1. PICK A DESTINATION - Check! 
2. BOOK YOUR TRIP - Check! 
3. PACK YOUR BAGS - Check! 

WHAT ARE YOU FORGETTING?

TRAVEL INSURANCE
This will be the most important thing you do. If you insure your car, house and contents then why wouldn’t you insure yourself? Travel Insurance covers anything from medical expenses to lost, stolen or broken property. Don’t be caught out of pocket thousands of dollars when something goes wrong. For as little as $1.50 a day Travel Insurance is a must! Be sure to shop around when selecting your insurer. Flight agencies tend to be overpriced compared to your local bank or health insurer. For the last 8 months I have be insured with Southern Cross Travel Insurance for less then an average return flight from Brisbane - Adelaide. 

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
You never know what can go wrong when you are travelling! It is always smart to make several copies of your travel documents. I would suggest 3. One hard copy on yourself at all times, an electronic copy and a copy back home left with a family member or friend. That way if you need an emergency passport issued or to claim on your travel insurance while abroad you can do so quickly and efficiently.

PASSPORT & VISAS
Firstly ensure you have a minimum of 6 months validity remaining on your passport prior to booking an international getaway. For many countries this is a basic requirement for entry. The second important task you need to do is check whether you require a VISA prior to travelling. Being Australian I can travel almost everywhere without a visa or I can obtain one on arrival. Brazil for example however you need to apply online prior to visiting. This simple mistake cost me thousands in lost airfares and no Rio De Janeiro for me this time round!

VACCINATIONS
You’ve gone to the trouble of protecting yourself with Travel Insurance. Don’t forget to protect your body! Vaccinations can be extremely expensive but several countries can and will deny you access if you aren’t up to date with your vaccinations. Not to mention the potentially fatal diseases you can catch if you travel immunisation free. Thankfully most vaccinations offer lifetime immunity meaning it is a once off expense. If you have private health insurance be sure to speak with your provider to discuss any available rebates. For me it was $1,000 and over 13 shots later before I was ready for my around the world trip. I am terrified of needles but it was worth every second of short term pain for the long term gain! I use Travel Doctor in both Adelaide and Brisbane City and couldn’t fault them. 

REGISTER YOUR TRAVEL
With so many events happening around the world it is vital your government knows where you are. Whether it be a natural disaster or a terrorist attack your government can not help you if they don’t know where you are. For Australian’s I would high recommend registering online with Smart Traveller.

TRAVEL SIM
There is nothing worse then international roaming charges! On my first trip abroad I received a bill from Telstra in excess of $6,000 for a 3 week trip to Canada. All because I failed to look into my contract fees! Save yourself the hassle and either leave your mobile at home, use it for wifi only or invest in a travel sim. When travelling through Europe, London is my suggested city to purchase your sim. Recharge from as little as 15 pound to get you started and enjoy data usage throughout most EU countries.

MONEY
It is always a good idea to have between $100-200 converted currency on you prior to your arrival. Ensure you covert your currency PRIOR to arriving at your departure airport. Airport retailers offer poor currency conversions and charge excessive commission fees. Throughout your trip I would suggest avoid carrying large amounts of cash due to the likelihood of it being stolen. Travel cards are a great alternative and several companies offer low withdrawal fees and no loading fees. I personally prefer to use my Suncorp everyday account card. For a small 3% currency conversion fee and $5 ATM withdrawal fee it is quick, easy and convenient. All without the hassle of having to transfer money for a 3rd party provider.

BANKING
4-6 weeks prior to your international departure be sure to alert your bank that you are travelling abroad. I’ve lost count of how many cards I’ve had blocked due to forgetting this simple step.

SPREAD THE WORD
If you are heading away for an extended period of time be sure to redirect your mail, turn on your out of office via your email provider and change your mobile voicemail message.

If you have any additional tips to help fellow travellers plan for their trip I would love to hear from you!

