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: Visiting Malta In Winter
Visiting Malta in winter gives you the best of both worlds - plenty to see, do, and experience, but without the scorching heat and crowds of summer. What's more, everything is cheaper - including travel to and from the island, accommodation and even some activities...
Are Tent Heaters Safe For Camping?
If you’ve ever camped out during the winter in a cold climate country, you’ll know that sometimes, no amount of layers can keep you warm at night. If you’re going on camping trips regularly in these low temperatures, you might want to consider investing in a tent...
How To Make Toast When Camping: 5 Camping Toast Options
Let’s face it; you simply can’t beat toast for breakfast. So whether you’re a classic toast and butter lover or you like to lather warm, crispy bread with sweet condiments, you shouldn’t be denied this pleasure while camping. So how do you make toast without a...
Tips For Visiting Prague In Winter
Prague is already amazing but winter in Prague is magical! The air is crisp, the atmosphere is relaxed and the views are sensational. It is romantic, steeped in history, and incredibly beautiful. Indeed, with its many steeples, towers, and turrets, you will quickly...
Backpacking Jordan: Budget Travel Tips & Itinerary
Jordan might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning your next backpacking trip but you'll be surprised how much this beautiful country has to offer. Visit breathtaking destinations such as Petra or the Dead Sea or explore lesser-known areas of Jordan...
10 Best Gifts Ideas For Campers
If you’re looking for the perfect gifts for camping enthusiasts but aren’t sure where to start, this article is full of useful, practical, and unique ideas. Finding the best camping gifts just got a whole lot easier! Here you’ll find cool camping gifts to suit all...