Typically, most people tend to use Happy Cow only to find something new to try in their local area. However, this app is quite powerful as it can be used to unlock an unlimited range of restaurants and cafes all over the world.

So, let’s dive into everything you need to know on how to make the best use of the app while travelling around the world.

What Is ‘Happy Cow’?

Happy Cow is an application available on iOS and Android devices. Moreover, this app is a $5.99 single-purchase resource that allows users to find vegan and vegetarian restaurants, cafes, catering and tonnes of other options nearby or in another location.

You can truly use this app to your advantage to find some of the best local eats, or get excited for your trip abroad by discovering some excellent vegan or vegetarian restaurants that you may not have found otherwise!

Download the Happy Cow app here

Pros and Cons of Happy Cow

There are a few things that you may like to keep in mind when it comes time to use the Happy Cow app while travelling.

Pros:

• Loads of filters to find what you need
• Wide range of cuisines
• Numerous categories
• Reviews and information on each location
• Pricing estimate
• Ability to use Google Maps, Apple Maps etc to find the address of the store
• Images of food
• Ability to create trips (Great for finding new places to eat, especially while travelling)

Cons:

• Requires one-off payment
• Information may not be up to date / accurate
• Relies mostly on customers to update details

All in all, you will find different ways that this app is of use to you, and you may find some things that you don’t like as much. However, this app is very well put together and is an excellent resource for finding vegan foodie spots.

How to Use Happy Cow While Travelling

Firstly, you’ll want to create an account and purchase the app before heading off on your trip. Then, I recommend familiarising yourself with the features and everything there is on offer.

Secondly, search for the destination you plan to visit and have a look at all the different places on offer. In this instance, I’m researching El Nido in the Philippines to show you an example of what you can expect.

To give you an example, there are about 17 locations offering vegetarian and vegan options in just the small town of El Nido. Then, you can have a look at each of the places and save the ones you may wish to visit.

Now it’s time to flick through some of the photos and see if the location may be of interest to you. This is an excellent way to see reviews from other patrons and hear how their experiences went.

Finally, save the place if you like the sound of it, and get excited for your time to visit!

Researching some places to eat in El Nido, Philippines

Is the App Easy to Use?

Yes! The app is very easy to use, and there are loads of different features you can make use of to ensure you discover everything you need.

Simply create an account, share your location and start searching for your next tasty veg meal. Additionally, you’ll want to keep an eye on the different coloured pins on the map and these go as follows.

Marker colour guide:
Green: Vegan
Purple: Vegetarian
Red: Vegan Options

Note: There are loads of ways that you can customise your search. Including, takeout, delivery, breakfast, cuisines, restaurant features and so much more.

How to Find the Best Spots to Eat

Personally, when it comes time to travelling with Happy Cow, I like to have a look at the town that I’m visiting and get an idea of what may be of availability to me.

I prefer to arrive at a new location prepared, so I find at least a couple of places to eat that are nearby my accommodation. Moreover, this provides me with safe options that are within walking distance of where I’m staying.

The best way to do some research is to search the place you plan to visit, have a look at the pins that come up on the map and then save those by creating a trip. On the trip, you can add a collection of pins so that you have a huge list of all the places you want to visit.

Now, once you arrive at the location, you can look into those pins and get ready to visit the ones that you have saved. Finally, this makes travelling as a vegan or vegetarian much easier as the stress is taken out of finding safe places to eat.

Finding restaurants and adding them to my Philippines trip!

Happy Cow Review

Personally, I think that the Happy Cow app is an excellent resource for those travelling around the world. It truly takes the stress out of finding somewhere safe to eat and ensures you have a few options ready to go.

It’s nice to see real reviews from other patrons so that you can make an informed decision on whether the location is safe to eat at. And, it gives you a good idea of what you can expect from the restaurant.

I will continue using Happy Cow to find places to eat throughout my travels and I think it might be good for other people to consider using it. I think it’s much more in-depth than searching for vegan spots via Google Maps, and is a much more reliable platform.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, the Happy Cow app is an excellent resource for all vegetarians and vegans, especially those that plan on going overseas or have plans to travel. You can find safe places to eat within minutes and be loaded up with tonnes of awesome options.

I think its an awesome and convenient way to travel and I think that a lot of people can benefit from this app. Therefore, be sure to get your hands on it if you plan on travelling, it might make your trip of navigating a foreign country that little bit easier!

Finally, be sure to check out the other sections of my blog to do some further reading. I offer some foodie guides for different countries so that you can find some awesome spots to get a meal. Happy reading!

Read more:
Vegetarian Food in Vietnam: How to Eat Vegetarian in Vietnam
Chiang Mai Vegan Restaurants: 7 Vegan Foodie Spots

The post How to Use Happy Cow While Travelling: Happy Cow Review appeared first on Ashlee Morgan.

Now, let it be known that I’m not here to glamorise solo travel. There are many hard times you will have to go through and many distasteful situations that you’ll be put in. However, this post is highlighting the reasons why travelling solo in your twenties is an excellent idea.

Let’s dive into fifteen of the best reasons to travel solo, I’m sure at least a few of these reasons will convince you to do so.

15 Reasons to Travel Solo in Your Twenties

1. It Might Be Your Only Chance

Firstly, we’re starting off pretty abruptly, but I’m giving you the reality of the situation. Unfortunately, your twenties might be your only chance to travel solo, or to travel in general.

Many people land themselves full-time jobs and tend to settle down to start families. Obviously, not everyone chooses this route in life, but it happens to many people.

If you have the opportunity to quit your part-time job or put your studies off for some time while you explore the world, it may do you good! Sometimes, it’s best to take the leap of faith!

2. The Sense of Achievement Is Incredible

I can’t express enough how incredible it feels to achieve travel through unknown places when you do it all by yourself. Travel can be insanely stressful, but the outcome can be so worth the effort. And, to do it all yourself is a major sense of achievement.

I also think this is a great way to discover just how capable you truly are. You never really know how much you can handle until you’re put in the circumstances.

3. There Are Loads of Safe Countries to Travel

For the most part, I’m aiming this point at solo female travellers. I know it can come off a little daunting for females to consider solo travel in their twenties. However, there are loads of safe places to explore!

And, many people are willing to help a solo female. There is so much kindness and generosity to experience and it’s a truly beautiful thing!

However, it always pays to be aware. Don’t fall into any traps and be sure to put your street-smart goggles on!

Finally, if you would like an idea of some safe countries to travel to, feel free to check out the list from this website.

4. You Will Learn a Lot About Yourself

Let’s face it, you aren’t going to ‘find’ yourself from one solo venture. However, you will learn a heck of a lot about yourself in the process. Let’s call it, character building.

From problem-solving to communication skills, you have to learn a lot in a small amount of time, even if it’s just to get yourself from point A to point B.

Nonetheless, this is all part of the fun! You will discover parts of yourself that you didn’t know existed. It’s pretty cool and a beautiful experience!

5. You’ll Never Know If You Never Go

There is never truly going to be a ‘perfect’ time to set out on a solo adventure in your twenties. So, just book the flight!

You can’t wait around for others, so do it for yourself! I know there can be a lot of ‘what ifs’ that come into the equation. But, are you really going to put off the chance for the most insane experience simply because of that?

Booking a flight takes you one step closer to the experience of a lifetime. Just do it!

6. You Will Make Loads of Friends

Hear me out on this one. You are going to make loads of friends, especially if you put yourself out there! And, not only that, but you will discover new friends for life! It’s pretty bloody special.

I cannot express the sheer multitude of beautiful friends I have gained from solo travel. I met some absolutely wonderful people, and the majority of them are other solo travellers in their twenties.

Besides, one of the cons of travelling with someone is that you don’t meet as many people. Couples or friends tend to stick together, book private rooms and do adventures together because they already have each other!

Therefore, being by yourself means you need to meet someone to experience an adventure with another person.

Read more: How to Make Friends While Traveling: Tips for Traveling solo

7. You’ll Never Regret Money Spent on Experiences

Money spent on experiences is money well spent. Forget the new handbag, the latest iPhone or a new wardrobe. Spend that money on travel experiences and you’ll be thanking me later!

Besides, no matter how much money you end up spending, you’ll be thankful for the experience in which it created.

8. You Will Become Much More Responsible and Independent

Discovering your independence and level of responsibility comes pretty quickly when travelling solo. Considering, literally everything is up to you and you have no one to rely on.

From getting to train stations on time to taking care of all of your belongings, you are quite literally responsible for everything! You soon learn to take plenty of care of your gear and become hyper-aware of travel time and how long it takes to get places.

This is a pretty cool experience as you gain skills and learn to do things more efficiently. Not to mention, you learn how to prioritise your time and put effort into the things that matter the most!

9. What Comfort Zone?

You’ll quickly discover that your comfort zone bubble is about to burst. You will constantly be put in uncomfortable situations, surrounded by people speaking another language and be the only person in a hostel that doesn’t know anyone else.

Nonetheless, this is all part of the experience and you will soon discover to take it all in your stride. This becomes a major part of growth and it can take a little while to get a handle on things, but once you do, god it feels good!