Below is a simple broken down guide of what is required for a 1-6 month backpacking trip. This guide can vary depending on your personal preference. However don’t forget that every additional item you add you have to carry! Remember items can be purchased throughout your trip if you discover you just can’t live without something.

CLOTHING
x3 Tops
x1 Shorts
x1 Jeans
x7 Underwear
x2 Bras
x1 Pyjamas
x1 Bathers
x1 Waterproof Rain Jacket

WINTER
x3 Long shirts
x2 Singlets - Use for layering clothes
x1 Jeans
x1 Jacket
x1 Scarf
x1 Beanie
x1 Gloves
x7 Underwear
x2 Bras
x1 Pyjamas
x1 Waterproof Rain Jacket

FOOTWEAR
x1 Boots, Converse or Sport Shoe
x1 Sandels or Flip Flops

TOILETRIES
x1 Shampoo & Conditioner
x1 Toothbrush & Toothpaste
x1 Body Lotion/Soap
x1 Razor
x1 Micro-fibre Towel
x1 Sanitary products for girls
x1 Sunscreen
x1 Insect Repellent - A MUST have in Africa! I’d suggest opting for a lotion opposed to a spray
x5 Pack of Tissues - Essential when travelling to several parts of Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe

EXTRAS
x1 Lock - Useable for both your bag when flying and hostel dorm room lockers.
x1 Universal adapter
x1 Prescription Medication as required
x1 First Aid Kit
x1 Camera - Charger, rechargeable batteries if required and a back up SD card
x1 Hard copy of your passport, travel insurance, flight itineraries and emergency contact details 

OPTIONAL GEAR
x1 Compact sleeping bag - TIP: Use a carabiner to clip your sleeping bag on the outside of your pack
x1 Water Bottle & Filter - Cut down costs on bottled water throughout Europe
x1 Neck Pillow
x1 Head Torch - If you are staying in dorm rooms or camping
x1 Deck of Cards
x1 Laptop & Charger
x1 Mobile & Charger
x1 Kindle
x1 Power Board
x1 Notebook & Pen

EQUIPMENT
x1 Backpack
x4 Backpack Dividers - A fantastic way to sort out your belongings
x1 Day Pack

No matter where in the world I go I always make it a priority to learn the the basic phrases of a new language. I do this not only to communicate more effectively  while travelling but also as a sign of respect to those I am communicating with.

I have currently been living in Botswana, Africa for the last 4 months and have made it my personal mission to be fluent in Afrikaans in the next 3 months.

Read below to find out how I aim to achieve this!

LEARN THE ALPHABET
Every language has different sounds when pronouncing letters. For example Afrikaans requires a lot of tongue movements to roll letters. The key to speaking a new language fluently to the point that you are clearly understood is to get the main words down pat. Once you achieve this you can then begin to expand with words.

GOOGLE TRANSLATE
Google Translate is perhaps one of the best tools available for self teaching a new language. Save costs on overpriced language classes and books by using the free online program. The great feature of Google Translate is it not only does it translate most words you are wanting to learn, it plays them out loud for your reference to learn how to correctly pronounce them. 

PRACTISE OUT LOUD DAILY
Whether it is when you are in the shower or driving, practicing out loud is essential to mastering a new language. The more familiar you are with speaking a new language the higher your confidence will be communicating with others. You didn’t go through all of your hard work not to use your new skills! 

INCORPORATE IT INTO YOUR DAILY LANGUAGE
The key to maintaing the knowledge of the new words or phrases I've have learnt for me is to replace existing words in my vocabulary with my new language. For example; ‘Look at that ‘tree’ now becomes 'Look at that boom' in Afrikaans. That way I get used to the new words I've learn and begin to incorporate them into my daily routine. This makes for an easier transition and increases practise opportunities!

PRACTISE ON PEOPLE WHO SPEAK THE LANGUAGE FLUENTLY
Everyone struggles when learning a new language so don’t be scared to test out your new skills on locals. They will most likely respect you more for attempting to communicate with them in their primary language. It is also a great way to learn by hearing foreigns communicate regularly in their native language so you can get to know the sounds correctly. 

