Post on 20-Aug-2015
So You’d Rather Go
A Guide for theModern Budget Traveller
(who would rather not ‘backpack’)
Flashpacking
0560693
Flashpacking:Flashpacking:The neologism ‘flashpacking’ is distinct from the common
practise of ‘backpacking’ in terms of its integration with
modern technology and allowance for stylistic
expression.
Flashpackers are young travellers with a budget who look to experience the culture of an area, both high and
low.
As more technologically- inclined people look to travel independently,
flashpacking becomes a more common way of seeing the world.
This chart represents how significant the youth travel market in Canada is, and so, how many young people
are actively engaged in independent travel.
Flashpacking is one way these people navigate their experiences.
(www.tourism.gov.on.ca/english/research/travel_activities/Lifecycle_Stage_Report)
Canadian Travel Market Composition (2008)
20
33
32
15
Youth
Family
Mature
Seniors
The youth travel phenomenon was studied by the International Student Travel confederation who
found young people are hesitant to describe themselves as ‘tourists’, but rather ‘travellers’ which signifies a more
adventurous attraction seen in flashpacking.(http://www.atlas-euro.org, 2003-2003 international study)
80
20
0
20
40
60
80
% of the Market
Independent Traveller Tourist
How Youth Travellers Identify Themselves
Technology
http://www.nonstopmac.com
The first essential aspect to flashpacking is the inclusion
of technology.
The flashpacker takes advantage of convenient
communication, image and sound recording and (often
free) wi-fi.
The flashpacker commonly brings along: an international cell phone (blackberry, sidekick etc), mp3 player, chargers, and a digital camera with a sizeable memory
card (typically with a lithium battery).
Some extra items could be: navigation devices, compact video cameras, and lightweight laptops… though it should be noted that many hostels include internet
access, and security is sometimes questionable (i.e. if you cannot carry your laptop, seriously consider bringing it).
Personal Style
http://www.therapyclothing.com
A common problem facing the young traveller is how to avoid the ‘backpacker’ stereotype.
The grungy look often signals ‘vagrant’ to establishments, which hinders a travellers
experience. Flashpacking is a practise separated from this long-held image. The
flashpacker maintains their own style throughout their trip.
Packing is an essential planning process. The flashpacker considers what clothes will have
the most mileage in the most situations: fancy to casual. Pieces are selected with care and
always adhere to the travellers own style, making them appear to locals as regular
individuals…not obvious tourists.
Care for personal style and ‘function’ is the
second key consideration of the flashpacker…
Suggestions for Flashpacking
plan to travel with a friend (always a safer idea)
bring your own padlock for hostel/budget hotel lockers
re-confirm flights, trains, and other bookings 24 hours before the set date
bring country-specific outlet converters for electronics chargers (laptop, ipod, cell phone, etc.)
purchase a small map of the area and familiarise yourself with it before you go out
pack pieces of clothing that can be mixed and matched and don’t involve complicated washing
budget your money with room for occasional splurges