Backpackers' Motivations

As I have been traveling, I have been wondering what motivates fellow backpackers to embark on such a journey. For me, I have an interest in the language and culture of South America, specifically Argentina, that can only be satisfied through travel. I also just love traveling. It is my favourite hobby and of late, I have been reading only travel literature. As I have been speaking with other backpackers, I find that there is a bit of a common theme emerging: traveling after breaking up with a long-term girl/boyfriend. For others, they are escaping a job or a life which bored them. Even with different motivations, I feel that there is a strong sense of camaraderie amongst fellow backpackers. After all, it is not for everyone. It takes a lot of courage to travel this way but it's one of the most fulfilling experiences you could ever have.