TOUGH BIT: Making a choice of what to carry ? or what not ? is often the backpacker?s nightmare

Immemorial monuments to time, idyllic landscapes or the world?s most populous bazaars ? the true-blue backpacker takes them all in his stride. Except that he is neither in any hurry to get there, nor to leave. He wants to ramble through the entire travel experience, feasting on the local cuisine, striking up a spirit of camaraderie with the natives and learning what makes the region tick. To do all that, without the mishaps lying in wait for even the most vigilant tourist, takes some planning. Take a tip or two from someone who?s been there, bought the T-shirt:

Plan ahead: It?s essential to have a tourist bible. The easiest option for most backpackers today is the Net. You will come across travel fora where you can read postings from other travellers, thereby availing of some first-hand experience. You will also find good tips on how to find guesthouses, conveyance and word-of-mouth warnings. You can also refer to guidebooks or special issues of your favourite travel mag for information. For most backpackers, budget travelling is de rigueur and it is advisable to go through travel websites for the best deals.

Must-take essentials: This is every traveller?s dilemma ? how much to tamp into that backpack? Clothes and toiletries aside, don?t forget the following: pocket knife, flashlight, a couple of spare bedsheets (as protection from bug-infested beds), sports sandals (which are the best bets for walking long distances), candles and matchsticks (that will prove handy in powercuts) and a tough padlock (a must-have for women who shouldn?t rely on the flimsy ones that most guesthouses provide).

Remedies for the road: Keep your kit ready for minor emergencies that do not require the immediate attention of a doc. Pack an insect repellent, antibiotic cream (for minor scrapes and cuts), anti-diarrhoea pills (for the inevitable stomach upsets from eating at roadside stalls), aspirin, anti-allergy pills (you never know what can trigger off a reaction), elastic-wrap bandage (for the accidental twist or sprain), and dehydration salts. Oh, and do drink only mineral water.

Money matters: Notify your bank or credit card companies before you travel as some may freeze your account if they notice transactions from unfamiliar places. Depending on the destination, you are better off using travellers? cheques in some places and cash in others (those off the beaten track). It is always advisable to write down the travellers? cheque numbers and keep them separate from your other essentials. Keep a copy at home too, in the custody of a friend. Have some money tucked away safely in money belts, undergarments and socks for emergencies.

Save yourself the worry: Losing your cash and valuables can be distressing for any backpacker. Be wary of luggage handlers. Use a combination lock for your luggage. Stuff expired credit cards or torn currency notes into predictable places. In that case you have something to hand over at gunpoint or to satisfy muggers. Snatch thieves and muggers are unlikely to stick around to check their booty. So scoot before they come again. Ask the guesthouse or hostel staff to settle the price with the taxi or auto driver before you hop in. Ignore touts who offer better shopping deals, bus tickets or cheaper hotels.

Take your attitude along: Your homework is done, you?ve read your guides, made your bookings and taken care of your money. Now all you need is an attitude, the right one. Keep an open mind and don?t complain about comfort ? or rather, the lack of it. Nobody asked you to leave home!

Make your plans flexible. Packing too many things into one schedule can take the spontaneity out of your trip. Don?t try to do too much, slow down and chill out. Language is likely to be a barrier ? don?t feel alienated or create a wall between the locals and you. Invest in an easy-to-learn language book so that you can pick up a smattering of the local tongue. You?ll be surprised how gratified people are when you attempt a few words of their lingo. Enjoy the trip!