New Zealand Backpacking

1. Paying Too Much Money for Campgrounds  If you're from the United States like I am, then you'll know it's typical to pay $20-$50 for a night at a campground. However, in New Zealand, there are many free campgrounds. These are more common in the South Island than the North, but you can still find some good deals. I highly recommend downloading an app to find campgrounds, such as Campermate. With these apps, you can also download the offline version, which is a must when you're in the "wop wops" of New Zealand. 2. Not Packing for the Right Weather Even though it might be summer when you're visiting, it is still going to get cold at night or in the mountains. I recommend packing wool socks and a warm jacket no matter what month you're visiting. I froze my feet off camping in the middle of summer near Milford sound, even though I was wearing 2 pairs of wool socks. The North Island will be warmer than the south, but better to be safe than sorry. 3.

These are photos from some of the most amazing places I've been to in New Zealand! Lake Pukaki Mount Cook Ahuriri River Milford Sound Hokitika Gorge Crater Lake, Tongariro Alpine Crossing Lake Tekapo Queenstown Roy's Peak, Wanaka Please feel free to leave questions in the comments below, I'd be happy to answer them!

Toronto is a big city with many things to do. However, if you're a low budget backpacker like me or would just like to stick to the nature side of things, this guide is for you. 1. Take the ferry to Toronto Island I recommend spending a few hours here. You can take the ferry located a the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal for less than $9 round trip. Once you get to the island, you'll have an amazing view of the Toronto skyline. There are many other things to do, such as an amusement park, children's park, beaches, boat rentals, and bike rentals. There are also plenty of places to eat at, so don't worry about getting hungry. Toronto Skyline from Toronto Island 2. Walk along lakefront The lakefront of Toronto is an easy walk with lots to see. The Harbourfront Centre holds events often so be sure to check if anything fun is happening during your visit. Harbour Square Park is another great place along the lakefront to relax at. Here you can find a very random, but huge 5

The Grotto Things I Wish I Knew Before Going: There are so many amazing things to do on Bruce's Penninsula. I could spend a week here and not get bored. If I could go back, I would camp in Bruce Peninsula National park instead of a nearby private campground. Be aware of parking that needs to be reserved at Bruce's Peninsula which will be explained later. Time:  3 Days Cost: ~$30   for parking/admission fees ~$40 for Flowerpot Island Boat Things to Do: 1.) Big Tub Harbour Shipwreck Located right off of the Tobermory visitor center is Big Tub Harbour Shipwreck. There are many other shipwrecks in this area can be accessed through cruises or viewed from the harbor. Options are available for diving and snorkeling as well! 2.) The Grotto The Grotto is truly one of the most fun places I have been in my life. The water is cold initially (yes, even in the summer) but you get used to it quickly. There are a bunch of "cliffs" to jump off of from various heights b