backpacking

The United States is big in every way. Millions of visitors are attracted each year by its incredible diversity, and there really is something for everyone here, whatever their budget. One of the attractions for backpackers is the fact that the USA has a highly developed transport network offering budget deals on planes, trains and buses.

Most travellers will be familiar with Amtrak rail and the iconic Greyhound buses on which most parts of the country can be reached in comfort and relatively cheaply. Organising a car and taking to the highways is another excellent way to get to know America, a country still very much in love with the automobile.

Finding accommodation in the USA is easy and there are places to stay in every state and in every budget category, so whether it is a motel on Route 66 or an apartment on Park Avenue you’ll be well catered for. Even the cheapest accommodation is usually of a reasonably high standard.

Donning a backpack and setting out across the USA requires no inoculations and the country’s health service is regarded as one of the best on the planet. It is also one of the most expensive so organising travel insurance before visiting is essential.

So your backpack is stuffed and your airline ticket is booked, and all that remains to do planning-wise is sorting out an itinerary. Working a travel agenda out is the fun part. Any trip to the northeast is likely to involve a stint in the Big Apple, undeniably one of the world’s greatest cities. It is also worth exploring Boston and Philadelphia while in the region. Getting back to nature on Cape Cod is a top-tip choice for those looking for a party on the beach.

To the southeast are the free museums of Washington, DC, and the music of the Big Easy. The Gulf of Mexico has white sandy beaches, and there are ranches aplenty in which to let out the inner cowboy. The food in this part of the States is also extremely good, whether a New Orleans jambalaya, a hearty Texan steak or some of the best Mexican outside of Mexico.

Heading west takes travellers through truly massive landscapes. The Rockies are a must-see and the national parks, like Yellowstone, are the ideal places to swap motel rooms for tents. There is always a campfire to huddle around with a beer and a hotdog if the night gets a bit chilly.

Portland, Oregon, is definitely a place worth visiting after days on the road. The people are beyond laid-back, and it is packed with bohemian coffee shops, bars and venues belting out live music. Just a tad more upmarket is Aspen, Colorado, where the rich and the famous come to show off just how rich and famous they are. However, despite is reputation, there are still good travel deals to be had on accommodation, and the scenery is truly worth the extra dollars.

Variety is just one thing that is on offer to those who decide to grab a backpack and head to America. Every state is unique, and as there are 50 of them spread across six time zones to choose from, no traveller can fail to fall in love with at least some corner of the country.

This was a guest post by John for Alamo car hire USA