Advice for backpackers

Once again, the foreign office is the best place to look for travelling advice. Here is their advice for backpackers:

get a good guidebook and plan your journey
ask friends who have travelled for advice
you’ll be most vulnerable when you first arrive, so book accommodation in advance for your first night away
if you go out at night, make sure you know how to get back to your accommodation - many hotels and hostels can give you cards that show you how to get back
obey and respect the local laws - we can’t get you out of prison if you’re arrested abroad
respect local customs and dress codes – you may cause offence and stand out as a tourist (and target) for thieves
only change money in banks or legal foreign exchange bureaus – you don’t want to be given fake currency
keep a receipt of all money exchanges
be very cautious about hitchhiking, especially at night - always travel in pairs and be aware that drivers may expect payment
take a first aid kit, especially if you are travelling to remote areas
send important information to your web-based email account for easy access

be aware of local attitudes to alcohol and drink sensibly
remember your insurance policy is unlikely to cover you for drunken accidents!
don’t ever try to drink alcohol or import it into a country where laws don’t allow it - you could face severe penalties
don’t get involved with illegal drugs abroad - the penalties may be severe and your insurance will not cover you for illness
never carry packages through customs for other people, even if you have befriended them during your trip
don’t travel across borders in other people’s vehicles or lend your vehicle to someone else
always pack your own baggage and never leave it unattended

make sure you’ve got the correct work permits if you’re planning to work whilst travelling - you could face severe penalties or deportation if you work illegally
don’t overstay your visa - it could lead to a fine or prison. You can extend your visa in most places.