Backpackers Uncovered

Interesting survey that. Was actually not that surprised to read that 79% of the backpackers surveyed don't have a laptop/phone that they use to access the internet, but use either hostel computers or internet cafes. Although this is supposed to be the wired genteration who travel around with every internet access device under the sun, I've found that most don't travel with a laptop, as it's too much hassle, and data charges for phones roaming are hideously expensive.

This is a good point. We've seen a massive growth in the number of people with laptops - from 0% to 20%! thats... an INFINITE amount of growth! - but for the majority of backpackers its just too expensive. I wouldnt travel with my laptop as Id be too paranoid about losing it. And whilst I had an iPhone for a while (got mugged :( ) theres no way I would have used it as a PDA overseas, data is expensive enough at home.

I haven't been to Australia for a while, and am wondering is the expensive complaint coming from people comparing it to SE Asian countries, which would be much cheaper than Australia, or Europe and America? We always get Aussies here complaining about the price of everything in the UK, though this has died down a bit since the exchange rate is now well below $2 to buy one Pound. How have you found it in comparison to the Uk Gordo?

To be honest, I think its more expensive here these days. Obviously it depends on where you go but prices went up considerably in the time I was away (2.5-3 years). Wages here are higher of course and the strength of the AUD certainly isnt helping tourists. Basic prices for food and drink are very high. I'm not sure if Australians are noticing it as much as wages are increasing too and I'm not including things like rent or the cost of a car. As I said, I think its more expensive here these days - not that its cheap in the UK, but there was evidently enough competition between supermarkets to keep food prices down and alcohol isnt taxed as much. Given that the bulk of my budget goes on food and booze (actually, in the last couple of months its been exclusively rent and food), I've certainly noticed the price hikes.