WRITE IT DOWN HOW IT IS PRONOUNCED 
For me this has been my biggest key to success. Everyone is different though with a kinaesthetic learning style reading and the act of doing are essential for me. For example if I am learning how to say ‘How are you’ in Afrikaans I would write it how it sounds; hoot harn debt. This makes it easier to practise new phrases I have learnt and allows me to refer back to my own guide book when practising alone. It may make for writing the language more difficult later on down the track. For the mean time it is a great way to become fluent in a new language quickly and efficiently!

If you have any tips on what works for you when learning a new language I would love to hear from you!

DISCOVER A NEW SENSE OF INDEPENDENCE
I have always been strong willed, stubborn and independent. Many of those factors are what made travelling solo the perfect choice for me. There is a difference though in being independent in a comfort zone you have built at home opposed to wandering the world alone. This is when you will truly learn to sink or swim. Travelling solo will make you stand on your own two feet. When you are abroad you don’t have a security blanket of loving family and friends to bail you out when things get hard. If you get lost, take a train in the wrong direction, loose your bank card or get robbed YOU need to fix it. It is the most testing times in life when you learn who you truly are and realise that sometimes all you really need is you!

EXPAND YOUR FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE
To travel solo is a decision. To discover the world alone is a choice. Everywhere you look there are people and opportunities to form new friendships. The great news is you aren’t the only person brave enough to travel solo! Some of my best memories I have made throughout my travels are with friends I have made along the way. Everyone you meet while travelling is on the same journey as you... To see the world. The likelihood that you’ve both discovered the same destination is high but there is also a high chance they have discovered somewhere incredibly different that will inspire your next trip. While travelling I wouldn’t have found the world’s best custard tart in Portugal or marvelled at Barcelona’s beauty if it wasn’t for people I’d met along the way. I am a true believer that every person in life you meet will change you in one way or another. Embrace it!

EXPLORE THE WORLD ON YOUR TERMS
The most amazing thing about people is our vast differences. The people you choose to surround yourself with are people who you share common interests with. The reason you are who you are though is because you are different. Don’t give up your dreams or settle because someone shares a different vision to you. The best thing about solo travel is the ability to write your own travel plan. Do you want to see the Pyramids of Giza? Do you want to go on an African safari? Then go! The beauty of travelling solo is that there is no one to holding you back! You don’t have to compromise on destinations. You don’t have to experience things to make someone else happy. Spend the precious time you have achieving what you want to achieve on YOUR trip!

SOMETIMES ALL YOU NEED IS YOU
People always say you can’t love someone until you learn to love yourself. This couldn’t be more true. Travelling solo you have endless opportunities to discover yourself, grow as a person and learn to love your own company. Whether you need some time to find yourself, heal from a broken relationship or become a better version of you, all these things are best achieved on your own. The added bonus is you get to see the world while doing it!

YOU WILL NEVER BE THE SAME WHEN YOU RETURN HOME
Every experience in life changes you. Travelling the world speeds up the process. For me travelling solo opened my eyes to the beauty in the world and also the poverty that makes me thankful to be Australian. I found love in the form of friendships, the African sunset and snowflakes falling in Norway. I have not only rediscovered myself alone but I have grown into the best possible version of me. Travelling adds emotional and intellectual years to your age. You get the opportunity to experience history first hand you learnt in school as a child. You get to meet people from all walks of life who will share their experiences with you. Finally you get an opportunity to invest in yourself to discover your passions, desires and goals in life. After all of these incredible opportunities how could you ever return home the same?

With the Australian Dollar at a 6 year low there has never been a better time to head to Thailand. Thankfully 1 Australian Dollar will see you converting to an estimated 25 Thai Baht. For an affordable, adventure filled, cultural getaway look no further then Phuket! 

