All in travel tips

Be frugal but don't obsess over every dollar. Don't miss out on once in a lifetime opportunities. When in situations where bargaining is culturally appropriate, bargain, but consider the significance of that amount of money to you compared to the person with whom you are bargaining. 

The single most important piece of advice I can give on packing is to stick to the packing list. DO NOT OVERPACK. You maybe be tempted to bring more than what is suggested, but after a few days of lifting your luggage on/off trains, planes, and tuk tuks you will wish you left that extra pair of shoes at home. You will be surprised how much you can live without, and how little you care about your fashion choices during your gap year. Trust me....