Whether trekking through the rugged Scottish Highlands, exploring the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds, or pub-hopping in London, the UK offers something for every traveller.

So, let's get into our Backpacking guide!

 

What is Backpacking?

Backpacking is a form of low-cost, independent travel in which you carry all your possessions on your back - in a backpack. Once seen as a form of budget travel, backpacking has become a mainstream form of tourism enjoyed by all types of people worldwide. You carry everything you need in a backpack, including your sleeping bag, cooking equipment, and clothing. It's a savvy and resourceful way to travel, isn't it?!

Typically, backpacking was considered an activity in the wilderness, far from local amenities, public transport, and hotels. However, backpacking has now become a way of travelling around busy cities and is a convenient and accessible way of seeing many places with little. It's a form of travel that empowers you to explore at your own pace and on your own terms.

 

Why do people Backpack?

Backpacking has gained popularity over recent years for many reasons. Unlike travelling by car or staying in a hotel, backpacking allows you to immerse yourself fully in a country's culture and experience the freedom to explore without being tied to a trip itinerary.

Camping, hiking, and staying with locals are all part of the fun of backpacking. This type of travel allows for a sense of freedom and spontaneity that is hard to find in other forms of travel. Cooking your own meals, finding a place to sleep for the night, and discovering remote places make backpacking an exciting and adventurous experience. 

 

Where to Backpack in the UK?

Backpacking is an incredible experience, and here is a list of places to inspire your next UK adventure:

  • Lake District
  • Scottish Highlands
  • Snowdonia
  • Cornwall & Devon
  • Bristol and Somerset
  • Wales 
  • London

 

Best time to Backpack in the UK

Whether you are based in the UK or further afield, it's essential to understand the best travel time before planning your trip. Things like tourist seasons and the infamous UK weather are things to consider.

Spring (March-May):

  • Weather: Mild (8°C - 15°C), occasional rain.
  • Why Travel: Enjoy fewer crowds, blooming flowers, and scenic countryside. Budget-friendly with cheaper accommodations.
  • Perks: Great for exploring nature and seasonal events like the Chelsea Flower Show.

Summer (June - August):

  • Weather: Warmest (15°C - 25°C), long days, occasional rain.
  • Why Travel: It is peak tourist season with lively festivals, but it is crowded and more expensive.
  • Perks: Ideal for outdoor activities in extended daylight but at higher prices.

Autumn (September - November):

  • Weather: Cool (9°C - 17°C), occasional rain, colourful foliage.
  • Why Travel: Fewer tourists, lower prices, and beautiful landscapes.
  • Perks: Budget-friendly, perfect for scenic walks and seasonal events like harvest festivals.

Winter (December - February):

  • Weather: Cold (below 5°C), rain or snow.
  • Why Travel: Quiet, festive atmosphere with Christmas markets and winter sports. Some attractions may be closed.
  • Perks: Lowest prices, fewer crowds, but be ready for cold weather.

 

Getting around the UK

The UK is bustling with excellent transport links. Whether you choose train travel or hitch a ride from locals, we’re sure getting around the UK will be a breeze!

  • Trains - Fast but expensive. If this is your primary form of transport, consider getting a railcard. You can also use apps like Trainline to get last-minute deals.
  • Buses - They are Easy to use and very budget-friendly. Check out the MegaBus and National Express websites for timetables and prices. 
  • Taxi/Uber - Most areas have Uber or private Taxi firms that can get you from A to B. While this can be expensive, it is also a good way to talk to locals. 
  • Hitchhiking - Legal and permitted in the UK, possibly in most areas, but remember to stay safe and take precautions. 
  • Cycling - Popular in cities and countryside routes, look at the National Cycle Network to find a path that suits you.
  • Hiking - Utilise apps like AllTrails and Google Maps to help navigate or purchase an OS map

 

Useful Backpacking Tips

Backpacking the UK can be an exhilarating experience. There is so much to see and do on such a small island. Follow our tips below for successful travel.

