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
When Is The Best Time To Go To Tulum?
Tulum has recently become one of the most popular destinations in Mexico for tourists, backpackers, and digital nomads alike. Whether you’re planning a backpacking trip through Mexico or looking to spend a few months in Tulum, you’ll want to know when the best time to...
10 Best Campfire Games For Adults
With summer just around the corner, plans are underway for outdoor activities of all sorts. After all, what better time is there to enjoy the great outdoors than when the weather turns warm and balmy? From backyard barbecues and frolicking on the beach, to playing fun...
Buying Guide: The Best Backpacks For Teachers
The best backpacks for teachers need to offer a bit more than regular backpacks. When you take into account all the books, files and papers you need to carry - along with your laptop and personal items like wallet and glasses - a single compartment backpack just won't...
The Most Romantic Things To Do In Las Vegas
Although Las Vegas is most well-known for stag and hen weekends, there is more to the city of sin than gambling and drinking. There are many wonderful couple things to do in Vegas. From unique activities for two, romantic attractions, and intimate, quiet hotels, Las...
Complete Guide: The Most Common Types Of Trees
Trees are almost universal on our planet, growing practically everywhere that isn’t too dry or too cold. Most of us see tree species every day and that's great news because they play a vital role in our lives. Trees supply us with oxygen and our survival depends on...
Complete Guide: Hiking Lunch Ideas And Snacks
Searching for delicious hiking lunch ideas? In this guide, we'll give you tips to help you find great lunch ideas for hiking so that you can stay energic and full longer. One of the most important things to remember when choosing lunches and snacks for hiking is that...