How to Celebrate Halloween While Backpacking

Traveling on Halloween? No biggie. You can still get into the spooky spirit even if you’re living out of a backpack. Here’s how to have a fun Halloween while on the road, without overthinking it.

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Costumes That Don’t Take Up Space

You didn’t pack for Halloween, and that’s fine. You can still throw together a costume with what you already have. If you find yourself in a costume competition, these ideas are sure to steal the show!

WiFi Ghost

Classic ghost costume (white towel or sheet with eye holes), but slap on a cardboard WiFi signal across your chest. Ghosts are easy, WiFi is life. This one’s guaranteed to get a laugh.

Skeleton Backpacker

All black outfit with a skeleton drawn on using tape or chalk. Toss on your backpack and a hat. You’re already a backpacker. Then add a skeleton twist, you’re Halloween-ready without trying too hard.

Vampire Tourist

Hawaiian shirt, hat, camera, sunglasses. Add vampire fangs and pale makeup, and you’re done. Tourists and vampires? A killer combo for Halloween, no extra baggage needed.

Backpacker Frankenstein

Frankenstein but make it travel. Travel gear, green face paint, a few stitches drawn on, and makeshift “bolts” on your neck.

Zombie Hitchhiker

Zombies always win on Halloween. Rip up your old clothes, dirty them up, and carry a sign that says “Hitching to Hell.” The hitchhiker spin adds a backpacker-friendly touch.

Haunted Hiker

Hiking gear, add some mud, pale face, and a sign like “Lost Souls Trail.” It’s spooky, it’s hiking, and it’s effortless—perfect for a backpacker with no time to waste.

No need to overdo it—backpackers appreciate creativity more than fancy costumes anyway.

Get creative with your Halloween costume, think light, fun, and totally DIY, photo courtesy of Canva

Find a Party (Or Start One)

Most hostels love throwing Halloween parties, so ask around. Someone’s likely planning something.

Southeast Asia has wild hostel parties and, if you’re staying at a Mad Monkey Hostel, make sure to join the fun events! Expect loud music, fun games, makeshift costumes, and a late night.
Europe has some spooky cities—Prague, Edinburgh, Dublin—where you’ll find haunted tours, pub crawls, and parties.
Australia/New Zealand might not be big on Halloween, but backpackers make their own fun. If nothing’s happening, get a few people together and start something yourself.

No party? No problem. All you need is some music, a few drinks, and the right crew to turn the night into a good time.

Hostel Trick-or-Treating

You’re not knocking on doors handing out candies, but you can still get in on some treats.

Local snacks: Hit up a market and grab something sweet or weird to try.
Pub crawl: Hostels might have Halloween-themed drinks or specials. Turn it into a mini pub crawl with your fellow travelers.

Whatever you do, it’s all about enjoying yourself and trying something new.

Find or start your own spooky Halloween party wherever you are, photo courtesy of Canva

Ask About Local Ghost Stories

Every country has its own spooky stories. Ask locals about any haunted spots or legends where you’re staying.

Mexico has Dia de los Muertos and tales like La Llorona.
Europe is full of haunted castles and creepy legends.
Southeast Asia has its own ghost stories and superstitions that locals will happily share.

Ghost stories are a great way to get into the Halloween mood while learning about the culture.

Take a Few Pics

Capture the moments this Halloween that will one day be part of your favorite travel stories. Whether you’re dressed up in a last-minute costume or exploring a spooky spot, you’ll want something to look back on.

Snap the scares and share the fun, photo courtesy of Canva

Get Spooky on the Go

It’s simple and fun, isn’t it? Halloween while backpacking is just another adventure. Throw on a costume, find a party, and enjoy wherever you are, maybe even at a Mad Monkey Hostel!