DAY 1 - CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
For your first day in Phuket, if you can drag yourself away from your hotel swim up bar, I would recommend joining a half day town tour. It is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture, brush up on some history and spot the town’s iconic attractions such as the ‘Big Buddha’. Book yourself an afternoon cooking class to learn some of the secrets to cooking world famous Thai cuisine! For dinner check out Phuket Simon Cabaret to experience the world famous ladyboys show. Can you spot the difference?

DAY 2 - FUN IN THE SUN
A trip to Phuket wouldn’t be complete without a tour of Phi Phi Islands. Who could resist white sandy beaches, picture perfect views and a chance to soak up the rays where the 2000 famous movie ‘The Beach’ was filmed? Make sure you pack your underwater camera for snorkelling in the islands pristine waters. Colourful coral and fish are stunning here! These tours generally arrive back in Phuket fairly late so I would suggest spending your evening treating yourself to local cuisine and strolling the night markets putting your bartering skills to the test. For something special pick up a sky lantern and head down to Karon Beach under the light of the moon. Whether you are ready to let go of something that is holding you back or wanting to make a wish for the future, releasing a lantern is a beautiful symbolic way to finish your evening.

DAY 3 - ADVENTURE
On my trip to Phuket I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to trek through Phuket’s jungle on the back of an elephant. To get the most for your money several stalls vendors offer combo packages such as quad biking and monkey shows. All of which are throughly enjoyable! If you have some time to kill in the afternoon head down to the Phuket Shooting Range for target practise. If guns aren’t your thing pop next door to Phuket Go Karts for a few laps. For dinner families or couples can’t resist Phuket FantaSea Theme Park. A great cultural night out which includes a buffet dinner, Elephant show, cultural attractions and more. Book your tickets in advance as they often sell out fast!

Please note my recommended itinerary only allows for 3 days in Phuket. If you are lucky enough to have more time available I would recommend enjoying cocktails on the beach in Karon, wandering through the street markets for unique souvenirs, kayaking around the islands or treating yourself to a traditional Thai massage.

MY TOP TIPS FOR PHUKET
1. When bartering always start at at least half of the asking price. Remember street vendors won’t settle on a price with you if they aren't making a profit!
2. Get out of your hotel for dinner! Some of the best Thai cuisines I’ve tasted have been in side streets amongst the night markets.
3. Book your activities locally. When booking in Australia flight agencies tend to charge upwards of 3 times the amount you can bater a tour for when in Thailand. Just be sure to book through an actual shop that can’t disappear overnight!

When a close friend asked me to join a girls trip to Honolulu for a week I jumped at the chance! With some of the world’s best waves, postcard perfect beaches and tropical climates all year round who wouldn’t?!

Let’s start with Waikiki Beach which was one place I couldn’t drag myself away from. Whether I was sipping coconut cocktails at Tiki Bar and Grill (my personal favourite) over looking the pristine waters or working on my tan under the scorching sun I just couldn’t get enough!  For thrill seekers there is an abundance of water activities available from surfing lessons to kayaking off the main beach. 

If you’re like me who always seems to forget sunblock, drag yourself away from the beach to explore the island. Start your morning with a hike to Diamond Head for stunning views. Head to the Pearl Harbour Museum to visit the USS Arizona Memorial or visit Waikiki Gun Club for a first class shooting experience.

For an authentic experience you can’t miss the Big Chief’s Luau which ranks #1 on Trip Advisor. Learn all about the rich history of the Hawaiian Islands and witness incredible Polynesian dancing. All while enjoying a buffet dinner as the sun sets over the North Shore. This was the perfect way to end my 7 night stay in Honolulu! 

Next is shopping! It was a girls trip after all. Waikele Premium Outlets offers over 50 outlet stores with savings starting from 25%. Shop Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein just to name a few. You really are spoilt for choice!

