You want to see the world, meet interesting people, really experience a destination. But you also don't want to give up your home comforts - after all, what fun is an exotic location if you're forced to slum it? Happily, there is a solution to your potential travelling woes - step forward flashpacking.
Flashpacking is backpacking on a bigger budget. Like backpackers, flashpackers tend to enjoy long periods of independent travel to far-flung destinations with no fixed itinerary. The difference is that whereas backpacking is associated with low cost travel, flashpacking is an altogether more luxurious experience. Guided Jeep safari through the Australian Outback? Fine. Hot air balloon ride over the African Savannah? No problem.
A typical flashpacker may be on a career break. But, of course, you could just be on your two-week summer vacation - but rather than join the hoards on the beach, it's a romp across the rainforest for you.
Popular flashpacking destinations include Fiji, Thailand and India, which are favourites of both upmarket travellers and backpackers alike. Alternatively, spend a day trekking through the Malaysian rainforest, along the head-hunters trail braving the rivers by longboat, before checking-in at the Hilton Batang Ai Longhouse Resort for a jungle barbecue at the Nanga Mepi Restauarant and a comfortable bed for the night.
Of course, you've got to have the right gadgets. According to a spring 2006 survey by backpacker website Hostelworld.com, 21% of us travel with a laptop, 54% with an MP3 player, 83% with a cell phone and 86% with a digital camera. This comes as little surprise - after all, this is technology that helps make travelling easier.
But why stop there? How about a pocket handwarmer, wind-up torch or Swisscard - the credit-card sized toolkit from the makers of the original Swiss army knife. You could even take an 'Instant clothes decreaser spray', to get you past the hotel concierge in the evenings without the disproving stare.
If you can't bear to be parted from you laptop, then make sure it's a toughbook - your average laptop will certainly complain about being out in the elements. If you can't change your laptop then you can always pick up an 'explorer case', one of a new breed of "unbreakable", waterproof cases for your pride and joy. A word of warning though - don't flaunt your techno gadgets and designer clothes when you're on a trek. Remember, this is still independent travel, not a weekend at the boss's country retreat.
Tempted to try flashpacking? Just research where you want to go, speak to the tourist authorities and then book your flights. Alternatively specialist travel agencies will offer a variety of packages to faraway destinations that can usually be tailored to your requirements.
Backpacking with the cash to afford a five-star experience. Truly a travel hybrid.
