Flashpacking

When you think of the typical backpacker, it's someone who'll wear the same shirt for months, take a 20 hour bus detour to save a few bucks and steal butter sachets from the hostel cafeteria 'just in case'. Basically, someone who does things on the cheap.

But for certain people, heading overseas just to scrimp on every cent seems pointless. They have some cash behind them and don't need to say no to every extravagance. At the same time, this more moneyed traveller wants the freedom, independence and authenticity that comes with backpacker travel. Meet the flashpacker.

This nifty word has been coined to cover a growing trend worldwide - a sort of 'rough de luxe' style of travel where you might do DIY baguettes for brekkie then dine at Pierre Gagnaire. The term is also used to describe techy travellers who won't leave home without their gadgets (think laptop and GPS as well as the standard mp3 player and digital camera). What both definitions boil down to is a new breed of backpacker, one that's determined to bring creature comforts along for the ride.

Flashpackers tend to be at least 30, in a good position financially and are likely to have backpacked in their younger days. They may be professionals on annual leave, empty nesters or adventurous seniors out to spend the kids' inheritance. Their experience doesn't have to vary hugely from that of an average backpacker. At its most basic, flashpacking can simply mean opting to spend a few extra dollars per night to get a hotel room with an ensuite rather than braving the hostel showers.

But of course where the consumer goes, business follows. There are locations popping up all around the world that cater specifically to this type of traveller. And some of them don't look much like roughing it at all.

Domestic flashpacker destinations include Longitude 131° near Uluru which offers a version of camping designed to suit those who wouldn't dream of unrolling a swag on the cold desert sand. In this 5 Star resort, each elevated hut features white fabric flowing from the centre of the ceiling to create the illusion of a tent. Guests can relax in climate controlled comfort while they gaze over Uluru and ponder the life of the early Australian pioneer who inspired their luxury bungalow's interior.

Internationally, flashpacking opportunities are endless. Luxury hotels aside, there's a host of sublime one-off experiences that make it well worth handing over the extra cash (for those who have it). Taking a plane ride over the Nazca Lines, going glacier trekking in Interlaken or booking into a Shanghai day spa could easily feature on any flashpacker itinerary.

Despite all this indulgence, flashpackers maintain their backpacker mindset, opting to mix with the locals and getting to know the communities they visit. They may plan time to take part in volunteer projects and are likely to support local businesses over the corporate chains. With more money available to them, flashpackers are able to give back to communities in ways that many backpackers feel they can't afford.

It can't be denied that some of the world's most amazing experiences are out of the reach of budget travellers. Chances are you'll have to pass up something breathtaking (and breathtakingly expensive) at some point on your trip simply because you don't have the cash. But when it happens to you, take heart in the thought that it may only be a matter of time before you're flashpacking too.