About Melissa
Hello, I’m Mel!
I’m a Canadian travel blogger who has been traveling and living abroad since 2014.
Learn more about my story below.
Life before blogging
I’m originally from Quebec, Canada. Back in the days, I used to be a social worker. I used to travel once a year for about a month and I was always spending my summers in Europe since I was 20 years old.
In June 2014, I started my journey around the world at the age of 25.
Life on the road
I first started my journey in the Canadian Rockies, where I hitch-hiked my way around. Then, I moved to Australia for two years. I started A Broken Backpack in July 2015. Back then, I was working on a farm in Australia and needed something to stay entertained. Quickly, A Broken Backpack became popular.
After Australia, I decided to go on a backpacking trip to Southeast Asia. Later, I moved to the UK for less than a year.
In October 2017, I decided to move to Southeast Asia. Bali became my home for about one and a half years.
In 2019, I was based mostly in Thailand.
In 2020, I moved to Bulgaria.
In 2022, I moved to Thailand, and it became my main base.
Of course, I do plan occasional trips in and out, but since I’m running an online business and a few successful blogs, I prefer slow travel.
This brings me to you
A Broken Backpack offers excellent travel tips to help you stay on the road longer. I left Canada with less than CAD 2,000 in my name (and many student debts).
I’m living proof that you don’t need tons of savings to make your travel dreams come true.
I learned how to travel on the very cheap, volunteered when I needed to, and created an online business to support myself abroad. I share all these tips here on A Broken Backpack.
I’m now in my thirties, and my travel style has evolved. I’m not all about budget travel anymore, and I now travel with my husband (we met in Thailand).
So, A Broken Backpack is not just a budget travel blog anymore. You’ll find all the travel tips needed to plan your dream trip no matter your travel style, budget, or interest.
Pick Your Travel Style
Living Abroad
Backpacking
Camping
Hiking
Digital Nomadism
Volunteering
Read my latest blog posts
Complete Guide: How To Elope In Paris
Paris, the most romantic city in the world is filled with awe-inspiring architecture and an overall passionate atmosphere. Are you dreaming of how you can elope in Paris? With world-famous monuments and rich culture, it is no wonder why so many couples decide to get...
Complete Guide: How To Elope In California
With its vast beaches, iconic cities, and extensive nature and wildlife, it's no wonder so many people decide to elope in California. If you're contemplating doing the same, you came to the right place! In this article, we will tell you all you need to know in...
Elope In Ireland Or Northern Ireland: A Complete Guide
Whether eloping is a definite route for you and your partner or you're still testing out the waters, you’ve come to the right place. Especially if you want to know more about how you can elope in Ireland or Northern Ireland. Ditching the large wedding and opting for a...
Complete Guide: Best Tents For Camping With Dogs
Looking for the best tents for camping with dogs? We have you - and your pooch - covered! Camping with your dog is one of the best experiences you can have together. It's an opportunity for him to spend hours running around outdoors - and he makes a great companion to...
Complete Guide: Best Tents For Tall People
Finding the best tents for tall people can be challenging and camping trips should be relaxing and fun so if you are taller than the average person, this may not be your experience! Many tents have a maximum center height of around 5 feet or less. This can be...
Complete Guide: The Best Off-Road Dog Strollers
Searching for the best dog stroller for hiking? In this post, you'll find some great choices! There is nothing quite like heading into the great outdoors for a hike with your dog. The fresh air and companionship make for a great experience for you both. But what...