Blog Post #8

Being a Part of the Backpacking World

I've been researching the backpacking travel community since the beginning of this semester. I have come to realize that belonging to this community is based on more than simply traveling with a backpack. It is actually about the way one communicates with others within the community and the way one lives their life when they're away from home. The backpacking travel community uses words like "authentic" travel and "slow travel," however these terms also set up barriers between those who are considered part of the community and those who are not. Those who live the rhythm of life in hostels, who pack lightly and appreciate the local culture are seen as members of the community. Those who prefer to go on guided tours and stay in hotels are usually excluded from the community. An interesting part of a backpacker's identity is how it is shown through small things like language, routine and online behavior. Backpackers communicate with each other online. They communicate with each other with the Hostelworld website, Facebook groups and Reddit groups.  As well as spreading knowledge, the backpacker community creates a feeling of belonging among its members. The authors of the article Understanding the Role of Social Media in Backpacker Tourism state that  “Social interactions among all travelers are being restyled by new communication practices such as social media and mostly accomplished through Internet and mobile phone.” This is similar to what I have observed on Hostelworld where travelers give reviews not only of where they stayed, but also of the overall vibe and whether or not the staff were friendly. This indicates that being part of the backpacking community is about communicating online. Another article, The Unmistakable Signs You’re a True Backpacker, lists off things that make someone a backpacker. This article states “   A true backpacker doesn’t just pass through destinations; they immerse themselves in the local culture and connect with people on a meaningful level.” This corresponds with what I've learned in my writing so far this semester ,that backpacking is not about collecting stamps in one's passport, but about how one approaches travel and the people one meets during travel. It's also clear that there are limits to which people experience the backpacking community equally. In my previous writings, I said that backpacking, although it may appear to be affordable and accessible to all, still requires a level of privilege. For example, not every individual has the financial means to travel for weeks or months. Additionally, individuals who speak languages other than English and do not regularly utilize travel websites may feel less connected to the backpacking community. The fact that the backpacking community's unwritten rules, freedom, authenticity, and connection, require privilege and inclusion, highlights the importance of understanding how accessible this community really is. Additionally, communication is crucial to maintaining the backpacking lifestyle, yet it can also subtly determine who qualifies as a member. Understanding these aspects of the backpacking community has allowed me to view travel differently, not only as a personal journey, but as a community formed by shared language, values and invisible boundaries.

Photo from Wix

Photo from Wix