Are you planning your first or next backpacking trip through Europe any time soon? I've been there twice. It's amazing, but it can be overwhelming because everything is so expensive. If you're looking to go on a budget, here are some tips that will help!
Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Backpacking through Europe is an unforgettable experience, where one can see many different cultures and places in just a few weeks. While it may seem intimidating at first, this list of helpful hints should make things easier!
1. Be aware of the time span of your trip
Backpacking through Europe for a month is quite different from backpacking through Europe for a week or even two weeks. In one month, you can visit numerous countries and cities, but it will be more difficult to experience those places as those who live there would if they were going about their daily lives. You'll have less freedom and flexibility with a month-long backpacking trip but you'll see more things. If so, maybe try spending only a couple of weeks in each country?
2. Make sure you have enough money saved up for this adventure before leaving
This cannot be stressed enough because it is very difficult to find work abroad unless you are with an agency that specializes in teaching English. Teaching ESL in Prague is a legitimate option, however it takes time to find an agency, go through their hiring process, and get your visa in order for this type of adventure. If you are not willing to work illegally or save up some funds for your travels beforehand, you can always look into volunteering . You'll have the chance to give back to local communities while still having fun abroad!
3. Start making plans before leaving
I know it's exciting when the time comes to leave but I also know that getting all worked up about what's going on - then nothing happening - can be really stressful. For example , make sure you've got all your vaccinations taken care of before leaving because even if they're available over the counter in Europe, you'll still be spending a lot of money trying to find one in an emergency. Visit any doctor who is licensed to issue international medical certificates (for example in the UK, they will cost between €45 and €55 but if you go to one that isn't licensed , it could end up costing much more). Also make sure your travel insurance policy is valid for all countries you are visiting before leaving!
4. Find out about transportation fees
Getting around can get expensive when backpacking through Europe so learning about transportation options - bus, plane, train, etc. - can help save lots of euro. For example, booking plane tickets online at least two weeks before flying will let you know if there's any discount airfare available. If you plan on visiting more than one country by train, be sure to get a Eurail pass .
5. Plan out your lodging arrangements
There are many hostels and hotels around Europe but it can be difficult to find a good deal for a reasonably-priced room unless you book ahead of time. Also make sure to read reviews of any place before choosing because some hostels have been known about their party atmosphere long before actually booking!
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Talk to other backpackers who've been to the place you're thinking about staying at, or ask them where they stayed that was really great. We all want different things from our trip - some might prefer a quieter area while others may wish for an action-packed nightlife - so the best advice is to read carefully and consider all your options.
6. Get around like a local
There are many ways to do this but one of the best is by bike! Renting a bike is a really affordable way to get around most European cities and believe it or not, traffic in Europe isn't as bad as you think! For example , Amsterdam is known for biking everywhere with their network of over 400 miles of cycling lanes . Once you have wheels, you'll be able to navigate through any city - no problem! Also make sure to ask any local what special events/holidays might be going on during your time there because these can affect things such as flights, prices, etc. Better yet? Visiting as a local during your time off from school!
7. Be wary of student discounts
If you're still in school, getting a student discount will be pretty easy wherever you go but there are certain countries where this isn't the case. For example , Germany requires proof that you've been studying for a minimum of three months before they'll issue a temporary visa so even if you have a student card, it won't do much good. Before coming to Europe with any discounted plane ticket or travel arrangements , check into what the requirements are beforehand because these visas can be expensive and difficult to obtain - especially last minute!
8. Learn at least one European language
Asking for help in the native language is really important when backpacking because it lets the person you're asking know that you respect their country enough to learn something about it. Even though English is widely spoken in Europe, learning at least one European language will help keep your accent from getting in the way of comprehension - which can be really helpful when asking for directions or restaurant recommendations.
For example , knowing how to say "I'll have what she's having" in French will make ordering much easier! Bon appétit!
9. Get a VPN for online privacy
Some sites track where you are based on your IP address and this information can get collected even if you delete cookies and clear history; however, using a VPN service like Tunnelbear encrypts all your data and assigns it an anonymous IP address which makes it more difficult to track your location. VPNs can be used on any device and for those who are really serious about their online privacy, TunnelBear has unlimited data, multiple servers, and an easy-to-use desktop app that you can activate before getting online - just remember to deactivate it when you're done or else you'll have to pay a pretty penny!
10. Be respectful of traditions
There's lot's of different cultures in Europe so don't assume anything about anyone because chances are, someone is going to get offended. Also be wary of shouting or talking too loudly around older people/locals as this can come across as incredibly rude and disrespectful. For example , the Irish value "craic" - that's good conversation in their native Gaelic language - but if you're not familiar with their culture, this can come across as intrusive.
11. Eat the local food
There are so many delicious dishes to try when backpacking through Europe - what better excuse do you have for trying new things? Even though it might take some getting used to, eating street food is a great way to save money while immersing yourself in the culture of your destination so embrace it! Also be wary of dishes with lots of gravy or sauce because they usually contain animal by-products which isn't necessarily bad, just something to keep in mind!
12. Don't assume anything about anyone
This goes along with being respectful of traditions and cultures but don't assume that since someone is smiling, they are being nice! Some people have just learned to smile at everyone because it's rude not to so don't take it personally if no one seems very friendly at first glance.
13. Check with your bank for the best rates on international transfers .
If you've got a US bank account, chances are your debit card won't charge you for withdrawing money but it might tack on an additional fee or exchange rate which will cost you more money in the long run! Before leaving, look into what sort of fees/rates your bank charges and compare them to local banks before making transactions - most likely, they'll be much cheaper elsewhere!
14. Most countries require visas
This applies mostly to Americans but visiting Europe has gotten a little more difficult due to stricter entry requirements into the Schengen Area. Although you can get your visa right before departure, it's much easier to get them ahead of time - especially if you plan on taking multiple day trips while backpacking! If you're worried about not being able to get one in time, don't worry because there are plenty of other ways to stay in Europe for up to 90 days without requiring a visa!
15. Prepare yourself by researching your destination
There's so many great blogs and YouTube channels out there where people document their travels so use this information while backpacking! What better way is there than learning from somebody else's mistakes? These professionals will tell you what places are worth your time and which ones you should skip so you don't waste any precious vacation days.
16. Expensive does not mean quality
Just because something is more expensive doesn't make it better - in fact, many inexpensive items are usually of higher quality! Always look at the price tag without judging the product by its cover because sometimes, there are hidden gems in places you wouldn't normally look.
17. Prepare your body by exercising regularly
Not only will this help when backpacking, it'll also better prepare you for all of the walking tours and adventures ahead! If you don't want to spend a lot of money on expensive gym memberships, another great way to stay active is by walking everywhere you go!
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