Travel Europe on a Budget
The Savvy Backpacker
City Guides .\33 a132798-3f3b-4585-954d-7e70cf863447{fill:#231f20}
How to travel solo in europe | your guide to solo travel planning.
Tips and advice for traveling alone in Europe. How to have a successful solo backpacking journey through Europe.
Helpful Travel Tips & Articles
Many people are intimated by the thought of solo travel but plenty of people travel alone in Europe. In fact, my first backpacking Europe trip was a solo adventure and I’ve now done 10+ solo trips to Europe. And while I was a little worried at first, I now find traveling alone to be a super rewarding experience.
And while traveling alone does have some downsides, I still wholeheartedly endorse solo travel to anyone.
In this guide, I’ll teach you how to travel solo in Europe—including the positives and negatives, how to meet people, how to stay safe, how to fight loneliness, and plenty of other practical advice for making the most of your solo travels.
Note: Looking for female-specific advice — check out our Guide To Solo Travel For Women in Europe .
The Best Things About Solo Travel In Europe
Solo travel has always been a niche style of travel (check out the r/SoloTravel subreddit) but it truly started booming alongside the surge of post-pandemic travel ( Kayak’s Travel Trend Report states that single-person ticket sales are up by 36% compared to 2022). Many major news publications have also recently written about the benefits of traveling alone— The Solo Trip-Explore at Your Own Pace – NY Times , How (and Why) to Travel Alone – Vox , and Solo Travel: Why More People Are Doing It – BBC .
Let’s jump straight into some of the best things about traveling alone (don’t worry, I’ll cover the downsides in the next section).
Easier To Simply Get Started
I’ve met countless people who have put off travel for 5 or 10 years because they couldn’t find someone to travel with.
Taking a trip to Europe is a big commitment. It takes a lot of time and money. Trying to coordinate schedules and budgets of multiple people is often enough to delay (or even prevent) the start of a trip.
And every group seems to have one person who can’t commit or cancels last minute—which can throw a wrench into the entire trip before it even begins.
But with solo travel, all you have to do is buy that ticket and you’re on your way.
Complete Control Of Your Day
Traveling alone allows you to be in total control so you can do whatever you want, whenever you want. You can eat whenever, see whatever, and go wherever you want.
Feel like sleeping in? You got it.
Want to just walk for hours? Go for it.
You can’t fully appreciate this freedom until you travel with other people.
Food Freedom
From my experience, choosing where to eat is one of the most stressful aspects of traveling with other people—especially when you’re traveling with a larger group of people.
When you travel alone you can choose exactly where to eat and you don’t have to worry about splitting bills and making sure you get paid back.
Dining alone can also help you get seated faster if the restaurant has seats at the bar.
Choose Your Itinerary
Trying to get an entire group of people to agree to an itinerary can cause a lot of fiction.
Some people love the beach. Others love city adventures. Some people want to travel cheaply and others want to drop a lot of cash. Some want to stop at every souvenir shop and others want to spend their days in museums. Inevitably, these misaligned travel styles things cause stress and conflict.
Solo travel allows you to do things you want to do. You don’t need to answer to anyone else. In a group, everyone has their own ideas of what to see and this can cause a lot of conflicts.
No Arguments
Travel is stressful. And you usually take out that stress on your travel partners. This can cause riffs between you and your travel partner or riffs within a larger group.
I find myself getting much less stressed when I am traveling alone… because I’m not going to argue with myself.
Total Focus
There is no one to “distract” you when you’re traveling solo. You’re totally focused on whatever it is you’re experiencing.
An Opportunity To Reinvent Yourself
You can be whoever you want to be when you travel alone. Solo travel gives you a chance to shake off the “old you” and try being someone else for a while.
Meet New People
Groups tend to unknowingly put up a “wall” between themselves and other travelers—which often prevents them from making friends with other people.
I’ve also found that solo travelers tend to meet other solo travelers—especially if you’re staying in a hostel.
No Large Group Issues
Traveling in a large group poses other issues that a small group won’t experience.
One of the biggest issues is finding a table at restaurants because reservations for more than four people can be a hassle. In fact, even a reservation for 4 people will be much harder than a group of two.
Even finding two and three-bedroom rental properties can be difficult.
