The History of Backpackers Fruit Picking in Australia

How backpacking started 

There is no definite answer as to when backpacking first began. However, backpacks made from animal skins existed back in ancient times. What is known is that modern rucksacks were invented early in the 1900s by Ole F Bergans and camping backpacks were invented by Lloyd F. Nelson in 1920. This may have led to more people travelling with their belongings. 

A real surge in the number of people exploring the outdoors happened in the 1950s following the creation of the first frame backpack by Dick Kelty. It was at this time that the modern era of backpacking began. 

During this period, young people began to travel to other countries, carrying their belongings with them. They did this for financial reasons and to get a true sense of freedom. The first backpackers favoured the Hippy Trail which took them to countries like Iran, Afghanistan, India and Nepal. 

However, in 1972, Maureen and Tony Wheeler wrote the first Lonely Planet guide after travelling overland to Australia from the UK. This was the start of a surge of interest in backpacking to and around Australia. 

It has to be said that fruit picking is not always the best-paid type of work. There are also scams around that backpackers need to be aware of. However, if travellers find a reputable employment option, and look to be part of a workers union, it can be a good way of financing a trip around Australia.

Given that the history of backpacking in Australia only really began in earnest during the 1970s, it has developed quickly. Hundreds of thousands of young people travel in this affordable way each year and pick fruit as a way of funding their trip. It’s a great way of paying for road trips like the drive down the east coast stopping off at sites like the Great Barrier Reef, Jervis Bay National Park and Byron Bay. A backpacking fruit picker can see all of these places while working along the way.