Lastly, a girls trip wouldn’t be complete without more cocktails! Besides from Tiki Bar and Grill which was conveniently located at my hotel, Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel, Duke’s Waikiki is another excellent choice! For a romantic night out view the daily light show available at Sheraton Waikiki overlooking the infinity pool. If you are a beer lover like me you can’t pass up a schooner at The Yard House. They have a large collection of local and imported beers with over 130 on tap! If you are looking to party until the sun comes out check out LuLu’s on a Tuesday night! Most hospitality staff are out and about so there are great drink specials to be found.

With Hawaiian Airlines flying direct from Australia daily what are you waiting for?

As a child story time wouldn’t be complete without my parents reading me the Lion King. It is no wonder that my around the world trip would eventually find me in the heart of Kruger National Park in South Africa.

There are moments in your life that truly take your breath away and for me game driving through Kruger National Park did just that.

After an early start my safari group organised by Acacia Africa headed to the gates of this incredible park. The park has welcomed it’s gates to tour companies for over 80 years making one of Africa’s largest National Parks the perfect opportunity to spot the 'BIG 5'!

As the sun rose over the grasslands I marvelled at the beauty of a herd of African Elephants, watched three 2.5 month old leopard cubs play for what seemed like hours and gazed at a White Rhino lazing by the road cooling down in a puddle. There is truly nothing more beautiful then seeing animals in their natural environment. 

After spotting 3 of the 'BIG 5' I was aching to spot the final 2. I was in luck because after lunch I did just that! My tour operator received a tip that a pack of wild dogs were in the area. This is an extremely rare experience as Kruger estimates there are only 200 of these beautiful dogs remaining in the 19,500 sq park. Not only did I see a pack of up to 8 of these beautiful dogs but I got the privilege of seeing the leopard cubs mother attempt to hunt one of the dogs down. It was like I was sitting at home watching the Discovery Channel except it was all unravelling before my eyes. The Leopard was unsuccessful as she failed to spot the rest of the wild dogs pack and was quickly out numbered. How quick the tables can turn. Luckily for the leopard cubs mum made a great escape!

Next up was spotting a herd of over 20 buffalo laying in a riverbank. The Cape Buffalo are arguably the most dangerous of the 'BIG 5' and it was incredible to see such a large herd. My Safari day wouldn’t be complete without heading further north into Kruger where I spotted 2 male lions escaping the African sun under a large tree. These magnificent mammals are incredibly fascinating to watch. 

The afternoon was spend appreciating some of the other 147 mammals who call this National Park home; Zebras, Giraffes and Impalas. Unfortunately a Cheetah that was spotted earlier in the afternoon was long gone by the time my truck arrived. However spotting all of the 'BIG 5' and 6 of the 'Magnificent 7' I can wholeheartedly say my safari in South Africa was one of the best days of my life!

For more South Africa destinations you can't go past Cape Town!

Africa is the world’s 2nd largest continent comprised of 54 countries. War, disease and poverty has given Africa a bad wrap over the years so I am here to set you straight.

Read below to discover the truth behind common misconceptions made about Africa! 

1. AFRICA IS CHEAP
Sadly Africa is a lot more expensive then you think! On average a flight from Botswana to South Africa is the same price as flying from Brisbane to Perth. Sure if you are visiting Botswana the exchange rate is in your favour with 1 Australian Dollar buying 7 Pula. All it means though is a tub of ice cream costs 40 Pula opposed to $5 back home.The same can be said for fuel which costs about 500 Pula for a full tank. Plus for many travellers you have the added cost of having to buy bottled water throughout most of the continent. To cut down costs while travelling in Africa join an overland tour or free camp in the bush. Both offer a unique travelling experience while avoiding spending thousands of dollars travelling solo.

