As I prepare for another backpacking trip, I remember what it was like sorting out logistics, the frenzy of booking flights and planning an itinerary that packs in as much of one country in a really small time frame. As a second time backpacker this is what I know now.
Plan loosely, don't close doors with a tight itinerary (short time span or not). Research where to go, but don't expect it to play out the way you thought and anticipate staying in a place longer. Take time to immerse yourself and don't just take a photo and go. Really soak it in, sit there and think about what you're seeing, hearing, smelling. And talk to people! Push yourself with the language. Locals appreciate whatever amount of effort you put into speaking their language.
And remember how nice people were? You will be just fine. Get ready to make a whole new set of friends in a short time period but miss them like crazy once you leave.
Now that you are re-entering the backpackers life, remember that you have to give yourself like a solid 48 hours before you can start thinking straight again. Jet lag and culture shock will settle in under the worst conditions; a crooked neck from the plane, no sleep and probably discomfort from that Air Canada "hot-chicken" plate they served. Be patient and suppress any thoughts about, "the trip is off to a bad start," you just need sleep and a good meal!
Remember what to pack and what not to pack. The massive Lonely Planet hard copy, weighing four pounds, feel free to leave at home. Also, just pack regular clothes, no need to pack extra "tourist-mom-on-vacation" looking outfits. Just wear comfy clothes like you normally would!
AND GET READY TO RETURN TO HOSTEL LIFE! Keep in mind every hostel won't be five out of five stars. Perhaps the first night you will be lounging in the best of the best and then the next thing you know it's a hostel with extremely noisy bunk mates and the club across the street likes to rage until 9 AM. Just anticipate going back to a 5-4 hour a night sleep schedule.
Finally, remember your travel partner. Be patient with them and be open. Talk about things even if it's a tough conversation. Be their person. Be there through thick and thin and go to them when you're not okay. Anticipate compromises and anticipate changing plans for the better. Be fluid with decision making, but also know when you both need to assert yourselves and make those decisions together. And be confident. You've chosen this person as your partner in crime, trust them as your number one.
All in all, remember this trip and soak it in for when you return to work, sitting in an office and you need to escape; daydreaming about sitting on a beach sipping a cerveza and eating delicious food!
Spain and Portugal, here I come.
What are your travel tips?
What did you learn after your first big trip?
OR
What things are you sure to do now that you are a return traveler?
-Mimi