What Backpacking Really Looks Like--Behind The Scene-ry!

I don't usually think to capture everyday backpacking moments and activities, so I was glad my siblings did during our last trip. They got a real kick out of my usual chores -- things I'm actually doing 80 percent of the time -- and special treats you don't often come across in resort areas. Let there be no misconceptions about my travels; it's never glamorous but plenty fun. Enjoy!

I bet you never had a fancy cutout headboard nailed to the wall in your hotel before. (Chichicastenago, Guatemala)

Chores galore. Handwashing my clothes in sinks, buckets, or the shower, every few days for hours it seems.

Hanging clothes where ever and whenever you can.

Like inside the buses. Don't want to get stuck somewhere just because your clothes haven't dried.

At a particular local bar, my brother and I got a free topless show. (I don't think women usually come here.) And how could you not appreciate the altar in the background? (Valladolid, Mexico)

Eating street food. Guatemalans love fried chicken -- as do I! (Chichicastenago, Guatemala)

Another long, bumpy, dirty, cramped bus ride. Always fun to see what goods are for sale: usually nail clippers, edible bugs, that sort of thing.

If I didn't spoil myself with two fruit shakes and juices a day, I'd probably be able to travel a lot longer. Everyone needs indulgences. (Orange Walk, Belize)

One would be surprised how much research we do on where to go and how to get there, and also, how much we lie around doing absolutely nothing. Traveler's fatigue. (Guatemala City)

Insects in your food, in your backpack, and definitely in your bed. My brother and I were attacked by bed bugs while in Mexico.

Which is why, even if it's 100 degrees, I go to sleep wrapped up tighter than a mummy.


Moving from one guesthouse/hostel to another every few days. Strange as it may sound, I love the packing and unpacking.

Until I get a proper backpacker's backpack, this is how I roll!

UH alumnus representing at his bar in Caye Caulker, Belize. Go Coogs!










Thanks, sibs, for taking silly photos. The three of us in Dangriga, Belize. <3