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
Buying Guide: Best Waterproof Backpack Rain Covers
If you have ever been caught in a downpour when out backpacking or hiking, you will know that even the most waterproof backpacks will still let in the rain. Whether it is through the seams or the zippers, water will seep into your gear, leaving everything soaked and...
Fun Things To Do In Arizona For Couples
Are you looking for an epic couple's getaway without leaving the states? While Arizona may not seem like the most romantic part of the country, the state offers stunning desert scenery, thrilling activities, peaceful gardens, and so much more. So, for nature-loving...
Fun Things To Do In Adelaide For Couples
South Australia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seeking couples after fun and intimate getaways. From stunning viewpoints to romantic river strolls to winery tours, you'll never be stuck for what to do in Adelaide for couples. So, if you're...
Complete Guide: Best Hiking Hat For Women
A good hiking hat is an important part of your gear when you're out on the trail. Providing protection from the sun, the rain, or the cold, it will help keep you feeling comfortable throughout the day. In this guide to the best hiking hats for women, I've listed some...
Mexico SIM Cards: Everything You Need To Know
If you’re planning on visiting Mexico soon, you may want to buy a Mexico SIM card to facilitate your travels. Now, you may be wondering how to buy a SIM card in Mexico, or if you can buy it before your trip. Don’t worry - we got you. In this guide, we’ll explain where...
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Living In Mexico
Thinking of moving to Mexico for a few months or longer? If you’ve been trying to figure out whether Mexico could be a good place to live, I’ll share my experience with you. That said, I’ve created a list of the pros and cons of living in Mexico. If you wish to learn...