A recent Forbes tourism industry study found that 68% of Gen Z and Millennials are actively seeking fresh inspiration and new ways to explore the outside world, and that often means not staying in one place. WeRoad, solo adventure travel experts, released new research into the surge in popularity of off-the-beaten-path travel and backpacking.

Founded to connect people, cultures, and stories through authentic adventures around the globe, WeRoad specializes in small group travel for Millennials and Gen Z, offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences catered to every kind of traveler.

WeRoad polled 4,634 solo travelers aged between 20-49* to understand the motivations behind backpacking and why these travellers are drawn to explore locations that aren’t considered tourist hubs.

The company’s Spring 2025 booking data reflects this mindset shift, with rising demand for lesser-known locations like Jordan, Namibia, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan. all destinations where moving through the landscape is a major part of the experience.

What makes a solo traveller choose the wilds of Uzbekistan over the winding streets of Paris or Rome?

4 in 10 respondents said choosing off-the-beaten-track destinations led to ‘more meaningful and authentic experiences,’ and a third said they chose these destinations to ‘explore somewhere new.’

There’s no denying that those winding streets get crowded and require intense phone navigation, as 21% listed ‘fewer crowds’ as the reason behind their desire to go to non-touristy destinations.

Backpacking isn’t without its pitfalls. When asked about their biggest backpacking fail, almost three-quarters of respondents (72%) admitted to overpacking with items they never ended up using. This was followed by ‘running out of money mid-trip (10%), ‘losing phone or belongings’ (9%) and ‘getting lost or not finding my lodgings’ (8%).

Almost half (48%) of respondents said their biggest backpacking win was making a lifelong friendship, and 34% said their backpacking travels made their Instagram look better than ever. 10% of respondents said they’d lucked out by landing a flight or accommodation upgrade, and 7% got extra lucky by meeting a romantic partner.

Personal growth seems to be par for the course when backpacking. Almost half (48%) of travellers surveyed said their experiences had compelled them to step out of their comfort zone; 27% said they ‘learned more about themselves than ever.’ Another 17% even described it as ‘better than therapy.’

Andrea D’Amico, CEO at WeRoad, said:

“Solo backpacking has taken off with travelers eager to see the world on their own terms. They’re seeking out meaningful experiences and are deliberately pushing beyond their comfort zones.

“Our research backs this up. For our respondents to say solo backpacking is ‘better than therapy’ is remarkable. They’re pursuing this experience because it’s challenging and life-changing. We started World Backpacker Day to encourage more people to take part in these transformative experiences.”

More about Backpackers Offbeat Destinations

Backpackers looking for offbeat destinations can find hidden gems through various resources and strategies. Here’s how:

1. Online Travel Communities & Blogs

• Reddit (r/backpacking, r/solotravel, r/travel) – Travelers share real experiences about lesser-known places.
• Travel Blogs – Independent bloggers often highlight underrated destinations (e.g., Nomadic Matt, The Broke Backpacker).
• YouTube & Instagram – Travel vloggers explore offbeat locations, offering visual inspiration.

2. Travel Guidebooks & Alternative Websites

• Atlas Obscura – Showcases unique, hidden spots worldwide.
• Lonely Planet’s “Offbeat” Sections – Many guidebooks feature non-touristy recommendations.
• Culture Trip – Highlights under-the-radar destinations by country.
• WeRoad – a community of travellers who share the same passion and love for exploring the world, discovering far-away cultures, meeting new people, and wanting to create connections with each other.

3. Local Recommendations & Slow Travel

• Ask Locals – Talking to residents, hostel staff, or Couchsurfing hosts can reveal secret spots.
• Use Google Maps Creatively – Zoom in and explore areas without major reviews.
• Avoid “Top 10 Lists” – Instead, venture beyond the popular attractions.

4. Traveling Off-Season & Overland Journeys

• Visit Popular Places in Shoulder Season – Example: Santorini in March or October instead of in peak summer.
• Take Trains, Buses & Boats – Overland travel reveals hidden villages and remote areas.

5. Underrated Offbeat Destinations for Backpackers

Asia:

• Mawlynnong, India – Asia’s cleanest village, near Bangladesh border.
• Svaneti, Georgia – Stunning Caucasus mountain region with ancient stone villages.
• Togean Islands, Indonesia – Remote, pristine beaches with no mass tourism.

Europe:

• Albanian Riviera – Gorgeous Mediterranean coastline without the crowds.
• Lofoten Islands, Norway – Arctic beauty, great for adventure seekers.
• Ronda, Spain – A dramatic hilltop town with historic bridges and stunning views.

South America:

• Vilcabamba, Ecuador – The “Valley of Longevity” with lush landscapes.
• Península Valdés, Argentina – Wildlife haven with whales, penguins & sea lions.
• Chapada Diamantina, Brazil – Waterfalls, caves & plateaus far from Rio’s beaches.