  • Book transport in Advance: Booking early ensures the best travel prices. Also, consider travelling during off-peak times to save pounds!

 

  • Use discount cards: If you're under 25 or over 65, you can book a Railcard to use across the train transport system across the UK. This gives you access to discounted rail fares and is beneficial when travelling regularly. Suppose you're heading to London consider investing in an Oyster card. Students get 30% off, and Veterans get free or discounted travel for people who have served in the armed forces.

 

  • Free attractions: To enjoy backpacking in the UK, you can enjoy free attractions like museums, galleries, and parks.

 

  • Try Local cuisine: Wherever you're travelling from, trying local food is a staple in the backpacking guide. Cornish pasties, Haggis or deep-fried Mars bars are a must when passing through the towns, villages and cities!
  • Respect the country: Following the countryside code means respecting the natural environment around you. Leave no trace and be considerate to the people and spaces around you.

 

  • Dress appropriately: The weather in the UK can be very unpredictable, so make sure to pack for all eventualities. Sunscreen and a waterproof coat are essential, even in the summer!

 

Recommended Backpacking Rucksacks

Here at Attwoolls Outdoors, we know a thing or two about backpacking. Whether across the UK or around the globe, our team loves to travel and has recommended their favourite rucksacks below.

Vango Sherpa Rucksack 65L

A solid choice for backpacking, the Vango Sherpa Rucksack 65L offers comfort, durability and great storage options. Let's break down the key features:

Comfort and Fit: Built with a Self-adjust back system, this bag can easily be adjusted to fit different back heights. It also has a padded hip belt and shoulder strap, ideal for comfortably distributing weight. Adjust the chest strap for extra support.

Storage size: This bag has plenty of space for longer trips, thanks to its 65L capacity. Its main compartment is top-loading and has a drawstring closure. The bottom compartment is ideal for storing boots or wet gear, and multiple side pockets allow for easy access to essentials

Weather-resistant: The strong 600D ripstop polyester keeps your gear dry even in extremely wet UK weather. It also comes with a rain cover to keep your bag secure.

TAKE A LOOK

 

Vango Contour 65 Rucksack

If you're looking for a bag to withstand the tests of the UK weather, then look at the Vango Contour 65L rucksack, which is ideal for harsher environments like national parks. Let's break down the key features:

Comfort and Fit: This bag, fitted with an air-vent back system, provides comfort and improved ventilation to reduce sweating.

Storage size: At around 2.2kg, it is slightly lighter than other bags on the market. It has multiple compartments for easy packing. In addition to the main body, it has a lid, front, and side pockets, so your essentials are easy to access and can be kept separate.

Essential features: It is compatible with Vango Hydration bladders, has stretch mesh pockets ideal for snacks and water bottles, and Has Ice axe walking pole attachments for carrying essential safety gear.

Weather Resistant: Complete with rain cover for wet conditions and made with recycled Eco 600D coated polyester.

TAKE A LOOK

 

Highlander Rambler 44L Rucksack

Highlander Rambler 44L Rucksack is the best-selling rucksack from Highlander and is ideal for backpacking. Let's check out the key features:

Comfort and Fit: This bag is designed to carry small to medium loads. It has padded mesh shoulder straps and an adjustable waist strap for comfortable hiking.

Storage size: This bag weighs 1.3 kg and has a volume of 44L. It has one main compartment with a lid pocket and D-ring attachment points with internal zip pockets. The bottom zip pocket compartment is ideal for wet gear.

Essential Features: D-ring attachment points, a large external front mesh pocket, and two side pockets.

Weather resistant: Made from 600D XTP polyester, hard-wearing and water repellent.

TAKE A LOOK

 

A final note from us

Discover our recommended UK backpacking routes in our Camp Life Blog, with everything you need to embark on an unforgettable adventure across our diverse country. The UK offers something for every kind of backpacker, so grab your rucksack, packable rain jacket and a map to discover the UK - one step at a time!

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