20 BEST Backpacking Destinations in the World

Backpacking is one of the best ways to travel the world. It allows you to be free, have fun, and explore new areas at your own pace. If you like to travel light and with an open mind, backpacking is a great option for you. There are many interesting places to visit in the world that are safe, affordable, and full of culture. Backpacking is a unique way to explore the world, whether you prefer beaches, mountains, or historic cities.

The best places in the world for backpacking offer a variety of fun activities, breathtaking scenery, and delicious food. You can meet new people, learn about the local culture, and experience amazing natural sights. From Asia to Europe and South America to Africa, many places welcome backpackers.

Use this list of the 20 best places in the world for backpacking to help you plan your next trip. Each place offers affordable accommodations, delicious cuisine, and a unique blend of culture and adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an experienced backpacker, you’ll find something unique in every country on this list. Pack your things and get ready for a trip you’ll never forget.

List of the 20 Best Backpacking Destinations in the World

1. Thailand

For backpackers, Thailand is the perfect place to visit. It has beautiful beaches, delicious street food, and vibrant cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok. You can hike in the northern mountains or visit tropical destinations like Koh Samui and Phuket. Thailand is also affordable, with hostels costing less than $10 per night and meals costing less than $5. The culture is rich with colorful festivals and old temples, and the people are nice. You can relax on beautiful sandy beaches, do water sports, or visit night markets. Every traveler who comes to Thailand can enjoy a little fun, leisure, and adventure.

2. Vietnam

Vietnam has amazing scenery, from lush rice fields to breathtaking beaches. Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer a lively lifestyle with great food and markets. Backpackers love how cheap it is to travel around the country, how delicious the street food is, and how easy it is to get around. You can go sailing in Halong Bay, hike in the hills of Sapa, or visit old towns like Hoi An. The Hai Van Pass and other beautiful highways make this country perfect for exploring by motorbike. Vietnam is one of the best places in the world for backpacking because it is full of culture, nature, and history.

Also Read: Famous Historical Monuments in the World

3. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a tropical paradise where backpackers from all over the world love to visit. The island has many beaches, rice paddies, and volcanoes. People visit Ubud for its culture and yoga centers, and places like Canggu and Seminyak for surfing and nightlife. Backpackers love Bali because it’s cheap to live, people are kind, and the food is good. You can rent a scooter to visit secret waterfalls or relax on the beaches. Bali’s temples, like Uluwatu and Tanah Lot, offer stunning views at sunset. There’s a wonderful balance of nature, culture, and fun here.

4. Nepal

Nepal is a great place for hikers who love hiking and exploring. Both the Himalayas and Mount Everest are in this country, with hiking trails such as the Annapurna and Everest Base Camps. The capital, Kathmandu, has many temples, history, and vibrant markets. Nepal is quite cheap; you can stay in cheap guesthouses and eat simple Indian food. You can also visit Pokhara to see tranquil lakes or Chitwan National Park to see animals. The people of Nepal are friendly and welcoming. If you want to see nature, learn about other cultures, and connect with your spiritual side, Nepal is one of the best places in the world to go backpacking.

Also Read: Amazing Hidden Underground Destinations Around The World

5. Peru

Backpackers who love history and adventure should visit Peru. You should visit the famous Machu Picchu, which offers beautiful views of the mountains and old Inca buildings. Cusco and Lima are two cities with colorful streets, ancient markets, and delicious food. You can hike the Inca Trail, visit Lake Titicaca, or enjoy the Amazon rainforest. Peru is cheap because accommodation and food are inexpensive. The country also has many festivals and cheerful people. Peru has a lot to offer tourists, from high mountains to deserts. It is full of history, culture, and natural beauty.

6. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a small island, but it has a lot to offer travelers. There are thousands of years-old temples, lush tea fields, and golden beaches. You can go surfing in Arugam Bay, hike to Sigiriya Rock, or visit national parks to see elephants and leopards. Colombo and Kandy are two cities that are full of history and culture. Sri Lanka is cheap, as there are affordable guesthouses and delicious local cuisine like rice and curry. Buses and railways make it easy to get around the country. If you want to relax, see animals, or learn about the culture, Sri Lanka is one of the best places in the world to go backpacking.

