Shakes

Belikin is the national beer, known for its label featuring the Altun Ha temple. It comes in:

• Lager and light lager

• Stout (including sugarcane, sorrel, and chocolate varieties)

Other options include:

• Lighthouse Lager – Another Belizean brew

• Imported Caribbean beers – Like Red Stripe, Carib, and Guinness

Rum is the country’s go-to spirit. Look for:

• One Barrel – Belize’s most famous gold rum, made by Travellers Liquors, who also run a museum in Belize City.

• Cuello’s Distillery – Based in Orange Walk and producing a range of local rums.

The iconic Belizean cocktail? The Panty Ripper — coconut rum mixed with pineapple juice, especially popular in Caye Caulker.

The Seaweed Shake: Belize’s Superfood Smoothie

Don’t leave without trying a seaweed shake — a thick, frothy blend of milk, cinnamon, cream, sugar, dried seaweed, and ice, often flavored with fruit or vanilla to mask the oceanic taste. Said to boost your health and your libido, this marine milkshake is a local elixir you’ll find in juice bars and cafés across the country.

Belize culture

Central America’s youngest independent nation has a history that stretches back much further than that. Maya civilisation flourished in the region now known as Belize until the Spanish and the British rocked up in the 16th and 17th Centuries, decimating the population. Britain won a war calling dibs on the area in 1798 and it remained a colony (known as British Honduras) until Belize became independent from the UK in 1981.

Belize language

That colonial history explains why Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America, giving English-speakers a break from all that Spanish they’ve been mangling throughout the rest of the region. TV is in English, menus are in English, bus timetables are in English and the locals speak English. Spanish is spoken by about 30% of the population, especially closer to the Guatemalan border, including a local dialect called kitchen Spanish. But for English speakers, the Belize language barrier is non-existent.

Although the official language might be English, Creole — spelled Kriol in that tongue — is a source of great national pride. Originally the language of the Creole people and based on English with some American and African dialect sprinkled in, Kriol is now spoken by most Belizeans and is a big part of the country’s identity. Because it’s derived from English, you’ll be able to interpret some of it… until the conversation screeches to a halt with ‘Me noh andastan’ (I don’t understand).

Belize people

Expect to hear one piece of Kriol — the warm greeting of ‘Aarait?’ (Alright?) — from loads of strangers on the street, just one example of how easygoing Belize people are. The locals are extremely welcoming of tourists, and in general the Belize culture and lifestyle is incredibly laid back, which is a huge part of the nation’s Caribbean charm.

Belize is home to just over 400,000 people — roughly the size of Bristol, New Orleans, or about three apartment blocks in downtown Hong Kong. But the population is incredibly diverse for such a small group of people.

There are three main ethnic groups — the indigenous Maya and Mestizos (people of mixed Maya and European heritage), Creoles (descendants of African slaves), and Garifuna, indigenous to the Caribbean island of St Vincent before fleeing slavery to Central America. Half of the Belize people are Mestizo, one fifth are Creole, and a small but important five per cent are Garifuna. One in ten are Maya, mainly made up of the Yucatec, Mopan and Qʼeqchiʼ groups in the south of the country, who each have their own language.

You’ll notice more Mestizos and Maya inland, strong Creole culture around Belize City and the cays, and Garifuna influences on the south coast, particularly towns like Hopkins and Punta Gorda. There’s also sizeable Chinese, Indian and Middle Eastern communities — former prime minister Said Musa was of Palestinian descent — and even a population of Amish-style German Mennonites.

Belize is also a deeply religious country — roughly 40% Catholic, 40% Protestant, followed by a collection of smaller faiths and a growing number of people with no religion. That religious streak explains why Belize culture can be quite conservative — same-sex sexual activity was only legalised here in 2016.

 @vincefleming

Creole culture

Creoles used to be the biggest ethnic group in Belize until recently, which is why Creole culture is such a huge part of Belize culture, especially the Caribbean vibe the country is famous for. A massive diaspora of Belizeans live abroad too — there’s 160,000 living in the United States, most of them Creole.

Wherever they live, language is key to Creole culture. Historically Kriol was only spoken by Creoles, but being the majority of the population for so long, the whole country adopted the vernacular. Even today, when only one in five Belizean residents is ethnically Creole, the majority of people speak their language. Meals like coconut rice and beans, bile up and cow foot stew are also key dishes in the national cuisine.

Music is another important expression of Creole culture — the calypso-inspired brukdown genre in particular. Wilfred Peters, better known as Mr Peetaz, is a national icon for his brukdong myoozik performances over a 60-year career before he passed away in 2010.

Belize culture and lifestyle

The Caribbean tunes that infuse the cays’ sandy streets are the perfect reflection of Belize culture and lifestyle. On top of brukdown, a modern genre that evolved out of calypso’s African rhythms, punta is Belize’s most iconic style.

These Garifuna beats provide the perfect party soundtrack, especially contemporary punta rock. Punta is normally performed in indigenous Garifuna dialects dating back centuries and accompanied by a dance where a hip-swinging couple is surrounded by a circle of eager dancers itching to shimmy into the spotlight themselves. Andy Palacio is the biggest name in punta if you want to plug him into your Spotify.

Belize also imports reggae from the Caribbean, plus everything coming out of the US. But marimba-heavy Maya and Mestizo music survives in the north of the country, where a version of cumbia — more famous in Colombia and Panama at the other end of Central America — is also mega popular.

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Belize’s crime statistics aren’t exactly glowing — it ranks as the seventh highest murder rate per capita in the world, largely due to its role in drug trafficking routes into Mexico. But unless your backpacking dreams involve becoming the next Tony Montana, this side of Belize won’t touch you. For travellers, Belize generally feels safer than neighbouring countries like Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras.

Safety in Belize City

Belize City is the one part of the country where travellers should be more cautious, especially in the Southside area (south of Haulover Creek). It’s wise to:

• Avoid unlit or unfamiliar streets at night

• Keep a low profile (don’t wear flashy jewelry or wave around your iPhone)

• Steer clear of anyone sketchy-looking

• Not play hero in the unlikely event of a mugging

Most crime here doesn’t involve tourists, but petty theft and opportunistic crime do happen.

 @vincefleming

Safety in the Rest of Belize

Outside Belize City, safety concerns drop significantly. Travellers generally feel very comfortable, especially in popular destinations like Caye Caulker, San Pedro, Placencia, and San Ignacio. Just follow basic safety practices:

• Don’t get too drunk and wander off alone

• Keep your valuables secure

• Lock your hostel or hotel room

• Be aware of your surroundings on public transport and beaches

For most backpackers, the biggest threat is overindulging in rum and lobster, not violent crime.

Natural Hazards in Belize

In Belize, Mother Nature can be more dangerous than any pickpocket:

• Swimming & Snorkelling: Don’t swim after a heavy meal or too many drinks, and always follow your dive instructor’s advice.

• Wildlife: Watch out for snakes, spiders, stingrays and nurse sharks — they don’t usually pose a threat unless provoked.

• Sun Exposure: The Caribbean sun is strong — wear sunscreen or risk lobster-level sunburn.

• Hurricanes: Belize’s hurricane season is August to October. Notably, Hurricane Earl (2016) caused over US$110 million in damage.

Travel Insurance Is a Must

You might never need it, but if something goes wrong, you’ll wish you had travel insurance. A few hundred dollars can save you tens of thousands if you need medical evacuation, emergency care, or reimbursements for stolen gear.

Belize travel advice

Belize vaccinations

Your recommended Belize vaccinations are hepatitis A, hepatitis B, chickenpox, measles, tetanus-diphtheria, typhoid and yellow fever. If that list makes your head spin, just head to a travel doctor a couple of months before you set off and ask them for all the necessary jabs.

One thing you can’t be vaccinated against though, are mosquitos. Mozzies are particularly annoying during the wet season (June to October) and sometimes carry tropical diseases like malaria. Sand flies are a pest on the islands, too. Pack a strong insect repellent — look for the heavy-duty stuff containing DEET for maximum protection.

You’ll also want to pack a first-aid kit to help with food poisoning — one of those ever-present risks in Central America — as well as any nicks you pick up in the jungle. That means some antidiarrheal medication and rehydration salts to bounce back after a couple of days perched on the porcelain throne, plus antibiotic ointment, cortisone and bandages for minor bumps and cuts.

Tap water is generally safe to drink, but many hostels also offer their own purified source of H2O. And as bad as it is for the environment, bottled water is super cheap, too. Don’t stress too much about a day or two with a grumbling tummy — head to the doc if any stomach complaints last more than three days. Belize’s public hospitals aren’t great, which is another great advertisement for travel insurance, ideally with medical evacuation included.

What to pack for Belize

When you see a sign saying ‘No shirt, no shoes, no problem’ on Caye Caulker, you should take the message seriously. On the cays, anything more than swimwear is pretty much considered formalwear, so pack your bikini, your board shorts and your sandals to shuffle around in. T-shirts and shorts generally do the trick — the temperature rarely dips below 25 degrees, so backpackers rarely need to back anything heavier, besides a raincoat and an umbrella during wet season. Don’t worry about bringing anything dressy to go out in — Belize’s nightspots aren’t that stuffy.

Unless you’re planning to camp overnight in one of Belize’s many nature reserves, there’s no need to pack boots and head torches and all those other things that only ever end up at the bottom of your backpack when you’re staying at a hostel. And even though Belize City has a slightly dodgy reputation, there’s no need to wear a dorky travel belt — a place would have to be life-threateningly dangerous to justify one of those crimes against dignity.

 @kween_photos

Ready to backpack Belize after reading our ultimate guide? Start planning that trip now and in no time you’ll be chilling on the shores of Caye Caulker with a Lazy Lizard cocktail in hand and a newly-found chill outlook on life. Bliss! Anything you still wanna know? Let us know in the comments!

About the author:

Tom Smith is an Australian writer living in Manchester. Obsessed with sport and travel, Tom has watched cricket in Cardiff, football in Fortaleza, baseball in the Bay Area, and there’s still plenty more to tick off the bucket list yet. Read more of his work here.

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Backpacking Belize

The post Backpacking Belize 2025: Best Hostels, Tips & Things to Do appeared first on Hostelworld Travel Blog.

So, ready for our best backpacking hygiene tips? We’ll dive into everything from washing your clothes to the must-have products to pack.

Tips for staying clean and healthy as a backpacker

If you’re heading off the beaten track, learning some nifty tricks to stay clean and healthy will be vital for your wellbeing.

1. Wash whenever you can

While staying in a traditional hostel means ample opportunities for showering, those who opt to camp-out may find washing regularly a little trickier. You can still keep clean by taking refreshing dips in fresh lakes or rivers (check they’re safe to swim in first!) and by collecting water in small containers for a makeshift shower or sponge bath. Practicing smart backpacking hygiene helps you stay comfortable no matter your location.

2. Keep your feet as clean as possible

Our feet can get all sorts of nasty fungal infections if we don’t keep them clean. Make sure you wash your feet whenever you can to remove sweat and dirt. Allow them time to breathe every day by taking off your closed shoes or wearing sandals. It’s also never a good idea to reuse dirty socks unless you absolutely have to as they can be crawling with bacteria after several days of wear. Yuck! Good foot care is an often-overlooked part of backpacking hygiene.

3. Avoid wearing cotton clothing

This may seem like an odd suggestion as cotton is often claimed to be the lightest and most breathable fabric. However, when you’re out on the road in sweltering temperatures, cotton can easily absorb your sweat and develop a real stench.

Instead, go for light synthetic fabrics that dry quickly – a bonus both if you’re sweaty and if you’re washing them. Packing a wool jumper is also ideal as it’ll keep you warm if you’re wet or if it’s chilly without developing an odour.

4. Make sure you have good travel insurance!

Travel insurance is absolutely non-negotiable for backpackers in 2025. Beyond slips and bugs, it covers unexpected medical emergencies, trip cancellations due to unforeseen events, and even lost luggage, which can significantly impact your health and well-being on the road. Always ensure your policy covers the activities you plan to do.

Washing your clothes when you’re backpacking

Having clean clothes is something we very much take for granted when we’re at home. If you’re planning a long-term backpacking trip you’ll need to have a plan in place for laundry.

1. Take some washing powder from home in a ziplock bag

Whether it’s to wash underwear in a bathroom sink or to use in a washing machine at your hostel, taking a small bag of washing powder is a must. Not every place will supply you with detergents and buying a whole box from a local supermarket can be expensive and illogical.

2. Ask your hostel about their laundry service as soon as you arrive

Good news: Lots of hostels have laundry facilities or services! You can usually get your clothes washed for a fee based on weight. Just remember to ask about it when you arrive, as sometimes it takes a day or two to get everything clean and returned. If they don’t have a laundry service, you’ll need to hunt out a local laundrette instead.

3. Freshen up your clothes by airing them out

If you’ve not got the time or the means to wash your clothing, you can freshen them up simply by airing them out. Place items on hangers or hang them somewhere where there’s a slight breeze to get the air flowing through them. This will help dry them out and reduce odours.

4. Remember there’s nothing shameful about re-wearing dirty clothes!

When packing clothes for your trip, make sure you choose items that you can easily mix and match in case you don’t get the opportunity to wash them very often. Also, if you’re absolutely desperate, there’s nothing wrong with reversing your underwear for the day every now and then!

Your essential backpacking health and hygiene kit

• Baby wipes – If you take one thing with you, make it these. No shower? No problem! Wet wipes are your go-to for a quick refresh. They’re also perfect for cleaning up spills and keeping your hands germ-free when you’re snacking on the move.
• Hand sanitiser – From using public bathrooms to travelling on public transport, sanitising your hands is a must. Try buying an alcohol-free hand sanitiser that’s unscented to keep things eco-friendly.
• First aid kit – Before leaving home, it’s worth putting together a first aid kit of basic items like plasters, painkillers, rehydration sachets and an antiseptic cream for bites. Buying these from a pharmacy or supermarket back home means you can use a recognisable brand with instructions you can easily read.
• An all-purpose bar of soap ­­– Reduce the number of heavy bottles you’ll need to carry with you by bringing one product that does everything. A bar of soap that’s made from all-natural products will keep your hair and skin shiny and clean — just remember to keep it contained in a soap case or zip lock bag.
• Microfibre towels – These are much smaller than regular towels but just as effective at drying you off. They’ll fold up neatly and slip into the top of your rucksack — and they also dry super quickly if you’re in a hurry to pack.
• Plastic bags (preferably biodegradable or recyclable) – Plastic bags are great for a range of things, from storing dirty clothes to keeping valuables from getting wet in your rucksack if you’re walking in the rain. They’re also perfect for stashing your toiletries in so they’re all in one place and aren’t likely to leak on your clothes.
• Dental products ­– Toothpaste and a toothbrush are givens, but don’t forget to pack floss too. As well as helping to keep your gums clean, it can also double up as string in an emergency.
• Sunscreen – Ending up with horribly uncomfortable burns because you couldn’t be bothered to carry some sunscreen is never a good idea. If you take one large bottle of anything with you backpacking, make it this.
• Insect repellent – Whether you’re island-hopping around Asia or heading to Africa for a trekking and safari trip, insect repellent is a real lifesaver. Try using one that comes in a spray bottle and opt for a natural product made from citronella or eucalyptus.
• And for ladies, sanitary products – Buying these overseas can often be pricey or just plain tricky. Estimate how many of each product you’ll need and bring them along with you if you can. It’s also worth packing eco-friendly nappy sacks to place used items and packaging in if you’re likely to be out and away from a bathroom.

Hygiene Hacks for Diverse Climates & Conditions

1. Battling the Heat & Humidity: Tropical Climates

Feeling constantly sticky in a tropical paradise? You’re not alone! Hot, humid climates are notorious for making you feel grimy, but staying on top of your hygiene here is crucial for comfort and avoiding skin issues.

• Fabric is Your Friend: Ditch the cotton! Seriously. It traps moisture and takes forever to dry. Opt for quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or synthetic blends. These breathable materials pull sweat away from your body, prevent bacterial growth, and dry overnight, meaning less laundry and fewer smelly clothes.
• Embrace the Shower (Even Cold Ones!): Shower as often as you can. Even a quick rinse under a cold shower can make a world of difference to your comfort levels. Always dry thoroughly, especially in skin folds, armpits, and between your toes, to prevent fungal infections.
• Combat Chafing: Humidity and walking can lead to uncomfortable chafing. Pack anti-chafing cream, powder, or even a solid deodorant stick to apply to high-friction areas (inner thighs, under your pack straps). Trust us, your skin will thank you!
• Extra Underwear & Socks: In humid climates, things take longer to dry. Pack a few extra pairs of socks and underwear so you always have a fresh, dry set ready.

2. Staying Clean Off-Grid: Less Developed Areas

Venturing truly off the beaten path? Fantastic! Just know that consistent running water and spotless facilities might not be a given. But don’t let that stop you from staying clean.

• Hand Hygiene is Paramount: This is your number one defense against stomach bugs. Always pack alcohol-based hand sanitiser (at least 60% alcohol) for moments when soap and water aren’t available. Use it after public transport, before eating, and after using shared facilities.
• Biodegradable Wipes are Gold: For a quick “dry shower” or to wipe down surfaces, biodegradable wet wipes are a lifesaver. Choose unscented, alcohol-free, and compostable options to minimize your environmental footprint. Remember to always dispose of them properly – never flush them, even if they claim to be flushable!
• Water Wise: When brushing your teeth, always use bottled, filtered, or boiled water, never tap water in areas where the quality is questionable. Consider packing a small, travel-sized bidet or portable hygiene sprayer for improved cleanliness in basic restrooms.
• Basic Laundry Solutions: Be ready to hand-wash. A universal sink stopper and a small amount of concentrated travel laundry soap (solid strips are excellent!) are all you need for a quick sink wash.

3. Freshening Up on the Move: Long-Haul Journeys

Marathon bus rides, lengthy train journeys, or epic flight connections can leave you feeling less than sparkling. A little prep makes a huge difference.

• The “Freshen-Up” Pouch: Keep a small bag with essentials accessible in your daypack. This should include a travel toothbrush and toothpaste (or solid toothpaste tabs!), solid deodorant, a small pack of face wipes, and lip balm.
• Change is Good: If you’re on a super long journey (12+ hours), a fresh pair of socks and underwear can instantly make you feel revitalized.
• Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Drinking plenty of water helps your body function optimally and can reduce that “stale” feeling.

Navigating Niche Hygiene Challenges

Backpacking with Your Period

Managing your period while backpacking doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a little planning, you can keep things clean and comfortable.

• Menstrual Cups: The Ultimate Backpacker’s Choice: These are a game-changer for eco-conscious and long-term travelers. They’re reusable for years, drastically reduce waste, and only need to be emptied and cleaned twice a day. Make sure you have access to clean water and private facilities for emptying and rinsing.
• Sustainable Pads/Tampons: If cups aren’t for you, consider reusable cloth pads (though drying can be a challenge) or organic cotton tampons/pads that are often more biodegradable.
• Disposal Preparedness: If using disposable products, always carry small, opaque disposal bags. In some remote areas, bins might not be readily available, so be prepared to bag your used products and carry them out until you find a suitable disposal site.

Sustainable Hygiene: Be a Planet-Friendly Backpacker

Being clean doesn’t mean creating a mountain of waste. Join the eco-conscious travel movement by making smart, sustainable choices for your hygiene kit.

• Solid Power: Embrace the power of solid shampoo bars, conditioner bars, and multi-purpose soap bars. These eliminate liquid restrictions, last ages, and drastically cut down on plastic bottle waste. Store them in a reusable tin or mesh bag.
• Refill & Reuse: Invest in a set of high-quality, reusable silicone or BPA-free travel bottles. Refill them from larger containers at home, or even from eco-conscious hostels that offer bulk refill stations.
• Bamboo & Beyond: Swap your plastic toothbrush for a bamboo toothbrush, and consider solid toothpaste tablets or powder in a reusable container for a zero-waste brushing routine.
• Reusable Razors: A safety razor with replaceable blades dramatically reduces plastic waste from disposable razors. Just make sure to pack the blades safely in your checked luggage!

Pro-Tip: Master the Art of Packing Cubes!

Packing cubes aren’t just for organization – they’re your secret weapon for hygiene. Use separate cubes for clean clothes, dirty laundry, and even a small one for damp items. This prevents odors from spreading, keeps your fresh gear pristine, and makes unpacking a breeze, especially in shared dorms!

And what shouldn’t you bring?

While bringing glass bottles or pressurised cans is an obvious no-no due to their weight and breakability, it’s additionally not worth taking expensive skincare products, heaps of makeup, mirrors or fancy shampoos. Deodorant can also be ditched if you’re planning on being out in the wild as it can attract insects and animals.

Bottom line: anything that adds unnecessary weight to your backpack or you don’t use every day (besides from medications) should stay at home. Honestly, you’ll be fine without it!

What’s New in Backpacking Hygiene (2025)

The world of travel gear is always evolving, and staying fresh on the go just keeps getting easier and smarter! Gone are the days of just a bar of soap and a towel. Here’s what’s new and noteworthy in backpacking hygiene for 2025:

Smart Tech for Staying Squeaky Clean

• Portable UV Water Purifiers: Forget endless plastic bottles! Devices like the Steripen or similar UV purifiers let you safely drink tap water almost anywhere by zapping bacteria and viruses. This isn’t just about hydration; it means you’ve always got clean water for brushing teeth, washing hands, or even a quick face rinse. It’s a game-changer for staying hygienic off-grid.
• Travel-Size Bidet Attachments: A compact bidet attachment (like those from TUSHY or similar brands) simply screws onto most plastic water bottles, offering a refreshing and eco-friendly alternative to relying solely on toilet paper. They’re surprisingly discreet, easy to use, and a serious upgrade for personal cleanliness, especially in regions where toilet paper isn’t common.