10. You Can Do Whatever You Want, Whenever You Want

Ah, one of the best parts about solo travel in your twenties is to do whatever you want, whenever you want. And, this is easily my favourite thing about travelling solo!

Don’t feel like doing some hiking? Prefer to get up for sunrise instead of partying all night? Want to read a book on the beach for the day? Well, you can do it all! There is no one who can tell you otherwise, and this is the best thing about going solo.

11. You’ll Discover So Many New Things

You’re about to set out on the journey of a lifetime, and of course, you’re going to discover so many new things! Not just about yourself, but about the world!

From hiking in the jungle to the stunning temples of Asia. There is so much to see in this incredible world and you have the opportunity to discover it all!

It’s pretty incredible to have the chance to experience this kind of thing, and I think that everyone needs to do a solo trip in their twenties at least once to gain an understanding of what it feels like!

12. It Can Be Done on a Budget

Travel can be done dirt cheap! And, there are loads of places that you can travel to on a strict budget. So, there is absolutely no reason why you can’t get overseas and start exploring a new country.

Obviously, the best way to travel cheaply is to choose cheaper countries to travel. I recommend checking out my blog post below for some of the cheapest backpacking locations!

I travelled for 6 months around South East Asia solo, and spend $14,000 AUD. Moreover, this included vaccinations, flights, accommodation, food, activities, entertainment etc. I’m more than happy to have spent that on the experience I received.

Read more: 10 Cheapest Backpacking Destinations: Tips for Travelling Broke

13. You’ll See a Different Side of Life

I think an important aspect of solo travel in your twenties is seeing another side of life. Moreover, this is your opportunity to see others doing it tough and gain a true appreciation for the life that you get to live.

There is so much more to life than what we get to experience in Westernised countries. Some people lack the bare minimum of access to clean and safe drinking water. And, this is just their everyday life.

You will also come across a lot of poverty and homelessness. This in turn makes you gain an insane sense of appreciation for a simple plate of food.

Solo travel is humbling, and an incredible way to learn more about your privilege.

14. You Will Need to Be Prepared to Be Faced with Challenges

Solo travel is all about facing challenges and problem-solving. From finding bus stops to plane terminals in a foreign language, get ready to figure it all out!

Not to mention, you will need to travel on a strict time schedule and get to and from places in an efficient matter of time. However, this is all part of the heart-racing fun that comes as part of the solo travel experience.

One of the most common challenges you will be faced with is navigating your way around new places. You’ll have to gain a sense of direction pretty quickly and will need to learn your way around.

15. Learn to Love Your Own Company

Last but not least, solo travel in your twenties will result in learning to love your own company. You will need to get comfortable with finding your own way to places, staying in hostels, navigating your way around cities and doing adventures by yourself.

In the beginning, I just wanted to be around people, but shortly, I discovered that I actually loved my own company! I felt no need to be around others all the time, and thoroughly enjoyed going on my own solo adventures around town to do some exploring.

This is just another aspect of discovering how independent you truly are, and it becomes pretty special to enjoy the company of yourself.

My Personal Solo Travel Experience

I set out on my first-ever solo international trip in May of 2022. I didn’t go with any real plan but had an idea of travelling South East Asia.

Moreover, I spent 6 months backpacking through Vietnam, Thailand, Laos and Indonesia. And, it was easily the most incredible experience of my life.

I quickly discovered independence, responsibility and problem-solving skills that I never knew I had. Besides, I had to learn a lot of things pretty quick smart to get myself out of sticky situations that raised.

In the beginning, I was really nervous! I’d never seen anything as foreign as Asia, I’d never flown on a plane by myself and I’d never been out of Australia for more than a couple of weeks. So, this journey was a pretty big step towards independence.

Solo travel has done me so much good and I know that I’ll continue to grow from future experiences. I couldn’t recommend it enough!

Things to Consider

Last but not least, there are a few things that you need to consider before jetting to the other side of the world. Firstly, one of the biggest factors you need to consider is money.

Moreover, travelling to cheap countries is a great way to start as it gives you an idea of how to live cheaply and how to get around without breaking the bank.

Secondly, you’ll need to figure out a plan for your job. Do you leave it? Can you come back to the job? Will you need to find a new job? These are all things to consider and even chat with your employer about.

Finally, relationships are another thing to consider. Moreover, do you have a partner, or family that needs to be considered? Sometimes, these people may not support your decision, but it may be worth taking this leap of a solo adventure to do something for yourself!

All in all, solo travel in your twenties can come with many hiccups. Nonetheless, when there’s a will, there’s a way!

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, I think it’s a fantastic idea to travel solo in your twenties. Besides, there is so much that you can gain from the experience that makes it entirely worth the venture.

Furthermore, these are just a handful of the things I discovered from 6 months of solo travel. You’ll discover plenty more factors along the way and I’m sure you’ll have a ball of a time!

Finally, be sure to keep these points in mind when considering a solo trip. You’ll be surprised at how much this adventure will impact your life.

Additionally, if you’d like to read more from my travel blogging section, I try to keep it updated with plenty of fresh content. Feel free to check it out and discover more travel guides and destinations on the blog! Happy reading!

Read more:
Travel Blogging for Beginners: 5 Tips to Making Money Online
Solo Female Travel in Thailand: Tips for Travelling Thailand

The post Why You Should Travel Solo in Your Twenties: 15 Reasons appeared first on Ashlee Morgan.

Not to mention, this is advice from a solo female traveller who has experienced making friends while traveling solo on a first-hand basis.

Making friends while traveling solo can be a little tricky to start off with, but once you get the ball rolling you’ll have no problem meeting heaps of new people. Besides, it’s not as scary as you think, and you’ll have it figured out in no time.

So, continue reading for all my advice on how to make friends, the benefits of traveling solo, and plenty more travel advice!

Is It Easy to Make Friends While Traveling Solo?

Surprisingly enough, yes it is. Think of it this way, every other traveler is in the same position as you, and everyone just wants to make a new friend. Especially when traveling a new country.

Sometimes, a new friendship can blossom with a simple ‘hello’. And, of course, don’t forget to be your friendliest self. Another way to make friends easily is to offer your name, this gives the chance for a new conversation to open and new friendships to make way.

Furthermore, if you see someone sitting alone, offer them to join you. You may be the difference between someone making their first travel friend and them feeling lonely.

Finally, don’t be afraid to be the first person to approach another solo traveler or a group. Everyone is in the same position of feeling a little nervous to meet others, so be that person that makes the first move! You may just come upon a new best friend!

Benefits of Traveling Solo

There are a huge range of benefits of traveling solo, and in all honesty, the biggest benefit is that you make more friends. I know it seems a little contradicting that travelling without a friend equals more friends, but its a proven fact!

For the most part, people that travel with a friend or with a group are much less likely to meet other travelers. They tend to stick with their friend and don’t feel the need to go too far out of their way to meet other people as they already have someone with them.

So, when traveling solo, you’re much more likely to make new friends which is a huge plus!

Another benefit of traveling solo is that you never have to worry about pleasing anyone else. Sure, you’ve made some new friends, but you don’t have to do the same activities as them. Say for example, they want to relax at the pool for the day, but you want to go for a hike; It’s easy to part ways and do your own thing for the day!

Traveling solo gives you the freedom that traveling with a group or friends doesn’t. Besides, you’re still going to make plenty of friends, it just requires a little more confidence.

Don’t Be Afraid to Go Alone

Sometimes, your own company is where it’s at. And, once you start enjoying being by yourself, you won’t be phased by hanging out with people all the time.

I discovered this pretty quickly and was impressed at how much I enjoyed my own company while traveling. I genuinely thought that I’d always need a friend nearby to enjoy every activity, but that wasn’t the case at all.

So, if all else fails, learn to love your own company! Because in reality, it’s likely that you’re not going to have a friend everywhere you go. There will be times when you need to do day trips by yourself or go on your own adventures and that’s totally fine.

Besides, that’s part of the beauty of traveling solo. You’re always likely to have new friends just around the corner, but you can also simply enjoy the comfort of your own company.

How to Make Friends While Traveling

Stay In Hostels or Dorm Rooms

One of the easiest and most fool-proof way to make friends while traveling is to stay in hostels or dorm rooms. Besides, this is usually the cheapest way for a solo traveler to explore, and the most sought after option.

However, I recommend getting to know the different types of hostels. When I began travelling I didn’t know that there was such a thing. But, lo and behold, there are all kinds of hostels. From adventure, social, party, budget, flashpacking, boutique and so much more.

Nonetheless, I find it’s best to stick to social, budget and party hostels. Moreover, these usually have the best social spaces and people are there to make new friends.

Besides, making a friend can be as easy as walking into your dorm room for the first time. Backpackers are usually friendly people and will happily greet you upon arrival. Sure enough, you’re bound to make new friends!

Tip: Ask new acquaintances what is happening during the day or nighttime. Moreover, this may give an insight into some of the activities that they may be considering which could lead to an invitation.

Hang Out in Common Areas

Rolling over from my last tip, this leads me to my next point which is hanging out in common areas. So, if your hostel has a hangout space, this is the perfect spot to meet other people.

