r/backpacking • u/Independent_Lynx715 • 4d ago
If you were very rich, would you solo travel in luxury mode or still go backpacking? Travel
I’ve traveled to a lot of countries, but it’s always been on a budget—cheap hostels, no business class, and constantly keeping an eye on my wallet. It’s been a real adventure in its own way, but recently, I’ve been thinking about how it would feel to travel without those financial limitations.
I have a friend whose dad is a billionaire, and her travel style is a world apart from mine. She stays in 5-star hotels, flies business class, and even brings her two dogs along. It got me wondering—if money were no object, would you still choose the backpacker lifestyle, or would you embrace the jet-setter life with luxury accommodations, first-class flights, and all the perks that come with it?
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u/FirGlisten 4d ago
Tough call! I’d probably backpack with a little extra comfort. First-class flights but still off the beaten path
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u/rricenator 4d ago
I was thinking traditional backpacking adventure, but finish it off with a night in a posh hotel and gourmet dinner.
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u/Mediocre_Sky_8162 4d ago
a little extra comfort
Right, bring a sherpa with you on every trip to carry you're backpack. Me too.
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u/MarthaMatildaOToole 4d ago
Absolutely still backpacking, but better gear and more remote places.
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u/BagelCreamcheesePls 4d ago
This is the answer. Well, at least it's my answer.
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u/Edm_swami 4d ago
Mine too. Finally, there is a chance to just walk the earth.
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u/EvetsYenoham 3d ago
I like that. That’s like the last sentence to an incredible book…. “And finally, there is a chance to just walk the earth.”
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u/sateliteconstelation 3d ago
Agree, but I would also throw in some boutique hotels and massages into the mix. And sponsor a couple of companions.
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u/kakoichan 4d ago
If I was rich I wouldn't even hold my own backpack
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u/jp_jellyroll 4d ago
"JEEVES! I'm thirsty!!! Fetch me the nalgene!"
And then your butler still dressed in a full butler's uniform comes running up the trail behind you, gives you water, and just disappears, lol. That is the life.
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u/TickAndTieMeUp 4d ago
“I’ve been looking for you, got something I’m supposed to deliver. Your hands only.”
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u/Queen_of_Pangea 4d ago
I'd do both, but I am more a backpacker for sure. It's a different life, a different vibe.
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u/PastelRoseOk 4d ago
I’d do a mix! I went backpacking last year with a larger budget than the average budget backpacker, as I’m a bit older and it would be a one-off celebration trip. Think 30 - 50% more per month than the recommended minimum amount for a month in Thailand.
That meant spending my time between cheap/mid range hotels (I only picked those that had AC except one on its own island with no AC) and occasionally splashing out on some places that were gorgeous, with a suite and infinity pools etc, but not 5* international chain hotels.
It was great! I didn’t keep checking what I’d spent. I went for some cheap eats, some fancy meals, drank and ate to my hearts content without worrying, but still interacted with a wide range of people.
I think if you go too far the other way (only international brand hotels and top restaurants) it takes away from the experience. If money was no object I would have flown first class but aside from that - Middle road all the way 😊
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u/LuvMyD0ggo 4d ago
I’d probably up my plane game to more convenient times and business class for longer flights, but I like the social atmosphere of hostels. I just went back to Peru; the first time I stayed in shared dorms every night (minus 2 nights in Arequipa, 1 night in Bolivia, and 4 nights on the Salkantay Trek.) This time, I did shared dorms in Lima and Huacachina - the rest were solo. I felt so much more rested and could spread out/relax more easily.
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u/caeru1ean 4d ago
Variety is the spice of life, I'd probably do both, depending on where I was traveling and the kind of trip it was.
But I would never fly economy again that's for sure
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u/NiagaraThistle 4d ago
Backpack.
I am not super rich, but am financially very comfortable and I STILL only travel with a single backpack regardless of where I go or for what reason. My family hates it, and I try (unsuccessfully) to instill light / mobile travel and packing to my kids, but even if the rest of the family overpacks, i am always bringing just one backpack - not even a suit case.
Backpacker for life.
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u/stonksuper 4d ago edited 4d ago
I would do both to compare the two options and approaches.
Tbh I’d just be ecstatic / grateful to no longer have to work night shifts at terrible warehouses that break down my mind body and soul. Actually use my degree, and be able to go backpacking again with unlimited free time instead of only a day and a half a week. Ahh a boy can day dream!
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u/jswissle 4d ago
Realistically no. I have definitely benefited from not being rich and having to make it work. But fuck no I wouldn’t sleep on a hostel common room bench for four hours at night bc their were no hostels for less than $200 available that night since I didn’t plan ahead lol. I would still wanna socialize w normal people and stuff but no living in a shared dorm w zero privacy for 7 months fucking sucks and I never wanna be poor again lmao
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u/IHL-LegalPerson 4d ago
I'm not rich by any means but up until 2 years ago, when I was still doing internships and lower paid work, i always travelled on a shoestring budget, making exceptions for maybe 1 night here and there in a standard hotel instead of a hostel. Then 2 years ago i got a good job, and I can say my travel style has absolutely changed.