Large groups also stand out so you’re much more likely to be pegged for tourists.
An Opportunity For Self-Growth
Most solo travelers find that self-growth is the greatest long-term benefit of traveling to Europe alone. You learn that you can rely on yourself. You learn that you can figure stuff out while on the road. You develop self-confidence after figuring out a difficult problem.
In the end, you become a stronger person.
Disadvantages of Solo Travel
I’d be lying if I said that solo travel was always amazing—because it’s not. And sometimes it kind of sucks.
But I’ve also found the difficulties of solo travel end up being the most rewarding experiences.
Eating Alone
Many people feel really uncomfortable eating alone—especially in restaurants. It isn’t bad for breakfast and lunch but dinners do get a little lonely.
In actuality, eating alone isn’t nearly as awkward as we think it will be… but, given the choice, I’d still rather eat with someone than eat alone.
Unwanted Isolation
Solo travel can be isolating. And every solo traveler will experience bouts where they wish they had someone to hang out with.
I remember my very first night of solo traveling. I was in Dublin and the hostel was overrun by a large group of Spanish students. didn’t meet any English speakers that first night so it was pretty lonely. I was also a new traveler so I was pretty timid. Luckily, occasions like this were pretty rare.
But, I still find going to bars alone to be intimidating.
No “Buddy System”
Having someone to share your memories with can be nice—especially if everyone travels well with each other.
Traveling with a friend also helps with other practicalities like having someone watch your bags, watch your drinks, save your seat, help you solve a problem, etc.
Too Many Selfies
Most of my travel photos are selfies. Minor issue but all your photos start looking the same after a while. Of course, you can ask strangers to take your photo but that also gets old (and people take really bad photos).
General Safety
Europe is a very safe place for solo travelers but there is always safety in numbers no matter where you go.
On the other hand, traveling with a large group makes you stand out as a bunch of tourists—which brings another host of issues. I’ve written more about safety as a solo traveler further down in this article.
No “Single’s Tax”
Solo travel can be more expensive (on a per-person basis) than traveling with a group because you’re not able to split some travel costs—notably hotel rooms/rental apartments and food. For example, splitting the cost of a hotel room between two people is a huge money saver.
Tips On How To Travel Alone Successfully
Now that we’ve covered the positives and negatives of solo travel, let’s take a look at some tips to help you successfully travel alone.
Consider Staying In Hostels
Hostel life isn’t for everyone but it’s an excellent way to be instantly connected with other travelers (especially other solo travelers).
Hostels have changed a lot in the past 5-10 years. Europe now has a number of higher-end hostels so many feel more like boutique hotels than the stereotypical budget backpacker flops of yesteryear.
Additionally, just about every nicer hostel has private rooms and many hostels cater to every age so you won’t feel out of place if you’re not the typical twentysomething traveler.
Many hostels often plan group meals, bar crawls, and walking tours to help create a communal vibe so do a little research to find a hostel that fits your travel style.
More Tips On How To Meet People In Hostels
Hostels are naturally social but there are a few things you can do to increase the chance of meeting other people.
- Don’t Break The Unspoken Hostel Rules: Check out The Savvy Backpacker’s guide to hostel etiquette .
- I didn’t do a very good job being outgoing my first few nights and I had a hard time meeting people. But after the third night, I forced myself to be a little more outgoing and it opened up so many doors.
- Buy People Beer: Buy some cheap beer and offer it to people. You’ll meet TONS of people this way. People will often do the same for you. Trust me, this will be the best €10 you can spend.
- Cook Meals In The Hostel: You’ll meet so many people if you hang out in the kitchen around dinner time. Or, if nothing else, hang around the kitchen at dinner time and you’ll probably be invited to eat with other guests.
Check out my Guide To Hostels in Europe to get a more in-depth look at the world of modern hostels and visit my Accommodations Page to see my list of the best hostels in Europe.
Stay In A Fun/Popular Neighborhood
I always try to book accommodation that’s located in a fun neighborhood because I love being able to walk out the door and instantly have coffee shops, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife within walking distance.
Fun neighborhoods also tend to be the safest since they’re the most popular so there are always people out and about.
The best neighborhoods are typically the most expensive in terms of accommodation so you’ll pay a bit of a premium, but I think it’s worth the extra costs.
