How Backpackers Doing Their Travel Research Online Have Changed This Rite Of Passage

By Marcie Goodman


Since the invention of computers, and even more so since the invention of the internet, the way people do things has changed completely. If you need information about any topic at all, it's only a few clicks of the mouse away. Things have become even easier with laptop computers and more compact tablets. You can now do your travel research online and backpack in a new way.

The scene has changed incredibly fast. Five years ago, traveling with a computer was something only a few backpackers did. Most backpacks contained a guidebook, a novel and a deck of playing cards for killing time with. Now you can open any backpack and you'll find a laptop or more likely a tablet for reading matter, games, communication and even television or movies.

The guidebook is taking on a new role too. The backpacker of today hardly ever consults the book for information about attractions or even hostels. It's much easier to consult the internet.

The way that backpackers' behavior has changed has meant that hostels had to change too. In the past they had to make sure they were clean and had comfortable mattresses. Now they need to make sure they are clean and have fast and reliable internet, free Wi-Fi and electricity outlets in all the communal areas so that their guests can plug in and log on.

If you travel with a computer and can find an internet connection, researching your next destination is a breeze. You can read up on its history, learn the local language, see what the place looks like and check the weather forecast. By reading some reviews you'll be able to pick a suitable hostel and even book your accommodation ahead of time. It's not even necessary anymore to stand in line for a bus or plane ticket if you can simply go onto the company's website and book.

Backpacking used to be strictly the domain of people who had just finished college or were in between jobs. Now people take their jobs with them because they can simply use email and Skype to stay in touch with their colleagues. Working freelance online keeps the cash flow going during the journey.

The internet has some disadvantages for the traveler too. A major factor is that you can't take everything you read on a travel website at face value. Some business owners pay people to write fake reviews that will benefit their establishment. Others write glowing reviews under an assumed name or give a competitor a very negative review.

The best way of using the wealth of information out there to your advantage is to combine the different resources you can use. Keep a guidebook for easy access to maps any time, any place, because you can't consult Google Maps when you're standing by the side of a busy road. Ask fellow travelers about hostels and eateries they can recommend because they're likely to give honest opinions. For everything else you need to find out, do your travel research online for the most current information.




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