In July 2009, after months of careful planning, we set off on our very first backpacking trip: India. We chose India because it seemed like the perfect place for a beginner’s adventure — diverse, colorful, budget-friendly, and full of cultural experiences that promised to challenge and inspire us. It was a journey filled with excitement, challenges, and a lot of learning along the way. Looking back, that trip shaped the way we travel today. Here are some of the lessons we took from it:

1. Planning vs. Execution

We had a detailed itinerary mapped out, but once we hit the ground, things changed. That’s the beauty of backpacking and independent travel — flexibility. We learned to embrace changes and go with the flow when things didn’t go as planned.

2. Always Get Travel Insurance

We both got food poisoning at different points during the trip, and I had to see a doctor. Thankfully, our travel insurance covered the costs. Since then, travel insurance has become non-negotiable for every trip we take.

3. Book with Flexibility in Mind

Whenever possible, we booked refundable accommodations and transport. This gave us room to adjust our plans without losing too much money. Still, we paid a few nominal change fees for a flight and train ticket — small reminders that flexibility often comes at a cost, but it’s worth it.

4. Expect the Unexpected

Traveling in monsoon season meant curveballs. In Mumbai, heavy floods nearly made us miss our flight as the main road to the airport was closed. In Hampi, rising river water stranded us on the wrong side of the bank until the boat operator finally deemed it safe to cross. Both times, we barely made our connections. It taught us to factor in buffer time — and to never assume things will run smoothly.

5. Mix It Up

We stayed in a mix of basic guesthouses and more comfortable accommodations. This not only stretched our budget but also gave us a balance between adventure and rest. Sometimes you just need a little comfort to recharge.

6. Money Matters

Back in 2009, we were still carrying traveler’s cheques and bundles of cash. It feels so outdated now, considering how much travel finance has evolved. I’ll dive into how we handle money on the road today in another post.

7. Slow Down

One of the highlights of the trip was attending a friend’s relative’s wedding — an experience we would’ve missed had we rushed from one sight to another. India is full of historical and religious landmarks, but it’s okay not to see them all. Sometimes slowing down makes the journey richer.

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That first backpacking trip was far from perfect, but it was exactly what we needed. The lessons we learned in India have shaped how we continue to travel today: with flexibility, preparation, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.

If you’re planning your first backpacking adventure, I hope some of these takeaways help you along the way.

Have you had a similar “first trip” experience that changed how you travel? Share your story in the comments below — I’d love to hear it!

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Disclaimer: The experiences and tips shared in this post are based on my personal travel journey. They are not professional advice, and circumstances may vary for each traveler. Always do your own research and check official sources before making travel decisions.