Tips for Backpacking Through Spain

Spain is a vibrant, passionate country and there is no better way to experience all of its wonderful scenery and historic culture than creating your own backpacking tour. Backpacking is a very independent way to travel, and gives you a unique insight into the real everyday life of the country you are visiting, and setting your own agenda means that you can please yourself and are not tied to any particular city or hotel.

When you are planning a backpacking tour in Spain there are a couple of points you will need to consider before you leave:

• Language – if you are backpacking, you will need to be able to organise spontaneous transport, hotels and meals so it is advisable that you learn some basic Spanish before you leave, so that you can communicate your needs quickly and efficiently. Never assume there will be someone to translate or speak English for you, especially if you are travelling in more remote regions. You can find lots of resources to learn Spanish online, such as at Speak7.com, which has free tutorials and also some helpful cultural notes
• Culture – take time to find out more about Spain’s rich cultural landscape, as this will give you more idea of what to expect as you travel through the country, and will also give you ideas for places to visit. Research some of the local customs, as this will help you interact with people more successfully as you travel, and will help you avoid making any obvious faux pars.
• Transport – Travelling by train is relatively easy, but prices can vary depending on the journey you are making. The high-speed AVE train from Madrid to Seville is the quickest way to travel across the country, but other local services may actually be slower than the buses. The bus system is extensive in Spain and is the only way to get to some of the more remote areas if you do not have a car. It is also very reasonable and much cheaper than trains, and services are usually very reliable. If you do want to rent a car for part of your trip then there are plenty of places to do this throughout the country, but remember that many European hire car companies will only accept bookings via credit card and not cash, even if you book in person.
• Luggage – as the term backpacking suggests you will be carrying your own luggage around for most of the time, so it is important to pack only essential items, and also safeguard your gear at all times. Try and limit yourself to just two pairs of shoes, one pair for walking and a smart pair of sandals you can wear for going out and also on the beach. You may be sleeping in some less than first class hotels and hostels, so make sure you have a good warm blanket or large shawl, which is also handy for when you are travelling overnight on trains and buses. Also make sure you have a small first aid kit, torch, sunglasses, hat, good rainproof coat and a small range of clothes to meet all potential changes in climate.

Happy Journey Spain