The Surprising Backpackers

Hi, we are Gillian & Graham

Welcome to our backpacking blog. Find inspiration and tips in this blog about our travels and adventures as we explore the world and maybe challenge a few expectations along the way.

Inspired by our children, we started this backpacking blog after 3 years of travelling around South & Central America, Asia and parts of Europe. We are still carrying our backpacks.

Never miss an Adventure!

Having travelled independently most of our lives, we took the plunge and retired in our late fifties so that we could experience the world of backpacking. There was considerable trepidation.

Would younger backpackers welcome us? Could we physically and mentally hack it? What do we do with our house and car whilst on the road for months rather than weeks? How would we cope with hostels and home stays?

Thankfully we were more than welcomed into the backpacking community and were surprised and humbled at being considered inspirational by many. We have had some great adventures and met so many wonderful people. Our fears were unfounded.