Innovative Products for Next-Level Freshness

• Laundry Detergent Sheets: Forget messy liquids or bulky powders. These paper-thin sheets dissolve in water, offering a super lightweight and compact way to do laundry on the go. Just toss one in a sink or a hostel washing machine, and you’re good to go. They’re perfect for minimizing weight and preventing spills.
• Solid Skincare & Sunscreen: Expanding beyond just shampoo and conditioner bars, you can now find solid face wash, moisturizers, and even sunscreen sticks. These are brilliant for cutting down on liquids in your pack, preventing leaks, and often come in eco-friendly packaging.
• Antimicrobial Clothing & Liners: Many outdoor and travel clothing brands are integrating antimicrobial technologies into their fabrics. This means your clothes stay fresh longer, even after multiple wears, significantly reducing odor and the need for frequent washing. You can also find antimicrobial pillowcases or sleeping bag liners for an extra layer of cleanliness in hostels.

Packing Smarter, Staying Cleaner

• Dedicated Hygiene Packing Cubes/Bags: Beyond just clothes, travelers are now using specific waterproof or quick-dry packing cubes/bags just for their hygiene essentials. This keeps everything organized, prevents leaks from contaminating other items, and makes it easy to grab your shower kit for a quick dash to the bathroom. Look for ones with mesh panels for ventilation.
• Multi-Chamber Travel Bottles: Newer travel bottles are designed with multiple compartments, allowing you to carry shampoo, conditioner, and body wash all in one compact dispenser. This streamlines your shower kit and saves space.

These advancements mean staying fresh while backpacking is more convenient, sustainable, and effective than ever before. Embrace these new tools to keep yourself healthy and happy on your 2025 adventures!

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FAQ: A Guide To Backpacking Hygiene Essentials for Every Trip

The post The Ultimate Backpacking Hygiene Guide for 2025 appeared first on Hostelworld Travel Blog.

Jump straight to:

1. Best time to visit Peru
2. Peru visa
3. Peru backpacking budget
4. Peru transport
5. Hostels in Peru
6. Things to do in Peru
7. Peru points of interest
8. Peru backpacking routes
9. Peruvian food
10. Peru culture and customs
11. Is Peru safe?
12. Peru travel advice
13. Backpacking in Peru packing list

Best time to visit Peru

Peru is located just south of the equator, so the seasons are opposite to the northern hemisphere. That said, because it’s so close to the equator, Peru’s weather is not seasonally extreme.

Peru’s winter lasts from May to September. It’s also the dry season, which makes it the best time to visit Peru, particularly if you’ll be trekking or visiting Cusco – which of course you will! Peru’s summer lasts from December through March and is generally much wetter, so bring your rain gear.

In addition to confusing seasons, each area of Peru also experiences vastly different weather. Lima, the coastal capital, is foggy during Peru’s winter (May through September) and feels a bit like San Francisco. The fog and drizzle give way to bright sun and warmth between November and March, which is exactly when the rain is pouring down in the Andes mountains and Amazon jungle to the east.

When we visited in October—a month known for unpredictable weather—Lima was foggy and cool, Cusco was dry but freezing, and no one could say for sure if it would rain during our Inca Trail hike. Luckily, we had packed rain gear, but even with down jackets, the cold caught us off guard. We ended up buying a few warm alpaca sweaters from the local artisan markets just to stay comfortable. We weren’t the only ones either: alpaca sweaters are the unofficial backpacker’s uniform in Peru!

To cover all bases, bring your rain gear and your cold weather clothes and expect the unexpected.

@dd.per

Peru visa

With a few exceptions, residents of most countries will be thrilled that they do not need to apply in advance for a visa for Peru – this includes UK and US citizens.

Upon entry to Peru, you’ll be asked how long you’re staying. It’s possible to stay up to 183 days on a tourist visa. You’ll then be given an Andean migration card which you’ll need to present when exiting the country – stick it in your passport for safe keeping.

Although a free 6 month visa seems like a blessing to nomads, be warned: if you declare you’ll be staying for the maximum time period ‘just in case’ when you actually only have a 2 month stay planned, you’ll be subjecting yourself to paying a higher tax rate. All foreigners staying more than 59 days in Peru are subject to an 18% tax, which will be added to your bill at most hotels and hostels. If you’re staying for less than 59 days and therefore not subject to the tax, you’ll need to present your Andean migration card and passport as proof of how many days your visa has been approved for. Be sure to keep an eye on your bill if you’re on a tight budget to avoid being overcharged.

That said, if there really is a chance that you’ll extend your stay in Peru, you should request the maximum length of time on arrival as you cannot request an extension on your visa after you enter. In this case, the 18% tax is something you’ll just have to live with.

Peru Group Tours

Want to experience the best of Peru, without all that stressful planning? Roamies group tours have a range of amazing Peruvian adventures that’ll take you from cruising around on dune buggies at a desert oasis to hiking up to the famous Machu Pichu. All you have to do is sit back, and enjoy the ride.

Peru backpacking budget

Currency Basics and Exchange Tips

Peru’s currency is called the sol (previously “nuevo sol”). One sol is worth approximately $0.28 USD or £0.21 GBP, which makes quick conversions easy: just divide the amount by 3 for USD or 4 for GBP. This mental math trick is especially helpful when checking prices on menus, bus fares, or hostel rates.

Watch Out for Counterfeit Soles

One giant, flashing, important warning regarding Peruvian sol: watch out for counterfeit money! This is a huge issue in Peru, and fakes can be incredibly convincing. Familiarize yourself with how to spot fake cash in Peru, because no business will accept a counterfeit bill, rendering the money in your pocket completely useless. Similarly, never accept a torn bill from anyone in Peru, because torn bills are a marker of counterfeit money. Even if the bills are real, no business or bank will accept a torn sol.

The Machu Picchu Budget Dilemma

When it comes to figuring out your Peru backpacking tour budget, keep in mind that while Peru is generally an inexpensive country, certain destinations and experiences will drive your budget up quite a bit. I’m referring of course to Machu Picchu. Trekking to Machu Picchu will cost around $700 for the classic Inca Trail or a bit less for a different multi-day trek, but that doesn’t include getting to Cusco.

Skip the trek and take the train and you could save several hundred dollars. Cut Machu Picchu out entirely and you’ll save quite a bit, but let’s be honest – why would you visit Peru and not see Machu Picchu? Don’t do that. If you are physically able to complete it, the trek is a rewarding once in a lifetime experience that justifies splurging on. Swallow that backpacker frugality and accept that Machu Picchu is an expensive but justifiable cost when visiting Peru.

Daily Backpacker Budget Breakdown

Generally speaking, you’ll want to budget around $35 a day per person – including Machu Picchu. Food can easily be found for around $5 a meal and hostels will be under $10 for a dorm bed. Your biggest expenses will be experiences and transport. If you’re guilty of being a terrible saver, read our baller’s guide on how to save money to get that trip booked sooner!

Note: Prices may be higher in tourist-heavy areas like Cusco and the Sacred Valley.

Cusco @sunsetchaser_mum

Peru transport

Peru Rail is a stunning, comfortable, luxury train service that you’ll probably only take once: it’s the primary way to get to Machu Picchu if you’re not trekking, and you’ll pay around $50. They have other routes which look wonderful, but frankly they’re not accessible on a typical backpacking budget.

Thankfully, you can take buses all over Peru and they’re generally of a good standard. You can book them online with companies like Cruz del Sur. Most of the seats are wide and comfortable, with pillows, blankets and a footrest provided.

Most buses in Peru are overnight buses. You’ll likely be driving in complete darkness through windy mountain roads at high speeds – a recipe for nausea and an awful night’s sleep! But hey, it’s all part of the fun. I highly recommend bringing sleeping pills, anti-nausea meds, a sleeping mask, earbuds, and several layers of warm clothing to help make your bus experience as comfortable as possible.

There is a private hop-on-hop-off bus service which offers guided buses throughout Peru. We didn’t take them ourselves because the cost is roughly double the price of buying bus tickets individually, but the service was highly recommended by fellow travelers. If you prioritise ease over cost, it might be a good option. Just ask your hostel to point you in the right direction if this is something that interests you.

Getting from Lima to Machu Picchu

Lima and Machu Picchu are on opposite sides of the country and separated by a giant mountain range. But you came this far, and gosh darn it, you’re going to see Machu Picchu before you leave Peru!

If you’re under a time constraint, you’ll need to fly from Lima to Cusco, which costs around $100 each way. Taking an overnight bus will save you a bit of cash (maybe around $30) but after doing it twice we don’t know if the saving is worth the 20 long, nauseous hours! If you do opt for the bus, break up your trip with a few stops on the way, like Arequipa, Nazca, or Ica.

Practical Essentials

Altitude Sickness 101

• Start low: Fly into Lima, not Cusco.

• Spend 2–3 nights acclimating in Cusco or Arequipa.

• Symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness.

• Fixes: Drink coca tea, stay hydrated, ascend slowly.

• Bring acetazolamide or get it locally at pharmacies.

SIM Cards & Connectivity

• Buy a Claro or Movistar SIM at the airport or local kiosks.

• Prices start at S/. 10 (~$2.60) for prepaid SIMs.

• Data packages: S/. 30–40 ($8–10) for 10–12GB.

• eSIMs (Airalo, Holafly) are good for shorter trips.

Essential Safety & Tipping Tips

Is Peru Safe for Solo Travellers?

Yes, if you’re smart. Stick to well-lit areas, avoid sketchy taxis, don’t flash cash. Petty theft is common in Lima—wear a money belt or anti-theft daypack.

Tipping Etiquette

• Restaurants: 10% is standard if not included.

• Hostel staff: a few soles for great service.

• Tours: tip your guide S/. 10–20 depending on trip length.

Hostels in Peru

Like any backpacker destination that’s worth its salt, Peru has many fantastic hostels. From party hostels in Lima, to laid-back digs in Cusco and beach front properties in Paracas, it couldn’t be easier to find awesome places to stay when you’re in Peru. Here are a few of our favourites:

• Pointbreak Surf Camp – Huanchaco: A surf hostel with chill vibes and incredible views overlooking the ocean.
• Kokopelli Hostel – Paracas: Beach front hostel with a swimming pool and super cosy pod beds.
• Arequipay Backpackers – Arequipa: Comfortable and quiet. No parties here, just a great social vibe and an adorable dog. Her name is Kaila and she’s a boxer.
• Supertramp Hostel – Aguas Calientes: One of the only places to stay in Aguas Calientes, right outside of Machu Picchu, that isn’t a luxury hotel! They serve their complimentary breakfast early enough to accommodate those taking the first bus to Machu Picchu, which we recommend.

Kokopelli Hostel, Paracas

Things to do in Peru

Here are the best things to do and must-see attractions in Peru that shouldn’t be missed!

• Hiking and trekking: Peru is renowned for some of the most stunning hikes in the world. Of course, the Inca Trail is the most famous, but there are many great routes through the Sacred Valley, such as the Salkantay Trek or the Lares Trek. We recommend booking Alpaca Expeditions as your guide for either. Other popular multi-day adventures include the Colca Canyon trek near Arequipa and the Santa Cruz trek up north in Huaraz. Not quite up for a multi-day hike? Rainbow Mountain and Laguna 69 are two of the most popular day hikes in Peru! Note that you’ll need a guide to complete any of these hikes – independent hiking in Peru is not recommended.

@caitlyn.mk

• Taste pisco: Pisco is the national drink of Peru, so you absolutely must taste a Pisco Sour on your travels – they’re delicious. You can also visit pisco wineries (yes, pisco is made from grapes) and taste pisco straight from the barrel in either Pisco or Ica.
• Explore ancient ruins: Peru’s history and culture is legendary, and you can’t help but feel the power of the ancient Incas when exploring their well-preserved ruins. Machu Picchu is undoubtedly the most beautiful and famous of Peru’s ancient sites, but it’s by no means the only one worth exploring! Take a look at Chan Chan near Huanchaco, Pisac near Cusco, or the ruins of Ollantaytambo, which were the last Inca stronghold against the Spanish Conquistadors. Or hike to Choquequirao, which looks similar to Machu Picchu but without the crowds (or entrance fee).

Peru points of interest

Peru has so many points of interest that it can be hard to narrow down your itinerary! We spent a full two months backpacking the country and still didn’t manage to see everything. Here are some of the best Peruvian points of interest and destinations to include on your Peru backpacking tour.

Lima

The biggest city in Peru and the best jumping-off point for your travels. No, literally – the coastal city of Lima is the perfect place to try paragliding! You’ll see paragliders soaring over the Miraflores neighborhood and Parque del Amor.

Lima is best explored by foot … and by food. Spend a day exploring Lima on a self-guided walking tour and eating your way through its many famous restaurants, such as Central, Maido, Astrid y Gaston, and El Pan de Chola. Lima is also known for its incredible specialty coffee.

Oh, and don’t forget to stop by Kennedy Park – it’s full of friendly cats!

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Cusco & Machu Picchu

You’ll need some time to acclimatise to Cusco’s altitude, especially if you plan to hike the Inca Trail. Spend at least a day exploring the city and browsing the handicraft markets. If you’re up for a day hike, Rainbow Mountain is one of Peru’s most famous points of interest. And of course, no trip to Cusco – or to Peru, for that matter – is complete without a visit to the incredible Machu Picchu!

 @to.wander.and.ponder

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Huanchaco

Several hours north of Lima on Peru’s coast lies Huanchaco, a tiny fishing and surfing town. It’s best known for its iconic ‘caballito de totora’ boats, which fisherman have woven from reeds for over 3,000 years. They’re credited as being one of the first surfing vessels in the world. In addition to fantastic surf, Huanchaco is also home to the best ceviche in Peru (at least, in my opinion) and the ancient ruins of Chan Chan.

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Laguna 69, Huaraz

Huaraz is a high-altitude town tucked into the Cordillera Blanca mountain range – you’ll see their snowy peaks rising above the city to the east. Huaraz is best known for ice climbing, hiking, mountain biking, and winter sports like snowboarding. It’s also home to Huascarán National Park, a UNESCO world heritage site encapsulating the world’s highest tropical mountains. Don’t let the world tropical throw you off – there’s plenty of snow on top of these peaks.

Huaraz attracts outdoor enthusiasts who want to conquer its incredible treks, such as the multi-day Santa Cruz trek or the Huayhuash Circuit, an epic 11-day hiking adventure. If you opt for these hikes, you’ll want to pack plenty of hiking gear and do some research to find a reputable Peru backpacking tour operator.

But if you’re not quite up for high-altitude multi-day trekking, try the Laguna 69 hike instead.  It’s a guided day hike to a stunning glacial lake, sitting at 15,000 feet of elevation and surrounded by glaciers and gushing, icy waterfalls. It’s an incredible site to behold and accessible for most hikers – just be sure to spend a couple of days acclimatizing to the altitude in Huaraz before attempting the hike!

@karen.miles.161

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Colca Canyon, Arequipa

If you opt to take the bus between Lima and Cusco, chances are you’ll want to stop in Arequipa to break up your trip. The city itself is beautiful and its historic, colonial downtown is a UNESCO world heritage site. But its most famous point of interest is nearby Colca Canyon: the world’s deepest canyon, and one of the only places in the world to see giant condors, the largest flying land birds in the Western Hemisphere.

You can opt to explore Colca Canyon on foot with a 4-day trek, or rise early to take a day trip, stopping along the way in villages to learn about Peruvian culture. Be sure to bring a pair of binoculars to watch the condors in all their glory.

Huacachina Desert Oasis

One of the most exciting day trips in Peru is exploring the massive dunes surrounding Huacachina, a tiny desert oasis and one of the most beautiful places in Peru. The dune buggy ride is half the fun, but the sandboarding is EPIC. Not for the faint-hearted! Huacachina is also located close to Ica, home of pisco and chocotejas.

Ballestas Islands, Paracas

On the coast a few hours south of Lima lies a small chain of islands with an abundance of wildlife: the guanay guano bird, the blue-footed booby, Humboldt penguins, seals, sea lions, and more. If you’ve never been to the Galapagos Islands, the Ballestas Islands are one of the few other places in the world that compare. Stay at the Kokopelli hostel in the beachy, coastal town of Paracas (the hostel is actually on the beach) and take a day trip to view the island.

Paracas is also a good place to base yourself to explore the Ica region (including Huacachina) only an hour away. It’s also close to the mysterious Nazca Lines just 3 hours away.

Lake Titicaca, Puno

Puno is a small city located on the shore of Lake Titicaca, a high altitude lake on the border of Peru and Bolivia. It’s said to be the ‘Capital folklórica del Perú’ (folkloric capital of Peru) and is a fantastic place to explore traditional art, culture, and dance. Visit Puno and you’ll get a chance to see one of the most unique places in the world: a floating city made of reeds, inhabited by the Aymara people who have lived here for centuries.

By the way, be sure to give yourself time to adjust to the altitude here: at 12,500 feet of elevation, Puno is even higher than Cusco!

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The Amazon Rainforest

There are two entry points to the Amazon Rainforest in Peru: Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado. Iquitos is the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon and can only be reached by plane or boat, giving it a true remote jungle feel. In contrast, Puerto Maldonado is accessible by road and is often used mainly as a gateway to the rainforest. While both offer access to Amazon lodges and wildlife experiences, Iquitos tends to have more to offer travelers. From here, you can stay in deep jungle lodges or embark on multi-day Amazon river cruises—something not typically available from Puerto Maldonado. So, although Iquitos is less accessible, it’s a better destination for backpackers looking to explore the Amazon.

Just be sure that regardless of how you choose to explore the Amazon, you are careful to book with a tour company that practices ecotourism and is respectful of wild animals. Remember that you should NEVER touch, feed, or interact with any wild animal, so run from anyone promising you a photo holding an animal! This kind of practice is incredibly harmful to the animals and is quickly becoming all too common in Peru.

@travelingwithkati

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Peru backpacking routes

Most Peru backpacking routes wind southwards from Lima, hooking around the mountains and heading up north towards the Sacred Valley. Typical stops along the way include Huacachina, Arequipa, Paracas, Puno, and Cusco. More unusual backpacking routes venture north of Lima to explore Huanchaco or Huaraz, or head east to explore the Amazon rainforest. No matter your route, you’ll likely be flying into Lima as your starting point.

Peru backpacking itinerary 2 weeks

2 weeks is a good amount of time to experience the highlights of Peru, allowing for a 4-day Inca Trail hike with a couple of days for acclimatisation. Here’s a 2-week Peru backpacking itinerary that includes the hike to Machu Picchu. You’ll take buses in between each destination and fly back from Cusco to Lima after your hike.

• 2 Days in Lima
• 2 Days in Paracas, including day trips to Huacachina, Nazca or Pisco
• 2 Days in Puno & Lake Titicaca
• 2 Days in Cusco
• 4 Day to Trek to Machu Picchu
• Fly back to Lima for final day

Peru backpacking itinerary 4 weeks

In 4 weeks, you can go beneath the surface and get to know more of the real Peru, as well as having ample time to conquer Peru’s best treks!

• 4 days in Lima
• 4 days trekking in Huaraz
• 4-5 days in Iquitos and exploring the Amazon
• 2 days in Cusco
• 4 days to trek to Machu Pichu
• 2-3 days in Puno & Lake Titicaca
• 2 days in Arrequipa
• 1 day stopover in Nazca
• 3 days in Paracas & Huachina

Of course, if you’re not a natural born planner, South America Tours like Roamies are perfect for exploring Peru with all of the planning done for you. You’ll get to stay in Peru’s best hostels, meet extraordinary people and see everything Peru has to offer… All in one beautiful backpacking tour package.

Peruvian Food: What (and Where) to Eat

Lima: Peru’s Culinary Capital

Peruvian food is unique and excellent—and Lima is where it shines brightest. Here, you can dine at world-renowned restaurants or eat street food that tastes just as incredible. For something unforgettable, visit Surquillo Mercado #1 and look for Don Cevichero. Order the pulpo parrillero (grilled octopus). If it’s your first time trying octopus, this is the place to do it.

 @tkoutandabout

The Glory of Ceviche

The crown jewel of Peruvian cuisine is ceviche—and yes, it was invented here. You’ll find it across the country, but the best we tried was in Huanchaco, a laid-back surf town north of Lima. Ceviche is made with fresh fish marinated in leche de tigre (tiger’s milk), a citrusy, salty, spicy sauce that packs a serious punch. It’s crunchy, tangy, and intensely refreshing.

Peru’s Chinese Fusion

Thanks to Chinese migration in the 19th century, chifa—a fusion of Cantonese and Peruvian food—is found everywhere in Peru. If you’re craving fried rice, noodles, or stir-fry, it totally hits the spot. A standout dish is lomo saltado, a Peruvian stir-fry made with beef, onions, tomatoes, and soy-based sauce, often served with fries and rice. It’s comfort food at its finest, and Peruvians eat it any time of day.

Chicharrones: Not Your Store-Bought Pork Rinds

Forget what you know about pork rinds in a bag—chicharrones in Peru are juicy, crispy, deep-fried chunks of meat. You’ll find chicken, fish, and pork versions on menus everywhere, from roadside eateries to coastal cevicherías. They’re golden, salty, and addictive.

Cuy: Peru’s Most Controversial Dish

Cuy (guinea pig) is considered a national delicacy in Peru. It’s often roasted or deep-fried and served whole—yes, complete with teeth and little legs. You’ll see them hanging in markets or plated in fine-dining restaurants. We didn’t try it ourselves, but locals say it tastes like a small, greasy fried chicken… with extra bones. If you’re feeling adventurous, it’s an unforgettable food moment.

Chicha: A Sweet Sip of Tradition

Chicha is a fermented corn drink that’s served with most set lunches. I know it sounds gross, but it’s not! It’s sweet, a little corny, and delicious both hot or cold. It comes in purple and yellow varieties (from purple and yellow corn) and is included with almuerzo at loads of typical Peruvian restaurants.