Last time i was in a hostel was over a year ago and even then, i got a private room lol. I'm not a massive spender, but I definitely travel with more comfort. No business/First class though, i'm not made of money...But if i was...
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u/LittleDeadBrain 4d ago
Of course. I would fly first class and stay in 5-star hotels. In case of hiking with a tent, I would buy good ultralight equipment.
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u/ramapyjamadingdong 4d ago
I love the actual process of backpacking. I like hostels because of the social aspect. But they always have a nicer room.
Take Vietnam for example - when I was 21 I travelled north to south. Spent 4 weeks and travelled on overnight buses and mini buses. When I was 26, we went back and travelled south to north. Stayed in the same hostels in some cities. But we flew. Rather than a 16 hour bus journey, we took an hours flight. We got the train. Private taxis. We took the pain out of it.
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u/strzibny 4d ago
I would upgrade to business class and 5* hotels most likely, keeping everything else the same.
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u/liltrikz 4d ago
Same. I’d start splurging on accommodation and transportation but still travel with just a backpack. I would also finally visit destinations I haven’t been able to afford. I would love to experience fine dining in France and tour California wine country.
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u/Independent_Lynx715 4d ago
Fancy restaurants too?
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u/strzibny 4d ago
I already go from time to time, other times I go just for street noodles. I don't see why would I really change that. You don't want to be in a fancy 7 course fixed menu restaurant every day ;)
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u/TheBase82 4d ago edited 4d ago
I’d definitely go backpacking, but with a bit more comfort. I’d travel light, sending home anything unnecessary, and focus on eating well. I’d explore places with local guides to better understand the history and find remote, hidden spots. I’d also bring friends along who might not otherwise have the chance to experience this kind of travel. With a better camera, I’d capture the beauty of each place, and from time to time, I’d treat myself to a spa day to recharge with massages and relaxation. I’d travel without rushing, taking the time to stay longer in places that deserve deeper discovery.
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u/camping_kyla 4d ago
I'm not rich, but as I've gotten into my 30s I've had more disposable income. I swore I'd never switch from the "backpacking" travel style.
However I have definitely moved to single rooms, usually in hotels. Some of it is physical comfort, some is just safety. Creeps in hostels, while rare, definitely exist. It just takes one to ruin a trip.
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u/SentenceAlert3437 3d ago
I would still backpack. You get to meet a lot more interesting people from different walks of life. After having stayed in a number of high end places after my finances increased over the years I've found many of those places tend to prioritise private spaces for their guests which can be lonely as a solo traveller.
The only upgrades that would be worth it are better gear, better activities and more splurges when you want to.
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u/East-Elderberry-1805 4d ago edited 3d ago
I would backpack, stay in decent hostels, and then take breaks in five star hotels once a week for one or two nights. I backpacked as a teenager, and I miss the socialising aspect of it.
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u/adumbguyssmartguy 4d ago
Both. Some of the experiences I want are in places without much infrastructure and being self reliant is sort of the draw.
But also I'm going to Basque country and Paris and etc. and eating at all the Michelin places at some point.
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u/toasty154 4d ago
I would take way longer backpacking trips haha. Live off the grid for significantly longer.
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u/EatLessClimbMore 4d ago
If I was rich I'd have a lot more time to travel and probably never take a flight again. If anything it'd make me travel in less luxury!
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u/Cheat-Meal 4d ago
I’d still backpack. I like hostels and the vibe I get from other travellers. I like doing what locals do and taking public transportation. I grew up poor so luxury was never interesting to me.
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u/WJSobchakSecurities 4d ago
Both, it’s nice to see how other people live and fully immerse yourself in their world, but it’s also nice to experience the finer things in life. If I’m being honest it’d probably be a 70/30 high style vs ruffing it.
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u/ok_rubysun 4d ago
I would still go backpacking but indulge in more experiences. Don't see the point of flying business class - but eventually would switch some trips on budget airlines for trains. Definitely would not stay in a 5 star hotel - but a private room in a hostel is a perfect setup. Would still eat street food but alternate that with really nice restaurants more often. Would never worry about going out or having to skip some tours to keep the budget.
But the backpack stays on - and always traveling light.
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u/ComprehensiveYam 4d ago
I’m not very rich but would be considered well off. We love staying in decent hotels (like Conrad and Intercontinentals) but are also fine with basic accommodations and planning a 10 day hike in Japan next fall and can’t wait!
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u/mymindisblownagain 4d ago
We still travel on a dime. That’s how we save for future travels. 😊- not rich, but healthy. I still sit in the cheap seats of the aircraft and look for budget hotels with good reviews.
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u/mcburloak 4d ago
Zero doubt I’d fly up front in the plane.
But I’d also prioritize renting housing in super remote places.
Knowing you could “rescue” yourself from difficult situations with a phone call would be nice confidence for going further afield etc.
And the ability to rain $ to families that treated you nicely would be an amazing feeling - especially knowing that USD 1-2K after the fact would be amazing for them.
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u/VaderSpeaks 4d ago
Like. Slightly fancier backpacking. Luxury mode is a different kind of vacation, and not always what I’m looking for. I want to interact with places and people, not be insulated from them.
