Male student backpacks across Vietnam with a cost of less than 10 million VND

Crossing Vietnam at age 20

Starting from Ho Chi Minh City on January 12, Long traveled through 60 provinces and cities and returned to the city on February 15. Long said that due to his study and work schedule, he could not complete all 63 provinces and cities as his original goal. "I traveled from Ho Chi Minh City to the North via the coastal route and when I arrived home in Quang Ninh , I stayed to celebrate Tet with my family for a week. Then I continued my journey across Vietnam," Long said.

Hoang Long completes cross-Vietnam trip at age 20

PHOTO: NVCC

Before starting the trip, Long prepared personal items such as: toothbrush, disposable toothpaste, towel, facial cleanser, water, dry shampoo, 3-4 sets of clothes. In addition, the young man also prepared tents, sleeping bags, equipment for filming and taking photos. "There is no need to bring too many clothes, but if you go backpacking in cold weather, you must prepare thermal clothes, sweaters and raincoats," Long said.

Hoang Long stopped to check-in in Hue

PHOTO: NVCC

Talking about the difficulties and challenges encountered on the way, Long said that because he was traveling alone, he would sometimes feel lonely. At those times, Long would chat with the locals or call his relatives to feel less lost. In addition, if he traveled on rainy or cold days, it would be quite difficult.

Long said: “The Northeast - Northwest route was an extremely challenging one for me because it was cold and foggy. But in return, this season the cherry blossoms and plum blossoms are very beautiful. And what impressed me most during this trip was the friendliness and enthusiasm of the local people. Wherever I went, everyone was willing to help me."

For Hoang Long, the journey across Vietnam is a memorable milestone in his youth.

PHOTO: NVCC

The young man also noted that he should maintain his car before going and change the oil every 2,000 km to avoid breakdowns on the road. Furthermore, when traveling through mountainous areas such as the Northwest or Central Highlands, he must always ensure a full tank of gas because in mountainous areas there are few gas stations, few services and a sparse population.

Cost less than 10 million VND for the whole trip

To prepare the budget for the trip across Vietnam , Long took advantage of his time outside of school to work part-time and would set aside a certain amount each month. Long said the total cost of this trip was less than 10 million VND.

To save on the cost of renting a motel during the trip, Hoang Long chose to set up a tent to rest overnight.

PHOTO: NVCC

“Of which, the cost of food is 3 million VND, I choose roadside eateries to save costs. Entrance fees at tourist attractions are 1.5 million VND, gas is 2.5 million VND. In addition, there are additional costs such as oil changes and vehicle maintenance before the trip, about 1.5 million VND more. Besides, you should also prepare a reserve fund for other unexpected situations,” Long shared.

Because he traveled alone, Long mostly camped and set up tents to rest overnight instead of renting a motel. This helped him save money. “I can’t set up a tent just anywhere, I usually choose places like sand dunes, beaches, pine forests, lakes, and if I’m in a pinch, I’ll go to a gas station or temple, but I have to ask for permission first,” Long said.

Hoang Long takes a photo with plum trees in full bloom in Moc Chau (Son La)

PHOTO: NVCC

After this trip, the male student received many good and interesting things. Long shared: “I took many beautiful pictures and videos, and witnessed the majestic scenery of Vietnam with my own eyes. Not only did I have unforgettable experiences and memories of my youth, but I can also serve my future tour guide job if I decide to pursue this career. After the trip, I also understood the culture of each region. I gained a lot of knowledge about the culture, history and people of each destination.”

Hoang Long keeps the moments at the places he visits.

PHOTO: NVCC

This journey also brought Long many wonderful emotions and memories at the age of 20, an age full of dreams and ambitions to experience and explore. "Perhaps until I am old, I will never forget it. If anyone asks me if I plan to travel across Vietnam again, the answer is yes," Long confided.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nam-sinh-vien-di-phuot-xuyen-viet-voi-chi-phi-chua-den-10-trieu-dong-185250224144538343.htm