Often associated with students, backpacking is not just an option for those trying to keep costs down. Many consider it a way to see the world in its most unpretentious, raw form. Travel website JoGuru lists some of the best backpacking destinations around the world.

As travel writer Eugene Fodor rightly put it: “One doesn’t have to be rich to travel well.”

Travelling is a great way to lose and also find oneself at the same time. What better way to travel than to be a part of the local culture, embracing life in a new city like one of its own? Backpacking is a form of budget travel where a tourist travels with minimal luggage, courage and lots of charm.

Although they have to be sensible and minimise the risks of danger off the beaten track, experiencing relatively unspoiled locations is a big reward.

There are a number of countries that have special visas for backpackers that allow them to work, meaning they can stay away even longer.

Carrying all your kit is only a downside when you hit the beach, such as this one in Baja California, Mexico.

Mexico

Mexico is a backpacker’s paradise. A real bang for the buck and an absolute treat for solo travellers, Mexico becomes a friend the minute you step foot in it. It’s relatively safe, as most crime does not target foreigners, and offers plenty of opportunities for all kinds of travellers – a diverse cultural heritage, breath-taking natural beauty and lots of mystical towns to explore.

The food is renowned and the infamous Mexican chilli casts an intoxicating spell on the most seasoned gourmand. Wash all this down with a refreshing aguas frescas and finish up with the rich arroz con leche, and it’s easy to believe all is good in the world.

Portugal

Perhaps the best bet for a backpacker in Europe, Portugal is every bit as charming and captivating as the more glamorous and expensive Spain and Italy. All good things in Portugal are, like they say about life, free. Most of the best sights in Porto are free of charge and Lisbon has an interesting variety of hostels for a budget traveller. Besides, most of what Portugal has to offer is hiding in plain sight; its old world, laid back elegance, the romance of the hill-side retreat Sintra, the jazz-filled streets of the upper city in Lisbon. Portugal is exotic yet warm, overwhelming yet homely.

Indonesia

It’s easy to forget that you are on a shoestring budget in the extremely cheap and multifarious Indonesia. Imagine a country that is made of 17,000 islands, all of which have different topographies and natural wonders. Indonesia is so much more than lying on the pristine beaches of Bali.

A surfer’s paradise and a gypsy’s haven, this country is a small wonder in itself. Although transportation could get a little tricky, the food and sleep options will more than make up for the discomfort.

Argentina

Argentina is changing every second but its picturesque landscape and poetic beauty mesmerises visitors. The country is great for fans of nature; it is difficult not to be awed by the mighty Iguazu falls, unbelievable rainforests and some of the highest peaks in the world that adorn Argentinian landscapes.

Go far beyond your comfort zone, there’s so much to be thankful for here. Relish the juiciest steaks and ruby-red wines, and then tango the night away in this South American wonderland.

Nepal

The biggest souvenir to take back from Nepal is the memory of smiling, friendly faces. Nepal is a feast not just for the eyes, but also for the wallet.

With the colossal Himalayas as a backdrop and the peace of mind that most other countries lack, Nepal has views that will stay in the mind forever.

A dream destination for avid trekkers, Nepal does not disappoint nature enthusiasts. Add to that the hospitality of its people; you will be glad to have hopped on to that shaky flight.

The Czech Republic

This is perhaps central Europe’s best-kept secret and does a fine job of entertaining even the most demanding tourists. The beauty of this country lies in the mystique that surrounds it. Chateaux and castles abound, so the culture and architecture of the Czech Republic will hypnotise an enthusiastic traveller.

With many options of hostels and cheap accommodation, particularly outside the capital Prague, you do not need to be loaded to experience the opulence of this country.

Tanzania

As one of the few friendly and relatively safe countries in Africa, Tanzania really has some world-class sights to experience. Whether it’s the wildebeest migration in Serengeti, the stunning Kilimanjaro peak or Zanzibar’s spellbinding blue waters, Tanzania offers many reasons to fall in love and is a great entrance to this fascinating, if challenging, continent.