Take A Food Tour, Cooking Class, Wine Tasting, Etc.
Participating in a group event is an excellent way to meet other people.
I love taking food tours when traveling solo since eating is naturally a communal event—especially when there is alcohol involved. Many food tours take place at night so it’s a great way to fill your evening after you’ve spent the day exploring the city. I’ve personally taken Devour Food Tours in Rome, Seville, and Madrid—all were excellent (check out my Devour Rome Food Tour review to learn more).
Cooking classes are also a great way to meet people since you’re all in a kitchen preparing a meal together and then you all gather to eat everything you just made. For example, I’ve taken cooking classes in Paris at Cook’n With Class and a cooking class in Florence. These classes generally last 3-5 hours so you still have plenty of time to do other things that day.
Take A Walking Tour
Walking tours tend to be a little less social than food tours and cooking classes since you’re mostly listening to the guide talk but it’s still an excellent way to be around others.
But you’ll naturally start up conversations when the guide isn’t talking and you might end up making a new travel buddy along the way.
Most cities have free walking tours (the guides work off tips) so it’s an affordable activity as well. You can also find more specialty paid walking tours and those tend to attract like-minded travelers.
Couchsurfing, Reddit, and Other Meetup Groups
Most big cities across the world have active Couchsurfing and Reddit meetup groups that attract people eager to meet and chat. These groups typically meet at a local bar to help the conversations flow.
The best way to find these groups is to Google “CITYNAME Couchsurfing Meetup” or “CITYNAME Reddit Meetup.” Meetup.com can also be a good resource for finding people who are also looking for things to do.
Rent A Room On Airbnb
While not guaranteed, renting a room in an Airbnb can be a good way to interact with your hosts. Plenty of hosts will invite you to dinner or be open to hanging out.
For example, my Airbnb hosts in Naples invited me to have a homemade dinner with them one evening out on their beautiful rooftop patio.
Use Dating Apps
Using dating apps can be a good way for single travelers to meet locals and other tourists. Plus, meeting a local is a good way to find cooler places that you might not find on your own.
Hit The Bar
The bar has always been a natural place to meet other people.
If you feel weird about drinking alone, I recommend bringing a book and sitting at the bar as you look much more approachable than if you’re just scrolling through your phone.
Safety Tips For Solo Travelers
While Europe is a very safe place to visit, common sense safety measures are still something that all solo travelers should consider.
Act Like You Belong
One of the best things you can do while traveling alone is to simply act like you belong. Walk with confidence. Pretend like you’ve been there a million times before. People who look lost and bewildered instantly stand out.
Stay In A Safe Neighborhood
Always do some research before booking your accommodation to ensure it’s in a safe neighborhood—especially at night.
TIP: The areas around train stations in Europe are often a little sketchy (since there is a large transient population) but this is also where much of the cheap accommodation is found. So keep this in mind when booking a place to stay.
Listen To Your Instincts
If something doesn’t feel right then you shouldn’t do it. It’s a pretty simple concept but sometimes it’s easier said than done.
Know Where You’re Going
Pulling your phone out every two seconds to see where you’re going will naturally draw attention to yourself and it’s a signal that you’re lost. So spend a little time studying your route so you only need to check periodically.
Keep Connected With Reliable Mobile Data
Having reliable mobile data for your phone can be a huge help when traveling—you need it for Google Maps, rideshare apps, digital train tickets… and just about anything else so don’t rely on hard-to-find free wifi to keep you connected.
I recommend buying a cheap prepaid European data plan—check out my guide to How to Use Data Plans and Smartphone Phones in Europe and my guide to the best eSIM data plans for Europe .
Get Familiar With Common Travel Scams
As G.I. Joe says, “Knowing Is Half The Battle” so it’s smart to familiarize yourself with the most common travel scams so you can avoid them.
I’ve written extensively about How to Avoid Pickpockets and Outsmart Thieves in Europe and How to Avoid Common Travel Scams In Europe but here are a few safety tips to consider while traveling alone.
You can also Google “scams in CITY” to get a better idea about the specifics of common scams in individual cities—for example, the “deaf/mute petition scam” is popular in Paris and Bus #64 in Rome is a hotspot for pickpockets.
