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G’day, fellow wanderers!

I’m Mikki, your friendly Aussie solo backpacker. I have a serious obsession with trail snacks, epic views and racking up kilometres in my dusty boots. Over the years I’ve chased waterfalls, high passes and mountain huts across five continents. Today I’m sharing my absolute favourite backpacker hiking trips. Whether you’re packing freeze-dried meals or hunting the best hostel Wi-Fi, you’ll find something here to stoke your wanderlust.

So grab your daypack, pull on your trusty boots and let’s dive into the best backpacker hiking trips out there. And if you want to book any guided shuttles, huts or local tips, I’ve sprinkled in handy links to GetYourGuide for you.

The Overland Track, Tasmania, Australia

If you dream of moss-clad rainforest, glacial lakes and a cheeky platypus splashing in the water, the Overland Track is your jam. This six-day trek in Tasmania’s World Heritage Wilderness Area delivers rugged mountains, wild rivers and stunning perspectives of Cradle Mountain.

What makes it perfect for backpackers?
• Well-marked huts every night (book early through GetYourGuide for your hut passes)
• Regular water sources—just filter and refill
• Loads of fellow hikers to swap trail gossip with

I start in Cradle Valley and finish at Lake St Clair, where a ferry ride is included in the park fee. Expect around 60 kilometres of hiking, 800-metre elevation gains and unforgettable views. Pro tip: pack layers—Tasmanian weather can change faster than you can say “emu.”

Inca Trail, Peru

Okay, so permits are limited and it’s a bit of a logistical jigsaw puzzle, but trekking to Machu Picchu via the classic Inca Trail is pure magic. You’ll pass ancient stone ruins, cloud forests and the jaw-dropping Sun Gate view of Machu Picchu itself.

Why I recommend it for backpackers:
• You can share group tours and save on guide costs (book here with GetYourGuide)
• Camp under the stars and chill with your new mates
• Cultural immersion with Inca sites along the way

Most trips are four days and three nights. I always budget an extra day in Cusco before and after to adjust to altitude and explore local markets. Don’t forget to pack blister plasters—I’ve heard more than one sob story about hot spots at Dead Woman’s Pass.

Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

If you fancy Himalayan peaks without the Everest crowds, the Annapurna Circuit is an unbeatable classic. Starting in lush subtropical valleys and climbing above 5,000 metres at Thorong La Pass, you experience local Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages, hot springs at Tatopani, and epic mountain panoramas.

Why it’s top-notch for backpackers:
• Himalayan teahouses every evening (no need to haul a tent)
• Flexibility—you can shorten or lengthen the route as you like
• Friendly lodge owners serving Dal Bhat until you drop

Many trekkers book porter services or gear carriage through GetYourGuide when they want a rest day. Altitude can be sneaky, so take it slow, sip water like it’s Champagne, and consider travel insurance with World Nomads. Trust me, your legs will thank you later.

Tour du Mont Blanc, Western Europe

Fancy a European odyssey? The Tour du Mont Blanc loops around the highest peak in the Alps—spanning France, Italy and Switzerland. Over roughly 170 kilometres and ten days, you hike from colourful Alpine villages to high mountain passes, sampling cheeses, sausages and a cheeky Swiss chocolate bar or two.

What makes it perfect for backpackers:
• Well-maintained trails and refuges to rest your head (book in advance via GetYourGuide)
• Public transport links between towns if you need a shortcut (Omio is my go-to)
• Gourmet mountain cuisine—no freeze-dried meals here

I like to start in Les Houches, France, and go clockwise to savour midday espresso in Courmayeur, Italy, before tackling the Col de la Seigne into Switzerland. Don’t skip the fondue or local charcuterie—it’s practically a hiking permit requirement.

Laugavegur Trail, Iceland

Volcanic deserts, rainbow hills, hot springs and glacial rivers—welcome to the Laugavegur Trail. This four to six-day hike in Southern Iceland connects Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk and feels almost otherworldly.

Why backpackers adore it:
• Unique geothermal landscapes at every turn
• Free hot springs for cooling off (just mind the scalding ones)
• Mountain huts that you can book through GetYourGuide

I recommend going in July or August to avoid knee-deep snow or flash floods. Pack waterproof everything, and consider hiring a 4×4 transfer between Reykjavík and the trailhead (book the shuttle here with GetYourGuide). Iceland can be pricey, but the lunar vibes are priceless.

Gear & Booking Must-Haves for Backpacker Hiking Trips

Before you head off on any of these adventures, here are my essentials:
• Sturdy boots with good ankle support (I grab mine from Amazon AU)
• A lightweight tent or sleep in huts if available
• Water filter or purification tablets
• Quick-dry clothing and thermal layers
• A reliable travel insurance policy like SafetyWing or World Nomads
• A small first-aid kit and blister care

For accommodation in trail towns or rest days, I often use Hostelworld or Booking.com. If you fancy local guided experiences—gear drops, hut reservations or shuttle transfers—check out GetYourGuide. They’re my trusted mate for syncing up with reliable operators on every continent.

Wrapping Up

There you have it—my top backpacker hiking trips that will feed your soul with wild landscapes, unexpected friendships and plenty of laughter (and maybe a few tears on steep ascents). Each route suits different tastes—be it cosy huts, rugged campsites or gourmet mountain meals.

Remember to plan ahead, respect local rules (permits, conservation fees and cultural customs), and pack layers for those unpredictable mountain moods. With your boots laced up, a trusty water filter at hand and a few bookings through GetYourGuide, you’re all set to experience your own epic hiking story.

Happy trails, mates—and may your sunsets be as epic as your Instagram shots!