2. AFRICA IS TOO DANGEROUS FOR TRAVEL
This has to be one of the biggest misconceptions of Africa. As of late this misconception can be associated with the Ebola out break in early February last year. The world went into panic. Claiming over 10,000 lives to date it is easy to understand why. However Ebola is predominately contained to the North West regions of Africa making travel to the rest of the continent fairly safe. Whether it be disease, political unrest or natural disaster as recently experienced by Vanuatu, there are risks involved with travelling to any part of the world. I wouldn’t suggest travelling to areas such as Southern Sudan due to the extreme unrest but with the majestic Victoria Falls in Zambia/Zimbabwe, the Okavango Delta in Botswana and the Great Serengeti Migration to be seen in Tanzania why wouldn’t you explore Africa?

3. I WILL LOOSE WEIGHT TRAVELLING TO AFRICA
I must admit when I was leaving Europe headed to Africa in December I had high hopes of shedding a few travel kilos I had gained eating my way through Italy. How wrong I was! No one produces meat better then Africa. In fact weekend Braai’s are a local tradition cooking anything from Ox Tail (locally known as Potjie) to finely cut rump steak. As for fast-food? Wimpy’s and Nando's are both popular chains in Southern Africa. KFC has also made an appearance in Maun, Botswana earlier this year. Supermarket shopping can often become a scavenger hunt with limited stock. However, most foods can be sourced if you are happy to spend an afternoon visiting several outlets. As for chocolate? Be rest assured Kit-Kats and Cadbury bars can be found throughout Africa. It doesn’t quite taste the same as other continents though. For Australian’s travelling in South Africa be sure to pick up Vegemite and Tim Tams as these aren't as easily sourced the further north you travel.

4. EVERYONE IN AFRICA LIVES IN HUTS
Sure there are thousands of tribes that live remotely throughout Africa but many live just like you and me! Infrastructure is growing rapidly! For the last 4 months I’ve been living in Botswana I have happily enjoyed the basics of the western world; Hot showers, electricity, wifi internet and subscription television. All in an actual house! Head to larger cities such as Cape Town and Francistown where shopping malls are in abundance. For more rural areas or villages in Africa walk through town to pick up handmade bracelets, artwork and sculptures. 

5. YOU WILL SPOT WILD ANIMALS EVERYWHERE IN AFRICA
This is an common misconception made by foreigners as Africa is home to the famous ‘BIG 5’. Let me put it in perspective for you. Australia is home to native kangaroos but do you see us riding them down the streets of Melbourne? No. The same can be said for Africa. Though donkeys is a convenient method of travel! Africa is home to over 1100 mammals who for the most part roam freely in National Parks. In Southern Africa head to Kruger National Park in South Africa, The Okavango Delta and The Chobe River in Botswana and Etosha National Park in Namibia for your best chance at spotting these incredible mammals up close. For me calling Maun, Botswana home (gateway to the Okavango Delta) I’m content waking up to monkeys playing in my backyard and watching the occasional Elephant cross the main tar roads when heading to Nata, Botswana for a weekend away.

When I left Australia for a 6 month around the world backpacking trip I thought I had all the answers to packing. How wrong I was! 

Tip's to fellow readers and myself for future reference!

YOU CAN NEVER PACK ENOUGH UNDERWEAR
No matter how many hostels offer laundry it is always the last thing on your mind when you are travelling the world. Trust me! I will happily admit one of my few splurges while travelling was new underwear ‘just incase’. 

LEAVE THE MAKE UP, HAIR STRAIGHTENER AND HAIR DRYER AT HOME LADIES
Really, I’m not kidding! Don’t worry. I surprise myself saying this too. Before I left Australia I couldn’t contemplate leaving the house without make up on. Now I don’t remember the last time I actually used it. You are in amazing countries experiencing amazing things! The last thing you need to do is waste time looking amazing for people you've never met when you could be out exploring. If you simply can’t bear the thought of leaving all your makeup at home I would suggest opting for a tinted moisturiser and lip gloss. I will admit I used my hairdryer a few times during my time in Europe when it was below 5 degrees simply so I didn’t freeze. However most of my trip was spent in tropical warmer climates, such as Africa, so the sun dried my long hair just fine! Oh how I could have used the space in my backpack for much more necessary items! As for my hair straightener? I don’t recall using it once!

