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 Crystals For Safe Motorcycle Trips
If you're like most people, you probably think of motorcycles as dangerous. And while they can be risky, if you take the proper precautions, motorcycle travel can be just as safe as any other form of transportation. If you wish to ensure your safety while riding a...
Best Way To Wash Dishes While Camping
Camping is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy nature. But when you’re camping, you still have to do dishes. In this guide, you'll find some helpful tips for washing dishes while camping that will help make the process easier. How To...
Road Trip Tips For Couples
Are you planning a road trip with your partner? If so, you'll want to read this guide first! In this guide, we'll give you some tips for making the most of your couple's road trip. Whether you're looking to save money or have the best time possible, we've got you...
Perfect 2 Days In Valencia Itinerary
Thinking about spending 2 days in Valencia? Valencia tends to get overlooked as a tourist destination, with visitors flocking to Madrid or Barcelona instead. But that’s a shame because this beautiful city - the 3rd largest in Spain - is filled with attractions both...
Perfect 2 Days In Malaga Itinerary
Planning to spend 2 days in Malaga? With more than 300 days of sunshine every year, Malaga is a popular destination for visitors looking for that perfect mix of sea and sangria. It has a stunning coastline and many beautiful sandy beaches, making it ideal for relaxing...
The 6 Best Places To Live In Romania
Thinking of moving to Romania? If you're wondering if Romania is a good place to live - we think it is. Life in Romania comes with a lot of benefits too. Now, if you're feeling overwhelmed and want to explore the best places to live in Romania, you may...