6 Reasons To Go Backpacking With A Group

Backpacking alone is typically the best way for most people to travel around the world for an extended amount of time, but there are many advantages of travelling with a partner or group.

[ RELATED ARTICLES: 10 Reasons to go Backpacking Solo, A Solo Vagabond is Rarely Alone ]

1/ SECURITY

-The saying “Safety in numbers” is particularly true when your in foreign and unfamiliar land. The chances of getting mugged or attacked is reduced to nearly zero as long as you stick together. On travel days (bus, flight, boat, train) it can be a mess to keep track of all your gear and backpacks but with a group, someone can always watch them if you need to run off for whatever reason. You can be a bit less paranoid and relax more when travelling with people you can rely on.

2/ MONEY

-In tourism around the world, its almost always significantly cheaper to buy things (accommodations, transportation, attractions) as a couple or group. A solo backpacker will often have to pay for the price of two as a way for the hostel or guesthouse to compensate. Within a group, its easier to borrow money or help out in emergency situations because there is automatic trust. As suppose to asking a stranger in a strange land for money.

3/ MEMORIES

-The memories you will obtain from travelling the world alone will be unforgettable but having shared memories with people that are close to you is that much more precious. You will have incredible stories and photos to share with each other for years and years. Even though backpacking alone you will make tons of new friends, there’s something about having those memories with people you will still see once you get back home.

4/ SOCIAL

-Whether your shy or a social butterfly, having someone you know always with you is quite comforting. Going to the sights, bars, parties, staying at hostels or even taking public transportation alone can be daunting. Having a friend or few makes it so much easier and less stressful. You will also be less likely to be home sick or lonely when there’s always someone by your side.

5/ CARE

-When travelling to unknown places, doing crazy things and eating strange foods, getting sick or hurt is inevitable. You won’t have the luxury of your own bed to crawl in and local pharmacy to get your favorite meds. So naturally, your friend(s) will be there for you until you get better. It sure beats going to a third world hospital or recovering from the flu at a dorm hostel all by yourself.

6/ GEAR

-You can be the perfect-packer, under-packer or the backpacker who packs for every possible situation but one thing will occur consistently; you will need new gear, sometimes at the most inconvenient time. This could be toothpaste, shampoo, soap, socks, bandages, water, gadget charger or just a shirt. When your within a group, its likely someone has something extra to give you or lend.

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-Photography by Andreas Rentz