Pack Light and Blend In
Lugging around a huge, heavy suitcase or massive backpack makes you an instant (and slow-moving) target. This is even more true in chaotic, crowded, and pickpocket-heavy locations like train stations, subways, and city buses.
Furthermore, knowing how to dress so you don’t instantly stand out as a tourist can also give you another level of safety.
I’ve written multiple packing-related articles you might want to check out:
- Backpacking Europe Packing List
- Travel Europe Packing List for Women
- Europe Packing List (for any travel style)
- Hostel Packing List
- How to Avoid Looking Like a Tourist in Europe
Buy Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is smart for all travelers because it can save your butt financially. I use and recommend World Nomads for most travelers but there are a handful of other travel insurance companies.
- Recent Posts
- Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Backpack Review | My Real-World Test - November 2, 2024
- Orange Holiday Europe SIM Card Review | I Test This Popular Tourist-Focused Data Plan - November 1, 2024
- Best eSIM For France | A Complete Guide To Buying eSIM Data Plans in France - October 18, 2024
No Funny Business
The Savvy Backpacker is reader-supported. That means when you buy products/services through links on the site, I may earn an affiliate commission—it doesn’t cost you anything extra and it helps support the site.
Thanks For Reading! — James
Questions? Learn more about our Strict Advertising Policy and How To Support Us .
Related Reads
Helpful Travel Tips & Articles , Product Reviews
Paris Pass Review — A Good Value or Waste of Money?
Are you wondering if the Paris Pass is worth the price? Read my in-depth review of the Paris Pass and analysis of its value.
How to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe — Tips for Outsmarting the Thieves
Everything you need to know about keeping your valuables safe and secure.
Helpful Travel Tips & Articles , Packing
Fashion Advice: How to Avoid Looking Like An American Tourist In Europe
Fashion advice to help you look like a local when visiting Europe.
How to Avoid Common Tourist Scams In Europe
A list of the most common tourist scams you'll see when visiting Europe.
City Guides
Choosing travel insurance, travel packing lists, budget travel newsletter.
The best budget travel tips sent straight to your inbox.
Join My Journey
Europe travel tips, advertising & privacy policies.
TheSavvyBackpacker.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.
© 2010 - 2024 The Savvy Backpacker
Website Design by FHOKE
- Backpacking
- Solo Travel
Solo Backpacking Trip To Europe: 12 Simple Tips for Beginners
- February 23, 2021 October 17, 2023
Traveling to Europe alone for the first time? Wondering what to expect, how to plan, and what you should know before embarking on your first solo backpacking adventure? If you’re seeking answers, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, you’ll discover tips for traveling alone, how to prepare for solo backpacking, ways to budget during your trip, and some hacks to make your solo backpacking journey even more memorable.
By the end, you’ll feel more informed and confident that everything will go smoothly on your maiden solo travel through Europe. Let’s dive into these tips!
Disclosure : This article features affiliate links, including Amazon.com. If you decide to buy through one of these links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra expense to you. For more details, please see my disclosure policy .
1. Why even go solo?
Traveling by yourself might feel intimidating initially. There’s no one by your side to rely on when you have questions, feel down, or face challenges. You can only rely on yourself when you embark on a solo trip. That’s precisely what makes solo backpacking such a rewarding experience. There are numerous benefits to traveling alone. It can boost your self-esteem, increase your confidence, make you more courageous, and provide opportunities to meet inspiring individuals.
Backpacking solo offers a unique experience filled with unexpected situations, cherished memories, new connections, and a journey brimming with adventures. It will enhance your ability to handle various challenges and foster a deeper appreciation for what you have. Nothing can stop your personal growth.
Read more : Benefits of Solo Travel .
2. Before you depart, review these essential documents
First and foremost, before traveling abroad, you’ll require certain documents to move from one country to another, book a room, or legally identify yourself.
Safety first – Obtain Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a must for any traveler; it’s common sense. I always secure travel insurance when going abroad, and thankfully, I’ve never needed medical treatment. However, I’ve heard numerous stories about people who embarked on trips without it. You can probably guess how those stories ended. No one is ever 100 percent safe when backpacking solo. Unforeseen incidents can occur at any time. Spending all your savings on medical bills wouldn’t be ideal, which can be ridiculously high in many countries.