Moreover, this may look like a pool, rooftop area, games room or simply just a space with tables and chairs. Feel free to wander to those spaces and try to get included with some people who are hanging out.

Talk to Hostel Workers

Okay, so maybe the hostel you’ve picked isn’t the greatest spot for socialising and there are not many people staying in your dorm. Additionally, you’re new to the small town and you aren’t sure of where all the tourists go.

This is the perfect opportunity to chat with the hostel workers and ask what the most popular activities are. Moreover, this will give you an idea of where tourists frequent, so it’ll give you the chance to meet other travellers.

Besides, this is a handy way to get around town and learn more about the location you’re visiting. There are many times that I’ve rocked up to a dead hostel and had to make my way out to meet other travellers.

Tip: I recommend only booking a 2-night stay at each hostel. Moreover, this gives you the chance to see if you enjoy the location, room, social spaces and vibe of the hostel. Then, if you dislike the space, you can move on to something else in the area.

Go on Public or Group Tours

One of my favourite ways to make friends is through public and group tours. Moreover, you will be spending anywhere from a couple of hours to possibly days with the same group of people, so you’re bound to make some friends.

Tours are excellent as they’re aimed at travelers wanting to see more of a place. Additionally, you can do your own tour with friends from a hostel. Moreover, this is a great way to meet more people and include others on a day trip.

Put Yourself Out There

I know that it can be hard to get out of your comfort zone, but hey, you’re already traveling solo and you’ve come so far! Simply putting yourself out there and introducing yourself first is an excellent way to make a new friend.

I recommend going somewhere solo like a bar and being open to meeting strangers. You never know when a conversation may strike, and you might just make a new friend!

Besides, this is one of the best tips on how to make friends while traveling. Simply being yourself and feeling confident in your approach means you’re already on your way to new travel friends!

Tip: Smile at other people and feel free to introduce yourself to others. Moreover, this is a great way to get out of your comfort zone and possibly make a new friend.

Make Use of Facebook Groups

Facebook groups are another great way to meet travellers. I recommend researching for groups by looking at the name of a town or country that you’re visiting. Besides, you may meet people who are just about to fly into the country or people that have been in and around for a while.

Moreover, this gives you the chance to make some friends online with the chance of hanging out in person. However, sometimes it can be a little tricky to link up, and you need to be wary of who you are meeting on the internet.

Not to mention, these are excellent ways to discover more things to do in the place that you are visiting. So, even if you don’t make a new friend, you might find an activity that you really want to complete or a place that you’d like to visit!

Chat with Locals

Another great way to make friends is to chat with the locals. Moreover, people are extremely friendly and the locals will give you plenty of tips on great places to visit.

A way of making friends with locals includes getting to know some of the local language. Nonetheless, one of the most widely spoken languages is English. However, some countries speak very little English.

Learning simple phrases like ‘hello’, ‘my name is’ and ‘how are you?’ are great ways to converse with locals.

Tip: Aim to do this research prior to leaving for your trip and have the phrases written down so that you can look over them when you need to. I had them on the lock screen on my phone when learning, so that I had quick access to them and could ensure I was saying things correctly.

Dating Apps

This one may seem a little strange and won’t exactly work for those of you in relationships, however, hear me out. Dating apps are a great way to meet other travellers as you can meet people who aren’t staying in the same hostels as you, but are in a similar area.

Not to mention, Bumble has a ‘BFF’ option where you can make new friends! This is an excellent option for people in relationships as it’s not a ‘dating’ platform as such.

Nonetheless, stay vigilant when meeting with people from the internet and always meet them in a public place. You never really know whose behind the screen, and I recommend that you use normal safety measures to keep yourself safe!

Local Restaurants, Cafes and Bars

One place you’re bound to find other travellers is at local cafes, restaurants and bars. Think of it this way, where would you be most likely to hang out? At a bar? Well then check out a few bars or cafes in whichever restaurant you’re in and try to meet some people.

Besides, this is the perfect opportunity to share some delicious food over some funny travel stories with some new friends that you’ve just made.

Friends of Friends

An easy way to make a handful of new pals is through other friends! Of course, this means that you need to have already established some friends before this can happen, but you’d be surprised as to just how quickly it can happen.

Say, for example, you might meet a couple of people in your dorm room, who then invite you out to dinner with some of their other friends. Before you know it, your friends are multiplying and you’re getting to know heaps of people!

How to Stay in Touch with Friends While Traveling

We are blessed with communication methods and social apps these days, and we have plenty of ways in which we can stay in touch with our new friends.

Tip: Don’t bother getting anyone’s mobile number as most of the time people are just using travel sims. Besides, these sims get thrown away when leaving the country therefore meaning you may have lost contact with your friend.

Instagram

Instagram is one of the most popular ways to keep in touch with travel friends, and it’s my recommended platform. Moreover, you can see where your other travel friends are when they post stories and images, and you can stay up to date with their travels.

Besides, there is plenty of opportunity to continue the friendship even when going separate ways as you support them on their travels and chat with them via direct messages.

This is my favourite platform for keeping in touch with friends and I’ve managed to meet up with heaps of friends again while travelling as I saw they were in an area nearby.

Whatsapp

A popular way for travelers to communicate is Whatsapp. Moreover, Whatsapp is an excellent free app to make voice and video calls, and of course, send messages.

You’ll discover that plenty of travellers use Whatsapp to connect with others and it’s worthwhile downloading before you set off on your adventures!

Not to mention, this is an excellent and free way to connect with family and friends back at home.

Facebook

Facebook is yet another fantastic way to stay connected with other travellers, though it’s typically the least used. Moreover, the social platform is commonly used just to send messages and make voice and video calls.

So, feel free to add your new friends on Facebook to connect with them at a later date!

Personal Experience of Making Friends While Traveling Solo

I ventured out on my first ever six-month solo travel journey in 2022. And, to say that I was feeling all the feels is an absolute understatement. I was nervous, excited and scared, I wasn’t sure what awaited me, but I was ready to experience it all!

However, I made my first travel friend in a hostel in Vietnam. I stayed at Nexy Hostel and found plenty of other friendly travellers staying in the dorm rooms. This quick chat in the dorm room lead to greater things as I made numerous more friends, got invited to nights out, and was invited to join other friends in Phong Nha.

It was pretty spectacular that just one friendship could lead to that much, but I was entirely grateful for it. Besides, I think that the main thing was that I was open to meeting people and ready to go along for the ride.

So, take my advice, and get comfortable with saying yes to new things. It can be daunting, but it might just change your life!

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, these are just some of the best methods on how to make friends while traveling. Besides, there are plenty of other ways you can make friends. But, the main way is to simply be open to new things!

Soon, you’ll discover that it isn’t very difficult to make friends while traveling, and before you know it, you’ll know everyone in and around the area!

Stay safe and happy travels! Feel free to subscribe to my newsletter below to stay up to date with all my latest posts.

Read more:
10 Cheapest Backpacking Destinations: Tips for Travelling Broke
10 Reasons to Visit Laos: Including Travel Tips

The post How to Make Friends While Traveling: Tips for Traveling solo appeared first on Ashlee Morgan.

For the most part, the Asian continent is the cheapest backpacking destination in the world. And, anyone from over the world can usually afford to travel around this region without seriously breaking the bank.

Continue reading my informative guide to discover the cheapest destinations while travelling on a backpacker’s budget. Moreover, this list will give you a better insight to decide on which countries you want to visit next!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission on purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you. Moreover, you can read my full affiliate disclosure here.

Cheapest Backpacking Destinations

1. Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the best and cheapest backpacking destinations for all travellers. Devour delicious Pho, Banh Mi, Banh Ceo and so much more for less than $2 AUD a serve!

Not to mention, you can see the entire country taking a train from town to town costing you only $7 – $12 AUD per ride. Moreover, this is an extremely cheap way to see the country and to get the most out of your experience! I recommend using 12go! Asia for booking buses and trains.

Vietnam is a gorgeous country with rice fields galore and limestone karsts exploding out of the ground; Everywhere you look there is beauty to be enjoyed. Some of the best highlights of the country are completing the motorcycle Ha Giang Loop in the north and the many underground caves of Phong Nha.

Budget: $40 AUD per day
Feel free to read all of my posts from Vietnam here

2. Colombia

Colombia is one of the cheapest backpacking destinations within the Americas region. Colombia is in the northern region of South America and is easily one of the best counties to visit on the continent.

Moreover, the city displays a rich and vibrant history with stunning architecture and vibrantly coloured homes. Then, you can head out of the city and hike incredibly mountainous landscapes and relax on perfect white sand beaches. What’s not to love!?

Budget: $55 AUD per day

3. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a fascinating country in the Asian continent. And, there’s so much to see and do on this fascinating island. Enjoy tasty Sri Lankan curries, explore endless waterfalls, sip delicious tea and relax on stunning beaches.

Some of the highlights that I recommend include taking a train ride through the stunning landscapes and ancient ruins. Finally, there is so much history to explore in this incredible place and I couldn’t recommend it enough!