HOW MANY PAIRS OF SHOES DOES ONE PERSON NEED?
Firstly, the answer is lower then you think! I thought 5 was an exceptable answer. I rationalised a pair of thongs for the shower, nikes and converse for daily use, a pair of heels for formal occasions and boots to dress up in winter. My heels I used once when visiting the Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco. My Nikes are still brand new and too painful to wear even if I wanted to. As for my boots? They fell apart from overuse. My next trip I’ll happily invest in a decent pair of sandals for day use during summer and a pair of converse or boots for winter. Less is more!

THINK PRACTICALLY 
A head torch goes a long way in hostel dorm rooms! You don’t want to be that person turning on the room lights at all hours of the night because you can’t find something. How about a power board? Yes it will take up space in your backpack but if like me you have a phone, laptop, camera and iPod to charge it could take you days in a hostel dorm room to get everything charged! Plus it’s a great way to make friends easily by sharing! I’d ditch my heels any day for one of these! Next is the all important medication. Why I didn’t think I would need nurofen once during my 8 month trip is beyond me. There is nothing worse then being stuck in an Egyptian pharmacy with everything written in Arabic when you are feeling awful, trust me! Lastly, a raincoat. Would you believe I wasn't lucky enough to escape 8 months without rain? You live and you learn!

INVESTING IN A DECENT CAMERA IS WORTH THE SMALL FORTUNE
I travelled the world reliant on my Samsung Galary and outdated $200 Nikon. Firstly my Samsung phone was stolen in Amsterdam. Secondly my Nikon was fine for basic photos BUT the photos I could have taken on Safari in Africa would have been breathtaking if only I had a camera that zoomed! Right now I am saving for a Canon 600D. This is my biggest tip of all. After investing all of your money into an amazing trip and if you are on a tight budget like me where souvenirs are only for looking at, the least you want is decent photos to remember your adventures by!

LEAVE 1/3 OF YOUR BACKPACK FREE
You are travelling the world and chances are there will be certain purchases you can’t resist making. For me it was stocking up on postcards that surprisingly take up a lot more room then you’d think. Sure you can mail things home but when it costs 2 nights accommodation in a hostel to mail a 1kg parcel to Australia it’s definitely cheaper not to!

PACK FOR THE WEATHER YOU ARE TRAVELLING IN
It sounds pretty simple but it is something I didn’t really appreciate until it was too late. Europe in winter is cold. Really cold! A pair of jeans just didn’t cut it for me. I ended up wearing 1-2 pairs of tights underneath as I CAN'T handle the cold. A warm scarf goes a long way. How I wish I opted for my warm thick scarf instead of my newly purchased ‘pretty’ Forever New scarf that wouldn’t be any warmer then a napkin. Beanies! One thing I am thankful I packed. I invested in a pair of gloves along the way. I do wish I had purchased them prior to my trip however as I could have afforded a higher quality pair. Another thing I am grateful for is the singlets my mum insisted I pack. Thanks mum! Not only do they provide extra layers in winter and are light to carry but they can be worn in the day during summer or double as a PJ top.

ACTIVITIES
Whether you love music, reading or word searches make sure to pack something to keep you entertained during long haul flights, lay overs, trains, buses or nights when you are jet lagged. I am a huge reader. Thank you hostels with book exchanges! However I could have avoided lugging countless books around the world if I had of invested in a kindle or downloaded an application on my laptop. I am also hooked on word searches. It takes me about 20 minutes to finish one so for the 1 pound I paid to purchase a book in Scotland, it was well spent as it has kept me occupied for months. It could be as simple as investing in a pack of cards. My best friend and I played cards for hours onboard trains throughout Europe and even made a great friend in Barcelona by whipping them out at the hostel.

If you have any packing tips, tricks or regrets I would love to here them!

