Tip Travelling Third World Country

Budget travelers will often choose third world countries as their destinations because of the radically different experiences they offer and the lower costs involved. It will be useful for the new traveler to take these suggestions into consideration:

1. Don't always try to spend the least amount of money

Even if you are traveling on a low budget, it can be quite aggravating to obsess about saving every dime and penny. Not only is it a perfect way to take the fun out of your travel experience it also is a great way to demean the locals.

We're not suggesting that you fall prey to tourist price traps or never negotiate for deals. Instead, recognize that arguing over a price difference that means little in your home currency is not often worth it. You can hold your own in good humor when faced with unscrupulous behaviors from vendors.

It feels good to pay the full price in appropriate circumstances (such as encouraging a local economy not run by multinationals).

2. Don't show off your fortunes

Clothes and bags tell a lot about a traveler. In third world countries where large segments of the population are poor or very poor, even your less than best clothes may make you appear rich.

Lessen the gap between you and others by wearing modest clothes and carrying average bags. It will make you less intimidating to locals, less of a target for robbers and you will feel much less ridiculous.

3. Learn how to deal constructively with the poor

While it may be appropriate in some circumstances to not give so much as a glance to swarms of begging people it will significantly improve the quality of your travel if you do offer yourself the chance to connect to people in need.

It does not necessarily mean that you should offer money directly to those you encounter. But consider making a donation to a local charity or organism that works with them This money will most likely be used in a more constructive manner than if you give it directly to beggars. If you have no money to spare, volunteering with such organisms can be just as valuable.

To the people you meet directly in the street, you can offer some of your time. Talk to them, ask them questions, exchange words in your respective languages, play with kids, play with your camera, share a meal with them... there are many ways to have a positive exchange.

Tom Pattingson is interested in budget and free travel opportunities. He writes for his travel for free blog where you can find lots of free travel info.

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backpacking trips

Having taken a couple of dozen short backpacking trips into Europe I've managed to realise exactly what I personally need and what I don't. Although what people pack is a subjective matter, there are items everyone requires in their backpack.

Passport
Don't go forgetting this, else you won't get very far! A leather passport cover is a great idea; it will protect it from damage.

Debit Card
A debit card is the most convenient way to withdraw cash when backpacking. Make sure you know the charges for withdrawing, though; it may be a good idea to shop around and find the card that offers the lowest foreign withdrawal charges. A credit card is also a good idea for emergencies only - I keep one separate from my main wallet.

Backpack
Size is important! You want a backpack just bigger than the amount of stuff you intend to bring. For this reason, make your backpack the last thing you buy. The smaller the better; if you're carrying round a huge bergen, you'll find it harder to stash it in trains, buses and lockers. The less stuff you bring, the more manageable your trip will be.

Clothes
For protection against the elements, some backpackers just bring an umbrella; I like to have a breathable waterproof jacket instead. It depends on what season you are going. I usually have at least one long-sleeved garment, either a fleece, again dependent on the season. In terms of everyday clothes, I bring enough for five days. I find any more is overkill; any less and you'll be doing laundry quite often (or wearing dirty clothes)!

Footwear
A pair of sneakers is great everyday travel footwear for Europe. If you're heading into the Alps, or doing a lot of walking, consider bringing your hiking boots as well.

First Aid Kit
Although pharmacies are everywhere, a small first aid kit of aspirin, band-aids, anti-septic and any prescription medicines is essential.

Washbag
Try to get the travel-size versions of your favourite shampoo/shower gel; there's no need to cart about huge half-litre bottles. Bring a toothbrush, also a comb or brush, and any other little luxuries. And contraception for those wild nights.

Electronics
I bring a small point-and-shoot digital camera. I can't afford an SLR, nor would I want to bring one, given my record for breaking things! You might also consider an iPod or other mp3 player for those long bus/train journeys.

Electrical Adapter
You might need a converter to use the appliances you bring with you in European sockets.

Other Good Ideas
Backpackers in dorms snore, so bring some earplugs! Also a sink plug is a good idea if you're handwashing in basins. Bring a sturdy padlock too for your locker/bag, as well as a small flashlight for coming into dorms late at night. A considerate backpacker is a backpacker people will want to get to know!

Happy travels!

Ben is an experienced European backpacker, having taken many trips into Europe in his 39 years on this planet. You can follow his latest bout of travel over at his blog, Shoestring Europe.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ben_L._Carpenter