A guide to backpacking in Europe

For anyone thinking of a spending their summer (or any time of year) backpacking around Europe and not sure where to begin or how to plan such an event, this guide should give you a few ideas and tips to help get that dream trip on the road.

Getting organised

Planning your trip
When planning your trip to Europe, you should decide on a few details in advance to make your trip a successful one. You will need to decide how long you will be going for, who you will be traveling with. Whether to go on organised tours, cheap trips or just play it by ear and go it alone. Are you the type of person who is up early to get the benefit of each day or do you party and intend to stay up all night? Hostels
It is best to have your first nights accommodation in any city booked before you arrive. Most backpackers hostels have Internet connectivity available. So, this can be done before you leave for your next destination. It is best to allow at least 2-3 days in each location.

Transportation

Budget airlines
You should decide if while traveling to Europe, you can afford to use air travel to get you from one location to another. Depending on the distance involved and possible time taken to get there, it is sometimes a better option to use budget airlines. This is certainly quicker if time is of major importance during your trip. Rail or bus
Many discounts are available for students while traveling in Europe. A Eurail student pass can be purchased before you leave home. It gives good discounts on rail journeys in Europe. A Eurail map can also help with planning your next destination. Bus companies offer some good options to travel at budget prices.

Backpacking tips

Travel safe
Try not to arrive into a new city after dark and do not advertise yourself as a tourist. Avoid carrying all your valuables in one place, put your money and credit cards into several pockets.
Eating out
Eating all your meals at restaurants can be expensive. Eat from food vendors or buy sandwich items from a supermarket and treat yourself to a picnic in the park.
Credit cards
Inform your credit card company before you leave for the countries you will be visiting and that you will possibly be using your credit cards there.
Local language
Learn a few of the essentials like "please" and "thank you". Not everyone will speak your language. Saying "hello" in the local language helps to break many barriers.