Chocotejas: Peru’s Sweetest Souvenir

Chocotejas, or tejas, are delicious chocolatey treats. They are made only near Ica and Huacachina, so you’ll see them sold everywhere in that region. They consist of delicious manjar blanco  – a version of dulce de leche, similar to caramel – pecans, and chocolate. We’ve also seen versions with raisins, pisco soaked raisins, fig, lime, and more. They’re so incredibly good; do not miss out if you travel to Ica or Huacachina!

 @sararamazanloo

Peru culture and customs

Inca Roots and Indigenous Peoples

Peruvian culture is a rich, fascinating blend of influences, shaped by thousands of years of civilization. Before the Spanish arrived, the powerful Inca Empire ruled much of the region—becoming the largest empire in pre-Columbian America. Today, millions of Peruvians still identify as indigenous, including 4.5 million Quechua speakers and the Aymara people of Lake Titicaca, who live on floating reed islands that even the Incas never conquered.

Spirituality, Dress, and Rituals

Every region in Peru has its own unique customs and traditions. You’ll see traditional clothing styles that reflect both indigenous and colonial histories. In the Sacred Valley, locals still honour Pachamama—the fertility goddess and “Mother Earth.” Some travellers even seek spiritual experiences like ayahuasca ceremonies, led by shamans near Cusco.

Spanish, African, and Asian Influences

After the Spanish Conquistadors arrived, they brought immense change—and were later followed by Chinese migrants, enslaved Africans, and others. This blend of cultures created new hybrid traditions. You’ll taste it in chifa, the Peruvian-Chinese fusion cuisine, and hear it in criollo music, which mixes African, Spanish, and indigenous sounds. The word criollo can also describe everything from food and dance to identity.

A Country of Contrasts

Modern Peru is full of paradoxes: it’s 90% Catholic, yet deeply spiritual in indigenous ways. Spanish is the primary language, but native tongues like Quechua and Aymara are widely spoken. Architecture ranges from colonial cathedrals to pre-Incan ruins. This layered identity is what makes Peru feel both ancient and vibrant—one of the most culturally diverse countries in South America.

@hanntin

Is Peru safe?

Peru is one of the most popular South American destinations, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t travel with caution. Guerilla war in Peru ended less than 20 years ago, leaving some areas of the country in poverty and with a growing drug and counterfeit money trade. The country is also currently experiencing protests against a government widely viewed as corrupt. There’s no question that Peru is a great place for backpackers to explore, but when it comes to safety it’s important to be aware.

Thanks to the sensitive political situation and harsh poverty, being a tourist can leave you feeling somewhat exposed. That said, whenever we were around other backpackers in popular travel spots, we felt perfectly at ease. Hopping from hostel to hostel will ensure that you stay on a well-trodden path. Do some research before you book tours or experiences if you’re not going through a hostel to make sure you aren’t being ripped off.

Take precautions when traveling through Peru to protect yourself and your belongings: keep your valuables hidden away on your person (better yet, leave them at home), use locks on your bags and always keep your eye on them, avoid wandering around late at night alone. Do not go in search of drugs or other illegal activities – this is incredibly dangerous and generally a terrible idea. Don’t attempt hikes or other adventurous activities without a reputable tour operator.

If you’re planning on backpacking Peru alone, I’d recommend sticking to the standard backpacker trail. If you’re staying in hostels with plenty of other backpackers, look for a buddy to take an overnight bus, explore after dark with, or recommend a tour operator.

Peru travel advice

Before backpacking Peru, you’ll have to get hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations and perhaps an MMR booster, all of which are available for free on the NHS in the UK. Most travelers won’t need to worry about yellow fever or even malaria unless visiting the Amazon. You should always check the requirements for your trip before you travel here and book an appointment with your GP well in advance to discuss travel health.

If you are planning to visit the Amazon, you will need to prepare for malaria. Discuss anti-malarial tablets with your doctor, pack lots of long clothing to cover your arms and legs and bring along plenty of quality insect repellent with a high DEET percentage.

There is a high risk of Zika virus in Peru. Currently there is no vaccination against the Zika virus, however the illness itself is mild and only tends to cause concern when pregnant women are at risk. Women who will be pregnant at the time of travel to Peru should seek advice from their GP well in advance.

Altitude is probably the biggest challenge you’ll face while traveling in Peru, so before your trip be sure to stock up on altitude sickness medication. If you get motion sickness, you’ll also want to bring along meds for every bus ride and taxi journey that you take.

Once you arrive in Peru, the best local solution for altitude sickness or nausea is coca tea. The tea isn’t particularly tasty, but it’s incredibly soothing. It’s made from the same plant as cocaine but won’t give you any kind of ‘high’, it just helps settle your stomach. Rumour has it though that it can show up on a drugs test, so steer clear if that’s a concern!

@thewanderingcass

Backpacking in Peru packing list

There are some essentials that you should include for your Peru backpacking trip.

First and foremost, you’ll want to bring a device to filter your water. I recommend doing this instead of purchasing bottled water multiple times per day because recycling isn’t common in Peru, but piles of trash unfortunately are. Spare the Earth unnecessary plastic waste! Filtering your own water is a much more environmentally friendly solution, and there are many devices on the market at a decent price. You’ll also save heaps on buying water every day!

If you’re planning to embark on one of Peru’s many incredible treks, be sure to bring hiking gear. Also pack a hydration pack – you’ll need more water than usual if you’re hiking at a high altitude. A pair of trekking poles will come in handy. Many of Peru’s hikes involve difficult terrain, like the slippery shale of the Laguna 69 hike or the massive stairs on the Inca Trail. Trekking poles will help protect your knees – not to mention assist you in staying upright during your hikes!

Another must-pack item is a warm jacket. Cusco and other high-altitude cities are COLD! Bring along a packable down jacket to minimize space in your pack and maximize warmth and comfort. Don’t forget to leave a little bit of room in your bag for a cozy alpaca sweater, too. You won’t want to go home without one!

About the author

Lia is a travel blogger at Practical Wanderlust, an off-beat couple’s travel blog which has been featured in Travel & Leisure, Forbes, the Washington Post, and other impressive sounding publications. When she’s not travelling, she lives in Oakland, California with her husband Jeremy. Follow along with their travel disasters – er, adventures – on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest!

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Backpacking Peru: Frequently Asked Questions

The post The Ultimate Guide To Backpacking Peru appeared first on Hostelworld Travel Blog.

As the sun sets, the sky erupts in a cascade of orange, crimson, fuchsia, and purple, stretching across the horizon. By dusk, only the gentle crash of waves fills the air, and stars begin to glisten, one by one, putting on a quiet, spectacular show.

This is true paradise. This is just another day in Fiji.

The 333 islands that make up the South Pacific nation of Fiji each offer a unique set of characteristics; from lush forests and volcanic mountains to quiet coastlines and some of the world’s best sites for scuba diving, there really is something for everyone. Famous for its soft coral diving, white sand beaches and pristine natural environment, Fiji is a haven for conservation. It’s also well known for its fancy bottled water, popularity as a honeymoon destination and perhaps even their amazing Rugby team. The air is so fresh here and the pollution so minimal that, as long as it’s not too cloudy overhead, at nightfall you may see breathtakingly detailed views of the Milky Way galaxy.

Many people have learnt of the spoils this island nation can provide a luxury traveller, as it’s often labelled one of the most exotic and remote destinations on the planet. Yet so few realise that the charm of these friendly people and their gorgeous country can be equally enjoyed on a backpacker’s budget. In fact, it’s quickly becoming a common destination for backpackers to visit alongside New Zealand and Australia.

Yep, you heard that right. How, you ask? Read on to learn all you need to know about backpacking your way through Fiji so you can experience one of the world’s most private paradises all without breaking the bank. Think of this as your ultimate guide to one of the world’s ultimate destinations.

Contents

1. Backpacker’s guide to Fiji
2. Best time to visit Fiji
3. Fiji weather
4. Fiji visa
5. Travelling around Fiji
6. Fiji hostels
7. Fiji travel costs
8. Where to go in Fiji
9. Things to do in Fiji
10. Fiji foods

Backpacker’s guide to Fiji

Fijian Hospitality

The people of Fiji have a reputation as being the friendliest people in the world. More than half of Fijians live below the poverty line, yet you would never guess it because of their vivacious love for life and optimism. From their colourful clothing to their big Bula smiles and extreme hospitality, Fijians love to share their culture with guests to their country. They are very proud to be from Fiji. Many have strong family and community values and believe in sharing everything. Don’t be surprised if a local invites you back to their village to meet their family – that’s just the Fijian way!

Island Life & Local Sayings

Since the climate is so mild and warm, fresh food is abundant, too. There’s a common saying in Fiji that you’ll often hear from the locals – Sena Na Lena. It means no worries, no problems. Here on island time, that saying rings true.

Essential Fijian Phrases

If you want to learn more Fijian phrases, the locals will love you for saying some of their common catch phrases. “Bula “is the first word you’ll need to know. You’ll hear it often, as it means Hello, Welcome, and a lot of other things to Fijians- you’ll be saying it in no time once you’re on island time!

A few other sayings you may pick up on are:

• Goodbye – Ni sa moce (pronounced “nee sa mo-they”)
• Good morning – Ni sa yadra (pronounced “nee sa yandra”)
• Yes – Io (ee-oh)
• No – Sega (senga)
• Please – Yalo Vinaka (yalo vee-nahka)
• Excuse me – Tolou (too low)
• Farewell – Isa Lei (is-ah lay)

The last one is a goodbye you will hear quite frequently, as locals sing it to guests every morning when they depart their island. It’s a bittersweet song and a big part of their culture.

Getting to Fiji

First things first- you’ll need to get a flight to Nadi. It’s on the main island, called Viti Levu, and is home to the country’s only international airport. There are lots of flights that come from New Zealand and Australia (even on the region’s popular budget airline JetStar), plus other hubs around South East Asia. Your best bet for finding cheap airfare is via Auckland, NZ (the closest major city) but occasionally you can find an affordable flight from Sydney, Melbourne, Singapore or, more rarely, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Los Angeles.

Exploring Beyond the Cities

The other way into Fiji, though not in the realm of a backpacker budget, is via the capital city and major port city of Suva. You likely won’t visit Suva, unless you’re interested in one of the group tours around the mainland (which I’ll explain more a little later). But it’s worth noting that sometimes backpackers find their way here for more volunteer opportunities or as a gateway to some of the eastern Islands- it all depends on the itinerary you want to craft.

Regardless of how you enter Fiji, you will definitely want to venture out of the cities so you can get a taste of the more idyllic, picture perfect beaches and slower pace of life. There are a few options when it comes to an itinerary for your adventures around the country, and each route depends on what it is you really want to do while you’re in Fiji.

Best time to visit Fiji

Year-Round Warmth

Honestly, is there ever a bad time to visit paradise? No matter when you’re planning to visit Fiji, you can guarantee warm weather at any time of year in this tropical oasis. The question of when is “best” simply depends on what else you’d like to do on your holiday.

The island nation sits very close to the equator so you can expect consistent temperatures year-round, hovering around 27 C /80 F on average. Because it’s in the Southern Hemisphere, “Summer” (or the slightly warmer months) falls from December to April and “Winter” (the cooler, drier months) are between May to November.

Seasons in Fiji

• Summer (December to April): The warmer months, with temperatures reaching up to 34°C / 91°F. Summer can bring tropical storms, though they are generally shorter than rainy seasons in Southeast Asia. Keep in mind, this overlaps with the Northern Hemisphere’s winter holidays, which can mean higher flight prices.

• Winter (May to November): Cooler and drier months, ideal for avoiding heavy rains. However, July to September is peak holiday time for Australians and New Zealanders, which can lead to busier resorts and increased airfare.

Shoulder Season Advantage

The shoulder season from late October to Early November may be your best bet for travel because you won’t have to worry about the rain, nor the price hikes and larger crowds or busy season.

Seasonal Activities

• Manta Rays: The best time to swim with manta rays is from May to October.

• Shark Encounters: You can swim with sharks year-round, but bull shark mating occurs from November to December, reducing sightings during that period.

• Festive Celebrations: If you want to celebrate New Year’s Eve early, Fiji is one of the first countries in the world to ring in the new year.

Fiji weather

The climate in Fiji is tropical marine and warm year-round with minimal extremes.

Since Fiji only has two seasons, the weather is pretty much what you’d expect from a tropical paradise; warm, warmer, or hot.

The lowest temperatures in Fiji are during July and August where it falls between 20-26 C/68-78 F. It rains approximately 4 days a month, so you are nearly guaranteed some sunshine on your tropical vacation.

During warmer months, from December to February, the temperatures range from 22-30 C/72-86F on average. It does rain a lot more during this time, with approximately 15 days of rain a month. It tends to rain for an hour or two in the early morning, so hopefully it’s nothing to worry about!

You can swim in Fiji year-round, with water temperatures ranging from 23-30 C/73-86F.

Fiji visa

Visa-Free Travel

It’s easy to get into Fiji, as they allow travel without a visa from over 100 countries. You can stay for up to 4 months on a free entry Visitor Pass and they make it easy to extend your stay beyond that. You can apply to stay for an additional 2 months, up to 3 more times.

Passport Requirements

So, if you wanted to spend 8 months in Fiji, essentially you have that option without much hassle. They also have the standard rule of most nations that require your passport is valid for at least 6 more months from the date of travel.

Countries That Don’t Require a Visa

Citizens of countries including Australia, New Zealand, the United States, the UK, Japan, Canada, Germany, and over 90 others can enter Fiji visa-free. (Full list available from the Fijian government.)

Recommended Documents for Entry

To be on the safe side, the Fijian government also recommends you have the following items with you to guarantee free, visa-less entry.

1. Return or Outbound tickets
2. Confirmation of accommodation for duration of your visit
3. Copy of latest bank statement
4. Re-entry/entry visa to a country other than their own (for example: permanent residents of Australia must produce a valid re-entry visa for Australia)

A Warm Fijian Welcome

Expect smiling faces, tropical t-shirts and a traditional Fijian song and dance greeting you upon arrival at the airport before you’ve even left the terminal. There’s a reason why Fijians have a reputation as the friendliest people on Earth. They certainly live up to this stereotype! If you’re lucky, they may even hand you a handmade shell necklace. The locals love to give guests the warmest “Bula” they possibly can.

Travelling around Fiji

Population and Geography

The entire country of Fiji has around 900,000 people. 85% of those people live on the mainland of Viti Levu, so as you can imagine, the other islands are pretty remote. And most of those people on the mainland live in one of three cities: the capital of Suva, the home of the international airport, Nadi, or the center for sugar cane production, Lautoka.  Nearly half of those islands don’t have permanent residents on them, and even more than that may not have a soul on the island.

Airport Transfers and Getting Started

It’s extremely likely that you won’t have to worry about transportation as soon as you land in Nadi. If you’ve pre-booked your accommodation, chances are high that there will be someone waiting for you at the airport to pick you up free of charge. It’s the Fijian way.

Island Hopping: Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands

When it comes to choosing where to go, the most common (and affordable) option for backpackers travelling to Fiji is to visit the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands, dotting the west coast of the main island, Viti Levu. They’re easily accessible from Nadi through a company called Awesome Adventures.  They operate the only mode of transport between each remote island (unless you have the funds to hire a private plane), the big, the bright, the yellow Yasawa Flier.

The Yasawa Flier is a hop on, hop off boat service that travels along a string of islands that draw a big backpacker crowd. Each island is slightly different in size, personality and service. The Flier is the only way to get from one island to another; these are some of the most idyllic and remote islands on the planet. It’s amazing that they’re even accessible in such an affordable mode of transportation.

Every day the boat kicks off around 8 AM from Nadi, where the Flier makes its way North, stopping off at various islands en route up to Nacula, one of the northernmost islands in the Yasawa chain. Total trip time takes 5 hours, and then the boat turns around to pick up passengers headed back towards Nadi in the afternoon. It only stops once a day in either direction, so you really get used to the slower, mellow pace of life here.

Flier Passes and Accommodation

You can hop on Yasawa Flier for a day offers two options for travellers- the first is simply transportation, using the boat as a means from A to B. As with most things, if you buy more days, you get more bang for your buck. The only catch to purchasing a transport-only Flier pass is that you must have your accommodation for the night pre-booked before getting on board the boat. They call this plan the Bula pass. Unless you only have plans to stay in Fiji for a few days, you should get one. It enables you to island hop at a bit of a discount, for anywhere from 5 to 15 days.

Visiting Taveuni

If you head to Taveuni, the adventure starts with getting there. Fiji’s third-largest island is remote but full of hiking, snorkeling, shipwreck dives, and rainforests. Uniquely, it straddles the International Date Line, so you can technically stand with one foot in “yesterday” and the other in “tomorrow” for a fun photo moment.

Taveuni is relatively hard to get to. You have to be flexible with your travel plans and up for the adventure, but if time is on your side, the main way there is via Suva on the mainland. Here in the port city you’ll find a cargo ship that allows passengers to hop aboard at an affordable price of $60 (as of the time of writing). It only leaves 2x a week so be sure to triple check your calendar. Travel in the open water will often be choppy, so be extra prepared if you’re the type who gets seasick.

Domestic Flights in Fiji

It’s worth noting here, for transport to Taveuni and also more generally speaking, that flying around Fiji is not cost effective. Fiji Airways is the only operator for domestic travel, and they upcharge their flights sometimes to $700+ a seat just for a ~1-hour flight. The logic behind this is that Fijians often don’t travel from island to island, especially by plane, so to make up for overhead costs they have to charge an exorbitant price to tourists. You might be lucky if you’re booking your trip far in advance, but more often than not, the expensive flights are all the more reason to stick to one part of Fiji for your adventure.

The FeeJee Experience

If you’ve backpacked around New Zealand at all, you may be familiar with the green Kiwi Experience bus. The same owners have created a similar way to get around Fiji, the FeeJee Experience, which offers a mix of tour options from 4 to 11 days long. As of August 2025, the shortest trip (accommodation included) costs FJD $899 ($395 USD) and the longest costs FJD $2400 ($1055 USD).

Most FeeJee Experience excursions take you around Viti Levu, but the longer trips also include a leg that visits the Yasawas (Mantaray, Blue Lagoon and Beachcomber Islands).

Sundays in Fiji

Something else to note is that Sundays in Fiji are seen as a day of rest, so don’t be surprised if many villages and towns are extra quiet on a Sunday. The Yasawa Flier still runs as planned, but be sure to check other forms of transportation around the country if you’re planning to travel on a Sunday as sometimes things shut down.

Fiji hostels

The best part about hostels in Fiji (at least those not on the mainland) is that you’re actually staying at resorts, for backpacker prices. These hostels are beautiful properties with pools and beaches and an abundance of activities (some of which are included with your stay). It’s arguably one of the only places in the world where honeymooners and backpackers will share dinner at the same dining room table.

When booking the Yasawa Flier, note that islands are split into 1- and 2-coconut properties. One coconut is true backpacking, while two coconut is “flashpacking” with nicer rooms, air conditioning, towels, reading lamps, and sometimes free toiletries. Two coconut stays also avoid bunk beds, offering a more comfortable, hotel-like experience.

1 coconut properties are no frills, and often locally owned so you’re likely to meet the family who runs the property. At either type of accommodation, you’ll often find the local staff hand picks fresh frangipani and hibiscus flowers daily and puts them in the bathroom and on your bed – talk about fresh service!

Compare hostels in Fiji

Which islands to visit in Fiji

It may be overwhelming to choose your islands, and that choice depends on what you’re after, but for the most part, here’s a brief rundown of what to expect. Not many slices of paradise let you sleep on the beach for $25 a night, so no matter where you choose, know that Fiji is a really unique and special place that will hopefully exceed your expectations.

A few of the islands below:

Most backpackers will fly into Nadi, possibly spending a day in and around the city having a wander or doing a mini excursion, then spending 1 night in Nadi before jetting off to the Yasawas.

The hostels in Nadi are extremely affordable: a bed will cost you $7 and they’re typically all right next to each other on a small street along the beach. For food, there’s a few little cafes to choose from, plus a local grocery store, but generally you won’t want to spend much time here: the islands are where the real fun begins. Popular options for Nadi hostels are Smugglers Cove or Bamboo, both right on the beach and less than a 10-minute cab ride from town.

Compare all hostels in Nadi

Smugglers Cove Hostel

South Sea Island

If you’re looking for a really intimate experience, this is it. South Sea is so small you can walk around the whole thing in less than 5 minutes. Actually, more like 20 steps. When you catch your first glimpse of South Sea you’ll be surprised that they even managed to build accommodation on such a tiny little island. This is one of the closest to Cloud 9 and the Mamala Beach Club, not to mention Nadi. It’s also one of the most affordable islands, with all the extra activities included for free (snorkel gear, kayaking etc).

The good part about South Sea is just how close it is to Nadi. As a negative, you’ll likely encounter a lot of day trippers. But as a bonus, if your flight out from Nadi leaves late in the evening (say 7 pm onward), the timing of the Yasawa Flier boat fits well. So, you can actually spend your last night in Fiji on South Sea instead of having to go back to Nadi to soak up one more morning of bliss before you have to leave the country.

Book your stay at South Sea Island Hostel for ultimate Island vibes.

Compare all hostels on South Sea Island

Yasawa Islands

This group of volcanic islands are located just north of the popular Mamanucas and make up the border of Western Fiji. The Yasawa Islands are home to an abundance of natural beauty, the perfect place for a digital detox. With postcard perfect beaches decorated with green cliffs and rocks, as well as world class snorkelling spots, The Yasawa Islands are a must visit destination for anyone looking to experience some of the best beaches in Fiji.