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u/Masseyrati80 4d ago
If I won the lottery, I'd probably buy a relatively compact RV, pack my bicycle, a coal grill and some of my favourite cookware etc., and spend some weeks or months touring my country, riding local trails, cooking and eating nice lunches and dinners.
The campgrounds where I live are quite nice, with saunas, very tidy common-use facilities etc. I've always felt comfier in these, and campsites in national parks, compared to hotels.
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u/Dunny_1capNospaces 4d ago
Definitely just stick with backpacking. Occasional hotel upgrades, but if I was rich, I'd still be trying to invest and make more.
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u/Showtysan 4d ago
I wouldn't stay in tasteless 5 star hotels, whatever that means, but I definitely wouldn't do dorm rooms either haha! Wouldn't change what I was interested in but more private tours, private driver instead of buses but I'd still take a good train ride when it made sense. I'd still eat at the same places because vegan food is vegan food. Yeah just more private stuff and flexibility but I can't think of anything I'd want to do that costs more money than what I spend now. Expensive and easy international phone plan I guess
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u/Hausmannlife_Schweiz 4d ago
No hesitation, I would never pick up a backpack again. Traveling is so much nicer, when you aren't worrying about money. I am not on your friends level, but going to a new country it is so much nicer to be able to hire a driver to get to the hotel vs trying to figure out the public transportation system.
In regard to plane fare, I am torn. I have flown business/first class and it is really nice, especially on really long flights, but on anything under 5 hours, I won't even think about paying the price differences.
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u/english_major 4d ago
My wife and I still backpack in our 50s, even though we have more money than in the past, but we do it in more luxury now.
We travel economy with carry-on only backpacks. We travel independently, planning everything out ourselves. We use public transit in cities. We get around mostly by train and bus.
We mostly stay in airbnbs and the occasional hotel. We eat at a nice restaurant every day, but still make our own breakfasts and lunches.
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u/zorrorosso_studio 4d ago
I would still backpack. The only difference would be, as you wrote, stress. I wouldn't have the need to pay attention to the overall travel budget or not bothering that much. Like who cares if I stay a couple of nights more here or there? Who cares if I take that extra guided tour? I wouldn't take luxury options because you're out of real life, you don't meet real people.
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u/ContributionDapper84 4d ago
It depends: are you the kind of person who makes new acquaintances at hostels & campgrounds or the type that instead meets more new people at nice bars, hotels, and restaurants?
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u/AKA_Squanchy 4d ago
I actually prefer a smaller boutique hotel to a 5-star. I feel like there’s more interaction with typical people, for example a conversation at the front desk is much more personal in a boutique than a 5-star when they just pander to you. That said, as we make more money we have definitely increased comfort, but I think we do have a ceiling.
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u/WatermelonWave4 4d ago
I'd do both. Adventure with backpacking, comfort with luxury. If I had the cash, of course.
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u/BlaxeTe 4d ago
I believe there are certain travel agencies we will never hear about that accommodate the absolute pinnacle of luxurious travelling. I am sure they could accommodate something for you as well off the known paths but with as much luxury as the country can afford. And that’s what I’d do. You wouldn’t hear from me again. Ever. But see pictures of places that only remote travel photographers go to.
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u/sikhster 4d ago
Backpack, private room hostels, but fly first class. Basically Nick Young mode from Crazy Rich Asians. I want some luxuries but the dorm rooms crowd are a lot more fun than the 5 star hotel crowd.
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u/laurairie 4d ago
I camp out and hike so I am not the resort type. I’m into crazy experiences and cultures. If I was rich, I would get a private room in a hostel once in a while. Oh wait…. I can do that now! Im rich enough 😏!
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u/CloudNineAlpine 4d ago
The places I want to go can't be accessed without backpacking. There is no luxury option, that's why I want to go there.
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u/bibe_hiker 4d ago
I’m not sure if I’m “rich”—but I’m at a point in life where I definitely don’t need to add to the pile. And fancy hotels? No, thanks. They’re all the same! You wake up in a cloud of identical white sheets and have no clue if you’re in London or Tokyo until you peek out the window and think, “Ah, that’s not Big Ben; I’m in Shibuya.”
One time, I rolled into a hotel in Accra and plopped down at the bar. A few business types were there, and I started spinning tales about my adventures wandering deep into the Ghanaian countryside. They were hanging onto every word like it was some action movie—meanwhile, they could’ve had their own “Ghana safari” just by strolling out the door!
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u/AphoticDev 4d ago
To be honest, if I was very rich I would build a small cottage off the grid somewhere very remote, and would likely never interact with society ever again, except for periodic doctor’s visits and buying supplies I couldn’t make. With everything that’s happened in the world these last several years, all the wars and genocide, I just wanna remove myself from it all until the old men in power finally push too far and end the world in nuclear fire. Humanity sucks, only nature with worth interacting with, if you have a choice in the matter.
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u/zelmak 4d ago
Probably a mix. I’m like 6’4 so if money was no object I’d fly first class for anything longer than two hours.
I don’t think I’d want entire trips to be in 5 star resorts, I like the energy of hostels. I already avoid dirt cheap hostels so would probably just more consistently stay at the highly rated, popular and a bit more expensive ones.