7. Cambodia

People say that Cambodia has a very rich history and is a beautiful place. Backpackers go to Siem Reap to see the famous Angkor Wat temple, one of the most beautiful historical sites in the world. Phnom Penh is a good place to learn the history of the country, while Sihanoukville and Koh Rong are great for beaches and parties. Cambodia is very cheap. Hostels and food cost just a few dollars. You can visit the countryside, floating villages, and eat fresh food. Cambodia is a must-see destination for backpackers because it has a lot of history, culture, and nature.

8. Mexico

Backpacking in Mexico is fun and full of color. There are sun-kissed beaches, old ruins, and busy cities. At Chichen Itza, you can see Mayan temples, eat street tacos, or relax on the beach in Cancun and Tulum. Mexico City is full of history, art, and delicious food. Backpackers love Mexico because prices are low and the people are nice. You can also visit hidden cenotes, climb mountains, or explore historic cities like Oaxaca. Mexico is one of the best places in the world for backpacking because it is full of culture, adventure, and delicious food.

9. Portugal

Backpackers in Europe love to visit Portugal. Lisbon and Porto have many colorful streets, ancient sites, and delicious food. In the Algarve, you can eat fresh seafood, visit castles, or relax on the beach. Compared to other European countries, Portugal is inexpensive. Both hostels and public transportation are cheap. Backpackers especially like the surfing spots and the beautiful towns along the coast. You can visit vineyards, walk along scenic paths, and attend local festivals. Portugal is one of the best places in the world for backpacking because it is a great mix of culture, history, and nature.

10. Greece

Greece is a great place for backpacking because it has sun-kissed islands and old buildings. The Acropolis is just one of the many historical ruins in Athens. Santorini and Mykonos are known for their whitewashed houses and turquoise waters. Backpackers love the delicious Greek food, cheap accommodations, and friendly people. You can discover secret beaches, go hiking, or take boat trips to small islands. Greece is not only beautiful, but you can also save money if you plan your trip well. With its history and beautiful scenery, Greece is a wonderful place for backpackers.

11. Morocco

Morocco has cities full of life, deserts, and mountain hikes. Marrakech is famous for its colorful markets, spices, and old buildings. Backpackers love to ride camels or hike in the Atlas Mountains to see the Sahara Desert. Morocco is cheap, has affordable accommodations, and delicious food like tagine and couscous. You can visit blue-green cities like Chefchaouen, see the old Medina, or relax on the beaches of Essaouira. Morocco is one of the best places in the world for backpacking because it has a unique blend of culture, adventure, and kind people.

12. Spain

Spain is a great place for backpackers because it has fun cities, beautiful beaches, and plenty of culture. People know Barcelona for its Gaudí buildings and vibrant nightlife. Madrid is full of art and history. You can go trekking in the Pyrenees or relax on the beaches of the Costa del Sol. Spanish cuisine, like tapas and paella, is cheap and delicious here. Backpackers love the country’s cheap hostels, fast rail connections, and festivals like La Tomatina. Spain is one of the best places in the world for backpacking because it has plenty of culture, exciting activities, and breathtaking scenery.

13. New Zealand

Backpackers who enjoy adventure and the environment will love New Zealand. There are plenty of mountains, lakes, and beautiful trails throughout the country. You can hike famous trails like the Tongariro Crossing or visit the fiords of Milford Sound. Cities like Queenstown and Auckland have interesting things to do, good food, and nice people. Travelers in New Zealand can stay in inexpensive hostels that are also safe. You can go bungee jumping, kayaking, or just relax in nature. New Zealand is one of the top places in the world for backpacking due to its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.