Barefoot Kuata

This is the home of the famous shark diving experience. You can dive with reef sharks even if you’re not SCUBA certified. If you’re not certified, they will simply help you practice and get comfortable in the shallow reef water with a PADI certified instructor before going out to feed the sharks. It’s an incredible experience that you can only get in a handful of places around the world so it’s well worth the cost if you can afford it.

Before you go out, you do a mandatory shark training, which is actually like a free class on shark biology. It helps you understand the animals better, and no one has ever gotten injured in the history of shark diving on the island, so it goes to show that maybe they’re not inherently dangerous animals after all.

There are plenty of places to go for a swim, too – take your pick between the seaside pool or calm ocean waves. Idyllic hammocks sit on the island’s edge, too, so you can have a perfect seat for sunset.

Book your stay at Barefoot Kuata.

Octopus Resort

Further up the Yasawa chain is Octopus Resort, an Australian run idyllic place to rest your feet in Fiji. Here, their calm reef is protected as a marine reserve, so expect to see even more animals swimming in the shallows.  It’s well known for a calendar full of activities, which they divvy up into a few different groups: “Activities for the Soul,” include the tranquil and relaxing things, from board games to beach walks, spa treatments or full body massages. “Fiji Time” is all about the cultural experience, where you can learn how to basket weave, play rugby with locals or learn how to tie a sulu.  “All Go or No Go,” allows you to participate in guided hikes or party night for a chance to win free shots at the bar. Being a 2-coconut property, extras are a bit more expensive here (like a $10 USD cocktail, for instance).

Book your stay at Octopus Resort.

Barefoot Manta

The cousin of Barefoot Kuata, known traditionally as Drawaqa Island. This island resort is also famous for a unique animal encounter. From May to October you have the opportunity to swim with manta rays here, gliding along as they munch on plankton.

You also have the option to do a shipwreck dive here. In 2016 there were two Chinese fishing vessels that were waiting to be demolished, but instead of throwing out the debris, someone had the great idea of turning them into an artificial reef. Now you can find over 30 types of fish in the wreckage.

Book your stay at Barefoot Manta.

Blue Lagoon Resort

Located in Nacula Bay’s tranquil lagoon, this aptly named resort is arguably sitting on the brightest water of all. They do a movie night in the common area where they literally tie a giant canvas between two coconut trees, lay out the cushions from the pool and hand out free popcorn for all to enjoy. It started spritzing rain when we watched our movie and the staff went above and beyond, retrieving umbrellas for us so we could continue to enjoy the film. Similar to Octopus, you’ll find a lot of activities on offer here. But being a 2-coconut property, food will be fancier (and more expensive). The good part about it is you’ll literally be fed a 3-course meal, with a delicious dessert every night!

Book your stay at Blue Lagoon Beach Resort.

Below is a timetable of the Yasawa Flier schedule so you can take a further look at your options when planning where to stay:

Compare hostels on Yasawa island

Mana Island

Mana Island is another great option in the Mamanucas, but please note, it’s not part of the Yasawa Flier route. Ratu Kini’s Backpackers hostel is a well-known PADI backpacker, so for the Scuba Divers among us, you’ll have plenty of dive sites to choose from.  It’ll also make for a great choice if you’re looking to stay close to Nadi and don’t want to stay at South Sea or Beachcomber, but probably not the best choice if you’re hopping around the islands as they require you use their own boat transfer to the mainlad.

In addition to lots of SCUBA options, they offer a day trip to Castaway Island. It would likely be a 1 Coconut property since the daily meal plan is only $42 FJD per day. But you will have an additional cost of $160 FJD for a return transfer to the mainland. It’s something to consider if you’re an avid Scuba Diver.

Book your stay at Ratu Kini’s Backpackers and Dive Resort.

Compare hostels on Mana island

Fiji travel costs

Currency & Exchange

In Fiji they use their own form of the dollar (far more colourful than its American counterpart). Exchange rates are always changing, of course, but at the time of writing (August 2025) $100 FJD is equal to $44 USD or $67 AUD.

Major Costs

Flights, transportation, and accommodation are your main expenses. A unique feature of Fiji’s hostel resorts is the mandatory meal plan, which covers nearly all islands. With no grocery stores or ATMs on most islands, meal plans typically cost around $50 USD per day—ranging from $42 USD at South Sea Island to $57 USD at Blue Lagoon.

Accommodation & Meal Plans

Meal plans usually include three set meals a day, sometimes with afternoon tea. Flashpacker (2 coconut) properties often separate food costs, so it can end up more expensive than budget (1 coconut) hostels where food is included. Booking independently via Hostelworld lets you mix 1 and 2 coconut stays to optimize cost.

Travel Tips

• Stock up on bottled water and essentials before leaving the mainland.
• Airfare varies: a round-trip Sydney–Fiji ticket can be around $400 USD if booked in advance. Last-minute flights are rarely cheaper.

Budget Breakdown

During a two-week trip, staying mainly in 2 coconut hostels, costs came to about $114 USD per day. Savings are possible by choosing 1 coconut hostels or bringing your own water.

Where to go in Fiji

Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands

The easiest option in choosing a destination will be the Mamanuca and Yasawa Island chains, as they’re easily accessible from the mainland, serviced by a daily boat (the Yasawa Flier) and each offers backpacker style dormitory accommodation starting at $20 a night, per person. The Mamanuca Islands are small, flat and very close to Nadi. If you’re pressed for time, they make a great destination that can offer a combination of remote tranquillity, a community of other backpackers (many of whom are solo travellers) and an array of activities to do, meals to indulge in and drinks to enjoy.

Plus, a fun fact about the Mamanucas is that Tom Hanks’ film Castaway was actually filmed on Qalito, which is one of the islands you can stay at or visit for the day.

Taveuni – The Garden Island

While the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands are certainly the most popular for their proximity to Nadi and relative ease of access, if you’re craving an even bigger adventure, and really want to get off the beaten path, you can try venturing over to Taveuni.

Taveuni is the 3^rd largest island in Fiji and is nicknamed the Garden Island, for good reason. It’s also known as the Soft Coral Island, so really there’s two big reasons to hang out here. The lush jungle and secluded waterfalls make this island an eco-tourist’s dream. There’s a big national park, Bouma, as well as a marine park called Waitabu on Taveuni. Both are great places to immerse yourself in nature. If you’re a keen diver, too, the famous Eel Reef and Great White Wall dive sites are amazing for their array of aquatic life.

In a country of 333 islands, of course there are even more options that don’t belong to any of the groups mentioned above, which are well-worth visiting if you get the chance. These include:

Kadavu Island

Split Rock is an adventurous dive that includes canyons and faults to circumnavigate. It’s part Fiji’s 100km barrier reef, Great Astrolabe Reef, with breathtakingly beautiful coral. You can also go for a surf at the King Kong Left surf break, which is in close paddling distance to land. On land you can spot any number of the 100+ types of birds here. They’re not afraid of humans, either, since they don’t have any natural predators.

Ovulau Island

History buffs can check out the colonial village called Levuka on Ovulau. It’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and has colonial-era buildings from the 1800s.

Castaway Island

Worth noting here just for the hilarity of it, but this is the actual island where Tom Cruise was stranded in Castaway. Known locally as Qalito, it’s part of the Mamanuca chain but isn’t serviced by the Yasawa Flier because they don’t offer any dorm style accommodation for backpackers. They’re really missing out.

Things to do in Fiji

Daily Island Activities

Most island hostels offer a range of daily activities, from free options like kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding to paid experiences like night snorkeling. Octopus Resort, for example, runs a jam-packed activity schedule and charges around $20 for night snorkels.

Night Entertainment & Culture

Expect sunset walks, local music, Fijian dancing, and kava ceremonies. On Beqa Island, you can witness traditional firewalking. Sunday mass is a big cultural event—dress modestly to join in.

Hiking & Day Trips

The Yasawa Islands offer waterfalls, lookout points, and secret caves. Blue Lagoon Resort runs trips to uninhabited islands with unique sights like the Sawailau caves.

Scuba & Adventure

Many backpackers take Open Water dive courses here. The calm reefs, smaller crowds, and affordable prices make Fiji ideal for diving, including special dives like bull shark feedings and night dives.

Hands-On Culture

Learn Fijian crafts like basket weaving, jewelry making, and coconut artwork, often from locals running the islands. Handmade souvenirs are also widely available.

Bars & Beach Clubs

For a fun finale near Nadi, visit Cloud 9, a floating bar in the Pacific, or Malamala Beach Club, a luxury party spot with pools, a helipad, and a lively scene.

Souvenir Shopping

Pick up locally made gifts on Main Street in Nadi—look for the “Fijian Made” sticker to ensure authenticity.

Fiji foods

Fijian Flavors

Fijian food blends Polynesian, Indian, Chinese, and Western influences. Fresh seafood, root crops, fruits, and vegetables dominate, while towns lean more Western—but forget global chains like McDonald’s or KFC unless you’re on the mainland.

Meal Plans & Dietary Options

Most backpackers are on a mandatory meal plan, which includes hearty meals mixing local dishes and Western staples. Vegetarians and vegans will usually find options, especially at higher-end resorts like Blue Lagoon and Octopus. Always mention dietary restrictions ahead of time.

Lovo Feast

Once a week, resorts often host a traditional Lovo—a feast cooked underground over two hours, featuring cassava, kumala, taro, pork, fish, chicken, and more, all wrapped in banana leaves or coconut stalks.

Kava: Fiji’s National Drink

Kava (Yaqona) is everywhere. Made from a pulverized pepper-like root, it’s known for its relaxing, numbing effects and is central to Fijian culture and social life.

So, there you have it – your ultimate guide to the Fiji Islands. Whatever you choose, be ready for ultimate relaxation and the most breathtaking beaches you may ever see. Vinaka vaka levu for reading!

About the author:

This Ultimate Guide to Fiji was written by Olivia Poglianich, aka Liv. She’s a passionate solo female traveller who hopes to inspire more backpackers to go on more adventures – even if they don’t think they have the time or the money. She’s from NYC but has been very lucky to live on 3 different continents and travel to all of them (except Antarctica – on the bucket list!). You can learn more tips, see more pictures or send her a note if you have any questions or want to be friends by checking out her Insta @LostWithLiv or her travel blog, LostWithLiv.com.

The post The only guide you’ll ever need for backpacking Fiji appeared first on Hostelworld Travel Blog.

[ All photos provided by @backpackerswanderlust ]

Contents

1. Best time to visit Southeast Asia
2. Southeast Asia travel visa
3. Best way to travel Southeast Asia
4. Accommodation in Southeast Asia
5. Travel Costs in Southeast Asia
6. Places to visit in Southeast Asia
7. Southeast Asia food
8. Southeast Asia culture and customs
9. Is Southeast Asia safe?
10. Southeast Asia Travel advice

Best time to visit Southeast Asia

Recommended by Sari Gregory

Just as Southeast Asia is made up of a rich variety of food, languages and cultures, you’ll also discover a variety of climates when backpacking through this region. No matter what time of year you choose to backpack Southeast Asia, you’ll be able to find somewhere with good weather. Here are some of the key countries in the region that showcase this variety.

Wet season vs dry season

Monsoons happen throughout Southeast Asia from June through to September, though it’ll vary slightly depending on where you are. Unless an area is impacted by major rains, a typical day during monsoon season will be a day of sunshine followed by a few hours of rain. You’ll still be able to do some great sightseeing during monsoon season – just make sure you always keep a poncho or rain jacket ready and handy for any unsuspecting showers. You should also purchase a rain cover for your backpack if it doesn’t come with one, to keep it (and everything inside) nice and dry.

The high season for travellers is during the dry season (which can vary across the region, as detailed below), so you should expect to pay higher prices along with the many other tourists hoping for some sunshine. Travelling during the monsoon season does have its advantages with fewer crowds and cheaper prices. As the Southeast Asian region is near the equator, you generally won’t experience extremely cold weather.

Best time to visit Thailand

Thailand´s high season is from November to February, where you´ll experience dry sunny weather throughout most of the country.

In the north (such as Chiang Mai), the weather is dry from November till May, with the first few months – November to February – experiencing cooler temperatures. March, April, and May are when things really get hot. If you´re in northern Thailand in April, don’t miss the New Year festival of Songkran; it’s the biggest water fight in the world and is the best break from the heat. From June to October, you’ll find the weather much wetter in the north.

In the south, the west coast and east coasts have different weather patterns. The good news is that you can choose your islands according to when you visit. The west coast (including Phuket and Khao Lak) has the biggest downpour from May till October, while the wet season for the east coast (including Koh Samui and Ko Phangan) is from September to December. If you want to island hop and hang out on sunny beaches all day, just pick the coast that is dry during your trip.

Best time to visit Vietnam

Vietnam is best divided into three regions: north, south and central.

The north (such as Ha Giang and Sapa) has cool, dry temperatures from October to March. The hot, monsoon season stretches from late April to September. Overall, temperatures in the north are cooler than in the south, especially in the northern mountainous regions, where the weather is cool and comfortable year-round. So, bring a jacket on if you’re planning to trek Sapa from October to March.

Central Vietnam (such as Hue and Hoi An) is hot and dry from January to August and experiences the most rain from September to November.

The south (such as Ho Chi Minh City) has two seasons: wet and dry. The dry, hot season is from November to April, while most of the rain comes down in the summer months of June, July, and August. Be prepared to get your sweat on in Ho Chi Minh City pretty much all year long.

Best time to visit Indonesia

Indonesia doesn’t have four seasons, just two: a wet and a dry season. You’ll find Indonesia’s weather to be the opposite of rest of Southeast Asia. While rains are pouring in Thailand, you can be sipping Bintang on a sunny beach in Bali. Generally, the temperature remains similar throughout the year, with some regional exceptions. The high tourist season in Indonesia is from May to September, which is when you’ll experience dry, warm weather. From October to April, the wet season will see rain for a few hours at a time.

The best time to visit Bali is during the high seasons: the springtime Easter holidays (March/April), winter holidays (December/January) plus July and August. However, Bali sees a heavy flow of tourist traffic around these times so if you don’t like crowds, try the shoulder months: April, May, June and September. The island doesn’t see as much contrast between the wet and dry seasons, so it’s a great year-round destination.

Best time to visit Malaysia

The Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, experiences warm weather all year round but is generally drier from June to August. Elsewhere, the country has a clear difference in east-west weather, just like the Gulf Coast of Thailand.

The west coast islands (like Penang, Langkawi and Pangkor) experience the best weather from December to April, while the rainy season occurs from April to October.

The east coast (including Kota Bharu and Mersing) enjoys drier days from April to October, while stormy monsoon weather occurs in November and December.

There are many micro-climates within the island of Borneo – so I recommend you don’t plan your trip around the weather here because it can be quite unpredictable. On the same day, Borneo’s weather will see warm, clear skies in one part of the island and a downpour in another part of the island. The least rain is from March to October, which also happens to be the best months to see orangutans.

Southeast Asia travel visa

Recommended by Natasha Nguyen

Thinking of visiting Southeast Asia? Before you get too ahead of yourself and arrive unprepared, it’s important to do your research. You don’t want to be turned back at the border because you don’t have something as simple as an entry visa. Here’s a general guide for Southeast Asian visas for Australian, UK or US citizens. (Please note, visa requirements may differ if you are a citizen of another country).

Can I get a Cambodia visa on arrival?

You’ll need a visa to visit Cambodia. Most visitors will be able to obtain a 30-day tourist visa on arrival for USD $30. I would suggest that you bring exact money because they rarely give change. Also, have a passport photo ready, they will ask for one of these.

If you like being organised, you can arrange your visa in advance by applying for a tourist e-visa from www.evisa.gov.kh.

If 30 days isn’t enough, you can extend your visa for an additional 30 days (but only once) at many travel agencies in Phnom Penh. Again, the extra 30 days will cost you another USD $30. For longer stays, you’ll need to arrange a visa in advance through the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Cambodia.

Can I get a Laos visa on arrival?

You’ll need a visa to visit Laos. Australian, British and US travellers can obtain a 30-day tourist visa on arrival, so long as they have 6 months validity on their passports, two blank pages in their passport and two passport photos. Visa prices vary depending on your nationality. For US and UK citizens, it costs USD $35. If you’re Australian (like me), it’s only USD $30. I would recommend paying in USD to avoid a bad exchange rate.

If 30 days isn’t enough, you can apply for a visa in advance or extend a tourist visa twice (up to a total of 90 days) at the immigration office in Vientiane. Visas on arrival are not available at all entry ports so if you plan to enter through somewhere more obscure, it’s best to apply for a visa in advance from the Embassy of Laos.

Do I need a visa for Singapore?

Citizens of most countries won’t need a visa to visit Singapore for tourism for the first 30 days. In fact, UK, US and Australian citizens can stay for up to 90 days visa-free. All you will need is at least 6 months of validity on your passport and proof of onward ticket.

Do I need a visa for Thailand?

Most nationalities travelling to Thailand for tourism are eligible for visa exemption up to a certain number of days. For Australians, Brits and Americans, this is available for up to 30 days.

If you’re planning to stay longer, you can extend your visa once for up to 30 days for a fee of 1900 Thai Baht at an immigration office. Alternatively, you can do what is commonly called a “border run”. This involves exiting the country by land to a neighbouring country before crossing back in to get a new visa. However, keep in mind that you can only enter Thailand by land twice a year. The most practical option for longer stays is to get a visa in advance from a Thai Embassy or Consulate.

Do I need a visa for Vietnam?

Many nationalities visiting Vietnam are granted visa exemptions for up to 90 days. UK citizens are eligible for a 15-day visa exemption but US and Australian citizens do not get an exemption so must apply for a visa. UK citizens planning to stay longer than 15 days will also need a visa.

E-visas are available for up to 30 days for USD $25 from www.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/en. Alternatively, you can apply for a visa directly from the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam.

Fun fact – if you’re of Vietnamese descent like me and have parents who are technically nationals, or if your spouse is a Vietnamese national, you can apply for a 5-year visa exemption certificate which allows multiple entries into Vietnam for up to 6 months.

Southeast Asia visa tips

Being able to get a visa on arrival makes travelling more flexible and allows you to be more spontaneous with where you go. However, it’s important to be prepared to a certain extent.

My top tip for travelling without preparing visas in advance is to always carry multiple copies of your passport photo and spare USD. Often, these are required when applying for visas on arrival. Additionally, you should always have at least two copies of your important documents, just in case.

You should also make sure you have at least 6 months validity on your passport on the day you plan to arrive home. Being stranded overseas with an almost-expired passport is a nightmare.

Best way to travel Southeast Asia

Recommended by Sari Gregory

In terms of travel, backpacking southeast Asia is easier than many people expect. There are many transport options: flights, trains and buses can take you between cities and countries, plus tuk-tuks and motor taxis are great options for shorter trips. If you have time, keep your plans flexible – you never know where you’ll want to spend more time or who you will want to travel with.

Busses in Southeast Asia

By and large, the best form of transportation is the good ol’ classic bus. Buses in Southeast Asia are cheap and will take you where you want to go. You often can buy your bus tickets online (on a website such as 12go Asia), in person at the bus station, or through a travel agency. Talk to your hostel about whether your tickets need to be booked in advance. Usually, buses can be booked the day you want to leave, but popular routes and high seasons/holiday times may mean some routes are all booked up. You’ll meet plenty of other backpackers on these buses since it is the most economical and popular way of travelling around Southeast Asia.

Stray and Bamba bus in Southeast Asia

The Bamba Experience is a hop-on-hop-off bus that follows a set route throughout Southeast Asia. Stray Asia is another hop-on-hop-off bus and pre-booked itinerary option for backpackers. This could be a good alternative to traditional backpacking if you are concerned with booking activities and bus passes yourself and you are not on a tight budget. However, it’s so easy to book travel in Asia that buying this type of pass is generally unnecessary. You may find that you will want spontaneity and will want to book travel with friends you meet, and this pass may limit your ability to do so.

Flights in Southeast Asia

If you’re pressed on time, flying will be your best option. If you keep your dates flexible, you can get some pretty good prices for flights. Usually, domestic flights within a country can be found for USD $80 or less.

Budget airlines like AirAsia, TigerAir and Jetstar can be the cheapest option. Make sure to check the costs with a local computer as well, in case airline costs are inflated on your foreign phone.

All the main tourist cities have airports. Bangkok, for example, has two airports; Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bankok’s international airport) is connected to the city by metro train and Don Mueang Airport (the local airport) is connected by bus. Don’t forget to check other airports in your destination country – there are airports around most big tourist attractions, not just in the sprawling metropolitan cities.

Trains in Southeast Asia

Train services in Southeast Asia are more limited than bus travel and are often more expensive. Many train rides need to be booked a few days in advance, as they are more likely to fill up than buses. The quality of the trains varies greatly by country, region and seat class, but some train journeys are worth the price for the experience itself. The journey from Jakarta to Jogjakarta in Indonesia is stunning and is comparatively inexpensive. Bangkok to Chiang Mai is another popular route, as the train network in Thailand is fairly extensive.

You’ll find city metro trains in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Bangkok and Jakarta. If you visit these cities, make sure to use the metro as it’s the best way to beat traffic, inexpensive, and a good way to live life alongside the locals.

Taxis, tuk-tuks, and moto-taxis

For short distances, you’ll have plenty of options to get around Southeast Asia. Make sure you ask and negotiate the price before you get into the tuk-tuk or taxi – especially tuk-tuks, as drivers will double the prices for tourists. Simply, haggle down that price and hop in as you should have the tuk-tuk experience at least once in your trip.

Moto taxis are a particularly inexpensive way to get around. You can use Uber, Grab, or GoJek (in Indonesia) to hail a moto taxi in many cities in Southeast Asia. Hail one with your phone, pop on the helmet that is offered to you, hop on the back and enjoy the thrill.

