Follow this little known secret to save money as a long term backpacker.

A lot of backpackers feel they have to bring everything they will need for their trip when they start. They might even think they will save money because then they will not have to buy anything at their destination. I am here to tell you that it does not always work this way.

Overpacking will cost you

The first reason this may not save money is you will overpack and may have extra baggage fees when flying. Just one of these fees could easily cost as much as buying some new things at your destination. But there are some other ways to save your money instead of buying everything new.

Try a used store

Usually, the belongs you will end up leaving will be clothing. New to you clothing is easy to find. The first place you could look to save money will be at used clothing shops. Most of these shops will have a vast selection to choose from and be a fraction of the price as a store to buy new. The next option, though, will save you even more!

Backpackers have a habit of leaving or forgetting personal belongings

Since you are already trying to save money, you will probably be staying at hostels. What many backpackers don’t realize is that people often leave a lot of personal belongs at hostels. Sometimes people decide they no longer need some of what they brought, so they want to leave things behind. Other times they accidentally leave things when they check out, and it is just not worth the effort to get it returned. What backpacker wants to pay to send a shirt they accidentally left? This can work out to your advantage!

What happens to these belongings?

Hostels have to do something with all of the belongings left behind. Most hostels will hold belongings for at least a week to give the owner a chance to claim it. After the week, they will usually start to get rid of it. Some hostels will take everything directly to a donation center, but others will put everything into a free stuff space for anyone to take before donating.

One backpacker’s loss is another backpacker’s gain

These free stuff areas usually contain clothing but sometimes contain much more. I have seen charging cables, soaps, lotions, and camping equipment, shoes, and more. You can take anything you want from these; just remember to leave items you no longer need some time in the future. The hostels that do not have a free stuff area will probably still have stuff they can give away. All you have to do is ask reception, and they can usually help you out!

I use this tactic myself sometimes

Recently, I took advantage of free stuff when I took a trip to the Australian Outback. I took a group tour, and they offered sleeping bag hire for $50, but I did not want to pay that much. Instead, I found a sleeping bag left at the hostel I was staying at and packed that for my outback trip. A post is coming soon to read about that trip!

Plan ahead and save money!

So if you are getting ready to go on a trip, make sure you don’t overpack. If you are already on a trip, then ask reception about any free stuff if you think you might need to get anything!

Ohh, and as an added bonus, check the kitchen for any free food! Most hostels have a spot for free food, as well!