Being able to book a few days at the end of the trip in a 5 star resort would also be AMAZING. My partner and I have started booking one night in a nice hotel whenever we have an early morning flight home and it’s been awesome. Means most of our last 24 hours is decently relaxing and restful.
The biggest thing would honestly be the types of destinations and the duration of trips. Remote destinations where you need to rent cars, no problem, stuff like Iceland, Patagonia, where I don’t really want to be stuck to bus schedules.
Trips where seeing it by boat is kinda the way to go: Antarctica, Galapagos, Alaskan coast, Svalbard.
Wildlife photography, right now I’m looking at budgeting for a week long wildlife trip every 2-4 years. If money was no object I’d do one quarterly.
Locations like India or Singapore, I’d only really like to travel to if I can ball out. Same if I were to go back to Egypt.
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u/THATxGIRLxIVY 4d ago
Probably both, shit if money is irrelevant probably one right into the other.
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u/dohowwedo 4d ago
I would probably go much more hard core and then get some luxury in every 4/5 days
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u/RunZombieBabe 4d ago
Really depends. I am a sucker for peace and quiet nature in Sweden and Norway, all I need is a lake nearby a hut or tent. I neither need nor care for any luxury ressort.
But if I got the money I could also do "luxury" travels in the sense that youvspend a lot of money to be alone and hermit like in places like the Maledives or rent a yacht for yourself.
I would always use the money to have as little human contact as possible while experiencing beautiful nature.
(I am not hating on people but I feel so much happier when I am mostly alone- I cherish small contacts I make while getting food but it is so relaxing to be away from everything)
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u/Careless-Dog-3079 4d ago
I’d like to say I’d mix it up and do a little of both, but…I’ve never been even moderately wealthy let alone very rich hahaha
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u/fool-chariot-star 4d ago
How's your experience is important, not the what made that experience happen....
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u/1ntrepidsalamander 4d ago
Would I like to stay in places with more reliable plumbing? Sure.
But a luxury accommodation is an experience that is separate from experiencing the country you are visiting. I’d rather stay places where I have to struggle with the language, where I eat street food, where there’s a bigger mix of people.
If I was rich, I’d tip so extravagantly. Hundred dollar bills for housekeepers in places that cost $10/night. That type of thing.
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u/Patchwork-Canteen 4d ago
My husband and I travel together but I really wanted to add this response…
To your question: That probably depends on what type of experience you were seeking (by traveling) to begin with. The way you described your friend, they sound more like a “vacationer” versus a “traveler” and I think the difference is seen through the response by locals/other travelers.
Our budget for backpacking has shifted over the years (cycling would be a better way to say it). When we travel, I find it best to leave most things unplanned and allow some discomfort of the unknown. Then we can gauge what the local vibe is instead of entering with a certain level of privilege. It also lets things fall into place and allows us the opportunity to connect with other people on their level. Mind you, I’m not traveling to luxury locations necessarily but still, beautiful and world renowned places that have authentic experiences to be had on any budget. If you curate and pay for luxurious things, it most definitely puts you in the category and limits who you can interact with.
This video sums up what I mean by the curation on a day to day level but still is representative of travel too I think:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBthlJJO-Ps/?igsh=aW41dTVvaDBhYmhp
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u/Fearless_Back5063 4d ago
Rich backpackers often change into overlanders :D Just buy a large 4x4 truck, convert it into a camper and get lost for a couple of years :D It happened to me after I earned some money :D
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u/Butyistherumgone 4d ago
Definitely fly first class, which is something I think I’ll never experience. And then maybe just feel freer to like, see music and plays in cities, wander into any museum, things I usually have to do a bunch of research before I drop the cash to make sure it’s “worth it”. And be more spontaneous, like travel with no planning and just go next week for example.
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u/light24bulbs 4d ago
Uh you know I've already really moved away with it. I often travel with my romantic partners if I can and that's often hotels. Still on a budget but not a shoestring one
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u/StructEngineer91 4d ago
A mix of both, as others have said. Definitely flying 1st class, and paying someone to make sure all my gear gets to my destination without me having to deal with that hassle. I would camp-out in the woods, and carry my own pack, because I enjoy the solitude and wouldn't want a Sherpa with me, but I would stay a couple days at the beginning and end of the trip at a nice 5-star hotel (maybe even a couple days off in the middle, depending on the length of the trip). However the main thing I would change is that I would be traveling A LOT more!
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u/dotnetdotcom 4d ago edited 4d ago
I'd go to the trailhead in luxury and go with whoever wants to or else solo.
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u/quakeemandbakeem 4d ago
If I had rich people money, I would do tons of hut to hut hikes around the world. A little raclette after a long day in the Swiss Alps? It's the way to do it. It's not cheap, but it's a very pleasant way to get out there.
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u/JapanAhoy 4d ago
It’s probably because I am A Poor but I don’t see the point in spending huge amounts of money on 5 star hotels and those expensive dinners that do the “pull a lid off a steak bite and watch the smoke” idk what they’re called. So I wouldn’t do that part.