Budget: $50 AUD per day

4. Laos

Laos is one of my favourite countries that I’ve visited and I truly think it lies so far under the radar. Laos is one of the least developed countries in South East Asia, however, it sure as heck packs an absolute punch!

There is a rich and diverse culture throughout the entire country, Laotians are extremely friendly people and the landscape is insanely gorgeous!

Not to mention, Laos is ultra-cheap to travel with food and accommodation at some of the lowest prices I’ve ever come across. Besides, there are a number of fantastic hostels throughout the country so that you can stick to the cheapest budget!

Finally, some of the highlights of Laos include the Kuang Si waterfall and the Mekong River. These are two fascinating natural wonders of the world that must be seen while visiting the country!

Budget: $45 AUD per day
Read more: Backpacking Laos: 2-Week Itinerary Map, Costs, and Travel Tips

5. Albania

Albania is one of the cheapest European countries that you can visit. Moreover, it’s a little more under the radar since it attracts a lot fewer international tourists when compared to other European countries.

Nonetheless, Albania absolutely shouldn’t be skipped, especially if you’re travelling on a tight budget!

Albania is a gorgeous country with a stunning coastline, Albanian Alps, and many historical points of interest including castles!

Budget: $55 AUD per day

6. Thailand

Thailand is yet another one of my all-time favourite countries to backpack, and I’ve spent 3 months enjoying many parts of this country. Besides, this country is massive and there are plenty of areas to explore, meaning it offers an extremely diverse experience all around.

Firstly, the northern part of Thailand includes Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Pai. These cities are all very cheap and fantastic to explore. You can experience the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, and then head further north to Pai to relax in the beautiful Thai countryside.

Secondly, the southern part of Thailand is what makes up the tropical island paradise that we all know and love. Experience island hopping on the East and West coasts of Thailand and soak up the gorgeous tropical climate. Moreover, the Western islands include Phi Phi island, Railay, Phuket and Koh Lanta, while the Eastern side includes Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao.

Finally, the people are some of the loveliest I’ve come across and the food is absolutely divine! Indulge in curries packed with flavour and numerous noodle and rice dishes. Besides, meals are typically around $3 AUD making this an insanely affordable country to travel!

Budget: $50 AUD per day
Read more: Thailand Travel Tips: Everything You Need to Know

7. India

India is yet another one of the cheapest backpacking destinations in the world. And, there is so much to explore within this large and magnificent country.

If you love a bit of chaos, you’ll love exploring India. There is always something going on and the city never really seems to sleep. Additionally, there are stunning Hindu temples everywhere, large deserts and beautiful mountainscapes to enjoy.

Some of the highlights of India include the Taj Mahal and the beautiful town of Rishikesh. Besides, you could easily spend months exploring this incredible country and still feel as though you haven’t seen enough!

Budget: $30 AUD per day

8. Philippines

Need I say more about how incredible the Philippines truly is? We’ve all seen the stunningly beautiful images of turquoise lagoons, limestone karsts emerging out of the oceans and pristine waterfalls.

And, you’ll be pleased to know that the Philippines is one of the cheapest places that you can backpack! Imagine island hopping, enjoying tasty local food and relaxing on the beach watching the sun go down with a beer in hand. An absolutely perfect day!

Some of the best islands of the Philippines include Coron, Siargao, Siquijor, Malapascua and Cebu, just to name a few.

Budget: $50 AUD per day

9. Cambodia

Cambodia is yet another South East Asian country that offers the ultimate budget-saving experience! And, this gorgeous country doesn’t skip on culture or history with many fascinating ancient ruins throughout the entire country.

Some of the ultimate highlights of Cambodia include Angkor Wat and the stunning island of Koh Rong. Moreover, these are some of the must-visit locations for your time in Cambodia!

Finally, Cambodia is an extremely cheap country to travel, with many budget hostels and opportunities for cheap street food.

Budget: $45 AUD per day

10. Bolivia

Last but not least, another cheap country to backpack is magnificent Bolivia in South America. Bolivia is in the centre of South America and borders Brazil. And, it’s a great place to visit for those on a budget, especially if you want to travel around South America!

Bolivia is a country rich in culture and has the highest population of Indigenous culture in South America. Therefore, making it a fantastic country to experience a magnificent depth of culture.

In terms of highlights, I highly recommend checking out the fascinating salt flats of Uyuni and the incredible pink salt lake of Laguna Colorada.

Budget: $50 AUD per day

Cheap Backpacking Tips

I’ve spent about 6 months backpacking parts of South East Asia and have discovered a range of useful tips that I would like to share with other travellers. Here are some of my top cheap backpacking tips:

• Find a travel card that has low withdrawal fees.
• Invest in a GRAYL water bottle (You can learn more here)
• Research the cost of things before going. This gives you an idea of money scams and how to ensure you get the best deal on everything.
• Set yourself a budget. Typically, a great backpacker’s budget is around $50 AUD per day.
• Book flights early to get the cheapest price.
• The cheapest time of year to travel is during the off-season. Moreover, this is usually when the weather isn’t exactly ideal, but it’s when accommodation and flights are cheap.
• Spend a long time in destinations instead of rushing around to multiple places. Travelling slowly is much more sustainable and will save you money in the long run.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, these are some of the best cheap backpacking locations, however, not limited to the only cheap spots! Besides, the world is full of many hidden gems just waiting for us to discover them!

And, just because these places are cheap, doesn’t make them any less worthy than some of the more favourable and more expensive locations such as Europe. I had the greatest time exploring a handful of these locations and couldn’t recommend them enough to any and every traveller!

So, save a few of these destinations and get inspired for your next backpacking trip! All of these countries will make for an incredible trip. Happy travels!

Finally, check out this post if you want to learn more about travelling on a budget.

Read more:
Solo Female Travel in Thailand: Tips for Travelling Thailand
Solo Travel Photography Tips: Get the Best Photos While Travelling Solo

The post 10 Cheapest Backpacking Destinations: Tips for Travelling Broke appeared first on Ashlee Morgan.

Moreover, I’ve included some images with the quotes overlaying to spark creativity and give you an idea of how these quotes can be used.

Be sure to save some of the images for later use and try to make use of as many of these nature quotes as possible! Your Instagram will never of looked so good!

100 Instagram Nature Captions

1. “Leave the road, take the trails”

2. “Be patient with yourself. Nothing in nature blooms all year”
3. “Sky above, earth below, peace within”
4. “The earth has music for those who listen”
5. “Always take the scenic route”

Always taking the scenic route is an excellent nature Instagram caption to use as you can use it for a collection of photos (carousel) to show all the journeys you’ve been on. Not to mention, this Ig caption can be used on any sort of image, but just make sure you have a pretty view in the background.

6. “Nature is my medicine”
7. “Nature is the greatest place to heal and recharge”
8. “I’ve never met a sunset I didn’t like”
9. “Find me where the wild things are”
10. “Escape and breathe the air of new places”
11. “Green vibes only”
12. “Lost is a lovely place to find yourself”

13. “Wherever life plants you, bloom with grace”
14. “Meet me where the sky touches the sea”
15. “Slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of life”
16. “Adopt the pace of nature, her secret is patience”

This is one of my favourite nature quotes as it makes the reader reconsider our need for a fast-paced lifestyle. Moreover, I think this is an excellent quote to use for an Instagram caption to encourage a slower lifestyle.

Read more: 35 Camping Quotes: Inspiring and Funny Camp Quotes

17. “Wonder. Wander. Repeat.”
18. “There is no wifi in the forest, but you will find better connections”
19. “The world is magical, take time to notice”
20. “And at the end of the day, your feet should be dirty, your hair messy, and your eyes sparkling”
21. “The kind of tired that comes from a lot of fresh air and a little too much sun”
22. “Sometimes, all you need is a change of scenery”
23. “Let us live like flowers, wild and beautiful and drenched in sun”
24. “Grateful for where I’m at, excited for where I’m going”
25. “Escape the ordinary”

26. “There’s no time to be bored in a world as beautiful as this”
27. “Up in the clouds, on my way to unknown places”
28. “Wanderlust, a strong desire to travel”
29. “So much world, so little time”
30. “Wild lives in her soul”
31. “Currently living dreams”

Currently living dreams is a great nature caption for Instagram as the idea is broad and can be used with a wide range of images. Besides, I think this would look fantastic paired with an image of the view out of a plane window… or you could be perched up on a stunning beach. Either way, the message will be evoked and pair together flawlessly!

32. “The smell of the sea air”
33. “As free as the ocean”
34. “Everything is fine when there is sunshine”
35. “Every exit is an entry somewhere else”
36. “Watch more sunsets than Netflix”
37. “Anywhere. Somewhere. Far away”
38. “Soul full of sunshine”
39. “I think I’m quite ready for another adventure”

40. “We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open”
41. “Girls just wanna have sun”
42. “Sometimes in the waves of change, we find our true direction”
43. “Travel is not a reward for working, it’s education for living”
44. “Wander often. Wonder always.”
45. “Salty but sweet”
46. “Paradise found”
47. “My soul steers me into natures silence”
48. “Explore the unseen”
49. “Making memories all over the world”
50. “No reason to stay is a good reason to go”

51. “Of all the books in the world, the best stories are found between the pages of a passport”
52. “Lifes a climb but the view is great”

I highly recommend using this nature quote for a time you reach a fantastic viewpoint. So, if you’ve done some mountain hiking or trail walking, this is the perfect quote to include with some stunning views!

