This blog post is all about backpacking culture shocks.
After spending over eight months travelling across Asia, I’ve experienced some incredible highs, beautiful sights, and of course, a fair share of backpacking culture shocks.
As an Irish person who’s now on the way to moving to Australia, this journey has been an eye-opener in so many ways.
I’ve made my way through Dubai, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Singapore and Indonesia, and each destination has offered its own surprises.
Here are the 10 biggest backpacking culture shocks I encountered along the way.
This blog post is all about backpacking culture shocks.
10 Backpacking Culture Shocks to Be Aware of in Asia
Below are the biggest backpacking culture shocks I experienced during my travels around Southeast Asia.
1. The Intensity of Traffic and Road Chaos
Coming from Ireland, where traffic is relatively organised, the chaotic roads in countries like Vietnam and Cambodia were a huge shock.
It’s not just the sheer volume of motorbikes – they also drive on pavements, go in the wrong direction, and seem to make up the rules as they go.
In Vietnam, traffic doesn’t stop for pedestrians; you have to just step out and start walking. The trick is to maintain a consistent speed, and the motorbikes will weave around you.
The first time we had to do this was in Ho Chi Minh City, and honestly, it was terrifying on those busy roads! But once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature.
RELATED blog post to read: Ho Chi Minh City: The Best Vietnamese Restaurants in Saigon
2. The Concept of “Asian Time”
In many places, the idea of punctuality is a bit more relaxed than what I’m used to back home. Buses may arrive an hour late, meals might take a while, and schedules are more of a suggestion than a strict rule.
It took some getting used to, but eventually, I learned to go with the flow and not stress about things running late.
RELATED blog post to read: Public Transport in Sri Lanka: Essential Advice You Must Know
3. The Heat and Humidity
I’ve always known I’m not the best when it comes to dealing with the sun, but some of the places I visited took the heat and humidity to a whole new level. It felt like walking into an oven at times, especially in places like Thailand and Kuala Lumpur.
I couldn’t believe how intense it was, and even though I knew it would be hot, nothing quite prepared me for the reality. I quickly learned to carry a fan and drink plenty of water!
RELATED blog post to read: 26 of the Best Things to See & Do in Kuala Lumpur
4. The Variety of Street Food
As an Irish person used to more traditional meals, the sheer variety and abundance of street food in Asia were both thrilling and overwhelming.
From skewered meats and fresh fruit to things I couldn’t quite identify, the smells, colours, and flavours were an experience in themselves. Trying things like fried insects in Cambodia or durian fruit in Thailand were definitely out of my comfort zone, but that’s all part of the adventure!
RELATED blog post to read: A Complete Guide To The Best Sri Lankan Food To Try
5. The Respect for Elders
In many Asian cultures, respect for elders is a huge part of daily life. Bowing in Japan or giving up your seat for older people on public transport is deeply ingrained in the culture.
It’s something I really admired and something I think we could incorporate more back home.
6. Toilet Situations
Let’s talk about toilets – this was definitely a shock! From squat toilets to the super high-tech ones in Japan with more buttons than I knew what to do with, bathroom experiences varied widely.
And then there’s the infamous lack of toilet paper in some countries, with a hose or water bucket being the go-to option. I quickly learned to always carry tissues or wipes with me!
7. The Love for Karaoke
Karaoke is a serious affair in places like Japan, South Korea, and even parts of Thailand. Unlike back home where karaoke is usually reserved for drunken nights out, here it’s a full-blown event.
People rent private rooms, take turns singing their hearts out, and genuinely enjoy it – no judgement, just pure fun. I might have even gotten up to sing a few times myself!
8. The Incredible Hospitality
One of the most pleasant culture shocks was how incredibly welcoming and hospitable people are across Asia.
From being invited into people’s homes for meals to locals going out of their way to help with directions, the kindness I encountered was heartwarming. It reminded me that no matter where you are in the world, there’s always kindness to be found.
RELATED blog post to read: The Best Traditional Cooking Class in Hanoi, Vietnam
9. The Importance of Removing Shoes
In many Asian countries, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, certain restaurants, temples, and even some hostels.
This was something I wasn’t used to, but I quickly adapted. It’s a sign of respect and cleanliness, and now I’ve also started to appreciate the habit myself.
10. The Lack of Bins
One of the biggest surprises, especially in Japan and South Korea, was the lack of bins. There are almost no bins anywhere, which means you often have to hold onto whatever trash you have for ages.
At first, this felt really odd, but I got used to it quickly. In fact, it made me reconsider whether I really needed to buy that drink or snack, knowing I’d have to carry the bottle or wrapper around all day.
It’s something you adapt to, and it also actually makes you more mindful of your waste.
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