2TecTom's Journal: Buy used, get the right pack, use hostel's

Buy used, get the right pack, use IYH hostels

When travelling, I've found it best to make extensive use of the IYH network. ( International Youth Hostels ~ www.iyhf.org ) They often have some type of Internet access and often they have the most identifiable, practical and reasonable accomadations. The fellow travellers that you'll meet at the communal kitchens are a wealth of info.

Get a good travel pack, one that is both an internal frame pack and a suitcase with wheels. Pack light, get a money belt. Never display american money on the street if possible. Beware of black market money changers. If you buy soveniers, ship them home from the country of origin. It's best to check your passport into the embassy in some countries.

As for photos, don't buy a brand new spiff camera or other flashy equipment. It's far, far better not to display any signs of affluence. You'll encounter far less problems if you dress locally (trade at used clothing stores) and blend in. You're need a good universal current adapter kit and consider web email account as the most reliable way to get the pictures home. Internet cafes abound and there's always someone who has a fairly new pc or laptop somewhere. Also try searching thru or posting to the relevant newsgroups, many travellers and professional photographers have discussed these concerns in great detail.

One last, somewhat controversial piece of advice, you may also want to sew a small Canadian flag to your pack. I've had less problems since I did. Of course, as a dual citizen, I usually travel as a Canadian, and sadly, it does make a positive difference in some cultures and a few places. I see it as a reflection of the positive foreign image that is a direct result of a much different foreign policy. But now, that would be entirely off topic in this thread, so I will refrain.

Main rule: get down, get local, that's where it's at. Happy trails.