53. “Cleansing your feed with nature”
54. “The right kind of busy”
55. “Let the sea set you free”
56. “The times I spend in nature are some of the moments I feel most alive”
57. “Say yes to new adventures”
58. “High tides, good vibes”

59. “Wherever I roam, nature is the only stranger that feels like home”
60. “Sun of a beach”
61. “One touch of nature makes the whole world kin”
62. “Dance with the waves, move with the sea, let the rhythm of the water, set your soul free”
63. “Take me to the beach”
64. “Real fun begins where paved roads end”
65. “Nature is the purest portal to inner peace”

This is a really beautiful quote as it sparks the idea that nature is truly a peaceful place. I think this Instagram nature caption would look excellent paired with a photo taken in the woods or a forest!

66. “I am convinced that there can be luxury in simplicity”
67. “Nature is not a place to visit, it is home”
68. “I have a therapist. Her name is mother nature.”
69. “Let the sea set you free”
70. “Sun, sand, the sea and me”
71. “All good things are wild and free”
72. “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished”
73. “I am at home among the trees”
74. “Just keep swimming”
75. “Everything comes in waves”
76. “Not all storms come to disrupt your life, some come to clear your path”
77. “Life is simple, just add water”
78. “Take a walk in the forest and smell the wild air”
79. “For the love of nature”
80. “Sky above me, earth below me, fire within me”
81. “Salt in the air, sand in my hair”

82. “Coffee, bikini and beach”
83. “Create your own sunshine”
84. “The tans will fade, but the memories will last forever”
85. “Dear ocean, thank you for making us feel tiny, humble, inspired, and salty… all at once”

This is one of my favourite Instagram nature captions as it reminds the reader that the ocean is a truly wonderful place. And, you could post any kind of photo of the ocean with this quote! I think it would look great to have a person as the subject standing in front of the water and a wide view of the ocean in the background!

86. “Time is like the ocean, you can only hold a little in your hands”
87. “Nature is the best teacher”
88. “Hike more, worry less”
89. “Flow with it”
90. “The world is ours to explore”
91. “Go where you feel most alive”
92. “Eat. Beach. Sleep. Repeat.”

93. “Stay wild, ocean child”
94. “A day at the beach restores the soul”
95. “And so the adventure begins”

96. “Nature is your greatest teacher”
97. “Nature is the closest place to heaven on earth”
98. “These are the days we live for”

99. “Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt”
100. “One day you will look back and see that all along you were blooming”

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, there are loads of fantastic Instagram nature captions that you can make use of to really up your Insta-game. And, I highly recommend saving a few of these for later so that you can use them on future posts!

Not to mention, heaps of these quotes are unique, and haven’t been used often, making for the perfect opportunity to use on Instagram! Be sure to check out my Pinterest page here to pin these Instagram nature quotes for later!

Finally, I like to use this website to find new quotes. Besides, there is a heap of great quotes that spark plenty of creativity and can be used in many different ways. Happy reading!

Read more:
Travel Blogging for Beginners: 5 Tips to Making Money Online
How to Start a Travel Blog in 2021: Make Money Blogging

The post 100 Instagram Nature Captions: The Best Nature Quotes appeared first on Ashlee Morgan.

And, if you plan to travel to any developing countries in the world, you will discover that you too, will lack access to safe drinking water at times on your trip. Therefore, taking a water bottle such as the GRAYL Geopress can provide the security you need for access to safe drinking water.

Throughout the post I go into further detail on the importance of accessible drinking water and how the GRAYL Geopress can make your life that little bit easier while travelling. There’ll be plenty of information on the importance of a water filtering device and how to use this water bottle.

Why Should You Travel with a Filtering Bottle?

Reduce Your Environmental Impact

The GRAYL Geopress is the perfect addition to any long adventure as it significantly reduces plastic waste in developing countries. I strongly believe that we are simply making the issue of access to safe drinking water much worse if we continue to buy plastic water bottles.

As soon as we reduce plastic consumption, the environmental impact will be much lesser. Therefore, a reusable water bottle that safely filters bacteria, viruses and more is a great way to start.

Save Money in the Long Run

There is a bit of a hefty price to start up this water bottle but lets crunch some maths. Say you are travelling for 6 months and need to purchase a 2L water bottle daily on average. Most 2L bottled water tends to be around $1. So, $1 x 180 days = $180 AUD.

$180 AUD is the price of a brand new GRAYL Geopress and all you need access to is a fresh water source. Continue travelling for another 6 months, and all you’ll need is to purchase another cartridge which is around $60 AUD and last for roughly 250L.

Convenience

Ahh, the convenience of waking up after a big nights sleep and not having to run down to the store for a bottle of water. It’s so nice to simply wander to a tap in the bathroom to refill the bottle.

Not to mention, you won’t need to plan ahead with how much water you need for multi-day hikes; As long as there is a freshwater source nearby.

Safe Drinking Water Facts

Only 1% of the water on the Earth is freshwater and accessible and safe for drinking. This is an absolutely minuscule amount and is alarming for developing countries that lack water security.

A major portion of the world has unsafe tap water, including Africa, Central and South America, Asia and Russia. Not to mention, these are some parts of the world with the largest populations.

Sadly, unsafe drinking water results in roughly 1.2 million deaths yearly, worldwide. This is a major humanitarian issue that devastatingly impacts billions of people.

GRAYL Geopress Review

I spent about 6 months backpacking South East Asia with my GRAYL Geopress filtering bottle, and to say the least, I wouldn’t have it any other way. In short, would I recommend this water bottle? Yes, absolutely.

Nonetheless, there are a range of things that I liked and disliked about the bottle, and I’ll go into further detail about it.

Firstly, let’s talk design. I actually love the design and there are a range of colours to suit every traveller. I chose Alpine White because I liked the gradient effect with the filter on the inside. It’s a unique bottle and I wanted it to appear different from every other bottle!

Nonetheless, there are a few other lovely colours that are available, including bright oranges, basic black and deep amber. Choose your favourite design! Additionally, I must add that the design is sturdy and hard wearing. I love the handle on the side for easy lifting and it’s the perfect spot to add a carabiner clip. I do have a few scuffs on the lid of my bottle, but they are all reminders of a fantastic journey. It gives character!

I’ll be honest, it is quite a pricey product to get started with, however I believe that the convenience of easy filtration and access to safe drinking water anywhere in the world is an absolute selling point. Forget awkwardly sipping water out of a straw in a river and leave the hefty plastic wastage behind, this bottle is a serious gamechanger!

However, one downfall I have noticed with the bottle is that it can be a little tricky to get the hang of the filtration process and you may end up with a bit of water squirting on you. My recommendaton is to keep the lid open and slowly press the bottle down. Additionally, this usually reduces spilling.

The handle makes it easy to carry and great to clip to a backpack using a carabiner. And, for what its worth, I belive the design is very slim, not unecessarily bulky and didn’t add too much excess weight to my luggage. Very impressed!

Over my 6 month journey, I went through roughly 1.5 cartridges and I absolutely loved travelling with this bottle. Please note that it doesn’t necessarily make water taste great, but it filters out anything nasty so that you can stay safely hydrated! Maybe something GRAYL could consider improving next would be the water quality taste.

Tip: Do not travel to high altitudes with the GRAYL Geopress full as it will leak. Moreover, this includes plane flights and mountainous locations. There are a couple of times where my bottle leaked in my bag and almost damaged my devices. The best way to avoid this is to finish the liquids, empty it out, or store in a bag that can hold the leakage.

Pros and Cons

There are a few pros and cons I can think of when it comes to not only the GRAYL Geopress water bottle, but also other travel filter water bottles. Moreover, these are some of the things to look out for when investing in a filtering bottle as we all know they aren’t exactly cheap!

Pros
-Filter water anywhere in the world
-Saves money on bottled water
-Less plastic waste
-No need to carry days worth of water while completing long treks, filter as you go

Cons
-Expensive purchase and filters are pricey
-It can be a little bit messy
-Leaks at high altitudes

How to Use the Grayl GEOPRESS

There are a few steps you need to take when using this water bottle, and there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Firstly, this water bottle can ONLY filter fresh water, so no refilling at the beach or in any salt water!

Follow these steps for easy usage of the best travel water bottle:

1. Turn the vent (mouthpiece) a couple of times to allow the air pressure for filtering
2. Secondly, firmly grasp the top of the bottle around the lid and hold your other hand around the tactile logo o the side
3. Do a slow pulling motion of each piece away from the other. (I found it helpful to slightly twist the cup piece to make removal easier.)
4. The water bottle should now be in two pieces. Try to rest the filter section of a surface that won’t dirty it.
5. Using the cup, fill to the line indicated on the side. Scoop water from a river, or refill from a sink.
6. Place the cup on an even surface and pick the filtering side up.
7. Place the filter into the cup and use both hands to slowly press the bottle down.
8. You will notice the water slowly filling inside the bottle.
9. Once you’ve reached the top, you’re ready to drink! Enjoy!

