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
Best North America SIM Cards: What You Need To Know
Visiting North America soon? Make sure to know what to expect when it comes to purchasing a North American SIM card. In this guide, we’ll explain where to buy a SIM card in North America in person and online. We'll also discuss prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs if your...
Perfect 2 Days In Vancouver Itinerary
The coastal city of Vancouver is a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Canada. This British Columbian city has so much to enjoy and has consistently ranked as one of the most liveable cities in Canada and the world. In Vancouver, you have the snow-capped mountains...
Best South America SIM Cards: What You Need To Know
Visiting South America soon? Make sure to know what to expect when it comes to purchasing a South America SIM card. In this guide, we’ll explain where to buy a SIM card in South America in person and online. We'll also discuss prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs if your...
Perfect 2 Days In Interlaken Itinerary
The small Swiss town of Interlaken is beautifully located - as its name suggests - between two lakes. Attracting backpackers and travelers from all around the world, this stunning resort offers spectacular scenery, with soaring snowy mountains contrasted against the...
What To Do In Jasper In Winter
If you've ever dreamed of seeing a real-life winter wonderland, the alpine town of Jasper is for you. Aside from being one of the most beautiful places in Canada, there is so much to do here during wintertime. From skiing to snowshoeing to ice climbing to stargazing,...
What To Do In Banff In Winter
Is your idea of a winter break snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes rather than palm trees and tropical beaches? If so, the famous Alberta resort town of Banff is for you! Banff National Park offers a truly majestic setting in the winter and is one of the top places...