Similar to backpacking, flashpacking involves sacrificing certain luxuries, such as designer luggage and first-class transportation. However, flashpackers save their travel budget to splurge on other comforts, like high-tech toys or upscale accommodations.
Travelers who plan flashpacking adventures typically book transportation on budget airlines, low-cost buses or trains, or public transportation. Some flashpackers stay in hostels, campgrounds, or budget lodging in order to save more of their travel budget for laptops, digital cameras, global positioning systems, high-tech cell phones, and other expensive technology. Other flashpackers may spend minimal money on meals and activities, resulting in more available funds for affluent accommodations. Bed and breakfast inns cater to this type of traveler.

An increasing number of flashpackers are traveling with backpacks full of high-tech gadgets, and staying in modest overnight lodging. According to a recent survey by www.HostelWorld.com, 21% of flashpackers carry a laptop, 54% bring MP3 players, 83% pack cell phones, and 86% carry digital cameras. Hostels are increasingly offering free wireless Internet connections in an effort to attract more flashpackers.

Several online resources are available to help you plan your next flashbacking vacation. A few websites worth checking out include:
• http://www.travelblogs.com/articles/10-reasons-to-go-flashpacking-the-next-time-you-travel
• http://www.flashpackerguide.info/
• http://www.how-to-travel-the-world.com/flashpacking/

Pascarella, S. (2009, March 30). The hottest travel trends for summer 2009. SmarterTravel.com. Retrieved March 30, 2009, from http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/the-hottest-travel-trends-for-summer-2009.html?id=2862139

Scheeler, J. (n.d.). Flashpacking – the new way to backpack. TravelPost.com. Retrieved March 30, 2009, from http://www.travelpost.com/articles/flashpacking.aspx