How come backpacking is big everywhere but America?

Question

It seems to be huge in Australia, and from what I heard, Europe.

Why don't people do that in America? I could've sworn I've seen two filthy dudes with huge backpacks come into my local grocery store in Michigan, but other than that, it doesn't seem like people backpack here.

In Australia, you can sleep at hostels, work at rural Outback farms/ranches, and have every one of your backpacking whims taken care of.

Quite odd.

Answer 1

One reason is we are a spoiled country full of conveniences. We are willing to drive ten miles for just a few groceries whereas most European countries everything is often closer so it's easier to walk to the store to get what you need.

Besides, we want things NOW. We don't want to wait in lines or inconvenience ourselves. We'd rather be playing video games or answering questions on the internet than be out exploring different lands and cultures.

Also, the streets of America aren't nearly as safe as many foreign countries.

Thanks. You've just motivated me....I'm going to grab my pepperspray and go for a walk!

Answer 2

Backpacking is a huge outdoor venture in the United states, But like camping, it is not preferred by most americans because it requires... giving up of some luxeries. I myself am a backpacking american and find it very rewarding, but most americans would rather sit in the pool, or in front of a tv instead of hauling a 50-75 pound pack up a mountain...

Answer 3

I believe there are quite a few backpackers in America. Five of them live in California and try to backpack as much as the weather will allow. Perhaps you think there are not many backpackers because we are very quiet, stick to ourselves and try not to let the planet find any trace of where we backpack.

Answer 4

Australians are particularily gregarious about seeing the world. A lot of them take a whole year or more off when they finish school to tool around Europe and Asia and whereever else they want to go. No matter where I go I always meet Australians.

Americans are lazy and self important. I think it's a real shame more Americans don't travel.

Answer 5

I would generally say that there are a lot of American people that back pack, especially in places like Yellowstone, The Red Wood Forests of Calilfornia or even Jackson Hole, Wyoming, however generally speaking those in forgein countrys take much better care of their bodies than we do here. They find things that are fun and enjoyable to them so they don't view their excersice as a burden.

Answer 6

from a cynical standpoint, a lot of people in America are generally inactive, they go to work, come home, watch tv, eat out at McDonalds. ... they don't bother to explore backcountry or anything.

in reality not sure though

Answer 7

fear
there is too much danger wandering around the us looking like a tourist victim

Answer 8

let's go backpacking in america then. change everything. we can even call abc and they can film it and fund the whole thing. meet me in az.

Answer 9

Because more backpacks are sold everywhere else.

Answer 10

America has too many fat people that don't want to walk.