So You’d Rather Go

A Guide for theModern Budget Traveller

(who would rather not ‘backpack’)

Flashpacking

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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.

(Please note that any images left un-cited are original and belong to the creator)

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…

http://i26.tinypic.com/2wns0n8.jpg

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

Helpful LinksLow-cost flights:

www.ryanair.com www.easyjet.comwww.hotwire.com

General Inquiry:www.studenttravel.about.com

www.travelcuts.com

Hostel Information: www.hostelworld.com

www.hostelbookers.com

Abbey Court Hostel in Dublin, Ireland