Accommodation in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is renowned by backpackers from all around the globe; as much, there’s a MASSIVE selection of hostels for every price range, style of traveller, and destination. Hostels in Southeast Asia come in all shapes and sizes too; there’s everything form large, modern hostels that take luxury to the next level, to quaint, rustic hostels offering complete cultural immersion. The best part is that no matter where you stay you’ll be met with friendly people that are excited to share their home with you and give you the best experience you possible. With so many amazing hostels to choose from it can be difficult to decide which one is best for you, but have no fear, we’ve compiled the best hostels in Asia to make your booking a breeze! 

•  Best hostels in Vietnam
•  Best hostels in Thailand
•  Best hostels in Indonesia
•  Best hostels in Cambodia
•  Best hostels in Singapore
•  Best hostels in Philippines
•  Best hostels in Myanmar
•  Best hostels in Malaysia
•  Best hostels in Laos
•  Best hostels in Brunei
•  Best hostels in East Timor

Compare all hostels in Asia

Travel costs in Southeast Asia

Recommended by Tasha Amy

Southeast Asia is a very budget-friendly region to travel. However, there are certain countries that are friendlier on the wallet than others – and this is of great importance when planning your adventure and deciding which countries to visit.

Your budget certainly won’t last long exploring the bustling pricey city of Singapore, though Cambodia – home of USD $3 dorm beds and cheap street side meals – is thankfully a quick flight away. This price contrast can also occur within one country itself. Take Thailand for example: for the price of one week in Phuket you can travel for two weeks around Chiang Mai, ultimately causing confusion in how much money to take to Thailand.

As you can see, it can be quite difficult to figure out an exact Southeast Asia travel budget, so let’s look at things a bit more closely.

Cost of backpacking Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is known as one of the most affordable regions to backpack in the world, thanks to cheap accommodation and food. Get ready for street side barbeque stalls, bunkbeds and overcrowded vans. Whilst these things may not seem so great in an everyday world, they are what make the experience in Southeast Asia and certainly help keep the costs down. Buses and trains between destinations generally cost around USD $10, much cheaper than a domestic flight. Hostels are abundant throughout Southeast Asia, providing a cheap place to rest your head and meet fellow travellers. Food options are plentiful – but if you want to stick to your budget, street food is your best friend (you really can’t go wrong with pad thai).

Even though food, transport and accommodation are extremely affordable, there are some more expensive experiences that shouldn’t be missed. While in Thailand, visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary, doing a PADI diving course on Koh Tao and ziplining through the jungles are just some of the pricey experiences you might want to do and will need to consider when figuring out how much money to take to Thailand.

As a rule, your ‘travelling Southeast Asia budget’ will need to be at least USD $1000 per month. You can certainly backpack cheaper by skimping on experiences, though the region is full of amazing moments you will not want to miss out on.

Cost of living in Southeast Asia

The cost of living in Southeast Asia when compared to many Western countries is extremely affordable, which has led to an influx of expat communities abroad. This is especially true these days with better internet connections resulting in numerous digital nomads.

One of the cheapest countries to live in Southeast Asia is Cambodia. There are some excellent expat communities throughout the country from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville. The low cost of living in Cambodia allows people to live a comfortable lifestyle at a minimal cost. Private rooms can be found from USD $100 per month and full apartments from USD $300, whilst meals cost just a couple dollars each. These cheap prices and great sense of community make living in Cambodia on a shoestring budget so appealing.

Average prices in Southeast Asia

Overall, Southeast Asia is a very budget friendly destination, leaving you and your wallet smiling at the end of each day, though this will depend on your travel style.

If you are an adventurous eater who will happily consume street food with the locals, you can find delicious meals from just USD $1-3. But, if you’d rather have table service at a basic eatery, you should expect to spend upwards of USD $3.5 with a soft drink. For foodies who like to make each meal an experience (eating at only the best and typically found at 5* restaurants), the cost to dinning at such places will be comparable to that of Western prices, running upwards of USD $20 for a main and a drink.

Here’s a quick guide to average prices in Southeast Asia:

Money saving tips

• Book hostels that include a free breakfast – that’s one less meal you need to purchase each day.
• Make sure taxi drivers use the meter or agree on a fixed price before getting into the vehicle. A great alternative is using the Grab App to get around (it is the Southeast Asian version of Uber). They also have a motorbike option, which is perfect for solo travellers.
• If you’re shopping at markets, remember to haggle when purchasing an item. It’s all a part of the Southeast Asian experience and a great way to interact with the locals.
• Make sure you have travel insurance. You can easily get into freak accidents and suddenly your budget will be blown on hospital bills – thankfully, travel insurance is your best friend in such situations.

Places to visit in Southeast Asia

Recommended by Natasha Nguyen

Deciding that you want to visit Southeast Asia is a simple task, but once you sit down and really think about where you want to go, this task can get very overwhelming. Southeast Asia is HUGE, consisting of so many countries, all with different attractions, cuisines and customs.

To hopefully make this difficult task a bit easier, here’s a crash course of Southeast Asia’s most popular countries and what they have to offer.

Cambodia

Worth visiting for: Angkor Wat, beautiful islands, fascinating (yet haunting) history.

Things to watch out for: average food, bag snatching is common.

Popular places to visit: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, Koh Rong.

Cambodia hosts what is arguably the most beautiful attraction in Southeast Asia – Angkor Wat. I mean, Angelina Jolie filmed Tomb Raider here. It has a lot more to offer though: learn about the haunting Khmer Rouge regime in Phnom Penh or experience some of Asia’s most beautiful (and untouched) islands like Koh Rong Samloem and Sihanoukville.

Find hostels in Cambodia

Indonesia

Worth visiting for: rice terraces, remote beaches.

Things to watch out for: overcrowded and touristy parts.

Popular places to visit: Jakarta, Bali, Gili Islands, Lombok, Java, Sumatra.

Indonesia can accommodate both backpacking beginners and those after a more “off the beaten trail” experience. The popular Bali and Gili Islands are very tourist-friendly, and you are bound to meet heaps of fellow backpackers here. Alternatively, Indonesia is made up of so many islands that more “untouched” places like Sumatra or Java are aplenty.

Find hostels in Indonesia

Laos

Worth visiting for: chill lifestyle, beautiful waterfalls.

Things to watch out for: average food, poor quality roads, lack of nightlife.

Popular places to visit: Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Vientiane, Don Det.

Laos is very slow-paced which is refreshing compared to the hustle and bustle of most other Southeast Asian countries. Laos is known for its beautiful waterfalls, such as Kuang Si Falls in Luang Prabang and many backpackers flock to Vang Vieng to take part in the famous tubing.

Find hostels in Laos

Myanmar

Worth visiting for: temples of Bagan, beautiful hikes, not so touristy (yet).

Things to watch out for: average food, tourists banned from riding scooters/motorbikes.

Popular places to visit: Mandalay, Yangon, Bagan, Inle Lake, Hpa-An

Myanmar is relatively new to tourism which makes it quite “authentic” compared to other well-trodden Southeast Asian countries. Myanmar is perfect for hiking fans, with many different hiking routes to choose from but the highlight is watching hot air balloons float above the temples in Bagan during sunrise.

Find hostels in Myanmar

The Philippines

Worth visiting for: island hopping, beautiful clear water, water sports.

Things to watch out for: average food, can be difficult to travel from island to island.

Popular places to visit: Manila, Boracay, Cebu, Palawan, Coron.

The Philippines is the place to be for any big water fans. You can experience extreme water sports such as windsurfing and jet skiing, to once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as swimming with whale sharks. Every island in the Philippines has something unique to offer and you will never be at a loss for things to do.

Find hostels in The Philippines

Singapore

Worth visiting for: extremely clean and modern, award-winning restaurants.

Things to watch out for: it’s expensive! Need I say more?

Popular places to visit: Singapore city, Sentosa Island.

Singapore is a small country with lots to offer. For all you foodies, Singapore hosts some of the world’s cheapest Michelin star restaurants and is also known for its hawker centres. Singapore is also the home of the famous Marina Bay Sands, the hotel with the iconic infinity pool 57 floors above the ground.

Find hostels in Singapore

Thailand

Worth visiting for: cheap street food, night markets, easy to travel around.

Things to watch out for: certain parts extremely touristy, haggling with locals.

Popular places to visit: Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Phangan, Chiang Mai, Pai.

Thailand has so much to offer. The south hosts hundreds of different islands, all with different vibes. Some are small and undeveloped, such as Koh Mak. Others pull huge crowds, such as Koh Phi Phi. Jungly Northern Thailand has a completely different feel, offering more attractions for nature lovers such as national parks, waterfalls and elephant sanctuaries.

Find hostels in Thailand

Vietnam

Worth visiting for: Vietnamese food, war museums, Halong Bay.

Things to watch out for: average beaches, traffic can be horrendous.

Popular places to visit: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnam is full of rich experiences, good food and fascinating history. The north hosts sights that will appeal to nature fans, such as Halong Bay and Sapa Hills, while the south is the place to go to learn more about the devastating effects of the Vietnam War, as well as enjoy the country’s amazing cuisine of course.

Find hostels in Vietnam

Southeast Asia itinerary

Overwhelmed with the choices available? Often, it’s easier to just follow a tried and true itinerary. A safe bet for any beginner is the famous Banana Pancake Trail. This isn’t a clear geographic route, it’s more a name that describes the most popular places in Southeast Asia. Some may call it overrated, but it’s popular for good reason. You are guaranteed to meet heaps of fellow travellers and the locals in these areas are used to seeing tourists, so you don’t have to worry too much about safety.

Four-week backpacking Southeast Asia route: Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos

If you’re after a “greatest hits” tour of this sub-continent, this is the itinerary for you. It hits most places listed on any Banana Pancake Trail list, so you’re guaranteed to see some beautiful sights and meet loads of backpacker friends.

Hanoi, Vietnam

How long: 3 days.

Must do/see: wander around the Old Quarter.

How to get here: fly into Noi Bai International Airport.

Start your trip off in the capital of Vietnam and immediately throw yourself into Vietnamese culture. Wander around the 36 streets in the Old Quarter and take in the French-Colonial architecture. Shop to your heart’s content at Dong Xuan market, then stop for a roadside bun cha for lunch before checking out a traditional water puppet show.

Halong Bay, Vietnam

How long: 2 days, 1 night.

Must do/see: kayaking in Halong Bay.

How to get there: cruise tour from Hanoi, private car, bus or train.

Halong Bay is a must-visit destination in Vietnam and is simply magical. Cruise through the iconic bay, explore the surrounding caves and kayak amongst the limestone pillars. Halong Bay can be done in a day, but I personally recommend staying at least one night. The easiest way to do this is to go with a tour, as most things such as transport and even meals are covered.

Hoi An, Vietnam

How long: 3 days.

Must do/see: Hoi An night market.

How to get there: fly to Da Nang and bus/taxi to Hoi An, train to Da Nang and bus/taxi to Hoi An, or direct sleeper bus.

This UNESCO Heritage site is one of my personal favourites in Vietnam. The little riverside town dotted with colourful lanterns is so architecturally beautiful. What Hoi An is most famous for is its tailor shops. You can easily get a cheap tailored suit, dress, or even tailored leather shoes.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

How long: 3 days.

Must do/see: Cu Chi Tunnels.

How to get there: bus/taxi to Da Nang and fly to Ho Chi Minh, bus/taxi to Da Nang and train to Ho Chi Minh, direct sleeper bus.

Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling metropolis that offers plenty of culture and rich history. Haggle your way through the aisles of Cho Ben Thanh, the city’s biggest market, before polishing down a bowl of pho for lunch. Brush up on your history at the War Remnants Museum and immerse yourself in old guerrilla warfare tactics by crawling through the Chu Chi tunnels.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

How long: 2 days.

Must do/see: Killing Fields.

How to get there: overnight bus or flight.

Phnom Penh is an eye-opening city. Though depressing, visiting the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek and the S21 Prison to learn about the Khmer Rouge regime is both powerful and moving. It makes you really appreciate the strength and resilience of the Cambodian locals. To end your day on a lighter note, ask your tuk-tuk driver to take you to a local Muay Thai fight.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

How long: 3 days.

Must do/see: Angkor Wat.

How to get there: flight, bus or minibus.

Siem Reap is famous for being the home of Angkor Wat. You could spend 3 whole days exploring the hundreds of temples and still not see them all. However, there are many other things to do in Siem Reap. Take a traditional pottery class or explore the outer villages and see how the locals live. Whatever you choose to do though, watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat is a must.

Bangkok, Thailand

How long: 3 days.

Must do/see: Wat Arun.

How to get there: flight or bus.

Bangkok is a city of many choices. If sightseeing is your thing, explore the many beautiful temples. You could even do a day trip to historic Ayutthaya to see the spectacular temple ruins. If shopping is your thing, check out impressively large Chatuchak Market. If food is your thing, cheap street food is bountiful or the world’s 5th best restaurant, Gaggan, is in Bangkok. I can attest that the 25-course menu is amazing.

Koh Phangan, Thailand

How long: 2 days.

Must do/see: Full Moon Party.

How to get there: flight into Koh Samui or Surat Thani then ferry, night bus or train from Bangkok then ferry.

The Full Moon Party is a big drawcard for many visitors to Koh Phangan. Although the Full Moon Party gets mixed reviews, it is worth experiencing once in your life. Koh Phangan is one of three small islands within an hour ferry ride of each other so if you have some extra time, it is worth also visiting Koh Samui or, my personal favourite, Koh Tao.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

How long: 3 days.

Must do/see: visit an elephant sanctuary.

How to get there: flight (direct or through Bangkok) or ferry then bus.

The capital of northern Thailand is not as busy as Bangkok, but just as lively. Spend your days exploring the 300 temples, your nights exploring the huge night markets, witness a local Muay Thai fight, do a Thai cooking class or bathe some elephants at one of many elephant sanctuaries

Pai, Thailand

How long: 3 days.

Must do/see: Pai Canyon.

How to get there: bus or minivan.

Pai used to be one of those “off the beaten path” hippie backpacker towns but has shot up in popularity over recent years. Nestled in the mountains, Pai is surrounded by beautiful canyons, natural hot springs and impressive waterfalls. On the other hand, the centre of town is lined with the comforts from home and an abundance of Western food. You can even get a decent steak.

Luang Prabang, Laos

How long: 2 days.

Must do/see: hike Mount Phousi for views.

How to get there: bus then slow boat or flight.

Luang Prabang is a small and quaint town that is famous for the beautiful Kuang Si Falls. What I loved is that it’s so quiet, even the nightlife is tame. There’s one bar in town and everyone ends their night at the local bowling alley, drinking and bowling at the same time. Another Luang Prabang highlight for me was a zip lining through the jungle.

Vang Vieng, Laos

How long: 3 days.

Must do/see: tubing down Nam Song River.

How to get there: VIP bus or minivan.

Most people go to Vang Vieng to experience tubing down the Nam Song River (a rite of passage for any backpacker). Vang Vieng is also a great place to slow down and chill out. All the cafes around town play Friends reruns all day (so cool) and at night, hostels offer free whisky before everyone heads off to the famous Sakura bar.

Vientiane, Laos

How long: 1 day.

Must do/see: Phat That Luang.

How to get there: VIP bus or minivan.

There isn’t so much to do in Vientiane but as the capital of Laos, it’s the natural point to end your trip as you can catch a flight to wherever you are heading next. The slow and calm riverside city is also the perfect place to unwind after a long journey.

Southeast Asian food

Recommended by Ellie Field

When it comes to the Asian diet, there’s so much more to enjoy than just rice and noodles. These staples are ever-present, but as you travel through Southeast Asia, you’ll find an incredible variety of dishes that reflect the region’s cultures, histories, and local ingredients. From the hawker centres of Singapore to the warungs of Indonesia, every meal is a chance to explore.

Staples of Southeast Asian Cuisine

Rice is the most consistent element across the region. It’s eaten throughout the day, often fried with vegetables, meat or tofu, or steamed and served alongside dishes like Indonesian ayam goreng (fried chicken). Sticky rice, often wrapped in banana leaves, is another popular variation.

Noodles are just as common. Fried with meat or vegetables and tossed in sauce, or served in spicy soups, noodles are a go-to in nearly every country. In Myanmar, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Indonesia, you’ll often find egg noodles, while rice noodles dominate in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Be careful with the condiments – in Myanmar, for example, the seemingly mild sauce served with noodles can be incredibly spicy.

Curries Across the Region

You won’t travel far in Southeast Asia without encountering curries, especially in the western parts of the region. In Myanmar, curries are served with lentils, chickpeas, thick sauces, and palata (flatbread). In Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos, curries tend to be coconut-based, richer, and creamier — Cambodia’s fish amok is a standout. Laos and Thailand have the spiciest curries, while Malaysian and Indonesian versions like rendang are more about deep, complex flavours than heat.

Going Beyond the Basics

While popular dishes like pad thai or nasi goreng are easy choices, some of the best meals come from exploring lesser-known local specialities. In Malaysia, try the communal experience of a steamboat, where you cook your own meat, veg, and eggs in bubbling broth. Indonesia’s gado-gado is a healthy, peanut-sauced mix of veg, tofu, egg, and potato. In Palawan, Philippines, adventurous eaters can try crocodile sisig. And if you’re by the coast in Vietnam, a crab banh mi is the perfect beachside sandwich.

Southeast Asian Desserts and Sweets

Street food culture extends to desserts too. In Laos, coconut pancakes cooked in bubble-shaped moulds are a must-try. Indonesia has its own version, called apem, found in local markets. Mango sticky rice is a regional favourite in Cambodia, while Thailand offers rotis — fried crepes filled with banana, egg, chocolate or cheese. Vietnam and the Philippines are dotted with bakeries offering rice-based treats like che troi nuoc (rice balls in ginger syrup). Just note that beans and cheese often feature in local sweets — expect surprises.

Costs: Cheap, Filling, and Delicious

Eating in Southeast Asia is budget-friendly. Most meals cost under USD $5, especially from street stalls or night markets. Tourist-heavy areas like beaches might charge a bit more, but even there, local spots are still affordable. Many hostels include basic breakfasts (toast, pancakes, eggs), helping travellers save even more. The “Banana Pancake Trail” nickname is no joke — you’ll see plenty of backpacker-style breakfasts across the region.

Dietary Needs and Allergies

Vegetarian travellers will find plenty of options, especially in Buddhist communities. Tofu and tempeh are widely used, and simple dishes can be made meat-free. For those with allergies or intolerances, especially to gluten, peanuts, or eggs, it’s helpful to have key phrases written down in the local language. Larger cities like Singapore, Bali, and Kuala Lumpur offer more variety in gluten-free, vegan, or dairy-free options.

Food Safety Tips for Travellers

Street food is often the tastiest and most authentic, but hygiene can vary. To stay safe:

• Avoid food that may have been washed in tap water

• Choose hot, freshly cooked meals

• Peel any raw fruit yourself

• Wash hands before eating

If you’re recovering from a stomach bug, food courts in malls can be a safe bet — they offer clean, affordable, and still-authentic meals without the risk.

Southeast Asian cuisine is as rich and varied as the landscapes you’ll explore. Eating like a local isn’t just about staying full — it’s a direct path into the culture. Be curious, ask questions, follow the crowds, and don’t be afraid to try something new. Your next favourite dish might just be around the corner.

Southeast Asian culture and customs

Recommended by Tasha Amy

The moments you have with the Southeast Asian people will be the ones you will cherish the most once your adventures are complete: the smiles and laughter used to communicate due to language barriers, the beers consumed at plastic tables shared with newfound friends and the endless recommendations as you speak to proud locals. Southeast Asian people are extremely friendly, and their kindness will be abundant throughout your travels.

While backpacking in Southeast Asia, I highly recommend interacting with the locals as much as possible. Whether this means just striking up a conversation or even staying with a family at a homestay. It will make your experiences that much richer, giving you a unique insight into the culture – and it may just lead to an incredible adventure.

Religion in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asian religion varies widely depending on the history of the country. There is not one major religion throughout the region and it’s known as one of the most religiously diverse places in the world today. Depending on the country you visit and the area of that country, you will find a variety of temples, churches and religious figures.

In Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand, Buddhism is the most popular religion. Here, you’ll find many temples and practising monks. Vietnam was once a Buddhist nation, though nowadays the main belief is that of the Vietnamese folk religion. Buddhism is the commonly associated religion regarding Southeast Asia, though in reality there’s so much more.

While exploring Indonesia, Malaysia, parts of Myanmar and parts of southern Thailand it will become apparent that Islam is the widely practised religion. The call to prayer will become a regular soundtrack to your day and seeing some of the incredible mosques offer a different insight into Southeast Asian religion.

Even Catholicism is highly present by being the main belief of the Philippines and East Timor. This is the result of colonization from European countries. These days you can find Christianity widely practised throughout Southeast Asia and churches packed on a Sunday morning.

Overall, Southeast Asian people are extremely spiritual no matter their religion and it’s an important part of their daily lives. This will become obvious even in the most touristy areas. Religion plays a major part in the cultures of Southeast Asia and it should be embraced throughout your travels.

Southeast Asian art

Religion has widely impacted the Southeast Asian art produced by the locals. Depending on the country, you might find paintings of Buddha and monks in Thailand or Hindu gods in Cambodia, especially around the impressive Hindu temple complex of Angkor Wat.

Many locals become artisans to make a living. They will specialise in a particular technique or trade, and produce goods related to this. In some places, there are entire villages that will only produce a certain type of product. An example of this is Thanh Ha Village on the outskirts of Hoi An in Vietnam. Specialising in pottery, you can see the entire process from the locals throwing the clay on a wheel into a certain shape to the kiln where the item is heated, essentially turning it from clay to pottery. Partaking in experiences like these are an excellent way to interact with the locals, learn about Asian art and offer the chance to learn a new skill.

