I'm going to talk about travel faux pas, what I've found to be "off" behavior while traveling, it's basically a list of things not to do.

I've met mostly cool people while backpacking. There have been a few occasions where my nerves have been tested. I'm not talking about anything serious here, but some simple things that maybe you should keep an eye on, some of them pretty minor, but still, it's nice to be courteous and respectful when traveling.

The Dorm

Ok, if you've never stayed in a dorm before, here's a simple break down of what it is, and some common problems.

A dorm is a shared room, usually between 4 and 12 beds. I've found 6 bed dorms the most common and economical, and there's no reason why you cant enjoy your stay, some other people, however, may have another idea.

Leaving the light on after 11pm

It's pretty much common knowledge that its lights out after 11pm, just because you're not sleeping, doesn't mean you have to keep others up, there's usually a bar or common area where you can hang out anyway.

Shut up!

Again, after 11pm, keep the chatter down

Snoring

Not really the persons fault, but annoying as hell, pack earplugs

No plastic bags please, or just one

Seriously, no plastic bags, yes, they're handy for compartmentalizing your bag, but they're noisy as hell when you're doing your 6am packing. Or midnight rummaging. Use nylon bags, or cloth bags.

No Sex

I mean, how ignorant and disrespectful, not to mention downright foul, get a room you cheap ass, or if you have to, use a common shower room, not an ensuite, we can still hear you. I've never had this problem, I had some chancres about to do the deed on a top bunk, a stern warning put a stop to it. Don't be afraid to speak up, it's your room too.

But really, you'll have alot more good than bad, just make sure you're not the evildoer!

Happy hostelling.

If you'd like some more easily digestible advice on backpacking, or to read some of my tales from the road, head on over to my blog, http://www.planitbackpacker.com/

There's lots of things I could have done better when I first set out on the big solo backpacking adventure. You learn by your mistakes I guess. If you're new to backpacking, why not learn from mine.

Happy Backpacking!