So, you’re a grown man. It’s time to travel like one. I’m tired of seeing full grown men hauling check in luggage. If you think you need that oversized suitcase, you’re not a seasoned traveler; you’re just bad at packing. It’s that simple. We’re here to cut the dead weight, both literally and figuratively, from your journeys.
Your whole life in a Backpack
First things first: ditch the suitcase. You’re not navigating the cobbled streets of a European capital with a frilly, four-wheeled anchor. A durable, well-designed backpack is all u need. It’s versatile, forces you to be disciplined in your packing, and u wont look like a lost tourist.
Packing light is a skill, and it’s one you need to master. A good pair of dark-wash jeans can take you from a casual day of exploring to a decent bar at night. Limit yourself to a 2 pairs of shoes: one for walking, one for smarter occasions.
Finding the Deals
Forget spending hours scouring individual airline websites. Google Flights is your one-stop shop. Use the “Explore” feature. Plug in your home airport and some rough dates, and let the algorithm show you the cheapest, most interesting places to fly. This is how you discover hidden gems and save a significant amount of cash.
For accommodation, your primary tools are Booking.com and Airbnb. For the readers of this blog, Airbnb is often the superior choice. Let’s be frank: it can be awkward parading a new “acquaintance” through a stuffy hotel lobby. An Airbnb offers privacy and a more authentic local experience.
Pro Tip: When searching on Airbnb, set your stay for 30 days. You’ll often unlock substantial monthly discounts and find better properties. In many places, like Bangkok, laws restrict short-term apartment rentals to a minimum of 30 days, so this trick opens up a whole new inventory of prime locations.
Stay Sharp, Stay Safe
Airports and major tourist hubs are breeding grounds for scams. Keep your wits about you. Never exchange money or buy a SIM card at the airport; you’ll almost always get a terrible rate. Do your research beforehand and find a reputable exchange office in the city center. Better yet, get a Revolut bank card. It allows you to hold multiple currencies and exchange them at the real-time rate, saving you a fortune in hidden fees. pro tip: ask chatgpt.
Before you go, get an International Driving License. It’s a simple, inexpensive process and can be a lifesaver if you decide to rent a scooter to explore the coastline or a car for a spontaneous road trip.
Solo Travel Loneliness
Traveling alone is the ultimate freedom, but yes, it can get lonely. And no, just hanging out with a string of temporary women won’t always fill that void.
To find other men on the road, your best bets are bars and hostels. Even if you’re not staying in a hostel, their bars are often open to the public and are great places to meet travelers. The Hostelworld app also has chat features that can help you find people before you even arrive. Just be warned: you might have to sift through a few peace-and-love hippies to find your crowd.
And don’t forget your friends back home. A quick call can do wonders for your mental state. Schedule regular check-ins to stay grounded and share your adventures.
The Essential Kit:
Here’s a no-nonsense list of what you absolutely need in your backpack:
- Sleep Mask and Earplugs: Non-negotiable for noisy hostels and bright, early mornings.
- Condoms: Be prepared. It’s basic self-respect for you and your partners.
- An Extra Phone: Keep a cheaper, backup phone with essential contacts and a copy of your documents. If your primary phone gets lost or stolen, this will be your lifeline.
- Cash: Always have a stash of US dollars or Euros hidden in your bag for emergencies.
- Diarrhea Pills: Trust us on this one. When you need them, you’ll be glad you have them. Imodium or a similar loperamide-based medication is a travel essential.
- Microfiber Travel towel: It’s lightweight, dries quickly, and packs down to nothing.
- A Good Book: For the downtime, the long journeys, and the quiet moments of reflection.
Traveling isn’t about how much you can pack; it’s about how much you can experience. By traveling smarter, you’ll have more freedom, more money, and more opportunities to create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack light, stay sharp, and get out there. The world is waiting with some of the best countries ;).