Customs in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asian people are very kind, polite and always seem composed. Their behaviour is greatly controlled by etiquette and oftentimes based on the Buddhist religion. These beliefs play a big part in their lives and as a visitor to Southeast Asia, you should respect this as well. Here are some customs you should be aware of and observe when travelling through the region:

• Raising your voice as a sign of anger is highly frowned upon. It’s viewed as threatening and a sign of weakness. Doing this will result in plenty of embarrassed looks and can leave a quite bad perception of foreigners.
• The head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Be careful to never pat a person on their head. Opposite to this is the feet, which are considered the dirtiest part of the body. Avoid putting your feet on tables and chairs, pointing with your feet and be careful when stepping over people.
• Always walk clockwise around Buddhist monuments. Locals will appreciate your awareness of their religion.
• Remove your shoes before entering a temple, as well as having your shoulders and knees covered.
• Before entering a house, make sure to remove your shoes. Oftentimes the same applies when staying in hostels and guesthouses. Though, the abundance of shoes outside the door will make it obvious that it is expected of you.

Is Southeast Asia safe?

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Southeast Asia, in general, is a safe, well-trodden place for backpackers. Of course, safety differs by country and city, but if you’re street smart and aware of your surroundings and careful with your valuables, you shouldn’t have too much difficulty.

Drugs and alcohol

Though they may seem readily available in parts of Asia, make no mistake: drugs are illegal throughout southeast Asia. In many Southeast Asian countries, penalties for drug possession can be severe. In Singapore and Indonesia, it can be punishable by death. Alcohol is generally legal throughout Southeast Asian countries, with exceptions in strictly religious parts of Malaysia, Indonesia, and in the small country of Brunei.

Safety in Indonesia

Indonesia is a country of over 17,000 islands with endless unique experiences to be had. It is cheap too – making it a backpacker’s dream. However, Indonesia has been experiencing both natural and terrorist disasters as of late, so it is advisable to research before determining your travel route.

In late July/early August 2018, Lombok was hit by a series of massive earthquakes that left hundreds dead. The airports in Bali and Lombok are operating flights like normal once again, but as of August 2018, the British foreign office is advising all but essential travel to western Lombok and the Gili islands. They also advise against travelling within 4km of the Mount Agung crater in Bali due to volcanic activity. Do check recent reports when going near a volcanic area and Google “is it safe to travel to Bali at the moment?”

There have also been terrorist attacks in Indonesia, though they are mostly concentrated in Java and Sumatra. Most attacks are in public places, so it’s always wise to be aware of your surroundings always.

In Bali and Gili islands, avoid buying local Arak. This is a local liquor that has caused alcohol poisoning and even death in recent years.

Female travellers

I felt safer travelling alone as a female in Southeast Asia than in many other parts of the world. However, females are bound to receive unwanted attention when they travel. It’s always best to go out with other people at night. If you’re staying in a hostel, it will be easy to find people to do activities with. Hostel travellers are a friendly breed.

As always, make sure to watch your drink. As for clothing, pay attention to how the locals are dressed. Especially in more conservative places such as Indonesia and Malaysia, be aware of local customs and bring a cover-up for when you leave the beach.

Southeast Asia travel advice

Recommended by Ellie Field

As with all adventures, a trip to Southeast Asia will require a bit of travel prep. Whilst planning your itinerary might be the more exciting part of it, you’ll also need to spend some time sorting your medical kit, so you can stay healthy whilst you’re away. Some of this is as simple as a trip to the chemist to grab some essentials, but other pieces will need a bit more organisation.

Vaccinations for Southeast Asia

First up, there are some vaccinations for Southeast Asia you’re likely to need. The most essential include diphtheria, tetanus, polio, hepatitis A and typhoid. In addition, it’s recommended you have hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis and rabies. This might sound like a lot, but if you’re away for a while or are heading to more remote areas, it’s worth it for the peace of mind. Depending on your itinerary (or if you’ve travelled recently), you may not need them all – the best thing to do is to book a consultation with your doctor or travel clinic and talk through your plans. If possible, it’s a good idea to do this 2-3 month before you leave.

Malaria

On top of vaccinations, there may be a malaria risk in countries you travel to, so you might need to take malaria tablets. There are a variety of anti-malarials; some taken daily, others weekly, and there are different time periods you’ll need to take them for before and after you enter the malaria zone. Again, talk this through at your travel health consultation and you’ll be prescribed the most appropriate solution for you.

Medicine and travel insurance

Whilst vaccinations are important to protect yourself when you’re off on your adventure, it’s worth noting they don’t make you invincible. You should still take adequate precautions such as drinking bottled water and commercially-made ice, wearing insect repellent, ensuring any cuts are thoroughly cleaned and seeking medical attention for any animal bites as soon as possible. You should also take a personal first aid kit with you, composed of items you can just buy from a local chemist. This will include basics such as plasters, painkillers, diarrhoea tablets, rehydration sachets, hand sanitiser and any regular medications you require. Also consider antiseptic, travel sickness pills, antihistamines, multivitamins and probiotics.

You may still find yourself in need of medical attention whilst you’re away. If you’re unsure where to go, speak to your hostel reception, or another useful source of advice is expat forums or websites specific to the country or city you’re in. I can’t stress enough here how important it is to have solid travel insurance, so make sure that’s sorted before you leave home.

This may all seem a little daunting as you’re preparing for your trip. Don’t let it kill your excitement; just get organised and be aware of the health challenges whilst you’re away. Almost everywhere you go you’ll encounter a community of like-minded travellers all looking out for each other, so you won’t be alone if you need help. Have a happy and healthy trip!

Pin this blog for later!

Check out more awesome articles on Southeast Asia:

50 signs you’re a backpacker in Southeast Asia

Getting off the beaten track in Southeast Asia

10 of the best places to party in Asia

11 mind-blowing temples in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asian markets: 10 of the best in Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond

The 5 best places for digital nomads in Southeast Asia

Responsible tourism: what to do (and not do) whilst travelling through Asia

Download the Hostelworld app to start booking your Southeast Asia trip

Backpacking Southeast Asia

The post The ultimate guide to backpacking Southeast Asia appeared first on Hostelworld Travel Blog.

It can be hard to find information about backpacking in Canada all in one place, so here’s the ultimate guide to backpacking in Canada. In it you’ll find the best places to visit (and when!), learn how to get to where you need to go, some sample itineraries, and what you need to get (and stay!) in the country in the first place.

Contents

1. 1. 1. Best time to visit Canada
      2. Visas for Canada
      3. Getting around Canada
      4. Accommodation in Canada
      5. Travel costs Canada
      6. Where to go in Canada
      7. Things to do in Canada
      8. Canadian food
      9. Canadian culture
      10. Travel advice Canada

Best time to visit Canada

The best time to visit Canada varies greatly by region. Whether you’re looking for mountains, beaches, or an urban adventure, Canada’s got you covered; spanning nearly 10 million square kilometres across six different time zones. Canada’s climate varies greatly – your average spring day in Vancouver looks a lot different from that in St. John’s and nothing like what’s happening in Iqaluit (that’s up north btw). This is due to one simple reason – Canada is HUGE. So, broken down into the different regions of Canada, here are the best times to visit.

Weather in Canada

Asking what the weather is like is the same as asking “what time is it in Canada?”. Canadians will often default to what it’s like where they’re from, politely tell you that it depends on where in the country, or just give you a funny look like “really?”, as that answer could vary by about 40°C depending on where you’re referring to.

The best time to visit anywhere is dependent on your travel priorities. Each season presents different activities and events that occur all across the country. Summer is the most popular time for tourism in most regions except for the Rocky Mountains when winter dominates for skiing and snowboarding. Below are some of the best places to visit during each season.

Summer in Canada

West Coast

For those travelling to the West Coast, Summer is a great time to check out Vancouver and Victoria. The weather is warmer and drier from April through October, and rarely gets too hot thanks to the cool ocean breezes. Vancouver’s temperatures average from 18 to 22°C from June through August.

English Bay, Vancouver, British Colombia

: @mbenna

Prairies 

If you intend on visiting the Prairies this summer, you’ll be in for a treat. The area is great for photographers with beautiful fields and wildlife. Temperatures in Calgary are in mid to low 20s, Regina can reach up to 30°C, and Winnipeg averages around 25°C from June through August.

Central Canada

Central Canada is very popular in the summer, particularly visits to Niagara Falls, camping in Northern Ontario, and spending time in the great lakes. The wonderful summer weather in Quebec make it a perfect destination as well. Toronto weather can get incredibly hot and humid, with temperatures reaching over 30°C. Montreal weather is only a little better, averaging around 26°C. 

Niagara Falls, Ontario

: Joe deSousa

Atlantic Canada

Atlantic Canada is fantastic in the summer. Spending time on the ocean or hiking, it’s impossible not to have a great time. It’s also one of the best places in Canada to get away from big crowds, as well as the extreme heat. Much of eastern Canada averages in the low twenties with cool breezes.

The Northern Territories

The Northern Territories are typically avoided due to how cold they get. But, in the summer, you have the chance to hike the world’s northern most mountains, check out the Arctic, and admire the stunning natural beauty including breathtaking meadows and majestic wildlife. Thankfully, in the summer, it’s really not that cold there! Summer temperatures in the Yukon can reach the low to mid-twenties, Yellowknife, NT reaches the low twenties, and Iqaluit reaches the low-mid teens. Towns in the arctic circle also experience nearly 24/7 sunlight – a phenomenon known as Midnight Sun.

Overall, summer time is the best time to get the most out of your trip to Canada. From beaches to mountains, exploring cities and jumping from festival to festival, summer is when Canada shines.

Autumn in Canada

Autumn is when you’ll want to spend time in one of Canada’s many forests or National Parks. The fall foliage is to die for. It is peak hiking season all across the country, but particularly in Banff, Algonquin, and Jasper.

Another reason to love autumn in Canada is all the wonderful produce. Farm fresh pumpkins, squash, and apples with many places that let you pick them yourself. If you’re visiting a farm, look for one with fun activities like hay rides or corn mazes. Many cities and towns also have fall markets where you can buy fresh baked pie made with the local produce .

Unfortunately, autumn in Canada in fleeting, so take in as much in as you can. In Eastern Canada, temperatures range from 10 to 20°C, but there’s a fair bit of rain. In the Prairies, it can be as high as 18°C in September, but as low as zero in November.

Larch Valley, Banff National Park, Alberta

: Craig Zerbe

Winter in Canada

Canada’s winter has a terrible reputation. Blistering cold, snow storms and hail. These things don’t exactly sound fun. Winter is typically December, January, and February, but can even last from November until April in the Rocky Mountain regions, Northern Territories, and the Eastern provinces.

West Coast

While the cold winter is inevitable in most of Canada, the West Coast (particularly Vancouver) has quite moderate winters. It’s a great place to keep from freezing, and you’ll only be a few hours from some of the best ski resorts in the Rockies. The long winter in the Rockies is great for ski season, allowing destinations like Banff and Canmore to have snow into May!

Whistler, British Colombia

: @yah.blewit

Central Canada

Central Canada has particularly harsh winters, but they’re not as long. Temperatures as low as -20°C (at least!) aren’t uncommon from December through February, but don’t forget to consider the wind chill. Major snowfalls also tend to happen in January or February, though it has snowed as early as October.

Atlantic Canada

Atlantic Canada isn’t quite as popular as it’s Western counterpart, however, there are plenty of things to do in Atlantic Canada in the winter. Make sure you pack well as winters can get as cold as -40°C! Another way to ensure you are prepared is to keep your eyes on the weather warnings. Many storms hit Atlantic Canada all year, and hurricane season is from June through November. Don’t let this scare you though, Atlantic Canada is beautiful. The national parks are perfect for winter camping and cross-country skiing through blankets of snow.

Northern Canada

The Yukon, Northwest Territory, and Nunavut are the three territories you can visit in Northern Canada. These regions have two basic climatic zones – arctic and subarctic. In Whitehorse, YT, weather averages from -8°C to -21°C from December through February. From -16°C to -27°C in Yellowknife, NT in the same period, and -16°C to -29°C in Iqaluit, NU. During the winter, not only is it cold, but it’s also dark. Sometimes for over a month at a time. Despite this, areas like the Yukon are experiencing a huge spike in tourism thanks to the Northern lights and wildlife abundance. This portion of the world is truly wild and free.

Despite all the cold, there are plenty of activities you can enjoy in the winter. Aside from the perk of winter being ski season, it can also be much cheaper to visit when the temps have dropped. Don’t forget, when you’re travelling through Canada at this time, you can expect delays on roads and with public transit. If you’re driving yourself, be very careful about lack of visibility from blowing snow and icy roads. Winter tires and other safety supplies are recommended!

Whitehorse, Yukon Territory

: @ericsandstrom

Spring in Canada

Spring, like autumn, is fleeting in Canada. It comes earlier on Canada’s west coast thanks to milder winters. Once you start seeing tulips, you’ll know that spring is here. While short overall, it can come as early as February and stay as late as June depending on where you are in the country; don’t be too shocked if you experience a surprise snowstorm in April or May!

Western Canada

Spring in Western Canada may include skiing in higher altitudes, but you’ll also get the chance for hiking, wildlife watching, and even beaches! Temperatures in Vancouver vary from 4 – 17°C from March through May.  This is also the time for the most rain in the area so make sure you pack appropriately!

Prairies

Spring is a beautiful time to visit the Prairies too! The blooming Prairie crocus is a sure sign that spring has arrived, it is the floral emblem of Manitoba and the first flower to bloom in the region. You’ll also be surrounded by awakening crops beginning to thrive after a harsh winter. Spring starts a bit later in the Prairies than in other regions, with snow not being uncommon in May. Weather in Calgary ranges from -8°C to 17°C from March through May, from -11°C to 18°C in Regina, and -9°C to 17°C in Winnipeg over the same period.

A resilient Prairie Crocus blooms through the snow in Alberta

: @ericsandstrom

Central Canada

In the provinces of Ontario and Quebec in Central Canada, spring is especially beautiful. It’s perfect for birdwatching, getting some of the best maple syrup in the world (of course), and checking out the world’s largest tulip festival in Ottawa. Classic spring weather comes a bit late in Central Canada, with weather as low as -2°C in March but as high as 19°C in May in Toronto; and as low as -6°C and as high as 17°C over the same period in Montreal.

Atlantic Canada

Spring in Atlantic Canada is the perfect time for nature outings, wildlife spotting and other sightseeing. It is also another popular place for some great maple syrup!  Atlantic Canada has one of the coldest springs amongst the provinces, with weather as cold as -5°C to 11°C in St. John’s, NL, from March through May, -6°C through 18°C in Fredericton, NB, and 4°C to 14°C in Halifax over the same period. Spring snow storms are also common in the area. If you’re visiting during a good weather spell, you’ll be in for amazing sights like watching drifting by icebergs in Iceberg Alley.

 Northern Canada

Northern Canada is where you can find some awe-inspiring wildlife in the spring time. You can witness the great caribou migration in the Yukon or do traditional winter activities like dogsledding and snowshoeing. It’s still quite cold in March through May in Northern Canada. Temperatures in Whitehorse, YT vary from -13°C to 14°C. In Yellowknife, NT, “spring” temperatures vary from -22°C in March to 12°C in May. And in Iqaluit, NU, you won’t see temperatures above zero.

Overall, the best time to visit Canada is May through October. While it varies greatly depending on the region, you’ll get the best weather overall and the most events going on during those months. The only exception to this is if you’re trying to hit the slopes, in which case, either start your trip a little earlier, or stay a little longer!

Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

: @kencheungphoto

Canada visa

Canada visa UK:

British citizens (and those from overseas British territories) are visa-exempt when visiting Canada for tourism. They do require an eTA when travelling by air (see more on that below).

Visitors from the UK, among other countries, can typically get up to six months on a visa-free entry to travel Canada. The final say is up to the border services officer who will indicate on your passport the date by which you must leave Canada. If you want to stay longer, make sure to apply for an extension at least 30 days prior to the authorized end of your stay. For more information about visiting Canada as a British citizen check out https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/canada

If you want to work while you’re there, consider applying for a working holiday visa. Officially, it is referred to as International Experience Canada (IEC). To get the IEC visa and enjoy Canada for up to two years you need to have a valid UK passport, be between the ages of 18 and 30, and have enough funds to help cover your expenses while in Canada. For specifics and to apply, you can find out the details here: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/iec/eligibility.asp.

Canada visa Application:

All travellers need to get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before visiting Canada by air. The only exception is if you’re coming in from the US, or by boat, you do not need an eTA. US citizens are also exempt from the eTA requirement provided they show a US passport.

For everyone else, an eTA is incredibly easy to apply for and can be done online in just a few minutes. It costs $7CAD to apply for and most people are approved within minutes. If, however, you have a criminal background or for some other reason you’re asked to submit supplementary documents it make take several days to process, so keep this in mind before booking your flight.

The eTA is good for five years or until your passport expires. It is linked to the passport you used to apply, so if you have multiple passports make sure you bring the one you used to apply for the eTA when coming to Canada as the flight staff will simply scan your passport to ensure you have a valid eTA and if you don’t you won’t be able to board your flight.

St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

: @Cucombrelibre

Arriving to Canada:

On the plane you’ll be given a declaration card that you fill out and give to the officers at customs. Once you reach customs, you may be asked to show that you have enough funds available to support yourself during your stay, even if you’re staying with family and friends.

If they have further questions, you’ll be moved to a separate area. The questioning takes place during your initial entry into Canada, so if you’re taking a flight from Europe into Newfoundland and then another from Newfoundland to your final destination, customs procedures will happen in Newfoundland (or wherever your initial entry point is).

Don’t worry too much, they just want to be sure of why you’re there and that you can support yourself while you’re there. If the questioning takes a while and you have a connecting flight, inform the staff of this and they may move you up in the line or possibly bump you to the next flight.

This is less common on shorter trips and those who have a return ticket. However, if you’re entering Canada for a fairly long period of time (even if you can stay in Canada for up to six months “visa free”) you’re more likely to be asked for supporting documents.

Getting around Canada

Your best options will depend largely on the area you’re visiting and your budget. Unless you’re visiting from the US, it is likely you’ll arrive by plane to one of Canada’s international airports. Due to Canada’s size, many people often take planes to travel throughout the country as well. Domestic flying can be pricey, but with the right planning you can catch some deals. For those travelling a little slower, a car is probably your best option. Public transport is available, but it’s mostly limited to within and between major cities. Take a look below for some of the options for getting around Canada.

Airports in Canada

The main airline in Canada is Air Canada, but other popular (and often cheaper!) options include WestJet and Porter.  If you’re going to more Northern or remote areas of Canada you’ll need to use smaller regional airlines like Air North or Canadian North Airlines.

Vancouver International Airport

If you’re starting your journey into Canada in the West, you’ll likely arrive at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). It’s a fairly large airport with three terminals, but has good signage in three languages (English, French, and Chinese) making it easy to navigate. It is the second busiest airport in Canada and is located in Richmond, BC, about 12km from downtown Vancouver. Despite this, it is very well connected. Driving or taking a taxi will take you about 30-45 minutes to get downtown (including traffic), but one of the best ways is to take the Skytrain on the Canada Line. It leaves every 7 minutes (during peak hours – every 15 minutes during off hours). You’ll find signs for it while leaving customs and it’s located across the street between domestic and international arrivals.

Vancouver International Airport

: @thewzrdharry

Toronto Pearson International Airport

The busiest International Airport in Canada is the Toronto Pearson International Airport. While Toronto is in its name, the airport is located in Mississauga, just outside the city. But once there, there are plenty of ways to get downtown. One of the best is taking the “UP” train which goes from Union Train Station to Pearson airport and back again.

Montreal Pierre Elliot Trudeau International Airport

Montreal is also a popular airport for international visitors. The Montreal – Pierre Elliot Trudeau International Airport is the busiest airport in Quebec with the route from Montreal to Paris being the busiest international route from Canada. To get downtown, you can catch a taxi for a flat rate of $40. Alternatively, you can take the 747 bus for $10 which will also give you access to the bus and metro/subway system for 24 hours.

St. John’s Internation Airport

With the increase of budget airlines like Norwegian air and Wow air, many flights are flying into St. John’s International Airport in Newfoundland as their first entry point into Canada. This is a very small airport and classified as an “airport of entry” as most passengers transfer to another flight after arrival. If, however, you do plan on staying in St. Johns, you can take a fifteen minute taxi ride or bus (route 14) to get downtown.

Driving in Canada

Car rental

Driving is the best and most flexible way to explore Canada. There are plenty of car rental options that are popular internationally – like Avis, Hertz, Thrifty, and Budget. You may need an international driver’s license if you’re there for a while, but most countries can use their original license. If you do use an international driver’s license you need to show your original license with it.

Car share program

Plan on doing occasional driving in Canada but rental cars are too expensive? Try a carshare program.

Zipcar is one of the biggest in Canada (and globally!) and you can usually use your existing membership if you’re a member in another country. For their Canadian program you can get memberships for $7 a month and then pay for the time you use it. Zipcar is available in cities within Ontario and British Columbia.

Car2Go is another option without any monthly fees and you pay for only the time you use the car. It is available in Calgary, Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.

If you’re going to be in one area long enough, check into regional car share programs like Evo in Vancouver, or Turo in lower mainland BC and Victoria.

Buying a car

If you think driving will be your main form of transportation in Canada, and you’ll be there for a while and covering some long distances, consider buying your own car. Planning is the key to this endeavour, as buying a car in Canada is one thing, insuring it is a whole other, as it varies province to province. In Ontario and Alberta for example, you can’t get car insurance unless you have a Canadian license, and it’s illegal to drive in Canada without it! British Columbia is the easiest place for a tourist to buy a car, as you can get it registered, licensed, and insured all at the same time. Buying a car takes the most time, planning, and money (upfront), but can save you overall. There are plenty of places in Canada you can’t see without a vehicle, so plan appropriately.

