Travel Light –

Yes take the essentials, but don’t weigh yourself down. Learn how to maximise your bag’s capacity with tight rolling techniques and by stuffing as much as you can into your shoes. The other thing you can do to your bag is make it identifiable, it’ll save you loads of time at the airport carousel.

Accommodation –

Have you stayed in a dorm, or shared house before? Chances are you will be sharing and you’ll have to put up with everything that comes with this, but you can minimise some of the hassle. Always try and get the bottom bunk, it makes going to the toilet at night a lot easier. Bring earplugs and a mask. Depending on the climate take an appropriate sleeping bag, not everywhere will have sheets.

Climate –

Check seasonal weather conditions before you go. India, for example, most typically has its rainy season from June to September. If you can time your journey then you’ll get the best of the weather.

Carry two money belts –

It may seem a little extreme, but most thieves know that people travel with a money belt. The point here is to not stash all your money in one place. Traveller’s cheques can be safe, but make sure there are places where you can change then before you head off into the middle of nowhere. Also, Dollars are the universal currency, and it’s always good to have some tucked away.

Be respectful –

Meet people and enjoy the experience. The locals know their area, and can allow you see the other side of it. Social media, providing you’re safe, can be a great way of getting local contacts. Couchsurfing websites can get you cheap accommodation, local knowledge and quite possibly the best experiences.

Eat from the street vendors –

Street eats have been fashionable for a while now, but that’s with good reason. It’s going to be excellent if the locals eat there, they’ve no big refrigerators so the food is fresh, and they’re cheap as chips.

Chase the adventure and get off the beaten path –

Yeah there are places not too be missed, but you never know what you’ll find when making your own way. However, if you’re more for the tour then shop around. Don’t allow yourself to be badgered into signing yourself up to something that you’re not happy with.

Have fun.  It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.