Backpack Through Europe

Backpacking through Europe is something that many people dream about but never actually do. Though it may seem intimidating, planning a "Eurotrip" is relatively easy, especially with modern technology and all of the travel guides we have today.

Steps

  1. Commit to your backpacking decision and start saving money right away. You won't have an exact budget yet, but airfare alone will probably be in the range of $700 to $1000 if you live in the U.S.
  2. Get a passport if you don't already have one!
  3. Decide where you want to go. This is the hardest part of the planning process. Most people have a limited amount of time to travel, so focusing on your top desires is key. Make a "must-see" list - this can be cities, countries, specific monuments, open-air markets, whatever! Arrange them in a top-ten list.
  4. Map out the most reasonable travel plan. Using Google Maps, plot all of your desired locations on a map and figure out a route.
  5. Figure out how much time you want to spend in each place. This may depend on your budget, but for now list the minimum number of days it would take to really see your destinations. For example, one day in a major capital like Madrid or Paris would be a shame.
  6. Choose a mode of travel. Traditionally, the most reasonable option for transportation was by rail (also known as the train) - this goes for the majority of Europe, though buses are used in smaller towns. However, in recent years, the proliferation of budget airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and Bmibaby have made air travel as--if not more--affordable than rail. If you look patiently, most of these airlines offer flight deals that can be as cheap as literally 1 euro (although that is somewhat rare). Most flight deals, if you look around and flexible on destinations tend to run closer to 25-30 euro each way. Still, the Eurail/InterRail Pass is an excellent deal, and you can alter its terms to fit your trip. The best part about the Eurail Pass is that you pretty much pay all of your transportation expenses up front - it's something less to worry about while traveling. Nevertheless, it's important to check the policies of the national rail systems you plan to travel on. Some countries, Italy for example, require seat reservations for most trains, and you must purchase these, albeit at a discount as a Eurail/InterRail Pass Holder. In general, these fees range from 5-15 euro, but they can be higher or lower depending on the nature of the trip.
  7. Get your budget in order by adding up the price of your budget airfare and/or Eurail Pass and the prices of your main attractions (most of which can be found online), and begin to search for accommodation in the cities you'll be visiting. You could just book hotels, but if you're on a tight budget (like most), staying in hostels is your best bet. Hostels are NOT a bad thing! As long as you review the ratings (there are tons of hostel booking sites) and use common sense, you will be fine! Many of the hostels I've stayed in are just as nice as hotels - and the atmosphere is better! Hostels usually run a little under 20 euros a night. Another option is "couchsurfing," which basically means staying at someone's home. Again, it seems sketchy, but there are verification processes, reviews, and you have your common sense! You can also stay only with females or families - just to be on the safe side. Not only is it free, it is a wonderful way to experience the city you're staying in; your hosts are often wiling to show you around and take you to the non-touristy parts.
  8. Now that you have your schedule sketched out, buy your plane tickets! Make sure you check several sites before you buy. Try flexible dates and surrounding airports to make it even cheaper.
  9. Search travel packing lists on the web and adjust according to where you're going. Take only a backpack, and make it as light as possible - you'll be carrying it most of the time if you plan on moving around a lot. Remember that you can always buy stuff when you get there...Europe has thin towels that are great for traveling, and toiletries are pretty much the same there as anywhere else! Above all, get a good backpack and make sure it's comfortable.
  10. You're ready to go! Make sure you have all important documents, know how to get money when you need it, and have a way of contacting someone back home if you need to (phone cards are decent, and most cities have cheap internet cafes). Bon voyage!



Tips

  • You'll be dealing with different languages, so learning a few phrases or picking up a slim phrase book wouldn't hurt, especially if you're visiting more out-of-the-way spots.
  • Find out some of the important laws. Just because you're visiting doesn't mean you can't get into trouble.
  • Bring extra batteries/memory for your camera, and figure out how to charge it...you may need an adapter (just go to an electronics store and ask). Most trains actually have outlets either near the seats or in the bathroom.
  • If you are traveling with a partner or partners, each partner should make a top-ten "must-see" list without the influence of other people! Then, negotiate using your top three or top five.
  • If you are a student or under 26, take advantage of discounts! Make sure you bring a school ID. Also, the International Student Insurance Card (ISIC) offers travel insurance, discounts all over the world, and a cheap calling card, all for around $22!
  • Learn from others' experiences.

Warnings

  • When you travel, you represent your country and you are also a guest in a foreign country, so make sure you're polite!
  • Remember, some planning is essential, but too much planning can ruin a trip. Make concrete plans only for the things you must see, but leave the rest of the time to wander.

Things You'll Need

  • Maps
  • Money
  • Travel documents

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