Don’t forget essential documents
Other essentials for solo backpacking include your most important documents, starting with your passport. Ensure it remains valid for at least six months ahead. Some countries won’t allow entry if your passport is set to expire within the next six months.
In Europe’s Schengen Area , having an identification card for making accommodation reservations or other transactions requiring verification is also helpful. If available, bringing a driver’s license, student ID, or any other discount cards is advantageous to aid in budgeting.
Read more : Planning a Backpacking Trip to Europe ! (guide)
3. Essential Gear for Your First Solo Trip
Having reliable and durable gear is fundamental to a successful solo backpacking trip. Invest time determining what you need or want, but always aim to pack as light as possible—wondering where to start?
What Kind of Backpack Do I Need?
Firstly, possessing the right solo backpack is crucial. Opt for quality that feels as comfortable on your back as a shoe does on your foot. It should feel right from the first try. Consider various features, such as the ability to convert it into a smaller backpack, the ease of access (so if you need items at the bottom, you don’t have to unpack everything), its water resistance, and whether there’s adequate space for essential items (like documents, electronics, and other valuables).
For example, I have a Thule Guidepost 65L Backpack . It’s already been on my back for three years, and I’m still very satisfied.
What to wear?
Clothes will occupy the majority of your backpack. When backpacking, you’ll need to change outfits daily due to sweating. I recommend opting for sporty attire that dries quickly in the clothing department. This means you can wear sporty shirts for several days.
Solo backpacking often involves a lot of hiking, so quality footwear is essential. For everyday use, sports shoes are suitable. However, hiking boots that offer ankle protection are safer if you plan to hike in mountainous terrains. For your first solo backpacking trip, ensure you have enough clothes to last at least a week. This way, you’ll only need to think about laundry once a week.
Other essential backpacking gear
Your additional items depend entirely on how you plan to backpack through Europe. Aside from documents and clothes, you won’t need much else if you’re solo backpacking with a guaranteed roof every night.
However, if you’re a more adventurous solo backpacker and sleeping under the stars appeals to you, you’ll need extra gear. This includes camping essentials like a sleeping bag, mattress, and a compact first aid kit. Consider bringing a bowl, spoon, and knife from the kitchen department. A portable stove is also a must-have for those who enjoy cooking (or even if you don’t).
Read more : Lightweight Backpacking Gear for Traveling ; Backpacking Europe Packing List For Women .
4. Packing a backpack
First and foremost, the most crucial tip is to pack as lightly as possible. Remember, you’ll be carrying everything on your own. I recommend not exceeding 15 kilograms for your first solo backpacking trip, including extra food and water. The weight might feel manageable initially, but it can become burdensome if you wear it all day.
Initially, you might have a list of items that won’t fit. Perhaps too many clothes or superfluous equipment. Ultimately, the art of solo backpacking lies in packing all the essentials while still leaving some room for unexpected items.
How to Fit Everything into a Backpack?
Firstly, consider leaving some clothes in the closet. Pack enough clothing for a week and include at least one extra pair of shoes and flip-flops. Avoid packing unnecessary items. A key tip : Only bring items you use often, so plan thoughtfully.
Also, leave at least 10 percent of your backpack’s space free for food, water, and unexpected items.
Read more : How to pack a tent for backpacking .
5. Bring Something to Ward Off Boredom
While it might seem contradictory to the earlier advice of packing light, there’s a rationale behind this. Solo backpacking means you’ll have moments of solitude. While solitude can be refreshing, there will be times when you might feel bored.
Bring along something that keeps boredom at bay. For instance, I enjoy reading, so I always have a book with me. If you’re passionate about photography, bring a camera. Or, if you enjoy entertaining yourself or even a larger audience on the streets (perhaps to earn some money), consider packing a compact instrument like a ukulele.
How do you fit these into your bag? A book is easy, but you might need to leave some things at home for the ukulele. Along the way, you will find ways to carry your stuff.
6. Plan Your Trip Based on Time and Budget
The nature of your trip hinges on how much you’re willing to spend and the duration of your travels. While adventurous solo backpackers might argue that spontaneity is key and that there’s no need for a plan, this approach is great for solo travel. However, if you’re working with a specific budget or time constraint, it’s advisable to have a general plan for your first solo journey.
