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 Campervan Fridges
If you’ve caught the van life bug and are looking to upgrade your “on the road” living set up, a campervan fridge is a must-have. Being able to store fresh groceries is a game-changer for extended trips on the road. A campervan fridge will allow you to prepare fresh...
5 Best Places To Live In Germany
Germany's strong economy and job market combined with a good standard of living make it an excellent country for expats to live and work. The highly developed country is one of the cleanest and well-organized in the world. In fact, Germany is renowned for its...
How Many Days In Berlin Is Enough?
Planning a short break to Germany’s capital and wondering how many days in Berlin you will need to see everything the city has to offer? Considering the number of sights, attractions, and unique experiences, are 2 days in Berlin enough, or should you plan for longer?...
Complete Guide: Walking 20,000 Steps A Day
Walking is a great way to stay fit as it’s something that anyone can do, regardless of their fitness level. What’s more, with the rise of step counters and step-tracking apps, tracking your daily steps is fast becoming the new craze. The CDC recommends that you walk...
Motorhome VS Campervan: What Is Better And Why?
Are you one of those globetrotters who are often baffled about which rental car is appropriate for your stay? If you have planned your next road trip and want to cut enormous hotel costs, these staying options come in handy! Before moving forward, you should...
How Many Days In London Is Enough?
Wondering how many days in London is enough? With its rich history and cool, vibrant culture, the United Kingdom's capital city is packed with fascinating things to see and do. But how many days do you need in London to see the very best of the sights? Are 2 days in...