Malaysia is great for seeing wildlife because it is home to a diverse range of ecosystems and habitats. From lush rainforests to pristine coral reefs, Malaysia offers a variety of environments that support a wide array of flora and fauna.
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Malaysia
Malaysia
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Backpacking Malaysia in 2025
A complete guide for backpacking in Malaysia with best places to go, best time to visit, what to bring and safety advice.
Visit Malaysia
Welcome to Malaysia, a diverse tapestry of cultures and landscapes that beckon backpackers with a blend of tradition and modernity. Pros? Immerse yourself in bustling markets, tropical rainforests, and pristine beaches, all at an affordable cost. The well-developed transportation system makes exploration easy. However, Malaysia's popularity can mean crowded tourist spots. Yet, the country's unique fusion of cultures, delectable cuisine, and accessibility make it an ideal destination for backpackers seeking a harmonious blend of adventure, affordability, and cultural exploration in Southeast Asia.
Why to go?Why backpacking in Malaysia
Wildlife
Backpackers
The backpacker scene in Malaysia is vibrant and diverse, offering a range of experiences for budget travelers. The country is known for its affordability, making it a popular destination for backpackers from around the world.
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Beach life
Malaysia is great for beach life and snorkeling due to its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. The country is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, such as Langkawi, Perhentian Islands, and Redang …
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Food
The food in Malaysia is so good because of its rich and diverse culinary heritage. The country’s cuisine is a melting pot of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous influences, resulting in a wide array of flavors, ingredients, and cooking styles. …
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People
Malaysian people are known for their warm and welcoming nature. They often go out of their way to make guests feel at home, offering delicious food, sharing stories, and showing genuine interest in their visitors. Whether it’s inviting someone …
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Cheap
The average cost for backpacking in Malaysia can vary depending on the type of accommodation, transportation, and activities. Budget travelers can expect to spend around $20-30 per day on a tight budget, including staying in budget hostels or …
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💡 HighlightsTop-5 things to do in Malaysia
- Explore Kuala Lumpur: The capital city of Malaysia offers a mix of modern skyscrapers, cultural landmarks, and vibrant street markets. Visit the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, explore the historic Merdeka Square, and experience the bustling atmosphere of Chinatown.
- Discover the Cameron Highlands: This highland region is known for its cool climate, tea plantations, and scenic landscapes. Take a tour of the tea estates, visit the colorful flower gardens, and enjoy hiking through the lush greenery.
- Experience the Borneo Rainforest: Head to Borneo Island to explore one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Go on a wildlife safari to spot orangutans, pygmy elephants, and proboscis monkeys. Don’t miss the chance to visit the famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.
- Relax on Langkawi Island: Escape to this tropical paradise with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush jungles. Enjoy water sports activities, take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Mat Cincang, and explore the mangrove forests on a boat tour.
- Visit the UNESCO-listed George Town: Located in Penang, George Town is a cultural melting pot with its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and delicious local food. Take a heritage walk, taste the famous Penang street food, and explore the colorful Little India.
But Malaysia offers more...
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Malaysia
Traveled route: Kuala Lumpur, Petronas Towers, Batu Caves
🌤️ When to go?Best time to go backpacking Malaysia
The best time to visit Malaysia for backpacking is during the dry season, which is from March to October. During this time, you can enjoy pleasant weather with less rainfall and lower humidity. However, keep in mind that Malaysia's climate varies depending on the region, so it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast for the specific areas you plan to visit. Additionally, it's worth noting that Malaysia can be quite crowded with tourists during major holidays and festivals, so if you prefer a quieter experience, it may be best to avoid these peak periods.
Risk level: low (17%)Safety advice for Malaysia
- There is a risk of terrorism in Malaysia. Terrorism is a global threat. Attacks could be random and small-scale. Possible targets could include tourist areas and a range of other locations frequented by foreigners (see Full Advice - Safety below), including in Kuala Lumpur. Take official warnings seriously. There was an armed attack on a police station in Johor Bahru on 17 May in which two police officers were killed.
- There's an ongoing high risk of kidnapping in the coastal areas of eastern Sabah. There have been a number of attempted and successful kidnappings. This includes islands, dive sites and tourist facilities. If, despite our advice, you travel to these areas, get professional security advice. Obey all local governments' curfews.
- Petty crime is common. Bag-snatching, including by thieves on motorbikes, happens often. When walking, hold your bag on the opposite side to the traffic. Safeguard your belongings, especially in shopping centres, at the airport and on trains. Credit card fraud is common. Always keep your credit card in sight when paying for purchases.
- Assault, sexual assault, robbery and drink spiking can occur, including in tourist areas of Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Don't leave your food or drinks unattended. Never accept food, drinks, cigarettes or gum from strangers. Stay with people you trust at parties, bars, nightclubs and taxis.
- Piracy in South-East Asian waters is an ongoing problem. Avoid travelling by boat in the southern Sulu Sea. If you intend to travel in the region by boat, check the International Maritime Bureau's piracy reports. Arrange personal security measures.
source: smartraveller.gov.au
source: www.gov.uk
MalaysiaMy tips to get you on the way!Does Malaysia sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.
Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Malaysia. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Malaysia may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Malaysia. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Malaysia may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Malaysia, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Malaysia, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
My personal packing list 🎒
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Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Moneybelt
[Amazon]
“Best way to carry your important documents”
Quick dry pant
[Amazon]
“Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling”
Light rain jacket
[Amazon]
“Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry”
Thermo underwear
[Amazon]
“Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets”
Quick dry towel
[Amazon]
“Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling”
Power bank
[Amazon]
“Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more”
Travel adapter
[Amazon]
“Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs”
Number lock
[Amazon]
“No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories”
Packing cubes
[Amazon]
“Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest”
Travel pillow
[Amazon]
“Light and great for flights and long bus journeys”
last page update: 29 September 2024