How to Backpack Through Europe

Depending on how adventurous you are, backpacking through Europe might be a dream trip or something that you fear is too risky for you. If you plan well, you can take steps to ensure that you will have a memorable, fun, and safe trip, no matter how adventurous or timid you are.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A well-chosen backpack that won't break your back.
• A willingness to research and plan ahead.
• Essential items such as toiletries, medications, travel documents, etc.
• Courtesy and cultural ettiquette.

1. Figure out where you're going and when. If you're not sure how to choose, write a list of requirements (good weather, good music, not too expensive, etc.) and then narrow the list down. Don't give in to the pressure to fit absolutely everything into this one trip.

2. Once you know where you're going, plan the itinerary. Find out what's going on in the area during the time you are traveling, and, based on this, plan where you will begin and end your trip. Plan ahead where you'll be staying (book hostels early!) and how you'll get around.

3. Based on your destination(s), and the time of year you're going there, begin planning what you'll need for your trip. Write out a list before you pack and refine it before you actually buy your items and pack them. Cross off any non-essentials (probably about half of what you think you need).

4. Buy a good backpack that is designed not to hurt your back and pack carefully according to your list. Leave 10-20% of it empty (for souvenirs or for when you haven't repacked so carefully). Other key items: excellent walking shoes, toiletries, a sleeping bag, a camera, a canteen, sunscreen/bug repellent, plastic bags, twine and clothespins (for hanging laundry or other handy uses), etc.

5. The night before you leave, check through all of your items to make sure you have what you need and are not bringing anything unimportant. Make sure you have your tickets, reservation confirmations, and travel documents. Ensure that your friends and family know where you're going, and that you can reach each other in case of an emergency.

6. Enjoy your trip. Top tips include being courteous to all you meet, sticking to your travel plan, enjoying each moment to its fullest, and not breaking the law or taking chances.

7. As soon as you can during or after your trip, catalogue your memories. Scrapbook or collect your images and thoughts online. Memories fade fast!

Tips & Warnings

• The internet is a great source for planning, and there are several backpacking sites. Research your destination well, plan your accomodations ahead of time, and book everything you can ahead of time. Ironically, the less details you have to worry about once you're there, the freer you are to be spontaneous and enjoy your journey.
• When trying to choose your destination(s), consider eastern Europe. The offerings will be comparable to western European countries, and they'll be much cheaper.
• Try scouring your databanks for old friends abroad, or contact friends who might have contacts in Europe. Europeans you have formed fast friendships with (or with whom someone in your circle of friends or family is close) are usually very happy to have visitors stay with them. Be courteous!
• Pack dark clothing, and make sure that all of your pieces match each other.
• To save room on guidebooks, print out your travel information online or only bring the pages of the travel books that you need.
• If you love your appliances, make sure to get adapters.
• Trader Joe's has great Fair Trade soaps that are good for almost any purpose you can imagine - washing clothes and dishes, washing yourself, washing surfaces, etc.
• Try traveling within a small region - buying a ticket from point A to point B often allows you to get off and on as often as you please in between (make sure you know the rules of the local train system before trying this).
• Don't forget to bring local currency with you! Get some from your bank before you leave. In fact, the more you can bring ahead of time and the less often you have to change money, the more you'll save.
• Don't forget to get a passport if you don't already have one (start the process early) and know what visa and other entry/exit requirements pertain to the country or countries you are visiting. Visit the state department Web site and know about any travel advisories!
• Try to limit the number of places you are trying to see. Focus on a certain region. This will make logistics easy and travel cheap.
• If you are traveling in the spring or fall, pack clothing that allows you to be comfortable whether the weather is cool or warm.
• Don't forget to consider critical items such as feminine products, contact lense solutions, medications, etc. Calculate the quantity that you will need on your trip and either stock up or know where to purchase these items abroad.
• Avoid living like you're a homeless person. Sleeping on the street, in airports, etc. is not recommended unless you want to learn more than you bargained for about the local legal system! If you have no budget for hotels, visit friends or use services such as Stay4Free.com or GlobalFreeLoaders.com.
• Try not to stray from your planned route. This can mean increasing your budget, delays, and other unexpected issues.
• Be courteous and try to use the local language whenever possible. Americans unfortunately are expected to be rude, so use your best manners and be a good ambassador while abroad!

Resources

• Backpack Europe