43 countries, countless stories, and one orange backpack
Hi, I'm Hilary! I'm a traveler, writer, and storyteller who believes some of the best travel experiences happen when things don't go quite according to plan. I've wandered through cities, explored mountain trails, eaten things I couldn't pronounce, and occasionally found myself wondering how exactly I ended up somewhere. Along the way, I've discovered that the moments I remember most aren't always the famous landmarks or carefully planned adventures. They're the conversations, unexpected detours, memorable meals, and little surprises that make a place come alive. That's what The Orange Backpack is all about.

Why the Orange Backpack?

The orange backpack has been my constant travel companion across six continents and countless countries. It's been there for the adventures, the wrong turns, the unforgettable meals, and the moments that didn't go quite as planned.
Over the years, it's carried more than just my belongings. It's witnessed my evolution as a traveler and as a person. The way I travel has changed, the things I seek out have shifted, and my understanding of the world—and my place in it—continues to grow. Through it all, the orange backpack has come along for the ride. This blog is a collection of those experiences. The places I've been, the people I've met, and the stories I've collected along the way.

Beyond the Blog

Some stories need a little more room. I spent a year living and teaching in Beijing, China, an experience that challenged me, surprised me, and gave me plenty of stories to tell. My first travel book, The Orange Backpack – Beijing, grew out of that experience. It's a collection of stories about navigating life in a new country, embracing the unfamiliar, and discovering that some of the most memorable moments happen when things don't go according to plan. Writing has become another way for me to revisit the places I've been, reflect on what they've taught me, and share a little of the world through my eyes. Explore The Orange Backpack – Beijing on Amazon

Let's Keep Exploring

Whether you're planning your next adventure, reminiscing about a place you've been, or simply here for a good story, I'm glad you found your way to The Orange Backpack. There are still plenty of places to explore, meals to try, and stories waiting to be told. See you down the road!— Hilary 🎒