Planning and research[edit]
Planning and research is an important part of backpacking, aided by such publications as Rick Steves, Lonely Planet guides, Rough Guides and others. These books provide information about such topics as the language, culture, food and history of a given country. They also offer listings of accommodation and places to eat, together with maps of key locations. Digital format guidebooks are becoming more popular, especially since the advent of smart phones and lightweight netbooks and laptops. There are also many online resources aimed at backpackers as well.