About the Water Bottle

Where to purchase: Purchase directly through grayl.com.au or check your local camping store
RRP: $180 AUD
Price of a new filter: $60 AUD

Size: 8.6cm W x 26.5 H
Weight (Empty): 450g
Capacity: 710ml

Wrapping Up

The bottom line is, yes, I think that the GRAYL Geopress is the ultimate travel water bottle. It’s highly convenient, reduces plastic waste and is a well-built and designed product.

There is no way that I would ever travel without this handy gadget to countries lacking in safe tap water. And, I strongly believe that more travellers should consider purchasing this fantastic product.

In conclusion, I love what GRAYL have done for __ and I believe they’ve set the bar really high for other companies to compete. I look forward to the future of water bottle filter technology and how it will change the world.

Do you think you’ll purchase one of these water bottles? Which countries would you take it to?

Read more:
The 10 Best travel accessories
Solo Travel Photography Tips: Get the Best Photos While Travelling Solo

The post GRAYL Geopress Review: The Best Travel Water Bottle appeared first on Ashlee Morgan.

The view is perfect, and you don’t want to miss this photo opportunity. Fear not! There are plenty of ways to take a flawless self-portrait while travelling solo.

Moreover, discover the best solo travel photography tips to get the perfect shot every time! Similarly, it increases your independence and makes photography and travel heaps more fun.

Besides, solo travel photography is a great way to document your adventures and share them with people all over the world. And, learning to take a great solo travel photo is a pretty neat skill to have!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission on purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you. Moreover, you can read my full affiliate disclosure here.

5 Solo Travel Photography Tips

1. Set your camera up and film yourself, that way you can choose which frame you like the most and select that as your final image
2. Experiment with different angles, use different sources of light and make use of the environment around you
3. Make use of the self-timer setting or purchase a shutter remote so you can take images without the need to run back and forwards constantly
4. Don’t be afraid to ask a stranger for a photo, but beware, it’s likely that it won’t turn out with the quality that you may expect. Therefore, be prepared to be disappointed! Nonetheless, it’s still a great way to get a photo especially if you can’t be bothered setting up heaps of gear or if the area is experiencing heaps of foot traffic.
5. Experiment with different poses and angles in the mirror before your trip. It’s crucial to get comfortable with modelling before you head out so that you have some poses under your belt! There’s nothing worse than taking an awkward photo and looking back at the cringey images.

Equipment for Solo Travel Photography

I think it’s fair to say that we are so lucky to have a wide array of equipment readily available to use. Not to mention, just a few pieces of the right gear in your collection will ensure you achieve a flawless photo every time.

Besides, many of these items are also great for use in other kinds of photography. So, you might just find a new passion or interest!

1. Drone

A drone will give you a breathtaking perspective, and they’re a tonne of fun to fly around. Users can try hovering above for a full-frame effect or even an image from behind.

Not to mention, this is a great way to get video footage of yourself, perhaps for a YouTube channel? Take the chance to make awesome videos and great content!

Besides, you might as well take the opportunity of owning a drone to fly around and try out new and unique shots. I truly believe that owning a drone is one of my favourite solo travel photography tips!

Personally, I’ve used a DJI Mavic Mini for a little over a year now, and it has been an absolute beast! It’s lightweight, easy to fly and very robust. Even after a swim in a river, it came out completely unscathed!

2. Canon or DSLR Camera

I recommend Canon cameras since I’ve had the most experience with them. Besides, they’re one of the better-known camera brands on the market, alongside Nikon, Fujifilm, Sony etc.

I think the Canons are great because you can connect your phone with them to use as a remote; This is especially helpful to get a set ready and to record or take a photo.

Besides, this saves running around to pose before the shutter goes off. Also, you can view what the photo will look like with the live view; A truly fantastic feature!

Canons are the perfect solo travel photography device, and I absolutely recommend them to anyone!

A bundle like this one from Amazon is a great way to quickly build your kit with the use of a reputable product and is perfect for beginners.

3. Tripod

Tripods come in all shapes and sizes and are an absolute must for solo travel photography. Besides, they’re a practical tool for many kinds of photography; It’s great to have one at your disposal for any setting!

Consider getting a standard tripod with extending legs so that you can achieve perfect height in your photos. There are plenty on the market made with lightweight material making them a notable tool for travel.

Otherwise, you could invest in a mini tripod simply as a means of propping your camera on a safe surface. Either way, tripods will ensure you achieve a still and more level photograph.

I’ve used this one from Amazon for quite some time now, and it’s been the perfect addition to my photography collection. It offers multiple features including a 360 degree panorama ball head and adjustable legs.

What to Wear in Your Photos

Depending on your fashion sense, location and message you want to achieve, your clothing choices can vary widely.

However, I would recommend anything flowy, such as long skirts, dresses, bell sleeve tops for a beautiful drape. Dresses and skirts blow in the wind beautifully and look fantastic when held in a certain manner.

Additionally, hats are excellent as they give the subject something to hold or place their hand; This avoids looking awkward in the image.

Nonetheless, wear items you’re comfortable in as your confidence will shine through!

Wrapping Up

Solo travel photography is a great way to experience the outside world and is a fun way to document your journey.

Besides, not everyone can have someone by their side to take photos the entire trip. Therefore, in this type of situation, independence and preparation are key!

Be sure to build your photography kit progressively, and fill it with only necessary items. A great camera (or mobile phone) and tripod are the best starting ground.

Nonetheless, practice makes perfect. It’s unlikely that your first photoshoot will go to plan, but this makes for a fantastic opportunity to learn and improve. Your photos will be picture perfect and Instagram worthy in no time!

What are some of your favourite solo travel photography tips? Are they any tips you would like to give others?

The post Solo Travel Photography Tips: Get the Best Photos While Travelling Solo appeared first on Ashlee Morgan.

Firstly, keep in mind that travel blogging isn’t necessarily about travelling full-time. There is a lot of business that needs to be done behind a screen, and most of the time, you’ll spend weeks working before heading out on adventures.

Nonetheless, travel blogging is a truly rewarding niche and is a job that can potentially take you anywhere in the world, providing there is internet accessibility.

Finally, I’ve exposed my top five tips for beginners interested in travel blogging. And, you can use these to your advantage for a head start in creating an online presence. So, continue reading to learn from my first-hand experience.

5 Tips to Travel Blogging for Beginners

1. Own a Domain Name

Creating a domain is the perfect way to set up your own brand and create an online presence. Firstly, a domain name is the address of your business that people will type in the URL section to find you.

I’d recommend that you begin brainstorming a bunch of ideas and then select one that fits your brand. Before locking in the name, check it’s available on Instagram, Tik Tok and any other social media that you intend to use.

Moreover, the best thing about having your own website ensures you have so much more freedom and aren’t locked into any of the gimmicky websites; Don’t spend months working on a fantastic blog under free website hosting. These blogs are typically the least profitable.

I would recommend using a platform like WordPress, considering it’s the leading software in the blogging world. And I host my site with BlueHost, but you can choose a hosting that suits your needs.

Finally, you’ll need to spend around $11-$20 a year for a domain name, however, the price is absolutely worth it!

Read more: How to Start a Travel Blog in 2021: Make Money Blogging

2. Find Your Passion and Pick a Niche

Discovering a passion and picking a niche is one of the most crucial aspects of starting a blog. And, this is where many people fail to succeed in the online world.

Firstly, unearthing your passion will begin to get the ball rolling. Unless you’ve already discovered it, and you’re rearing to go. Therefore, find some ways that you can capitalise on this interest, and use your expertise to your advantage!

Secondly, choosing a nice is one of the most fundamental features of any business. And, there are many things you will need to take into consideration.

There are multiple aspects that you could include and create as your brand. Furthermore, some of these ideas could be travelling with kids, taking your cat on adventures, caravan or motorhome travelling.

Also, please know that blogging needs to be your ultimate passion. You will need to obtain plenty of time for researching and writing as well as photography and creativity. There is so much more to blogging than writing an effortless post about your travels to a secret island.

Some questions to ask yourself when choosing a niche:
-Who is your target audience?
-What is it that you’re passionate about, and what are you good at?
-Have you found any gaps in the market?
-Is your passion realistic, or is it simply a dream? (E.g. Becoming a luxury travel blogger when you are unable to afford the 5-star price.)

3. Research the Life of a Travel Blogger

It’s one thing to romanticise the life of a travel blogger as you watch them travel the world with gleaming faces. However, getting down to business and making an adequate income online is another thing. Therefore, take some time to understand the ins and outs of the blogging world; It’s not as easy as you think!

I would recommend finding a couple of travel bloggers online whose style you like. Then, proceed to follow what they get up to, how often they work and what they do to keep their blog running. You’ll soon discover that they actually spend more time behind a computer than exploring the world.