If you’re pressed for time , prioritize various activities to maximize that limited period. Draft a concise bucket list of sights you want to see and experiences you wish to have. If money isn’t a pressing concern because you have a set end date, that’s a relief. However, always ensure you have a return ticket. The goal is to maximize every moment.
For longer trips, especially those without a definitive end date, it’s crucial to adhere to a strict budget. The aim is to minimize expenses. A valuable tip for solo backpacking is to take things slow. This approach offers two significant advantages: without the rush, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of your destinations, and by reducing the need for frequent transportation, you’ll save money. Embrace a leisurely pace and immerse yourself in local cultures and communities.
7. Best solo backpacking destinations in Europe
The ideal destination largely depends on the solo backpacker’s preferences, mode of travel, and overall budget. First, determine the kind of solo trip you’re aiming for. Consider the western part of Europe if you’re drawn to renowned cities, landmarks, or tourist hotspots. However, if you’re seeking adventurous travel, untouched wilderness, hidden treasures, and hiking trails, the eastern part of Europe might be more fitting. It’s also worth noting that the western region tends to be pricier than the eastern one.
Read more : Best cities in Europe for solo travel .
Western Europe
In Western Europe, prime countries for solo travel include Italy, France, Spain, and Portugal. These expansive nations boast many stunning locales, day trips from major cities, iconic landmarks, and natural wonders. Spain and Portugal are particularly appealing destinations for those on a tighter budget.
Remember, there are always ways to economize, regardless of your destination. For instance, explore tips on backpacking through Italy on a budget .
Read more : Italy travel guide .
Eastern Europe
The lesser-known eastern regions of Europe also offer fantastic destinations. Consider starting with Budapest in Hungary, then exploring Slovenia, Romania, or the Balkan countries for off-the-beaten-path solo adventures. These nations might not be as frequented as their Western counterparts, but they’re teeming with undiscovered treasures. Undoubtedly, this part of Europe is more suited for adventurous travel and budget-conscious backpackers.
Read more : Greece travel guide ; Albania travel guide ; Slovenia travel guide ; Hungary travel guide .
So, what are the top destinations in Europe? It truly depends on the individual traveler’s desires and what they’re eager to explore. Budget considerations also play a significant role. Rest assured, Europe has no shortage of excellent spots for solo travel.
8. Seek Out Fellow Travelers
A significant advantage of backpacking solo is meeting many new people. It’s not that individuals approach you simply because you’re alone. That doesn’t work so easily. You’ll need to muster the courage to initiate conversations. However, the desire to connect with others can boost your confidence, pushing you out of your comfort zone. You can strike up conversations on the streets, in bars, hostels, or even online through social media and travel apps. Here are some helpful apps:
Couchsurfing
In my opinion, this is the best platform to connect with incredible individuals from all over. There’s a “hangouts” section where travelers and locals can interact, making plans to enjoy activities together. It’s a favorite among many travelers.
While primarily known as a dating app, Tinder can also be effective for meeting new people abroad. Many users are open to showing you around or hanging out if approached respectfully.
This app is another favorite among travelers. Its primary function is to connect farms, organizations, or small businesses with individuals willing to work in exchange for food and accommodation—a voluntary exchange program. Additionally, there’s a “travel buddy” section where you can connect with other adventurous individuals.
Read more : Best apps for backpacking .
9. How to Budget While Backpacking Solo?
When picturing a typical backpacker, it’s common to imagine someone not flush with cash to spend lavishly at every turn. Backpackers often explore various strategies to minimize expenses and budgeting is also essential for solo backpacking. Here are three primary areas where you can significantly reduce costs.
Accommodation
A logical choice for accommodations would be hostels. They offer the most affordable and hassle-free option for solo backpackers. For instance, HostelWorld boasts the most extensive selection of hostels. When browsing, start by sorting by the lowest price.
Also, consider its location, read reviews, and check for additional perks (like included breakfast). Weigh the benefits, location, and price when making a decision. Sometimes, it’s worth paying more for a centrally located hostel rather than choosing the cheapest one far from the main attractions.
As mentioned, the Couchsurfing app isn’t just for meeting new people. Its primary function is to help travelers find a couch to sleep on. You send cordial requests to potential hosts; if they accept, you can stay at their place for the night. Engaging with locals enriches the travel experience, and there’s no better platform for this than Couchsurfing.
