When we decide to go and explore the world, the first thing we decide is whether we’ll be cruising around on a liner, tripping the globe on a round-the-world air ticket, visiting different cities in the comfort of a luxury train or one of many other options. Maybe you’ve decided that you’d like to see the world on foot!
Yes, it is possible! It may take longer than other modes of transport but it doesn’t always necessarily mean hiking everywhere, although that is an option too. Traveling by foot includes the use of the controversial hitchhiking method and making friends and relying on the kindness of strangers to get around too. If you plan on doing a journey in this way, please make sure you keep your wits about you and be sensible when trusting strangers. Trips like these are always safer when you’re not going solo.
However, given that it can be a little dangerous, traveling by foot is certainly the cheapest! You don’t have to pay to use your feet and the only fuel you need is what goes in your tummy.
When you’ve decided which country you’d like to visit, map out a plan of nature hikes that are available so that you don’t spend the majority of your time walking on over-developed or noisy roads. Some countries are fortunate to have enough nature reserves that its possible to explore almost the entire country on nature trails. New Zealand, for example, has a map of nature trails spanning from the top of the north island to the bottom of the south island and this is a popular challenge for hikers and backpackers alike.
In some countries you may even be fortunate enough to be able to live off the land if they have an abundance of fruit trees and when someone invites you in for tea or a meal, never turn down the local hospitality. Meeting the people who live there and experiencing a day in their lives is one of the best memories a traveler can attain. Again, though, don’t be too trusting and choose your friends wisely.
If you’re going to travel by foot, the most important things you need to consider are your clothing and the contents of your backpack. You will be carrying it around with you everywhere so go as light as you can! Only take the absolute necessities and always spend a bit more money on a good pair of walking shoes. Injured, blistered feet will put a halt in your journey and make walking very painful so it’s worth the outlay in the beginning rather than being stranded along the way and having to pay extra accommodation or food bills.
Be prepared to get back in touch with nature. You have to be realistic and leave behind your makeup and hairdryer. The longer you go walking, you can rest assured, the better looking you’ll get. You’ll feel fit and healthy and won’t need cosmetics anyway.