There are a few things to keep in mind before starting a travel blog:
-This isn’t a get rich quick scheme. You will need to spend at least a year building your site and creating content.
-You need an utmost passion for writing with the ability to think outside the box.
-Be prepared to spend many, many hours fiddling around with settings and coding to set up your website.
-You will actually spend a lot more time writing and working at your desk than travelling.

Read more: 60 Travel Blog Post Ideas: Travel Blogging Guide

4. Practice Writing

As a beginner getting into travel blogging, it’s important that you spend time practising your writing in order to gain an understanding of how the blogging world works.

Before writing your first one thousand word post, I recommend you take some time to find your writing style and your voice per se. Moreover, this will ensure you feel comfortable and confident in creating the content for your niche.

Not to mention, you will also need to learn how to do search engine optimisation research. Therefore, watch a handful of YouTube videos and begin writing a few practice blog posts to get a feel for it. This will also give you the chance to figure out if blogging is for you.

Finally, once you’ve found your voice, start blogging and creating! You’ll soon discover a workflow and find a way to create that suits you and your brand.

5. Patience Is Key

Unfortunately, it’s not a reality that you’ll gain a huge following overnight. Therefore, be very much prepared to put in the work to build an audience. Especially, these days, travel blogging for beginners is a much more difficult task than it originally was.

Nonetheless, once you see the views of your blog increase, it will fuel the fire in your belly to continue writing. Not to mention, it’s so rewarding to see a post do well after spending many hours, if not days writing.

Furthermore, aim to post around 100-120 posts within your first year of blogging. And while this number may look daunting, it works out to be roughly 2-3 posts a week; An achievable goal!

Finally, you will need to write an absolute minimum of 1000 words per post. Moreover, this gives search engines enough data for the opportunity to rank. Besides, you’ll end up writing some posts that sit around 2000-3000 words. Nonetheless, create what is best for your niche.

Wrapping Up

All in all, travel blogging is one of the best things I’ve ever done, and I can’t wait to watch this community grow. However, I have already spent many long days and multiple months putting work into this website with still little to show. Therefore, keep all this in mind when starting your travel blog.

Furthermore, use these tips outlined above as they include fantastic advice toward travel blogging for beginners. And, you’ll be able to use this guidance to get a head start on your blog.

Finally, don’t be too hard on yourself when creating your first blog. There’s a lot to take in, and it requires ultimate patience and endurance.

What is it that interests you about travel blogging? Are you looking at starting your own blog?

Read more:
Travel Blog Income Report: The Reality of Travel Blogging in 2021

The post Travel Blogging for Beginners: 5 Tips to Making Money Online appeared first on Ashlee Morgan.

Moreover, there is an everlasting collection of funny camping quotes and inspirational sayings. However, these are some of my favourites.

Finally, don’t forget to save the ones you love or find them on my Pinterest and download them to use as mobile backgrounds or personal mantras.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission on purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you. Moreover, you can read my full affiliate disclosure here.

The 35 Best Camping Quotes

1. “Home is where you pitch your tent”
2. “Take on the open road”

To start the collection of camping quotes are these two inspiring sayings that encourage the reader to begin an adventure and find comfort in the great outdoors.

Moreover, these two quotes are a great way to kick off these camper sayings.

3. “The road that leads others nowhere might be the road that leads you somewhere”

Next on the list is this inspirational camper saying. The best way to describe this is that not everyone is built for the same lifestyle. While some people find comfort in routine, others thrive from adventure and unique situations.

So, keep trekking on those roads and stray away from the crowds if it’s what makes you happy.

4. “Camping, because therapy is expensive”
5. “Camping is the answer to all your questions”

The next two quotes add a little bit of humour into the mix. And, they make a fair point too! Camping is well and truly a form of therapy (at least I think so!). And, I’m sure many people could vouch for the same thing.

So, sometimes the best thing to do is pack some essentials and head out into the wilderness for some time away from civilisation. You’ll notice that you’ll come back refreshed and ready to face anything.

6. “Adopt the pace of nature, her secret is patience”
7. “Love nature and stay close to nature. It will never fail you”

Next up are these two notable quotes. Firstly, adopting the pace of nature is a consequential way of life, specifically when camping. It allows you to experience life slowly and intuitively.

And, the second quote inspires individuals to take trust in nature and appreciate it always; Considering mother earth is always there for us, and we must do everything to protect her.

8. “Good things come to those who camp”
9. “The wilderness is not a luxury but a necessitiy of the human spirit”

Get back to basics with these two inspiring camp sayings. Moreover, these quotes emphasise the need for simplicity and the small moments in life.

Therefore, consider the importance of moments in nature and take each opportunity to enjoy some time in the wilderness.

Read more: 30 Travel Quotes: With Images

10. “Sometimes you find yourself in the middle of nowhere, and sometimes in the middle of nowhere you find yourself”

This camping quote is a noteworthy saying that one may apply to all aspects of life. Moreover, it encourages the reader to realise that you’re likely to discover the unknown details of yourself during unexpected situations.

Not to mention, this also leads to significant personal growth. Therefore, apply this quote to your daily life and take pleasure in discomfort.

11. “You are never too old to play outside”
12. “Wander often. Wonder always”

Both of these quotes prove that you never truly need to grow up. Besides, it’s fantastic to have a young spirit and enjoy a youthful way of life.

Therefore, get in touch with your inner child and experience the joy of discovering a new shell on the beach or the crackling sounds of fire at night.

Finally, these two are a great addition to your camping mindset. Therefore, keep these two camp quotes in mind when out in nature.

13. “The most memorable days, usually end with the dirtiest clothes”
14. “Camp. Explore. Discover”

Firstly, it’s true that the best days end with the dirtiest clothes, as they display enjoying the outdoors one way or another. Moreover, this is a classic quote for children as they enjoy playing in the dirt, riding bikes or splashing around at the beach. So, take the mess in your stride and enjoy the simple pleasures.

The following quote inspires readers to camp, explore and discover. Nonetheless, the act of exploring and discovering occurs naturally when camping. Therefore, proving that camping is a vital experience for all individuals, especially children.

15. “Lets wander where the wifi is weak”
16. “The simple pleasures in life are often greatest”

Another favoured camping quote is to wander where the wifi is weak. Moreover, this is an appreciable saying as it encourages people to get away from the comforts of technology. And, it inspires readers to take some time away from devices and social media to truly enjoy nature.

Therefore, pack your bags and find a location that’s off the grid. You’ll notice just how refreshed you feel after having a break from the online world.

Secondly, never take simple pleasures for granted. Once camping, you’ll rediscover your excitement for something as simple as a s’more, roast marshmallows or basic cooked meals.

For some reason, these things taste so much better, and you’ll grow a new type of appreciation for them.

17. “Teaching children about the natural world should be seen as one of the most important events in their lives”

Next on the list is this significant quote. Firstly, it outlines the importance of children’s education in the real world. And, it’s easy to agree that their knowledge of the natural world is vital.

Therefore, if you have children, consider taking them on a yearly camping trip. Not only will this be an enjoyable family getaway, but it will change the children’s lives forever.

Not to mention, many of their favourite memories will come from enjoying time camping and exploring the great outdoors.

However, if you’re unable to take them camping, enjoy a hike with them or take them to a gorgeous natural setting and inspire them to experience it.

18. “Sometimes, simple is best”
19. “Home is where you park it”

Is there anything better than enjoying a hot cup of coffee around the fire? I don’t think so! Hence, enjoy the simple pleasures in life and never take the small moments for granted.

Not to mention, the small moments are some of the most defining in our life and lead to the purest happiness. So, sip on that cup of coffee slowly and take in pure joy.

Next is the quote that displays, “Home is where you park it”. I think this is a great quote specifically for those living on the road in a camper, caravan, van or motorhome. Moreover, it presents that you can take your home wherever you want; Which is a significant reason why so many people prefer a nomadic lifestyle.

20. “The best days are spent camping”
21. “The world is too big to stay in one place”

The best days are indeed spent camping. Considering there are so many magnificent places to enjoy and so many gorgeous locations to discover.

And, with that being said, “the world is too big to live in one place”. So, pack up your essentials, and take the road trip you’ve always wanted to truly experience life.

22. “Jobs fill your pockets, adventures fill your soul”
23. “Let’s find some beautiful places to get lost”

Another inspiring camping quote is that you’ll find genuine happiness while out on adventures. However, that’s not saying that you have to climb Mount Everest. Something as simple as a camp trip by the beach can truly fulfil one’s soul.

Secondly, there are many stunning places to get lost. So, take a new route and discover something unusual.

24. “Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy camping gear, which is kind of the same thing”
25. “Exploring the world, one campground at a time”

The following camping quotes emphasise that camping gear is sometimes all that you need. Therefore, be sure to create a decent camping gear collection to allow for the best adventures.

26. “It’s not about the destination. It’s about the journey”
27. “Always take the scenic route”

Appreciate the journey that it takes to reach a destination. Considering the trip is sometimes better than arriving at the location. Finally, apply these quotes to your daily life.

28. “There is no wifi in the mountains, though I promise you will find better connections”

This quote has to be one of my favourites, considering it’s absolutely accurate. Firstly, no, there is no wifi in the mountains (for the most part). However, you’ll discover an authentic connection to the earth and those that surround you.