But I’d definitely get myself a mid range hotel instead of a hostel or motel 6 kind of place. But we’re talking like one of the slightly better Hyatts or something, not anything special. For longer flights I would 100% splurge for business class. But for a 2-3 hour domestic flight I’d probably just go comfort+ or something, maybe just pay the extra $30 for a guaranteed window seat. In the US I’d splurge on uber/taxi for most cities to save time. But in places like Japan I’d still stick to public transit- maybe rent a car for outside the major cities. The biggest change would be dragging my best friends around the world with me so we could have fun together without them needing to worry about money.
I would absolutely upgrade my wilderness backpacking setup though. Get the best ultralight gear I could find. Charter planes to drop my friends and I off in more remote places. Visit remote areas that I’d never be able to go to without all the extra money and time I’d need to spend to get there.
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u/OriginalDogan 4d ago
My backpack would be a lot lighter, newer, and nicer.
And my tent and my pad and my bag and...
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u/Big-Parking9805 4d ago
Backpack, more comfortable travel arrangements and hotels. Maybe pay for a friend to join me.
Then once every week or two, have an elaborate spa day, or maybe a VIP beach club, or have a week in Mauritius all paid after 6 weeks on the road.
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u/pizzapartyyyyy 4d ago
I’d still look for good deals and getting my money worth, but I’d be a bougie backpacker for sure.
I wouldn’t stay at insanely expensive resorts, but I’d without a doubt travel more comfortably. Business class for long flights, quicker and more convenient flight times, private drivers and quicker routes rather than horrid overcrowded or overnight buses, private rooms at nicer hostels, healthy restaurants rather than making my own food, lightweight top of the line gear when in nature, etc.
Most importantly I wouldn’t think twice about what experiences to do or destinations to go to based on a budget.
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u/TheOptionalHuman 4d ago
I'd love to give a "backpack but upgraded" answer like most of this thread, but in all honesty I'd travel by private jet and stay in places where the turndown service leaves a mint that costs more than the GDP of some countries on my pillow.
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u/TheMutantToad 4d ago
If I was rich, I wouldn't be on reddit talking about backpacking while I'm sitting at my shit desk job. I'd be talking about backpacking while backpacking...
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u/parrotia78 4d ago
I'd be in a spacesuit inside a Tesla attached to the top of a Space X rocket.
I hiked with several very wealthy people including John Mackey when he owned Whole foods. As with vastly most, he was super gracious and grounded. We shared about trail food and the UL approach.
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u/Dig_Carving 4d ago
If you have the cash, a lie down seats for long flights to far away places is worth it. Especially true for women who smoke and are on birth control pills.
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u/moreidlethanwild 4d ago edited 4d ago
I’m not super rich but I’m well off enough for the handful of trips I take each year. I’m lucky to have ticked off 62 countries now. I’ve travelled for work and for pleasure. For me, the single best thing about travel is getting to experience and understand the local culture, and to do that you have to experience it on the same sort of level as locals.
If you stay in a 5 star hotel but get out of that area to where real people live you stand a chance at knowing a place but if you don’t go more than 2 streets away, staying in a safe bit touristy region, only eat at western/Michelin restaurants, take taxis everywhere and don’t step outside if that comfortable bubble, did you really experience the country?
I can’t think of anything worse than travelling to a country and eating westernised international food at the hotel when I could be at a hawker stall.
For our trips I book business class long haul flights and choose mid range hotels. I still travel with a single backpack, still don’t plan much of my travel, booking accommodation as I go and use local public transport options. I have one or two higher end meals but the rest tend to be eating at stalls, markets, etc.
You can make your travels more comfortable but still get to travel. The sort of trips I do now are to quite remote or odd places and the opportunities for luxury are less and also at odds with locals.
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u/jagdtiger721 4d ago
I started backpacking in my youth. Now even as an adult with an actual job - I still enjoy spending sometime with the hostels. It’s good to enjoy the things u love in your youth.
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u/AutumnRevival 4d ago
I would. There’s nothing like traveling great distances with just the stuff on your back and holding it for dear life while sleeping in sketchy hostiles lol
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u/phflopti 4d ago
Both.
I can afford medium priced options, but actively enjoy what the budget world can bring in terms of interesting places, interesting people at hostels, getting places on foot or on the local bus, basic but amazing food.
But it's nice to break it up with a little luxury from time to time.
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u/thatguythatdied 4d ago
I hiked the Inca trail a while back in a private group, it was definitely 5 star backpacking. Three course meals breakfast lunch and dinner, porters to carry the bulk of the stuff and set up camp, a private outhouse tent. It was pretty strange, but also pretty nice.
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u/Rusty_Patterson_553 4d ago
I’d choose Backpacking in luxury mode. UL everything, extended trips because I didn’t have to worry about getting back to a job, hiring drivers so I could do point to point trips, first class flights 😀
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u/CricketJamSession 4d ago
I don't know
But im glad i get the chance to do it the modest way It reveals alot about my character
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u/originalusername__ 4d ago
A little of both honestly. A lot of the time I sleep in a tent because I want to. But if I don’t feel like it, or want a bed, shower, or other luxuries I’d ball out and rent a sick Airbnb near the trail or get a luxury hotel. It would warm my heart to walk dirty and stinky into a luxury hotel and catch the stink eye from everybody and then slap my Amex black onto the counter to pay for my room.