ISTANBUL - TURKEY
After seeing the movie Taken 2, which is based in this incredible city, I quickly added Istanbul to my must see city list. After a painful overnight coach from Greece, 50 euro spent on a visa and against all my family’s pleas to avoid this country I found myself anything but disappointed! Istanbul offers an authentic cultural experience like no other. Take a stroll through the chaotic Grand Bazaar markets which is full of vibrant colours and amazing photo opportunities. Sip traditional Turkish tea while marvelling at the Blue Mosque or explore the local spice markets. At night wander the streets down alleyways and backstreets to find yourself outstanding doner kebabs for next to nothing while exploring street stalls selling handmade scarfs, purses and fabrics. My only regret about this city is that I couldn’t stay longer!

LISBON - PORTUGAL
Spending 6 weeks covering the generic Europe spots I found myself craving something a little different. A cheap flight with EasyJet found me in this charming city in under 3 hours. There is something special about this city that I can’t quite put my finger on. Besides from the obvious charms there is a relaxed atmosphere that makes you question if you are in fact in a capital city. To start your trip take a tram ride around the city centre to take in the sights. The houses here are incredible. All are tiled different colours and patterns making each street uniquely individual. Head to Rossio Square which reminds me a little of St Mark’s Square in Venice, Italy. Discover exquisite statues and an opportunity to feel the sand between your toes down at the waterfront. During your stay be sure to keep an eye out for Lisbon’s creative street art and and talented buskers. Lastly don’t forget to stop into Case Pasteis De Belem which has been serving the world’s best custard tarts since 1837. The long lines are well worth the wait.. trust me! 

BUDAPEST - HUNGARY
Budapest has to be on par with Istanbul as my favourite European city. Not only is this one of Europe's most affordable cities, it is faster paced with an abundance of things to experience. Spend a day relaxing in one of the many thermal baths avaliable. I would highly recommend the Szechenyi Baths which are over 100 years old. Pay your respects while touching up on your communist and nazi history at the House of Terror. If you’re travelling to Budapest in winter don’t miss iceskating in the city park! Skating under the stars in front of the Vajdahunyad Castle, Europe’s largest outdoor ice-skating rink, has to be one of my most memorable european experiences. If you enjoy having a few drinks don’t pass up an opportunity to sample one of Europe’s best nightlife cities. With hookah bars on several street corners and underground ruins bars you are spoilt for choice!

BELGRADE - SERBIA
It was by pure convenience I found myself submerged in the heart of Belgrade. Onroute from Spain heading to Greece my best friend and I boarded the EuroRail with days of travel ahead of us. After 2 days we were both more then ready for a hot shower and an actual bed. While I can’t imagine calling this city beautiful in the generic sense, it is definitely a cultural eye opener. The best way to explore Belgrade is on foot. Check out the stunning St Sava Orthodox Temple whose bells can be heard hourly from streets away. Take a stroll down Knez Mihailova Street which is centre point to the city and offers a unique cultural shopping experience from cafes to designer label outlets. To experience something different head to the less appealing areas such as Deponija which I can only imagine is quite similar to Brazil’s Favela. Overall Belgrade offers an all round unique experience and is the reason I have vowed to myself to take advantage of all future layover destinations where possible.

HAMBURG - GERMANY
With Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt all front of mind when it comes to Germany it is no wonder I had never heard of Hamburg before stumbling upon it. One word... Beautiful! Sure it was -4 degrees and snowflakes were beginning to fall but what better way to experience winter in Europe? No one does Christmas better then Germany. The further north through Europe I travelled the more the Christmas atmosphere grew. Hamburg was no exception. The streets were littered with stunning decorations, fairy lights and trees. I was dreading being away from home for my first Christmas ever however Hamburg eased the burden. It was only December 2nd when I visited so just the beginning of the festive season. However I was spoilt with Hamburg’s Christmas markets! You can pick up exquisite hand made ball balls and sample an array of mouth watering chocolate. I couldn’t recommend this city more highly during Winter. My only regret is I haven’t experienced it in summer!