Backpacking: meaning, definitions and examples

Used for multi-day trips where a person carries their equipment and supplies in a backpack. People often refer to backpacking when talking about budget travel, living out of a backpack, and exploring new places over an extended period.

• She spent the summer backpacking through Europe.
• Backpacking allows you to experience different cultures up close.

Commonly used for short, day-long or shorter trips that involve walking in natural environments, usually on trails or paths.

• We are going hiking in the mountains this weekend.
• Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy nature.

Often refers to long and challenging journeys, usually through rough terrain, and can last several days or weeks. Trekking can be more intense than hiking.

• They are planning a trekking expedition in the Himalayas.
• Trekking through the jungle was the adventure of a lifetime.

Primarily used in New Zealand and refers to long walks or hikes in rural areas. It often involves spending multiple days in backcountry environments.

• Tramping in New Zealand's national parks is an unforgettable experience.
• We went tramping for a week in the South Island.

Used when talking about low-budget travel where you carry everything you need in a backpack, often across multiple destinations.

• They went backpacking across Europe for the summer
• Backpacking allows you to explore new places on a budget

Used when talking about traveling while carrying a backpack, usually indicating a simpler and more mobile form of travel.

• He prefers to travel with a backpack because it’s easier to move around
• Traveling with a backpack allows for more spontaneous adventures

Used when specifying that someone is hiking and also carrying a backpack, emphasizing the presence of the backpack.

• They decided to hike with a backpack to carry their food and water
• Hiking with a backpack can be challenging but rewarding