Therefore, set aside some time to explore the mountains and be one with nature.

29. “Just another coffee drinker with a camping addiction”
30. “Sometimes, nature is all you need”

Both of these quotes emphasise the fact that the simple things in life are some of the best. Think morning coffee ritual or those delicious fire-roasted marshmallows. These are two simple things that are so enjoyable while camping.

31. “Think of it as an adventure”
32. “Real freedom lies in the wilderness, not in civilisation”

33. “I always wondered how shooting stars could carry the weight of all our wishes and yet, soar across the sky weightlessly”

The following camping quote is this beautiful reminder that requires some food for thought. Not to mention, this would be a great topic while enjoying some time around a campfire.

34. “As soon as the campfire is lit, everyone becomes a storyteller”
35. “If people sat outside and stared at the stars each night, I’d bet they’d live a lot differently”

Last but not least, these two quotes go hand in hand. And, I’m sure that it sparks many fantastic memories for many people.

Moreover, something as simple as company around a campfire underneath a sea of stars offers one of the precious moments in life.

Therefore, never take these special times for granted and simply enjoy them.

Camping Quotes Merchandise

Check out these few items from Amazon that are the perfect addition to your camping collection or add a fun vibe to your home.

This hanging wood art is the perfect wall art addition to any home or camper.

Next, this canvas artwork is another beautiful piece of imagery if you enjoy quote art. Not to mention, the colours of the mountains and purple haze are stunning.

Finally, this set of wall art might be the perfect gift for someone who loves camping. Considering there is a range of imagery one can use and enjoy. Not to mention, the sayings are inspiring and very cute! These would also be nice to place in a nursery.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, there are many wonderful sayings in regards to camping. And, many more funny and inspiring quotes haven’t made it to this list.

Nonetheless, this gives a fantastic insight into the joys of camping. Lastly, I hope at least one of these quotes inspires you to get outside or plan a camp trip with some friends or family.

What is your favourite camping quote or saying?

Read more:
Travel Blog Income Report: The Reality of Travel Blogging in 2021
How to Start a Travel Blog in 2021: Make Money Blogging

Find all of these camping quotes on this Pinterest board and save them for later!

The post 35 Camping Quotes: Inspiring and Funny Camp Quotes appeared first on Ashlee Morgan.

Firstly, I began my blogging journey at the end of April 2021, specifically the 25th. It was the first post that I was putting out to the online world, and it made me super nervous to publish my first piece of written content.

Nonetheless, over the last six months, it’s fair to say that I’ve learnt so much, and it’s been an incredible introduction to the blogging world. As of now (5th October 2021), I have 50 published posts and aim to put out another 50 before the end of the year; It’s a huge goal, but I now have a writing style and feel confident creating written content.

As for the future, I’d like to publish quarterly blogging income reports, so stay tuned for that as that will be taking off next year.

Therefore, looking forward to 2022 and into the future, I’m sure I’ll see an increase in traffic as a bit of normalcy returns to our daily lives. With that being said, I’ve considered my low traffic flow with hopes of it increasing over the following months.

Finally, continue reading my travel blog income report to discover the reality of starting a blog in 2021. And I hope this gives you more insight into travel blogging. Then you can decide if it’s the right fit for you. Lastly, I’ll let you in on all of my current expenses, and the services that I recommend. So, continue reading to find out more.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission on purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you. Moreover, you can read my full affiliate disclosure here.

Travel Blogging Advice

Another part of this travel blog income report is to include some advice from my experience thus far. Moreover, this keeps everything transparent as I let you in on the highlights and the downfalls of starting a travel blog in 2021.

Firstly, travel blogging takes a lot of work with many, many hours. It’s not the kind of business venture to begin if you have no free time. And, this goes for all types of blogging, not just the travel sector.

Secondly, you will go a long time without payment. So, if getting paid is your goal, and you want to make full-time blogging your way of life, be prepared to wait. Therefore, blogging is not a get rich quick type of business investment. And, many writers are weeded out within the first year or so of blogging.

Thirdly, just like any business, you will need to invest money. And, keep in mind that this figure varies widely depending on how much you want to invest, hiring writers, blog designers and much more. So, keep these figures in mind and do some research before starting your own blog.

Finally, if you don’t enjoy writing and doing research, don’t bother starting a blog. Considering, you will be shocked at just how much time it actually takes to create these kinds of posts and how much effort they require.

To give an example, I spend around an average of 6 hours writing a post. However, some can take up to 12 hours, and the odd few take as little as 2-3 hours.

Read more: How to Start a Travel Blog in 2021: Make Money Blogging

Travel Blog Income Report

Income for September 2021: $0

Yep, you read that right; A complete total of $0. Now, I’ll let you know that I’m not upset or worried about seeing that number, as it’s an entirely normal blogging process.

Considering blogging isn’t a get rich quick kind of process, it takes many gruelling months (sometimes even years) to see any signs of a paycheck. And, as I was talking about earlier, the travel blogging world has taken a major hit with the pandemic.

Therefore, if you’re also starting, take note of this travel blog income report to avoid being discouraged.

Expenses for September 2021: $200.93

I’ve added a complete total of my expenses from the start of my journey in April. And, I’ll go ahead and break it all down for you so that you can see where I’ve spent the money.

• Canva: $9 one-off payment
• WP Rocket: $60 / year subscription
• Theme Forest, Salient Theme: $87.90 one-off payment
• Bluehost domain registration and privacy + protection: $44.03 / year subscription

Furthermore, not included in this expense list is my domain hosting platform from Bluehost. Moreover, this cost me a total of $147.32 in June 2020. However, I failed to start my blog in 2020 and proceeded to start it roughly ten months later. Therefore, I wasted almost $50 as I did very little with my blog in this duration.

Additionally, I do not include any travel-related, camera or Instagram expenses within my blog fees. Those are completely separated and take up a different part of my business.

Finally, I aim to put more money into this business into the future, but for now, this is just a starting ground and is an easy way to begin.

My net income for April to September is: -$200.93

The Best Blog Purchases

Out of all of the blog-related expenses, there are a couple that I would absolutely recommend. Firstly, I love my Salient theme as it’s easily customisable and one of the highest-rated themes from Theme Forest.

Secondly, I was shocked at the instant effect of purchasing and activating the WP Rocket plugin. My page speed was averaging at a score of 50-60. However, once obtaining the plugin, it shot up to the 90s. Finally, this is a significant improvement for my blog and will ensure new users of my blog have an optimal and fast experience.

Thirdly, I enjoy using Canva Pro for creating all types of blog-related imagery and media. Moreover, I’ve even used it to design my logo. Furthermore, Canva offers the Pro version for $17.99AUD/Month with a 30-day free trial. Therefore, take advantage of the free trial with this link to see if you enjoy the platform.

Finally, to give you an idea of some of the possibilities on Canva, I’ve included a screenshot of some of the templates.

Purchase Canva Pro

Goals for the Rest of the Year

I strongly believe that goal setting is a crucial part of any business. And while I still have plenty of work to do in setting up my blog and writing more posts, I have a few goals that I’d like to achieve before the end of the year.

• Publish a total of 100 posts
• Earn $5 from my blog
• 20,000 blog impressions with clicks on the rise
• Focus on increasing my email list

Blog Traffic and Impressions

From April 25th – September 30th 2021

From the traffic I receive, 9.1% of my visitors are returning to my travel blog. Moreover, this is great to see as people are willing to come back to my website to discover new posts from me.

Nonetheless, I have a total of 159 new users. Besides, this is a considerable number to see when just starting as I have plenty more to achieve and lots of room for growth.

Monthly Blog Traffic:
April: 64 page views
May: 46 page views
June: 41 page views
July: 45 page views
August: 57 page views
September: 78 page views

Finally, it’s understandable to see these kinds of metrics for my page views considering the majority of this timeframe, a lot of Australia was experiencing lockdowns.

Therefore, leaving people with no need to travel (and read travel blogs). However, we are now coming into Summer, so I expect to see an increase in traffic as more people begin moving around for the holiday season.

How You Can Support My Travel Blog

There are various ways in which you can support my travel blog. Firstly, the best way to support this blog is to read my entire posts, leave a comment at the end and subscribe to my email list for future updates.

Additionally, you can follow my journey over on Instagram. I do my best to post a few times a week with engaging and visually pleasing photos and videos.

Finally, thank you for the support on this post. I can’t wait to see where the future takes us!

Wrapping Up

To sum up, blogging is hard. And, making money online is even harder. Although, all in all, I’ve loved the journey so far and feel like I’m only on the tip of the iceberg into my travel blogging journey.

Besides, I know there are many years of hard work to come, though I’m determined and feel as though I’ve unearthed a true passion of mine.

Have you recently discovered the online world of travel blogging? What do you think of this travel blog income report? Is this the kind of niche you want to get into?

Read more:
60 Travel Blog Post Ideas: Travel Blogging Guide
30 Travel Quotes: With Images

The post Travel Blog Income Report: The Reality of Travel Blogging in 2021 appeared first on Ashlee Morgan.