Long country road

: @holdsworthdesign

Ride sharing

Ride sharing is another popular alternative – particularly for backpackers. Join some groups on Facebook and take a look on Craigslist and Kijiji (Kijiji is more popular than Craigslist in Canada), and you may be able to score rides between cities for as low as $20!

Canada trains

Via Rail is Canada’s main passenger train, offering long-distance and regional routes. For multiple trips, consider a rail pass or the Canrailpass for cross-country travel.

Long-distance Via Rail routes:

• The Canadian: Toronto–Vancouver, 83 hours, three weekly trips, from $590.
• Hudson Bay: Winnipeg–Churchill, 44 hours, two weekly trips, from $170.
• The Ocean: Halifax–Montreal, 21 hours, two weekly trips, from $151.
• Prince Rupert–Jasper: 33 hours, three weekly trips, from $163.

The best train travel is in Southern Ontario and Quebec along the “Corridor” route (Windsor to Quebec City) and the GO Transit network serving the Greater Toronto Area and nearby cities.

Via trains are comfortable, with Prestige and Sleeper classes, onboard food (included in some packages), washrooms, showers, and WiFi at major stations.

Private railways like Algoma Central, Ontario Northland’s Polar Bear Express, White Pass & Yukon Route, Rocky Mountaineer, and Royal Canadian Pacific offer scenic trips through Northern Ontario, the Rockies, and Yukon.

Via Rail train in Ottawa

: @cjuneau

Canada by bus

The bus is a great way to get between cities and towns within Canada. As far as bus companies go, Greyhound Canada has the biggest network throughout the country (particularly in Western and Central Canada) and can even bring you to or from the US.

If you enjoy long bus rides, Greyhound offers trips between Vancouver-Calgary, Montreal-Toronto, and Toronto-Vancouver, for prices much cheaper than its Via Rail counterpart. The Toronto-Vancouver route starts from $221.50 (web fare – even cheaper if you have an ISIC Card) and takes just under three days. It won’t be the most comfortable ride of your life, but it will get you there.

Other bus companies to get you around Canada include Coach Canada and Megabus (both servicing Toronto to Montreal), Maritime Bus (servicing New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia), and Pacific Coach Line (servicing between Victoria, Vancouver, and Whistler).

Buses and metros in the city

Public transportation in and between cities isn’t as modern, frequent, or connected as many major cities in other countries. This is likely because most Canadians choose to drive when they travel, but if you plan on staying in one area long enough (particularly cities), you should consider getting a bus and metro pass as most cities (big and small) have public transportation.

Vancouver

In Vancouver, the pass for the Translink network is called the compass card. A reloadable card that works on all transit in the city, so you can just tap and go. You can get the online, at a vending machine in some bus and metro terminals, and some retailer locations. The card itself is $6 but is refundable, so when you leave Vancouver, you can return it to a customer service centre.

Toronto

In Toronto you should get a PRESTO Pass. They are currently modernizing Toronto’s transit system with this pass to be used on all buses, streetcars, and metros within the city, and frankly, it’s about time. This process should be completed by the end of 2018, however, currently some metro entrances do not accept the PRESTO Pass. If you plan on taking the metro a lot in Toronto, a Metropass may be better at this time. The metro network in Toronto is quite small, with only four lines (though it covers quite a distance) so check where you’ll be going and how frequently if you plan on purchasing a Metropass. The PRESTO pass, however, is also good in cities outside Toronto including Brampton, Burlington, Durham, Hamilton, Oakville, York, and on the Go Transit network and the UP Express.

Tram in Toronto

: @松林Ｌ

Montreal

In Montreal, you use the OPUS Card. It works on the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) network and used by transit companies throughout Greater Montreal. It can be loaded with regular fare tickets and passes, costs $6 for the card, and is non-refundable. If you are a student, you should get the OPUS Card with a photo so you can register it and pay the reduced student fares when travelling.

Accommodation in Canada

The most social and cost-effective accommodation in Canada is to stay in hostels. Hostels in Canada vary greatly across the country from amenities to cost, but you’ll be available to find hostels in every major city across Canada as well as smaller tourist towns.

British Columbia

In British Columbia, you’ll find hostels built for adventure and exploring. Whether you want to spend time in the mountains hiking or skiing, or explore a new city, there are plenty of hostels in British Columbia to suit your needs. The best places to find hostels are Kelowna, Victoria, Whistler, and of course, Vancouver.

HI Victoria, Victoria

Alberta

Alberta also has hostels for mountain lovers. With plenty sprinkled within the Rockies in areas like Banff and Jasper. You’ll also find hostels in Alberta’s main cities of Edmonton and Calgary.

Saskatchewan

The province of Saskatchewan isn’t nearly as popular for tourism (particularly for backpackers) as are its Western and Eastern counterparts, so there aren’t many hostels. Don’t worry though, there are plenty of inns and bed and breakfasts where you can rest your head. You’ll have the best luck finding accommodation in the capital, Regina.

Manitoba

Manitoba also experiences limited tourism. If you do plan on visiting Manitoba, go beyond the capital, Winnipeg, and check out Churchill. It is considered to be the polar bear capital of the world and great for other natural wonders like whale watching, kayaking, and experiencing the northern lights!

Ontario

Ontario, on the other hand, has plenty of hostels to choose from. Whether you want to experience the great white north in Thunder bay, see the falls in Niagara, head downtown in Toronto, or explore the nation’s capital, Ottawa, you’ll have plenty of hostels to choose from.

Two Peas Pod Hostel, Toronto

Quebec

Heading into French Canada, Quebec is also full of choices across the province. You can stay in old Montreal or the bustling Latin quarter. Head further north to Quebec City and get a taste of old Quebec while exploring the only fortified city north of Mexico. You can also get some skiing in outside of western Canada, and there are plenty of places to stay near Mont-Tremblant.

Maritimes

“Accommodation options in the Atlantic region are best in the larger cities, as choices become limited due to less tourism and weather. In Nova Scotia, hostels can be found in Halifax and the scenic Cape Breton. Saint John is the go-to city for New Brunswick, while Charlottetown offers the most places to stay on the small province of Prince Edward Island. And finally, if you’re headed to Newfoundland and Labrador, your best bet for accommodation is in St. John’s – not to be confused with New Brunswick’s Saint John!

Compare all hostels in Canada

Travel costs Canada

Canada currency

Canada uses the dollar, but specifically the Canadian dollar (CAD). While its value varies, one Canadian dollar equals approximately 0.76 US dollars, 0.65 Euros, or 0.57 British Pounds.

Cost of living in Canada vs. The US

Canada is often compared to its neighbour to the south in terms of costs and standards of living. Both countries are very large, very diverse, and have most of their population living in urban areas. According Statista, 82 percent of Canada’s population lives in cities and 81 percent of the US population lives in cities.

When cost of living is compared, Toronto is 27% cheaper than New York City. Vancouver is 16% cheaper than Los Angeles, and Montreal is 29% cheaper than Chicago.

Despite the overall cost of living being cheaper in Canada when comparing major cities, many Canadians find many things to be cheaper in the US. Rent is higher in the US due to more densely populated cities; some food items in Canada are more expensive due to protectionism. Canada has a much lower population (which creates less demand and less competition), higher taxes on income and services (Canada is much more socialist), and some industry regulations.

Of course, there are some things that are cheaper in Canada, the most notably being healthcare. But, with the vast majority of consumer items being cheaper in the US, many Canadians who live near the border will do some of their shopping there, and many will drive the extra hour or more just for cheaper gasoline! Overall the biggest culprit for the discrepancy is taxes and currency valuation, but for non-residents travelling though, prices are fairly competitive.

Cabane à Sucre, Québec

: Arturo Yee

Cost of travelling in Canada

As someone visiting Canada, your costs are very dependent on how and when you want to travel and what activities you want to do. A good rule of thumb is to budget roughly $100 CAD per day. Hostels can be $30 – $40 per night for a dorm room in major cities, and it can be hard to find one outside of a major city. Transportation can also be a major money drain due to the long distances and limited public transportation. Food costs are quite reasonable and you’ll get the best bang for your buck if you shop at local grocery stores and cook for yourself – make sure to check if your hostel has cooking facilities!

Sample budget for visiting Vancouver for one week

Dorm Room in the City Centre: $40/night (6 nights) = $240
Dorm Room outside of City Centre: $30/night (6 nights) = $180

Groceries: $51.05

5 meals out at low-mid priced restaurants: $99.40

Compass Card + 7 day passes: $77.75

Activities: $200

Total: $607.15 to $667.15 CAD

Sample budget for visiting Toronto for one week

Dorm Room in the City Centre: $50/night (6 nights) = $300
Dorm Room outside of City Centre: $40/night (6 nights) = $240

Groceries: $50

5 meals out at low-mid priced restaurants: $100

TTC Weekly Pass: $43.75

Activities: $200

Total: $633.75 to $693.75 CAD

Toronto, Ontario

: @berkaygumustenkin

Sample budget for visiting Montreal for one week

Dorm Room in or out of City Centre: $25/night (6 nights) = $150

Groceries: $47.41

5 meals out at low-mid priced restaurants: $90.15

OPUS Card + Weekly Pass: $32.25

Activities: $200

Total: $519.81 CAD

You’ll notice that these budgets are for the major cities in Canada. Staying outside of major cities will lower your accommodation costs among some others, though it will likely increase your transportation costs depending on your mode of transportation.

While each week in each city is under $700 CAD, It is still suggested to budget $100 CAD a day for any more expensive events, bars, incidentals and to have money for transportation in-between cities.

Note for grocery & restaurant prices. According to numbeo, groceries are 2.10% higher  and restaurants are 0.6% in Vancouver than Toronto. Groceries 5.17% lower and restaurants are 9.85% lower in Montreal than Toronto.  

Money tips for backpacking in Canada

Plan ahead. Accommodation, transportation, event tickets, and pretty much everything are cheaper if you book them in advance.

Sales tax. Sales tax varies by province and is added on at the cash register. The price you see is not the price you pay. There are a few exceptions where no additional tax is added, but don’t be surprised if the total is 5-15% higher than the sticker price. This isn’t news to people from the US but can be a bit of a shocker for those from anywhere else.

While overall cost of living is typically cheaper than the US or Europe, food prices can be higher. This is particularly true for alcohol and dairy products.

If you choose to go out for a meal, don’t forget to tip! It is customary in Canada to tip in restaurants, hotels, taxis, and other services like hair cuts. It ranges by service, but 15-20% is most common.

Travel slowly. You’ll often get discounts on accommodation if you’re there for more than a few nights. Many places offer weekly or monthly discounts. Also, travelling slowly would cut down on transportation and really give you a chance to get to know an area.

There are often free events no matter what the season, so check out local publications or online for some ideas. There’s also plenty of space to discover in Canada so talk to the locals and they’ll set you in the right direction!

A marmot enjoying Spring in the Rocky Mountains

: Florin Chelaru

Where to go in Canada

Whether you’re staying in one region or making your way across the nation, it’s the perfect place for the ultimate road trip! Here are some places to check out in each region.

West Coast

The West Coast of Canada is entirely the province of British Columbia. A beautiful province, home to the Rocky Mountains, great beaches and world-renowned skiing. People from the area (and those who move there) often refer to the west coast as the best coast, and for good reason – there is plenty to see and do in British Columbia.

A place you must visit is the city of Victoria on Vancouver Island. While many people think the capital of BC is the city of Vancouver, they’d be surprised to find out it’s really Victoria. Victoria is known for its outdoor activities, beautiful gardens, and due to its British colonial past – beautiful Victorian architecture.

The city of Vancouver is where many visitors stay and fly into when visiting the West Coast. There is a ton to see while in Vancouver. It is one of Canada’s most diverse cities and a popular filming location, so if you’re lucky, you may just see one of your favourite stars. A spot to check out while in Vancouver include Granville Island – a man-made island (that’s really a sandpit), found under Granville Street Bridge. The island is full of workshops, studios, and markets.

You also can’t miss Stanley Park; a beautiful green space for the city surrounded by Vancouver Harbour and English Bay. If Stanley park isn’t enough nature for you, check out Capilano Suspension Bridge (that is, if you aren’t afraid of heights) and get a great view of the forest below. For an even better view, head up the Grouse Mountain cable car to breathtaking views of the city.

Overlooking Vancouver from Grouse Mountain

: Murray Foubister

Prairies

The most popular province to visit in the Prairies is Alberta. Home to the eastern side of the Rocky Mountains, most people visit for skiing or visiting Jasper and Banff National Parks. While there, don’t miss the iconic turquoise Lake Louise and Lake Moraine.

Alberta is sometimes called the Texas of Canada – thanks to the many oil reserves, cattle ranches, and one of the largest rodeos in the world, which is held every year in Calgary. There’s more to the province than mountains and cowboys. In Edmonton, the Albertan Capital, you can visit West Edmonton Mall, which is the largest mall in all of North America. The city also has a thriving nightlife, and many art, nature, and cultural centres; such as, the Art Gallery of Alberta, the Botanic Gardens, and the Elk Island National Park.

The provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba don’t get as many visitors. Many people find them flat and boring. This is particularly true for those who take the Trans-Canada highway across the prairie provinces, which shows you almost exclusively flat farmland. The more diverse lands of the Prairies come when you go further north. Here you can see part of the Canadian Boreal Forest Biome; one of the largest forests on earth. You likely come across some wildlife too! In Northern Manitoba, you’ll find the city of Churchill. Located on the Hudson Bay, this is one of the best places in the world to see beluga whales and polar bears!

Polar Bears in Churchill, Manitoba

: @GomezDavid

Central Canada

Central Canada is packed with monuments, architecture, nature, and wildlife. In Ontario, see Niagara Falls, North America’s largest by volume, best experienced up close on a boat. About 130 km northwest, Toronto offers the CN Tower, sports games, and nearby Muskoka and Algonquin Provincial Park for hiking, water sports, and wildlife spotting—just keep a safe distance from bears and moose!

Eastward, Canada’s capital Ottawa charms year-round. Visit the Parliament buildings, stroll the Rideau Canal, and explore ByWard Market for food and shopping. Just 200 km away, Montreal dazzles with historic architecture, nightlife, the Notre-Dame Basilica, the Biodome, and Mount Royal views. Further north, Quebec City’s Old City wows with European charm, earning it the title of Canada’s best city in 2017 by Travel & Leisure.

Québec City, Québec

: Nicolas McComber

Maritimes

Canada’s Maritime Provinces are full of natural beauty and history along the Atlantic coast. In New Brunswick, the Bay of Fundy boasts the highest tides in the world and is perfect for whale watching. Explore Saint John, Canada’s first incorporated city, and visit the New Brunswick Museum and Acadian Historical Village to learn about the region’s rich history.

Cross the Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island to see Green Gables, relax on beautiful beaches, camp, and enjoy fresh seafood.

In Nova Scotia, Halifax’s Pier 21 tells the story of over a million immigrants, while Peggy’s Cove offers iconic lighthouse views along the Lighthouse Trail.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, watch icebergs drift off Labrador, spot whales and seabirds, and explore Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to moose, caribou, and Arctic hares.

The North

Northern Canada is getting more and more popular among tourists, and for good reason too; the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut have a ton to offer. The north is home to the Arctic Cordillera, which are the highest mountains in Canada, as well as boreal forest, tundra, and thousands of bears and other wildlife.

The Yukon is home to Dawson City, where part of the Klondike Gold Rush occurred. In the North West Territories, you’ll have a hard time getting to many places other than Yellowknife (the territory’s capital). In Nunavut, Canada’s newest territory, many people come to see the amazing landscapes and to experience Inuit culture. It’s home to beautiful national parks, such as Auyuittuq National Park, which is located on Baffin Island. Iqaluit is the capital and the most modern town in the territory, it is also where you’ll find activities like skiing, dogsledding and snowmobiling.

Things to do in Canada

With all these places to visit, you’ll never run out of things to do in Canada. While many activities and events are dependent on the season you’re visiting, there are plenty of things to do all year round as well.

Monuments & sites

Regardless of where you go in Canada, there will also be plenty to see. Here are some monuments and sites worth stopping for during your trip.

Totem Poles

Found all over the country, these spiritual symbols of the First Nations People serve a variety of reasons; spiritual, memorial, and as records. Each tells a different story. The best places to see totem poles in Canada include Brockton Point in Stanley Park in Vancouver, at The Canadian Museum of History, in Gatineau, Quebec, and the Two Brothers Totem Pole, in Jasper, Alberta. As you’re travelling through Canada keep an eye out for when you enter Indigenous reserves (there are over 3100 of them in Canada) as you may see some while you’re there.

Magnetic Hill

Found in Moncton, New Brunswick, this hill is an optical illusion that makes it appear as if it’s heading uphill, when really it is going downhill. You can’t miss it! It’s well advertised, just off the Trans Canada Highway. Just follow the signs and you’ll be there.

Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

An iconic symbol of Canada and the most photographed lighthouse, Peggy’s Cove lighthouse is found in Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia, just under an hour’s drive from Halifax. Settled on massive rocks and over-looking the beautiful tides of the Atlantic Ocean – just don’t let them sweep you out to sea!

World’s Largest Coke Can

In Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, you’ll find the world’s largest coke can standing at 26 metres tall. It’s an easy stop just off the Trans-Canada Highway.

CN Tower

CN, standing for Canadian National, the company which built the tower, is found in Toronto, Canada. The tower was the tallest in the world until 2007 (currently it’s the 9th tallest), and is still the tallest in the Western Hemisphere. Offering more than just a great view of Toronto, the CN is full of attractions. The most popular being the rotating restaurant, lookout points (including a glass floor), and the EdgeWalk, where you can get strapped in and walk along the outside of the tower.

Centennial Flame

Located in the Nation’s capital of Ottawa on Parliament Hill, the Centennial Flame was created to celebrate Canada’s 100th anniversary as a confederation. It is surrounded by a fountain with plaques for each province and territory.

Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, Nova Scotia

: @NSPaul

Canada parks

Canada is full of huge National and Provincial Parks that are perfect for various activities throughout the seasons. In warmer months you can go kayaking, canoeing, and hiking. As it gets cooler, you can go cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. In many you can camp year round!

Banff National Park

One of the most famous parks in Canada, and Canada’s first national park, you can find Banff in the Rockies in Alberta. Many people visit for activities like white-water rafting or horseback riding, as well as to awe at Lake Louise; a glacier-fed lake known for its turquoise colour.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is also in the Albertan Rockies. It’s full of backcountry trails, ice fields, and abundant wildlife like bears, elk, moose, and wolves. People visit for activities like rock and ice climbing, dog-sledding, fishing and so, so much more.

Dinosaur Provincial Park

Another reason to visit Alberta is Dinosaur Provincial Park – smack dab in the middle of Alberta’s badlands, and home to some of the most important fossil discoveries ever made of more than 44 species. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can learn about dinosaurs in the visitors centre and through tours, go camping, and hike one of the parks many trails.

Wood Buffalo National Park

This park stretches across northern Alberta and into the North West Territories. It is the largest National Park in Canada (second largest in the world) and home to the world’s largest dark sky preserve, making it the perfect spot to experience the northern lights. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its amazing biodiversity including wild bison, whooping crane, bats, night hawks, and owls.

Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

This park straddles the border of Alberta and Saskatchewan and is Canada’s only interprovincial park. Here you can do tons of activities like zip lining, mountain biking, fishing and a variety of water sports. The park is also home to another dark sky preserve – perfect for star-gazing.

Pacific Rim National Park

This park reserve is separated into three regions: Long Beach, the Broken Group Islands, and the West Coast Trail. Long Beach is the most popular of them, especially among surfers! The park is also a perfect spot for whale-watching.

Algonquin Provincial Park

Just a few hours drive north of Toronto you’ll find Algonquin Provincial Park. It was the first provincial park in Ontario – one of the best spots to view wildlife. It is popular for summer and winter camping, boating, and hunting.

Sandbanks Provincial Park

Found in Prince Edward County, Ontario, the Sandbanks Provincial Park is most known for its sandy beaches. Its also been seen in films like Fly Away Home, and Resident Evil: Afterlife.

Point Pelee National Park

Point Pelee National Park is the southern most part of mainland Canada and is a peninsula in Lake Erie. It is a conservatory and a great spot to view migratory birds and butterflies.

Mont Tremblant National Park

This park is popular among skiers in central and eastern Canada. It is also popular for its beaches, hiking, climbing, wildlife watching and white-water rafting along the Jacques-Cartier River.

Cape Breton Highlands

While here, you’ll want to check out the Cabot Trail. An incredibly scenic route to drive along and enjoy views of the ocean and cliffs. Whilst here, take in a lobster dinner after a hike through the highlands.

Pacific Rim National Park, Vancouver Island

: @ericsandstrom

Events & festivals in Canada

There are so many events throughout the year in Canada, many of which are well worth planning your trip around. Here are the events you can’t miss and when and where to catch them.

Summer

Major festivals happen across the nation during the summer, especially outdoor ones. One festival you can celebrate anywhere is Canada Day. Held on July 1st, this day marks the anniversary of when Canada became a confederation in 1867. One of the best spots to celebrate is in the nation’s capital, Ottawa, but you’ll have a good time anywhere with a good view of the fireworks.

Festivals you can’t miss in British Columbia:

• Vancouver Island Music Fest
• Centre of Gravity
• Vancouver Folk Music Festival
• Rock the Shores
• Rockin’ River Music Festival
• Shambala

You’ll also find the Festival of Lights held every summer for two weeks from the end of July into August in Vancouver. It has light shows, fireworks, and performances.

