A Guide to Backpacking for First Timers: Gear Checklist, Destinations, & Tips

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To those who haven’t tried it, backpacking might seem like a niche or even an intimidating way to travel. But those who have backpacked their way through the world know that it’s an exciting, practical, and surprisingly freeing way to travel. It doesn’t entirely mean giving up comfort or safety. It just means packing lighter, moving smarter, and saying yes to a bit more adventure.

If you've ever been curious about what it's like to carry everything you need on your back and explore unfamiliar places on foot, this guide is for you. With a few smart choices and the right preparation, backpacking can be one of the most rewarding ways to travel. If you #KnowBeforeYouGo, you’ll find out backpacking is not scary at all.

1. Invest in a good backpack

Your backpack is your home base. It holds your essentials, your extras, and everything in between. That’s why picking the right one is so important.

There’s no “ideal” backpack that will fit every type of traveler. But since it’s your first time, you should look for these key features:

• Size & fit: Around 40L to 55L is ideal for beginners on long-term vacations. It should fit your torso length and not just your height. 

• Comfort: Go for padded shoulder straps, a sturdy hip belt, and good back ventilation.

• Accessibility: Top-loading backpacks are classic, but ones with front or side openings make packing easier.

• Durability & weather resistance: Water-resistant fabric, strong zippers, and reinforced stitching are musts.

Osprey Kestrel ₱12,990	Timbuk2 Robin ₱10,990
Gregory Rhune ₱11,490	Eagle Creek Explore ₱8,990

 

2.  Choose a beginner-friendly destination

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Your first backpacking trip doesn’t need to be hardcore. It just needs to be manageable and meaningful. Start with places that are safe, easy to navigate, and rich in backpacker-friendly amenities like hostels, public transport, and walkable routes.

Here are great first-time backpacking destinations:

Local 

• If you’re drawn to the mountains, cool air, and quiet trails:
  Sagada, Mountain Province

• If you like easy-to-explore beaches and landmarks via motorbike or van:
  Bohol

• If you’re into surf culture, hostels, and island life:
  Siargao 

International 

• If you want a budget-friendly, culture trip:
  Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand

• If you love street food and old towns:
  Hanoi to Hoi An, Vietnam 

• If you’re up for a nature trip:
  Bali, Indonesia 

3. Ready your backpacking gear 

Start simple. You don’t need to buy everything at once. You probably already have some of these things. But if you don’t, no need to worry because The Travel Club has all the accessories you need for comfort, organization, and safety. 

• Lightweight clothing

• Quick-dry towel

• Reusable water bottle

• Compact toiletry kit 

• Powerbank and universal adapter

• First aid kit

• Headlamp or flashlight

• Packing cubes or organizers

Don’t forget to check the weather and local customs of your destination. It will affect what you need to bring.

 

4. Choose the right shoes

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So you have your backpack, complete travel gear, and a destination. Now it’s time to look at shoes. This is what most first-timers forget about.

Backpacking usually means a lot of walking. Whether you're hopping between temples, navigating train stations, or wandering through cobbled streets and muddy trails. So having the right pair of shoes can make or break your trip.

You don’t need bulky hiking boots unless you're heading into rugged terrain. A good pair of walking sneakers or travel shoes can go a long way, quite literally.

PRO TIP: Don’t forget to pack slippers or sandals for rest days and hostel showers.

 

5. Pack light, but don’t underpack

First-time backpacker or not, this is an important rule.

Overpacking is a beginner's mistake, but so is underpacking. Think about function over fashion. Choose versatile clothing items and bring essentials, but leave room for things you might pick up along the way.

 

6. Stay in hostels or guesthouses

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They’re budget-friendly, often centrally located, and great for meeting other travelers. What you should be looking for are 3 things: the bathroom situation, the locker area, and overall safety. Backpackers usually just stay in capsule or dorm-type rooms since it’s more practical, but you should never sacrifice your comfort.

The most important thing? Research—and not just in Google. Talk to people you know who have gone backpacking in your chosen destination. Read through Reddit stories, Facebook communities, and app reviews. Learning about these things will help you decide what will work for you as a backpacker. 

 

7. Go slow 

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Lastly, backpacking isn’t about ticking off every tourist spot. It’s about absorbing the experience. Take time to enjoy a local café, talk to a street vendor, or wander without a plan. Allow yourself to be surprised. Sometimes the best moments are the ones you didn’t plan for, don’t you agree? 

Backpacking is a whole different travel rhythm—more movement, more freedom, and often, more unforgettable memories. It’s perfect for curious, open-minded travelers looking to do more with less. 

So, if you've been thinking about trying it, now’s the time. Pick a backpack, choose a spot, and go. Your adventure starts where your comfort zone ends.