Classic books to read for Backpackers

If you’re going to be a backpacker then you need to read these classic books. These books are practically a right of passage for backpackers. They may be cliché but you’ll gain inspiration for your trip and get to visit the places you’re read about.

The first book you should read is The Beach by Alex Garland. This is the book which inspired the film with Leonardo DiCaprio and is the reason everyone flocks to Maya Bay when they visit Thailand.

This is a definite must read if you’re going to Thailand. Reading about Khao San Road and the Thai Islands will get you seriously excited about your trip. You’ll want to go discover your own private beach but possibly not quite as secluded as the one in the book! I really enjoyed The Beach and read it really quickly. It’s action packed from start to finish and I was desperate to find out how it ended.

The second book for Backpackers to read is The Backpacker by John Harris. This book will take you to India, Australia and all over Asia and really demonstrates the differences between each country.

This book will make you want to rid yourself of all your materialistic belongings and appreciate the country that you’re in. I didn’t enjoy this book as much as The Beach but it’s still worth a read.

Both of these books are full of crazy adventures which would scare your parents so make sure you don’t mention the plot to them unless you want your passport revoked.

Have you read either of these books? What other books would you recommend a backpacker read?