Top festivals in Alberta:

• Sled Island
• Calgary Folk Fest
• Chasing Summer
• Edmonton Folk Festival

Despite all these amazing music festivals, the biggest draw to Alberta in the summer has got to be the Calgary Stampede. Held in July, it’s one of the biggest Rodeos in the world and is called “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” Over ten days there are musical performances, parades, agricultural competitions, a midway, and of course, a rodeo.

Calgary Stampede, Alberta

Must go festivals in Ontario:

• VELD
• Dreams Festival
• NXNE
• Escapade
• Ottawa Bluesfest

Another festival you can’t miss is Toronto’s Canadian National Exhibition (CNE). Its typically called the Ex, it’s Canada’s largest annual fair.

Great festivals in Quebec:

• Osheaga
• MUTEK
• Festival d’été de Québec

Another festival in Montreal is the Just For Laughs Festival. The world’s largest comedy event, it’s held in July and has stand-up comedians, films, and sketches from people around the world.

Osheaga, Montreal, Québec

: @tkaravou

Autumn

As Autumn is fleeting and unpredictable in Canada, festivals are much less popular at this time. Some annual ones you can’t miss include the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). It’s a world-renowned festival held every September in downtown Toronto and has over 500,000 attendees every year. It brings in stars from all around the world and gives you a chance to see some of the years upcoming films.

If you’re spending your Autumn in Nova Scotia, you’ll want to head to the Celtic Colours International Festival. It’s held in mid October on Cape Breton Island and hosts concerts, dances, and workshops throughout the community.

The Fall Okanagan Wine Festival in late September in Okanagan valley is British Columbia’s largest wine tasting and farmer’s market. Perfect for foodies and wine lovers. And for those that didn’t get enough food and wine there, they’ll have to check out the Rocky Mountain Wine and Food Festival held in mid October in Calgary and mid November in Edmonton.

Winter

There are many winter, lights, and ice festivals throughout the country. Some of the most notable are Ice on Whyte, in Edmonton, Lake Louise Ice Magic Festival, and the Winter Festival of Lights in Niagara Falls.

It is also the perfect time for classic Canadian winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. There are many winter festivals that highlight these like Jasper in January, or the World Ski and Snowboard Festival in Whistler.

The best events in winter; however, happen in Quebec and Ottawa. The Quebec Winter Carnival is from late January and continues into mid-February in Quebec City, Quebec. Here you can enjoy traditional winter activities like skating, as well as special activities like a canoe race, a 400 foot long ice slide, ice sculptures, parades and concerts.

In Ottawa, you’ll fined Winterlude happening around the same time. Here you can skate on the world’s largest skating rink, check out the ice and snow sculptures, go tobogganing, and enjoy the art and musical performances.

Spring

Spring, like Autumn, is short in Canada and often spoiled by rain. The most notable spring festival is the Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa in May. It’s the largest tulip festival in the world. Another beautiful spring flower festival is the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival.

Things to do for animal lovers

Canada is an animal lovers’ paradise. There are many types of wildlife that you can only see here. The best places to see wildlife is in the national parks (see above). The most popular animals people come to Canada to see are whales, bears (especially Polar bears), moose, and bison.

Roaming bison, Waterton National Park

: @LaurieSH

Where to go whale watching

You can spot whales on the East, West, and North coasts of Canada. There are thirty-three different species you can spot during your trip to Canada. The best places include Telegraph Cove, in British Columbia where you’ll find a sanctuary for Orcas. You can also head to Tofino, BC, Tadoussac, QC, Cape Breton Highlands, NS, and Churchill, MB.

Where to see bears

You can find black bears and grizzlies in nearly all the national parks mentioned above. If you specifically looking to see polar bears, you’ll have to head up north. The best spot to find polar bears is the polar bear capital of the world, Churchill, Manitoba. Other places to see polar bears include Ungava Bay in Northern Quebec, and anywhere in the arctic circle.

Mama black bear and her cubs in Tofino, BC

: @wanderluster

Other wildlife

You can find moose in nearly all the national parks mentioned above. For those looking for bison, head to Wood Buffalo National Park, Prince Albert National Park, and Elk Island National Park. For an even more interesting wildlife experience, head to Narcisse, Manitoba for the world’s largest gathering of garter snakes. These snake dens end up with thousands and thousands of snakes mating in them, and the best time to check them out is in spring.

Skiing in Canada

There are ski hills across the entirety of Canada (Even in the Prairies!), which offer terrain for every skill level, as well as lessons and equipment rentals. Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain, and Whistler Blackcomb are easily accessible from Vancouver, British Colombia. Whistler Blackcomb is the largest resort in Canada, and even has hostel options that are right near the lift. Further East into BC is Kelowna, which has hostel accommodation and relatively close access (within a 2.5 hour drive depending on the hill) to five world class resorts. BC is also home to the Powder Highway, which consists of eight resorts that are renowned for their snowfall and mountain community vibe. Moving in to Alberta, there are the options of Marmot-Basin near Jasper, or you can stay in Banff and ski the Big Three- Norquay, Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise. Ontario and Quebec also have their fair share of ski resorts, although the terrain is much different. Blue Mountain and Mount St. Louis are among the largest resorts in Ontario, and  Quebec’s are Mont-Sainte-Anne and Bromont. A simple search for ski resorts near Toronto, Montreal, or Quebec City will show you where you can hit the slopes from your hostel!

Trans-Canada Trail

The trans-Canada trail, also called the great trail, is over 24,000 kilometres long and goes through each province at territory. It’s the world’s longest network of recreational trails. The main trail was completed in 2017 in honour of Canada’s 150th anniversary.

On the trail, you can hike, bike, cross country ski and many other recreational activities. There’s no way you could complete the entire trail, so pick the parts that fit in best with your trip. In includes both a land and water trail. You can plan your trip through an interactive map on their website. On the trail you’ll come across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, called the Columbia River Skywalk. The largest stretch of the trail is found in Ontario, with 5,200 kilometres of the trail within the province.

Canadian food

Like everything else in Canada, the popular and traditional dishes vary widely depending on the region you’re in. While there’s great variety, if there’s one dish you try while there, it has to be poutine!

Poutine is the ultimate Canadian dish that originated in Quebec. It’s so popular in Canada that you’ll find some version of it as a side at nearly every restaurant, and even fast food classics like McDonalds and KFC. Traditional poutine consists of French fries, cheese curds (if you’ve only tried ‘poutine’ with shredded cheese, you haven’t tried poutine), and gravy. Beyond the base there are so many different toppings you can try; pulled pork, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, whatever you want really! You can also switch out regular fries for a sweet potato variety to mix it up a bit.  There are few festivals in Canada that are all about poutine like Le Grand PoutineFest in Montreal; Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver all have their own festivals as well.

Poutine 

: Guilhem Vellut

Traditional Canadian food

Canadian food has a lot of influences due to the waves of immigration throughout its history. Food from Canada’s first nation’s peoples is the most traditional of Canadian food and includes items like bannock (a type of bread), salmon jerky, and maple syrup!

With more and more immigration from England, France, Scotland, and later Asia and the Caribbean, “Canadian” food changed greatly, with no single definition. Former prime minister Joe Clark described it well when he said “Canada has a cuisine of cuisines. Not a stew pot, but a smorgasbord.”

Regardless of where it came from or how it came about, some other foods you must try while in Canada include:

• Beavertails: a dessert of fried dough topped with sweets.
• Butter tarts: a sweet tart filled with butter, sugar, syrup, and egg with a crunchy top.
• Nanaimo bars: a never baked dessert bar with coconut, custard, and chocolate.
• Caesars: the Canadian bloody mary.
• Ice Wine: a sweet dessert wine.

While those last two aren’t food, they’re drinks that are incredibly popular in Canada. The Caesar is a take on the Bloody Mary, but with clamato juice (don’t worry, it’s not as terrible as it sounds). Ice wine is a sweeter dessert wine made from grapes that have been frozen on the vine, thanks to Canada’s long winters, it’s not surprising that Canada is the world’s largest producer of ice wine.

For more Canadian food, check out 17 Traditional Canadian Foods You Need To Try, or if you have a sweet tooth, read through our list of Amazing Canadian Desserts!

Canadian culture

Before discussing culture in Canada, let’s review some misconceptions about Canada. Like weather and time, culture isn’t the same across Canada either, but one thing is for sure, Canadians aren’t all igloo-living, pet beaver having people constantly apologising and saying “eh”.

Well, the “eh” part may be true. There are also a few more that are quite popular. The love for maple syrup and hockey rings pretty true throughout the nation. And while they don’t live in igloos, Canadian winters can get pretty merciless; good thing there’s Tim Horton’s Coffee to warm ourselves up with.

Now, onto a more serious note about culture in Canada, Canada is usually described as multicultural.

What is Multiculturalism?  While this idea varies from person to person, it is defined as the preservation of different cultures or cultural identities within a unified society, as a state or nation.

The US is often described as a “melting pot” which refers to how a nation assimilates all of its citizens into a particular culture. Canada; however, is more of a mosaic. In Canada, the diversity of immigrants is celebrated. This was best expressed by former Prime Minister (and father to current Prime Minister), Pierre Elliott Trudeau, when he said:

“There is no such thing as a model or ideal Canadian. What could be more absurd than the concept of an ‘all Canadian’ boy or girl? A society which emphasises uniformity is one which creates intolerance and hate.”

Rideau Canal, Ottawa

: @Robbie1

Life in Canada

Life is different for those on the coasts than in the Prairies, or for those from than north than in the south, but overall, life in Canada is pretty pleasant. Overall, people get along; there’s minimal crime to worry about, and you get used to the winters (really, you do). For new comers, beyond the winters, one thing to get used to is all the driving. Most Canadians drive and are no strangers to spending a long time in a car. Driving a few hours for a trip to the city just to spend a few hours then and drive back isn’t uncommon.

Overall Canadians have a good quality of life and the country always appears on ‘best country to live in lists’ due to economic and political stability, education, gender equality, and social services like public healthcare.

Some quick facts about Canada:

• Canada’s official languages are English and French. Most of the country speaks English but you’ll also find a large French speaking community in central and eastern Canada.
• Everything is far, wear comfortable clothes for long car/train/bus/whatever rides.
• Pay attention to the weather forecast, sure it was 20°C yesterday but that doesn’t mean it won’t snow tomorrow (you think I’m kidding).
• Yes, the one dollar coin is called the loonie, and the two dollar coin is called the twoonie… seriously.
• Despite its popularity, cannabis still isn’t technically legal yet, wait until after October 2018.

Canada travel advice & tips

What time is it in Canada?

When travelling really long distances, you’ll need to keep an eye on your watch. Canada covers six different time zones so keep this in mind when taking long distance transport.

Stay connected

Cities in Canada are pretty well connected and offer fast mobile speeds. If you’re spending a lot of time in the country, consider getting a local sim card to save costs. The biggest networks are Bell, Telus, and Rogers. There are smaller companies too, but they’re often affiliated with one of these networks anyways, and you’ll get the best coverage with one of those three. If you plan to travel very far north or go camping into parks and forests its unlikely you’ll get phone coverage.

Like most of the world, Canada uses a GSM network (CDMA was phased out in Canada in 2016) but if you’re coming from the US and are with a provider like Sprint or Verizon and are still on a CDMA network, your phone might not work. Ensure your phone is unlocked in order to get a local SIM, otherwise the SIM won’t work.

Northern lights over a grain elevator, Saskatchewan

: @boblolaw

Holidays in Canada

On statutory or “stat” holidays in Canada, most things are closed. Around these times are also busy travel times that makes prices go up and traffic terrible for travelling. Avoid long travels at these times:

• New Years Day: January 1st (traffic is bad for about a week around this time as many people are off work and school)
• Family Day: February (date depends on province; travelling is fine, businesses may be closed)
• Easter
• Victoria Day: Monday preceding May 25th (commonly called “May 2-4” weekend)
• Canada Day: July 1st
• Labour Day: First Monday of September
• Thanksgiving: Second Monday of October
• Christmas: December 25th (busy travel for a few days before and after Christmas)

Now you know everything you need to know to have a successful trip through Canada and make the most of your time in the Great White North! Please leave a comment below when you use the guide or if you have something to add, we love to hear about your experiences!  

About the author:

Ashley is originally from Canada, but has been living abroad and travelling the globe since 2014. Through her blog, Wanderdolls, she helps others implement more travel in their lives by giving them the tools to start working remotely and abroad. Keep up to date with her adventures on Instagram and Facebook.

The post The ultimate guide to backpacking Canada appeared first on Hostelworld Travel Blog.

1. Pack all the medication you could ever need

Travelling can give you the feeling of invincibility. I hate to be the one to burst your bubble, but you are far from it. You’ll get sick and, when you do, being able to reach into your bag and take whatever medication you need will be much easier than trying to locate the nearest pharmacy, dragging yourself out of bed and somehow learning and correctly pronouncing the Spanish word for ‘throat lozenge’. Bring a variety of basic medicine that you trust to tackle any sickness. Even if you don’t use it, it’s way better to be safe than sick.

2. Download Offline Maps as soon as you hit WiFi

As soon as you open Google Maps for the city you’re in, the data is stored in the app. Even as you lose that precious WiFi connection, the app will be able to show you the city roads and remember any recent searches. As a traveller, this is incredibly valuable as you can go forth with your life-changing adventures and get lost in a city. Now you can do this with the peace of mind that Maps will know where you are and how to get you home. If that doesn’t make Offline Maps the real MVP, nothing will. (Oh wait – maybe you’re not a massive sports fan like me? By MVP I mean Most Valuable Player and you’ll quickly learn Offline Maps are your new travel essential).

3. Tell your bank you are going overseas

If your bank sees any suspicious transactions, they will suspend your account immediately and try contact you to establish if it’s legitimate. Bless their hearts, I’m sure this is done with good intentions, but it can be a traveller’s worst nightmare. Their idea of a ‘suspicious transaction’ is basically any transaction made from a country you apparently aren’t in. Informing your bank of where you’re going and what dates you’ll be there as part of your travel preparations will ensure you aren’t left stranded on the other side of the world with no money. This is one of the best tips for backpacking, as we generally don’t travel with access to many sources of money so remember to keep your bank in the loop.

2025 Update: While it’s still a good idea to notify your bank, many new travel-friendly banks like Wise (formerly TransferWise) or Revolut are designed for international use and have a mobile app to manage your card. Consider getting a secondary card from one of these services to avoid fees and have a backup in case your main card is lost or stolen.

4. Don’t look like a tourist too much

Unfortunately, some people like to pick on travelers because we are easy targets, especially for thieves. These people can spot a tourist from a mile away, so it’s always a good idea to try and fit in with the locals. That means you should use Maps on your phone and not a giant paper map. No visible belt bag/fanny packs/bum bags; if you really must wear one, hide it under your clothes. Don’t carry a backpack that looks packed to survive an apocalypse just to walk through the city for a day. Ultimately, you’re a tourist and should always embrace that, but not making it so obvious could keep you out of trouble.

5. Don’t pack your whole wardrobe

Everyone would love to have the choice between their nice casual, semi-nice half-casual, super nice not very casual and not nice but kind of casual shoes, but when you’re travelling, carrying all of these is a nightmare. Less is more and simplicity is best when it comes to packing your wardrobe. Bring versatile clothing that can go with anything. Basic tops, jeans and anything black will be your best friends. Pack smart: every piece of clothing needs to earn its spot in your bag. If you’ll only wear it once, leave it at home. Try to bring clothes you can wear multiple times that suit a variety of occasions and you will achieve that ever-elusive balance of fashionable and functional.

Staying in a hostel? (Of course you are). Check out this hostel packing list for all the essentials you’ll probably forget to pack.

6. Know the local lingo for ‘toilet’ or ‘restroom’ and carry small coins for pay-to-use facilities

You never want to get caught needing to go with nowhere to go, especially on holiday AND in a foreign city. Some public toilets that are easy to find in most cities and it’s a good idea to know where they are. For example, shopping centres always have public toilets; hotel lobbies are good too and are on the higher end of the public toilet cleanliness scale. As you get more desperate, you can try fast food places but beware they may not be the cleanest and some may charge a small fee to use. Knowing these could save your life (or at least your underwear and dignity).

7. Carry some plastic bags with you

There’s nothing worse than having a wet towel or wet clothes lying around in your suitcase (or, you know, if you’re looking for underwear and you put on a pair that may have already been used. Yeah, gross right?). If only there was a way to separate and store your wet or dirty clothes to keep them away from your lovely clean ones whilst you’re travelling? Hello, plastic bags to the rescue. Having a couple of plastic bags takes up minimal space, has multiple uses and is always a handy addition to any suitcase.

8. Budget like a pro, but stay flexible

The key to a stress-free trip is finding a balance between sticking to a budget and splurging on incredible experiences. You’ve been saving for this, so don’t miss out on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure just to save a few euros. Use a travel budget app like TravelSpend to easily track your daily expenses and see exactly where your money is going. While having a budget is smart, remember that memories are priceless. If you find an epic tour or a great cooking class, it’s okay to reallocate your funds. Your most treasured memories will come from experiences, not from the money you didn’t spend.

Backpacking around Europe? Read this guide for how much to budget for your trip.

9. Familiarise yourself with common public WiFi

Today’s traveller can get away with not buying a SIM card with all the public WiFi networks available. If you’re stranded needing to catch a ride, look something up or just need your daily HostelWorld Instagram fix, knowing where these are will be your saving grace. Most fast food places like McDonald’s, Burger King and Starbucks will have free WiFi. The same goes for most shopping centres. Retail giants like H&M, Primark and Marks & Spencer also provide free WiFi for their customers, so you can surf the net while you pretend to look at clothes.

10. Take plenty of photos

You may feel ridiculous taking selfie after selfie (whilst secretly loving it) but you’ll thank yourself for it one day. Nothing brings a smile to your face more than looking through your memories and remembering all the great times you had. Your photos are the most unique souvenirs you can have and will be a timeless keepsake of some of the best moments of your life. Of course, making all your Instagram followers jealous too is always a bonus, but this one’s really for you.

Check out our tips on how to take awesome travel photos

11. Jot down a few things you’d like to do in each city

Whether you’re a meticulous planner or a free-spirited wanderer, it’s always good to have some knowledge of the best things a city has to offer. Lists can be found online, but the only person that can make a list perfectly suited to you and your interests is you. Whether it’s visiting a museum or gallery, going for a hike or attending a sports game, you can create a list of fun exciting things that you’re guaranteed to love. A little planning can make sure you leave every city with wonderful memories and zero regrets.

Looking for ideas for your trip? Search for your destination on the Hostelworld blog for amazing travel advice and things to do around the world.

12. Get the lowdown on cultural basics of the places you’re visiting

Cultural customs can be unfamiliar to many travellers and when you’re a guest in another country it’s important to be respectful of their culture. Doing a little research into what to expect could help you avoid accidentally offending someone. Things like tipping in the United States, or how the Spanish siesta impacts business trading hours, or not being able to litter, smoke or spit in public in Singapore can all be tricky customs for those not used to or aware of it.

13. Roll up your clothes when packing

Many minimalists have tried and failed to stop accumulating random things in your travels. It’s almost inevitable that you’ll pick up more clothes, souvenirs and keepsakes that will take up space in your luggage. One of the best space-saving backpacking tips is to roll up your clothes so they’re more compact and they’ll look wrinkle-free and fabulous. They can also be wrapped around your valuables for protection, like souvenir shot glasses or that precious bottle of vodka you’ve been nursing along the way.

14. Ask locals for suggestions

If you’re ever stuck for ideas of what to do, are looking for somewhere to eat or just wanting something different to do than the standard tourist stuff, your best bet is to find a local and ask them. Generally, everywhere you go people are quite friendly and always happy to show off their city and help a guest in need. Chances are they’ll know some hidden gems their city has to offer and would love to share them with you.

15. Check the weather before you go

This may seem like a simple one, but it’s the simple ones we often forget. The importance of knowing the weather ahead of time when preparing for travel can’t be underestimated. It influences what you’ll wear, what you’ll eat and what activities you can and can’t do. You don’t want to be stuck wearing layers of clothing in 35-degree heat or going for a scenic hike in the pouring rain. Unless certain parts of your body can tell that there’s a 30% chance it’s already raining, it will serve you well to look at the weather and plan accordingly.

16. Bring some entertainment

Whether you’re jet-setting or taking the scenic route, you’re going to have a lot of downtime while you’re in transit. Even the shortest of trips can feel like a lifetime without anything to occupy your mind. If you’re a TV or movie buff, bring a laptop, tablet or even phone loaded with movies and TV shows. If reading is more your style, bring your favourite book, or by a new one along the way. Even a video game, book of puzzles or a travel journal to write in can help you reach your destination in no time.

17. Don’t forget to channel your inner E.T. and phone home

It’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of travelling and completely lose track of your life at home. It may feel like a world away, but it still exists and it’s closer than you think. When you have some downtime get on FaceTime or Skype to your loved ones to touch base. Share your amazing stories, photos of where you’ve been and how you’re having the time of your life because they care about you and will be dying to know. Phoning home is a win-win; it will cure your homesickness and brighten up their day.

18. Try everything

Travelling allows you to push the boundaries and venture outside of your comfort zone and, with this you will be faced with some new challenges. The best advice I can give is to try them all and have no regrets. It doesn’t have to make sense or seem like a good idea, but you will never know unless you try. Learn how to make paella or salsa dance. Demolish that plate of snails. Sing karaoke with locals. Go off-road quad biking. Whatever you don’t normally do, do it. Embrace everything that comes your way and you’ll learn so much about yourself and be left with incredible stories.

Ready for your trip? Find the perfect hostel here

About the author

Alex is a passionate traveller, traversing the globe to meet the most amazing people, party, chase sport and try figure out if there is more to life than being really, really, ridiculously good looking. Follow his adventures on Instagram.

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The post Simple Backpacking Tips You Need To Know But No One Will Tell You appeared first on Hostelworld Travel Blog.