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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.
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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 Card for Europe 2026: The Australian-Specific Guide
Best travel card for Australians going to Europe in 2026. Up Bank + Ubank setup, UK ETA + EES entry rules, multi-currency strategy, ATM traps to avoid.
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Best Overseas Travel Debit Card for Australians 2026: Up, Revolut, Wise + More
Best overseas travel debit cards for Australians in 2026. Compare Up Bank, Ubank, Wise, Revolut, YouTrip — 0% FX fees, free ATMs, FCS protection.
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Euro Summer Guide 2026: A Practical 1-Month Europe Itinerary for Australians
A well-paced 1-month Europe itinerary for Australians, with the best route order, realistic budget expectations, current 2026 entry admin, and the travel tools worth sorting before you fly.
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14 Day South Korea Itinerary 2026: Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan & Jeju (Complete Guide)
A practical 2 week South Korea itinerary for first-time visitors, with the best route through Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan and Jeju, where to stay, how to move between cities, and the…
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Suica vs Pasmo vs ICOCA in 2026: Which Japan IC Card Should You Use?
A practical guide to Suica vs Pasmo vs ICOCA in 2026, including where each one works, tourist options, mobile wallets, and which IC card is easiest for first-time Japan trips.
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Best eSIM for Europe 2026: Saily vs Airalo vs Yesim
A practical Europe eSIM guide for 2026, with official plan pricing checked April 9, 2026 and a simple answer for UK + Schengen backpacking trips.











