5 Types of People You’ll Meet When Backpacking

A huge part of backpacking is meeting new people. As a chance to make lasting friends and have conversations with people of all backgrounds, ages, and ethnicities, it can be a really eye-opening experience. At 2B Happy our backpackers lodge is the perfect place to stay when you visit South Africa’s Johannesburg.

The gap-year student

Sticking through higher education without a break is only for some people. Many students will choose to take a year out to travel the world. Perhaps slightly immature to begin with, many gap-year students have a pre-conceived negative image though. Whilst younger people may take longer to adjust to being in foreign cities and alien cultures, many will be quite open to try anything and everything they can. After all, spending money on travel and juggling student debt has got to be worth it!

The hardcore volunteer

Many people choose to go backpacking with the intention of volunteering for a good cause. Volunteering abroad can be an exceptionally rewarding experience. Whether it is tied in with a charity or just promoting something that gives back to the local community and people, it will be an experience that is unlike any other. You don’t even have to be the stereotypical save-the-world volunteer either. Any action is a good one!

The chilled out hippy

Sharing their thoughts on the environment and eco living, the hippy traveller can open your mind to many alternative ways of thinking and being. Avoid those that preach though and only seek the company of people with interesting stories to tell. Keeping an open mind whilst you are backpacking is vital. It is the crucial time for learning new things and being aware of all kinds of lifestyles, even if they are not suitable for you.

The travel writer

There is a huge business to be made in travelling and writing is just one of those things. Whether they are a big name when it comes to travel writing or a bit more of an amateur, you are sure to find someone taking keen notes wherever they are. This person may be particularly outspoken about certain elements of the travelling, throwing in opinions here and there as well as adding fancy words. Create your own opinions and thoughts throughout your travelling experience.

The seasoned traveller

These people will have been to everywhere and have stories to tell from all across the world, whether or not you want to hear them! If you’re new to backpacking then there’s a thing or two to be learnt from people that have been before. Gain insight from their experience and seek help where necessary. Don’t get too driven by someone else’s plans though. Stick to where you want to go and your end goals for travelling. But like the seasoned traveller, make the most of experiencing cultures, places and people.

Backpacking can truly change who you are as a person, and for the better. Here at 2B Happy we offer self catered accommodation for backpackers in the Johannesburg area of South Africa. Make the most of our affordable and comfortable hostels. Get in touch today to book your stay.