Start here
If you are new here, start with these guides. They cover the basics, help you avoid common mistakes, and make the rest of your planning much easier.
Choose a topic
Whether you are choosing a destination, sorting out the basics, or comparing longer-stay options, these are the best places to start.
Where are you going?
Start with the main regions and countries below to find the guides most relevant to your trip.
Latest Guides
The latest transport guides, route breakdowns, and trip-planning articles from Backpacking Is Life.
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Best Travel Debit Card for South Korea for Australians (2026): T-money, ATMs & FX Compared
South Korea is more card-friendly than many backpackers expect, but Australians still need the right setup for foreign fees, ATM withdrawals, and the separate T-money transit layer.
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Cheap Japan Domestic Flights in 2026: When They Beat the Train
Japan domestic flights can be a smart booking move in 2026, but only on the right routes. Here is when to use JAL or ANA visitor fares, when to compare…
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How to Get Around Vietnam by Bus, Train and Sleeper (2026)
A practical guide to getting around Vietnam in 2026 by sleeper bus, train, van, and the occasional flight, including when 12Go is worth using and which classic routes are easiest…
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How to Get from Bangkok to Koh Tao (2026): Bus, Train, Ferry or Flight?
Bangkok to Koh Tao is one of those Thailand routes where the right answer depends on whether you care most about time, comfort, or cost. Here is the actual 2026…
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How to Get from Bangkok to Koh Samui (2026): Flight vs Bus and Ferry
Bangkok to Koh Samui is a route where the best answer depends almost entirely on how much you value time. Here is when to fly and when the bus-plus-ferry combo…
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How to Get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (2026): Sleeper Train vs Bus vs Flight
Bangkok to Chiang Mai is one of Thailand’s classic travel routes. Here is when to take the sleeper train, when to fly, and when the road option still makes sense.