Backpack Moments
A Blog About Long-Term Backpacking, Budget Travel, and Unforgettable Experiences
I’m Simon the Backpacker
Being a backpacker is about having memorable experiences without breaking the bank.
I bet you want that too. You’ve come to the right place!
I create travel guides that include logistics, planning, saving money, and travel inspiration for backpacking across Asia and beyond.
I don’t sugarcoat places and I only recommend what’s worth it.
By a backpacker for backpackers, welcome to Backpack Moments.
Latest on the Blog
My latest guides, tips, and posts. I hope they are as entertaining as they are informative!
Tumpak Sewu Waterfall Guide: The Thousand Cascades of East Java
When it comes to waterfalls, Indonesia does it best. Java, in particular, hides some impressive[…]
Thailand vs. Vietnam: Which One Suits You?
Thailand or Vietnam, showdown in 3, 2, 1… Fortunately, it’s not that simple. Those are[…]
Is Flores, Indonesia, Worth the Journey to Get There?
Flores, part of Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands, is a much less-traveled alternative to Bali, Lombok,[…]
Is it Ethical to Visit a Long-neck Karen Village in Thailand?
Traveling through northern Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, or along the Mae Hong[…]
Mae Hong Son Loop: The Full Guide
The Mae Hong Son Loop is a winding, mountainous route in northern Thailand best done[…]
Money in The Philippines: A Tourist Guide to ATMs, Cards and Exchange
If you’re planning to travel to The Philippines and need to wrap your head around[…]
Is That “Ethical” Elephant Sanctuary in Thailand Really Ethical?
Spoiler: Probably not. But also… kind of. Maybe, perhaps just sometimes. Welcome to the murky[…]
Songkran in Thailand: A Survival Guide
Imagine it’s 40°C, you’re walking down the street minding your own business, and suddenly a[…]
How to visit the Kelimutu Lakes and are they worth it?
A dormant volcano shrouded in mystery, three lakes with unpredictable and ever-changing hues, a short[…]
Check out these
Cool Destinations
top destination of 2024
Timor Leste
Who even visits Timor Leste? Not many, that’s for sure. But I did and let me tell you – it’s an incredible country with a huge potential to become the next Bali. Or more!
But I hope it doesn’t. East Timor’s charm is in its pristine nature, the unspoilt beaches and the incredibly warm and friendly people.
It’s firmly in my top 10 countries in the world!
My Most Detailed Guide
Java
Java island, home to 160 million people doesn’t get enough hype. However, anything you can find on Bali, you can also find on Java and then some!
Java has huge busy cities, ancient temples, cute beaches, exhilarating waterfalls, growling volcanoes, authentic culture, delicious food, and lovely people.
Here’s the best 2-weeks itinerary about places to visit between Jakarta and Bali.
Off-the-beaten path
IRAQI KURDISTAN
This place is simply amazing!
The region has all the bad reputation, but is actually pretty safe and the Kurdish people are one of the most welcoming and hospitable in the world!
Check out the Ultimate Guide to Backpacking in Iraqi Kurdistan!
I swear I don’t always have such messy hair, my beard isn’t usually so weird, although my hoodie is a goodie.
If you see me wearing the same clothes in pictures from different countries, it’s because as a backpacker these are the only clothes I have (I hate buying new things if the old still works!)
My Life Moto
Collect Moments, Not Things.
I have been traveling full time for a while now. Everything I own fits inside my backpack.
I don’t buy magnets, keychains, postcards, or other memorabilia because I have nowhere to store them!
I collect moments instead. Fleeting, pleasant and not so pleasant, serene and loud, intimate and exhilarating.
Thus was born the name: Backpack Moments.
“To move, to breathe, to fly, to float,
To gain all while you give,
To roam the roads of lands remote,
To Travel Is To Live“
Hans Christian Andersen said that and I couldn’t agree more.
I only blog about places I’ve personally visited and all content is written by me without the use of AI.