If you're planning on backpacking across the world, whether for a quick backpacking holiday or for extended travel of a year or more read on. It has become easier than ever before with advancements in transportation infrastructure and the globalization of communication and information. In order to fulfill this lifelong dream, you will need to create the time to do it, thoroughly research and select your destinations, and then make advance travel arrangements.

1. Creating Time: According to Edward Hasbrouck in “The Practical Nomad: How to Travel Around the World,” the biggest restraints to fulfilling a lifelong dream to travel around the world are concerns about time off from work and the ability to fund the trip. However, Hasbrouck points out that simply asking for extra time off is respected more often than people realize and that a plethora of part-time, transient work opportunities exist for people who need to earn some money during their travels.

2. Select Destinations: As with backpacking across the world, less is more when selecting destinations. Every stop along your way is likely to have more attractions than you realize, tempting you to stay longer than you anticipate. You will also be able to trim the costs of your trip a bit if you have fewer flights. Also keep in mind that, as Hasbrouck notes, the most memorable parts of your journey are frequently your interactions with people rather than your time viewing specific architectural marvels or sweeping vistas. The more time you spend in a place, the better you get to know the locals. Finally, keep in mind that, in order to keep your trip affordable, you will probably want to maximize the amount of time you spend in poor countries, where your money will go farther, than in wealthy countries.

3. Backpacking Around the World Travel Arrangements: Most backpackers get to their primary destinations via airplane and then use trains to make their way around a country or even across a continent. Once you have selected your destinations, you should work with a travel agent you trust to purchase advance tickets to these locations. You can make all other arrangements once you have arrived at your destination. In addition, all your planning will be for naught if you do not have the appropriate documentation; make sure you leave plenty of time to acquire a passport and any necessary visas for the countries you will be visiting. You might also want to consider purchasing traveler’s insurance.

If you complete these three steps, you are ready to pack and head off for the adventure of a lifetime. The most important parts of your journey backpacking around the world will be your own flexibility and open-mindedness, with which you will be able to find affordable lodging, food and local transport. Even better, you’ll learn about new cultures and meet an array of new people.