Tourism
Beloved Thai Travel Blogger 'Pa Backpack' Passes Away
Kanchana 'Pa Paew' Phanthutecha, a retired civil servant turned travel influencer, has died at the age of 69.
On September 3, 2026, the family of Kanchana Phanthutecha, widely known as 'Pa Backpack' (Auntie Backpack), announced her peaceful passing. The news was shared via her official Facebook page, with funeral arrangements to be disclosed at a later date.
Kanchana, affectionately known as 'Pa Paew,' was a former civil servant at the Department of Disease Control under the Ministry of Public Health. Following her retirement in 2014, she gained significant popularity for her adventurous spirit, documenting her travels as a way to find fulfillment and maintain an active lifestyle in her post-retirement years. Her story resonated with many, leading to her participation as a speaker at the Health Care 2024 event, where she shared insights on the importance of staying active and seeking new experiences after leaving the workforce.
For residents and travelers in Thailand, her journey served as an inspiration for active aging and exploring the country’s diverse landscapes. While her passing marks the end of a beloved public journey, her influence on the Thai travel community remains significant. At this time, specific details regarding the cause of death and the schedule for her memorial services have not been released by her family. Followers and admirers continue to express their condolences online as they await further updates regarding her final arrangements.