Have you ever felt stuck in a job that doesn’t feel like you any more? Wondering if there’s more to life? That was me – until I made a change and chose myself.

This is me, looking chilly next to a torii gate in Japan.

My story

Hi! I’m Claire, and I’ve spent 20+ years in marketing and communications for global Fortune 500 companies across different industries. A few years ago, after building my career in London, I reached a breaking point. After a lot of deliberation, I quit my job and booked a round-the-world ticket.

I almost had a panic attack as I put my belongings in a backpack – it felt insane to pack less for a year than I would for a two-week holiday.

For a year, I travelled solo around the world. I stayed for a month in India, before exploring Malaysia, Thailand and Bali, which I adored. After that, I visited Australia and worked in New Zealand as I was terrified of running out of money halfway around the world (which never happened!). I returned home via South America, spending a month in Chile, Brazil and Argentina.

Over the course of my journey, I indulged my love of adventure and filled my days with my favourite things: good food, writing, yoga, dancing, music, art, nature and beaches.

This trip changed everything. Because of the places I saw, the people I met and how it shifted my perspective on work, life and myself.

This is me taking a break by the rice terraces in beautiful Bali.

What you’ll find here

This blog shares the practical stuff I wish someone had told me before I left. The kinds of questions that keep you awake at night – like how to plan realistic itineraries, what to pack and the honest truth about affording the trips you’re dreaming about.

I also publish a weekly Substack newsletter sharing deeper stories from my travels and insights about building a life that actually works for you.

Me horse-riding in Canada – an incredible experience.

Why Backpacking Bella?

‘Backpacking’ reflects how I travelled solo – exploring the world just me and my huge backpack. ‘Bella’ means beautiful in Italian, representing my approach: taking time to appreciate places, not just ticking them off a list.

Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality? Explore my destination guides and let’s start planning your next chapter.