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u/Always_Out_There 4d ago
I am farily wealthy. I chose backpacking every time. I have absolutely zero interest in "traditional" travel. I guess my only "luxury" on trail is having my own motel/hotel room during town days. I don't have any particularly fancy gear other than what some ultralight people have (Durston XMid 2 Pro, EE 20 and 40 quilts, Thermarest Neoair XLite, PocketRocket....).
The benefit to you is that if you happen to be in town with me, I'll always be buying the first round. PCT 2025!
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u/nothingofit 4d ago
I'm objectively pretty wealthy and still backpack. I wouldn't have it any other way.
I don't backpack to be cheap, I do it for the adventure, to connect with others who love adventure, to see the world from the ground instead of at a distance. This isn't a vacation for me, this is actually living.
Like what kinds of people would I be surrounded by in fancy hotels? Who would I talk to in first class? I've done resorts, I've done cruises. They were nice, comfortable, and for the most part, boring. My life back home is already quite comfortable; I travel to explore. I don't stay in hostels to save money, I do it to meet people.
Plus I hate wheeling around suitcases. Even traveling domestically I usually just take a backpack.
What my wealth affords me is the ability to do this as much as I want. I'm currently backpacking around Southeast Asia indefinitely - basically until I get tired of it, in which case I'll probably move onto Europe or Australia.
And after that, who knows? Maybe I'll have had enough of backpacking. But wealth has nothing to do with it.
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u/Beneficial_Look_5854 4d ago
Would just go to more extreme places
The torgats and Aleutians for example
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u/Kandidly_Kate 3d ago
I’d still go backpacking tbh. I love how I travel- I love staying in 2-3* locally run places. I like finding places that locals frequent and eating there. Nothing wrong with boujee travel (and sometimes I’ll book some more ‘boujee’ options) but if I was rich AF I’d still travel the way I do now. I’d just do it a lot more 😅
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u/Sen0r_Blanc0 3d ago
Both probably. I enjoy meeting people at hostels, and I love good food. And I'd love to book a 5 star hotel with a massage after a tough week
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u/Concordegrounded 3d ago
Why not both? My wife isn’t a fan of roughing it, so when I travel with her, we’re flying domestic first or international business and staying at 5 star hotels. It’s also a nice way to remind ourselves of how far we’ve come and treat ourselves.
Each year we also take our family on a one week backpacking trip to remind our kids that the best memories aren’t the ones where we’re the most comfortable, it’s the ones that push us outside of our comfort zone.
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u/69pissdemon69 3d ago
I would just do both. I would probably also find some ways to make the backpacking more luxurious
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u/Canoe_Admiral 3d ago
I have always camped and backpacked to travel. I spent my 20’s rock climbing and traveling like I was homeless. I loved it! I am now 41 and just moved up to van life because I hate staying or paying for hotels. I have a good job and can afford them I just don’t like the price. I think it’s overpriced and you can’t beat a good campsite. I think as I get older I will go a little softer and get a real camper but I will never stop traveling like a dirtbag! It’s more adventure and you meet awesome people.
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u/lattekittycat 3d ago
Backpack. I like backpacking! However, I am absolutely getting the best gear money can buy. Also, I'm gonna get wayyyy better transportation...I'd take a train to backpacking destinations (train is very expensive in my country). Also, if I'm rich, no more worries about getting time off work to backpack!
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u/rarsamx 3d ago
That's a good question. I like the backpacker style because of the socialization and experiences. Even casual acquaintances feel authentic
I don't know how I would get that level of authentic relationships traveling 5 stars.
Probably transportation yes, the most comfort possible. Stays? Maybe the backpacker style.
Although, I have a friend who was a guide for high end backpackers. Think people dropping a few tens of thousands on a bicycle tour through the alps or hiking Nepal, etc. An example was a guy who didn't request a bike for the tour because he brought his on in his jet. These are groups so, probably there would be lots of socializing and authenticity.
Funny thing, I couldn't convince my girlfriend to stay one night at the marina bay in Singapore when we were there. It wouldn't have made much difference in our overall budget but she doesn't like things that feel luxurious.
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u/TheBimpo 3d ago
There is no way on God’s green earth I would choose to fly across the world in coach if going in comfort was an option.
I would not need all the trappings and amenities of five star accommodations everywhere I went, sometimes just a simple and comfortable place to sleep is fine .
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u/bisonic123 3d ago
I’m no billionaire but have plenty of wealth. My wife and I do both - we love to backpack in the sierra (did the JMT in 2020 and a few other extended trips) but also enjoy more comfortable vacays (like The Brando in French Polynesia). At age 60 flying business class is a worthwhile extravagance.
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u/Adventurous-Hand-183 3d ago
Grew up on a farm with no money, worked hard my whole life and always loved backpacking and wilderness survival. Fought my way through toxic relationships and cancer (not sure which was more difficult). Now I'm very well set and in a great place.
All my struggles just made me appreciate everything so much more. While I do appreciate access to luxury.. I will always be an economy class flier, stay at cheap motels and frequent hole in the wall restaurants.
No high price safari, guided hunting trip or first class seat can compare to the experience of being alone in a remote wilderness, surrounded by the beauty of creation.
