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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SafetyWing vs World Nomads Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads (2026)
For digital nomads, SafetyWing is usually the better default because it is built around ongoing travel and living abroad. World Nomads can still make sense, but it is a less…
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Best eSIM for Bali / Indonesia (2026): 9 Options Compared for Speed, Value, and Easy Setup
Bali is one of the easiest places in Indonesia to use an eSIM, but the best option depends on whether you want cheap fixed data, unlimited browsing, or the simplest…
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Best Travel Debit Card for Bali / Indonesia for Australians (2026): ATM Fees, Cash & FX Compared
Bali is more card-friendly than many parts of Indonesia, but Australians still need the right setup for ATM withdrawals, cash-heavy spending, and low-fee foreign transactions.
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Best eSIM for Vietnam (2026): 9 Options Compared for Speed, Value, and Easy Setup
Vietnam is one of the best countries in Southeast Asia for using an eSIM, but the best option depends on whether you want a cheap fixed-data plan, unlimited data, or…
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Best Travel Debit Card for Vietnam for Australians (2026): ATMs, Cash & Fees Compared
Vietnam is still a destination where the right card setup can save Australians real money. This guide compares Up Bank, YouTrip, Wise, and Revolut for ATM access, FX costs, and…
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Best eSIM for Japan (2026): 9 Options Compared for Speed, Value, and Easy Setup
Japan is one of the easiest countries to use an eSIM in, but the best option depends on whether you want cheap fixed data, unlimited browsing, or the simplest setup…