14. Australia

Australia is a must-visit for backpackers who love beaches and road trips. Sydney and Melbourne have a lot of culture, art, and nightlife to enjoy. The Great Barrier Reef is a great place for diving, and Byron Bay and the Gold Coast are great places for surfing. Backpackers can see the outback, visit national parks, and meet wonderful people. Australia has a great network of hostels, and you can even work part-time while you’re there. Australia is one of the best places in the world for backpacking due to its pleasant weather, wildlife, and adventure.

15. Iceland

Iceland is a fascinating place filled with glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls. Backpackers love to explore the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon, and the black sand beaches. The capital, Reykjavik, has adorable cafes and a lively nightlife. Iceland is a bit expensive, but you can save money by camping or cooking your food. You can travel around the country easily and safely by bus or rented car. You can trek on glaciers, see geysers, or watch the Northern Lights. Iceland is one of the best places in the world for backpacking because it has beautiful scenery and fun things to do.

16. Turkey

Turkey is a place where East and West meet, and it has a wealth of culture, history, and beauty for backpackers. Istanbul has many old mosques, bazaars, and delicious street food. You can visit the beaches of Antalya, see fairy chimneys in Cappadocia, or explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus. Turkey is cheap because it has cheap hostels and delicious local food like kebabs and baklava. The friendly people of the country make backpacking easy and enjoyable. There are so many fun things to do in Turkey for any traveler, from busy bazaars to hot-air balloon flights.

17. Japan

Backpackers will find Japan an interesting place. It is a mix of old ways and new cities. Tokyo has lots of neon lights, shops, and unique food. Kyoto also has beautiful temples and gardens. Backpackers can hike Mount Fuji, bathe in hot springs, or enjoy the cherry blossom season. Japan is safe, clean, and easy to get around thanks to fast trains and cheap hostels. The food is amazing, from sushi to ramen. Japan is one of the best places in the world for backpacking because of its culture, technology, and natural beauty.

18. Colombia

Backpackers are loving Colombia. It has beautiful cities, lush mountains, and sun-drenched beaches. Cartagena is known for its historic streets, and Medellín has a mix of old and new attractions. You can visit coffee farms, trek in the Cocora Valley, or relax on the Caribbean coast. Colombia is cheap, has good accommodations, and food. People are nice and love to share their culture. Colombia is one of the best places in the world for backpacking because there is so much to see.

19. South Africa

Backpackers who enjoy animals and adventure will love South Africa. You have to go to Cape Town to see its beaches, Table Mountain, and colorful streets. In Kruger National Park, you can go on a safari to see lions, elephants, and other animals. South Africa is cheap as it has cheap hostels and good food. Adventure lovers can go trekking, surfing, or shark cage diving. This country has a long history and diverse cultures. South Africa is one of the best places in the world for backpacking as it has nature, animals, and lots of things to do.

20. Philippines

With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is a tropical paradise. Backpackers appreciate the beautiful waters of Cebu, the reefs of El Nido, and the pristine beaches of Boracay. The country is inexpensive, with affordable accommodation and great seafood. You can swim with whale sharks, tour the islands, or snorkel. The people who live there are nice and always ready to serve tourists. The Philippines is also famous for its beautiful sunsets and colorful festivals. Because of its beautiful islands and kind people, the Philippines is one of the best places in the world for backpacking.

Conclusion

Backpacking is a great way to travel the world on a budget, all while having fun and freedom. The 20 best backpacking destinations in the world offer something for every kind of traveler. These countries will give you memories that will last a lifetime, from the sunny beaches of Thailand and the Philippines to the mountainous terrain of Nepal and Peru.

Think about what excites you the most when choosing a trekking destination. Do you like beaches, history, hiking, or culture? Each country on this list has its own charm, affordable places to stay, and exciting things to do. You can meet new people, try local food, and learn about customs you’ve never seen before.

When you travel with just a backpack, you learn to treasure experiences more than things. It’s not about luxury; it’s about seeing the true beauty of each place. So, pack your things, get your ticket, and start your journey now. The world is waiting for you to find it.