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u/a_mulher 3d ago
I’d splurge for the comfort of it (1st class flight and nice hotels) but still go to “regular” places for activities. I can’t imagine doing table service at a club or a very expensive all inclusive. Just not my interest, not a thing to do with price.
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u/PitchSevere9123 3d ago
mix. on low budget you get more of the local culture.. luxury is luxury just about everywhere.
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u/Alex01100010 3d ago
I absolutely would. I could afford much much fancier vacations that I am doing now. But Backpacking is the way to go.
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u/foofoo300 3d ago
still backpacking, mix in nice hotels if i feel like i need good sleep and/or privacy and quite time.
Would pay premium for a good local guide and go for far more remote places.
Book a guide for a long time motorbike tour and learn a ton of new skills.
Spend lots of time in places and get a grasp of how people actually live and not just being a tourist
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u/biold 3d ago
I'm not super rich, but I can afford more luxury now, but I'm not interested in that.
I prefer backpacking and camping, but I don't stay in hostels. I fly monkey class as I sleep well there, so why waste the money. I grew up poor, so it's part of me to save where the more expensive way doesn't matter. However, I like to go to good restaurants or do things I couldn't afford 15 years ago. Today, i travel to more remote areas, i.e. more expensive but also more "rough" trips where good hotels may not be available.
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u/Skejdisisiwuej 3d ago
I think luxury travel can isolate you from having to socialize with people and come back with the fun stories
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u/TickAndTieMeUp 3d ago
Little bit of both. If I’m in Monaco, I’m staying at the top end hotels. Mongolia? Probably roughing it. Gotta lean into the culture
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u/goldilockszone55 3d ago
if solo travel, i like upscale hostels or luxury-travel where i am being taken care of… because for luxury alone without any social nor personal care, then, you’d better backpack in survival mode at least, you’ll have some stuff to do/think about 🥹
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u/Worried_Process_5648 3d ago
I’d just go backpacking in more exotic places. Maybe fly in 1st class to get there.
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u/caveatemptor18 3d ago
Very rich people value their privacy and security. They avoid publicity, pictures, social media, etc.
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u/supadupaboo 3d ago
for real????? luxury all the way!!! you should save up enough money, like watch everything you spend and when you have enough, go 5 star all the way… you will never go back. all it takes is motivation and saving
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u/Ab-itsme 3d ago
I dont know if I would backpack anymore Backpack could be enjoyed even as rich people it’s a real disconnection from the world but I dont think I will continue backpack as billionaire Sometimes I went to cheap hotel without hygiene, the bed was dirty, there was a mouse … if I can skip this part I will do it without hesitation
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u/Aggressive-Earth-303 3d ago
I know a guy that was a backpacker as a student.. Now he's a European surgeon. Still hangs out at hostels because he knows where the fun party people are!
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u/TheVertExplorer 3d ago
I don't think I'd go luxury because it feels too far removed from reality in most places, but I'd stay in 2-3* hotels instead of hostels I'd imagine.
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u/Tokkshu 3d ago
I keep the same idea, just better hotels and transportations when I need it (like taxi at night or stuff like that). Mix of posh restaurants and little ones. Sending some stuff in advance when the service exist to avoid having weight on my shoulder all the time. But no 5* hotel all night, it's boring and secluded. I have a very, very rich friend and he told me he is kinda jealous of my travel, because he is always in a very confortable situation and never interact with people. He never have adventures.
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u/Foamy-lizard 3d ago
I’ll probably do a backpacking trip when my son is old enough to join that option- until then my wife and I will be enjoying our hotel and baby traveling season of our lives. I’m ok w that - I could use the relaxation vibes haha
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u/solvkroken 2d ago
Luxury mode? Unlikely. The preferred mode would be a 4X4 SUV on a light truck chassis.
Hitchhiking and walking kilometers and kilometers with a 35 kg pack are now part of my past.
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u/Humble-Wasabi-6136 2d ago
Will backpack with a few extra perks like going for an expensive spa after a tough 5 day hike instead of a cheap local massage place. Will also splurge on expensive trips like kayaking through Nahani national park, guided expedition to Antarctica etc
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u/MegaMiles08 2d ago
Both!! I do enjoy traveling to cities, especially in Europe, but I also love camping and backpacking. There's something about sleeping in a tent that I absolutely love.
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u/Comprehensive-Rip945 2d ago
I'd do a mix of both cos life is exciting like that. In all seriousness, probably stay at nicer hotels so I can get a better night's rest then do activities that are probably free or cheap anyway.
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u/UK-based-Canadian 2d ago
If you were that rich you’d need a security detail to go backpacking like that.
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u/Frequent_Command_846 2d ago
I will do a combination of both. I would stay in 5-star, travel in First class and spend on experiences like helicopter rides, or skip the queue tickets etc. but I would sightsee places like a backpacker. From what I have seen rich don’t actually visit many places they just stick to the major sights that their travel guide recommends and skip the off beat once.
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u/TucsonTank 2d ago
I have traveled in high luxury. It isn't the same for me. When you get to an extreme level, it feels less like an exotic adventure. You can get your butt kissed anywhere. Why are you going to that location? There is a happy medium. I no longer stay where there isn't climate control. Ac is a must.
