The Difference Between Backpacking and Vacationing

Many people often ask me after a big trip, "How was your vacation?" Or, if I decide to backpack again, people often ask, "You're going on vacation again?" I often find this funny, because when I go backpacking, I don't really see it as a vacation.

See, backpacking is just different in a bunch of aspects. There are a lot of times where I don't enjoy myself backpacking like I do when I'm on vacation with my family. Backpacking isn't always fun and games, there's a lot of struggle and hardships that come with backpacking that you just don't encounter when you're on vacation. However, my time backpacking has been some of the richest and most amazing moments of my life, and I believe that I am a stronger and smarter person today because of my adventures.

 Here's how vacationing and backpacking differ:

Vacationing means structured plans and tour guides...Backpacking means the spontaneity of showing up to a destination and hearing from other travelers and locals about where to go once you're there.

Vacationing means the luxury and comfort and resorts and cruise ships...Backpacking means long economy class flights and sometimes sleeping at airports.

Vacationing means queen size beds and privacy...Backpacking means twin size bunk beds in dorm rooms with random strangers.

Vacationing means suitcases and overpacked luggage...Backpacking means..well, just a backpack and the shoes on your feet.

Vacationing means five star restaurants...Backpacking means lots and lots of street food.

Vacationing means maybe a week of escape out of your hectic life...backpacking means multiple weeks or months contributing to the quality of your life.

Vacationing means being around family and friends...Backpacking means spending a lot of time alone.

Vacationing means time devoted to pleasure and rest...Backpacking means that you are always on the move and hardly ever resting.

Vacationing means clean sheets and free soap...Backpacking means going a couple of days without showering and washing your clothes in the sink.

Vacationing means safety and security...backpacking means mishaps and plan B's for when things go wrong.

Vacationing means souvenirs and pictures..Backpacking means new passport stamps and new friends from around the world.

Vacationing means comfort...Backpacking means adventure.