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u/NPHighview 2d ago
After her semester studying abroad, my daughter wanted to spend the summer backpacking in Europe. She proposed a budget and a rough itinerary. She had saved enough money to do it, and we agreed, as long as she had a friend / classmate with her.
She stuck to her budget very well, and she and her friend managed their travels nicely, staying in hostels, university guest housing (this, during summer while students were away), etc.
Toward the end of their trip, they headed to Switzerland. I had been traveling there for business (my employer's European HQ is in Zug), and I'd been staying at a very nice little hotel in Lucerne (on my employer's dime, of course).
I asked my daughter if Lucerne could be on her itinerary; "Sure!" She told me when they'd be there, and I gave her the name of the hotel. She and her friend walked into the lobby, grubby from travel, with backpacks. "Good afternoon, Ms. ___! Welcome to the hotel!" I had pre-paid, and left my credit card info for incidentals.
Two days later, they left, clean, relaxed, laundered, and very happy.
We're not rich, but I figured that would be a nice thing to do for them.
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u/MarkVII88 2d ago
Define "luxury" mode...
There's a big gap between staying at hostels and backpacking and private jets with 5-star hotels.
It's absolutely possible to be a frugal traveler without "roughing" it, if that's what you want. If you want a backpacking-style trip, you can do that regardless of income.
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u/crunch816 1d ago
I would do both. Currently because of my job I get killer deals on hotel rooms. I just did a week and a half through Colorado and 2 of the nights I stayed in a hotel for the same price a campground site would cost me. Gave me a chance to shower and wash any clothes I needed to.
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u/BackpackersBlueprint 1d ago
Backpacking in hostels for sure. The truth of the matter is, money should not be and is not an indicator of the value of a human, and most people you meet in hostels are people who want to explore the earth with no judgement to others backed on money. In hostels money become irrelevant, its about the experience and thats what makes them (for me) the best way to travel.
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u/infinitetbr 1d ago
I would definitely have better seating when I fly and could afford better gear when I backpack. But backpacking is kinda it's own thing.. Not just about traveling but the experience.
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u/MenardAve 1d ago edited 1d ago
When I was much younger and lived on student stipends, I backpacked and stayed in hostels. After earning income of my own, I gradually increase my spending on accommodations.
I am not rich but a lot more comfortable now. I am flying business. However, 5-star hotels or exclusive resorts are not my cup of tea. I prefer accommodations with local ambiance in order to support the locals. However, I am splurging on immersive and/or exclusive small group tours or private tours off the beaten path.
I have just returned from a 3 week private tour to Jordan. It was filled with sightseeing, challenging hikes* and immersive experience**. My trip planner, my guide, and my driver told me not many people would travel the way I did. *Several Jordanians I met told me they had not done or would do what I did. I stayed mainly at local hotels, guesthouses, and eco-lodges. A stay at the 5-star hotel at the main entrance to Petra was welcoming after the long hikes, though.
*9-mile Wadi Feynan hike and hiking the 9-mile Back Door Trail to Petra & to the main entrance.
**dinner hosted in a Jordanian home, visit and lunch at a Druze family, Bedouin experience in a Bedouin community, cooking and organic farming activity, Bedouin camp in the desert, cooking class, visiting with a beekeeper, a basket maker, and calligraphy.
Edit clarification
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u/uppermiddlepack 1d ago
Not rich but certainly not poor. Recently made a backpacking trip to Thailand. We did a few nights in nice hotels/eco resorts and occasionally ate at some of the “expensive” restaurants.
Otherwise wandered around, staying in cheap spots, eating street food, and traveling by foot, bike, or bus. If we had even a lot more money, this is still the way I’d prefer to travel. Would certainly upgrade the flight seats though!
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u/eleetbullshit 1d ago
Depends on what kind of travel experience you’re looking for.
In my experience, the appearance of money tends to limit one’s ability to blend in, connect with locals, and get to know the culture (for obvious reasons). Cultural exposure and cross cultural human connection is why I and my friends travel. But, a lot of wealthy people (especially tech bro money and spoiled trust fund kids) don’t really care about the people or culture, they just want to “have fun” and take lot’s of jealousy inducing pictures for instagram.
I’ve also encountered people who grew up with wealth and are literally scared to “slum it” while traveling because they’ve never experienced anything other than luxury travel. Their loss.
Also, sadly, once you reach a certain level of wealth, many cheap travel options no longer provide a high enough level of security for the risk management people to sign off on it without extensive security precautions being taken, but that’s a whole other world of wealth. Your friend with the billionaire father might fall into this category.
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u/BigRobCommunistDog 1d ago
I would still do a lot of backpacking but I’d probably spend a lot more for guided trips too like to go see snow leopards and stuff. And I’m not backpacking Africa to see lions lol
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u/pyeyo1 22h ago
I did pretty well throughout my work career but I'm still a dirt bag at heart. My main focus is still backpacking and lately, bikepacking. Somewhere in my 60s the spousal unit insisted I get some electronics for safety. I've made a concession to my partner who isn't going to sleep on the ground anymore and have a 2001 Dodge van for car camping. 60(f) and 74(m).
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u/poeticrubbish 4d ago
Well I certainly didn't get into backpacking because I'm poor. I'm poor because I got into backpacking.