Wild Camping
Wild camping is an option almost everywhere if you’re willing to simplify your needs. While not exactly suitable for city centers, you can find spots where it feels logical and convenient. All you need is a sleeping bag, and a mattress and tent can be beneficial for added comfort. It’s truly an immersive experience for a solo backpacking trip!
Read more : Camping Alone: Tips On How To Feel Safe .
For those on a budget, public transport is the best choice. Local trains and buses offer excellent connections between European countries, allowing you to traverse Europe efficiently. To search for transport schedules and compare prices, I recommend using Omio . If Omio doesn’t list transportation options for less-known destinations, you can find local transport providers on Rome2Rio .
Carpooling with BlaBlaCar
BlaBlaCar is gaining popularity in Europe. It’s a carpooling app where you search for your destination, and if you find someone driving that way, you can join them. It’s often more affordable than public transport.
Hitchhiking
One of my top transport tips is hitchhiking. It’s an experience worth adding to your bucket list, even if you to try it once. Some days, you might get fortunate and make quick progress, while others might be slower.
Read more : Tips for Hitchhiking in Europe .
The first rule is to steer clear of restaurants. While treating yourself occasionally is okay, it’s essential to remain disciplined and resist frequent temptations. Dining out can quickly deplete your funds. If you choose restaurants, choose those away from touristy areas , where locals dine. Alternatively, street food is a great way to satisfy your hunger without breaking the bank.
Another sensible approach is to purchase groceries from supermarkets and enjoy picnics outdoors. However, the most cost-effective tip for meals is to cook for yourself. Whether preparing pasta in a hostel kitchen or cooking in the wilderness with your stove, self-catering will save you significantly.
Read more : Budget backpacking tips .
10. Leave room for spontaneity
Having a general idea of what you want to do or where you want to go is essential. Conduct preliminary research about your upcoming solo backpacking trip, such as marking desired destinations on Google Maps. This gives you a sense of direction to begin your journey.
However, once you’re on the move, allow for spontaneity. Perhaps you’ll hear about a nearby intriguing location or a hidden gem you wouldn’t want to miss. Being flexible is the best advice for solo backpackers, ensuring you savor every moment of your adventure.
11. Immerse Yourself in Local Culture and Traditions
Traveling is less about the places you visit and more about the people you meet in those places. To truly appreciate a backpacking destination, it’s essential to immerse yourself in its local culture and traditions.
Begin with some research about your destination. Familiarize yourself with local events, beliefs, traditions, and culture. This way, when you arrive in a foreign country, you won’t come across merely as a tourist, but as a traveler eager to integrate into the culture. Additionally, learning even a few basic phrases in the local language can earn you greater respect from the locals.
So, what’s the best way to understand local culture?
Engaging with locals is the most authentic approach. For instance, I participated in a Workaway in Hungary for a week during my European backpacking journey. This experience allowed me to witness the daily lives of locals, understand their traditions, and sample local food and beverages. The Couchsurfing platform is also an excellent way to make new friends and gain insights into life in a foreign country.
In the end, ask yourself: What will be more memorable? Merely visiting renowned attractions abroad or experiencing those places with a deeper understanding of their stories, and culture, and engaging with the locals?
12. Stay in hostels or Couchsurfing
As previously highlighted, solo travel can sometimes feel isolating. While you might spend a lot of time exploring on your own, it’s essential to have human interactions. You might have items like a book or guitar to keep you company, but they can’t replace meaningful conversations.
If you want to connect with like-minded individuals, staying in a hostel is an obvious choice. Hostels are some of the most diverse and international places you can find in any country you visit. You might encounter other solo backpackers eager to chat and share experiences. Not only are hostels conducive to socializing, but they’re also budget-friendly. It’s a win-win.
Another fantastic way to meet people is through Couchsurfing. While you’ll primarily interact with locals, it offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the destination. Your hosts might even act as informal guides, showing you around and saving you the effort of extensive research. It’s truly a remarkable experience!
Read more : My First Solo Backpacking Experience in Europe .
These solo travel tips are perfect for jumpstarting your journey, especially if you’re new to backpacking in Europe. As you progress, you’ll uncover other unique benefits tailored to your experiences since each backpacker’s adventure unfolds differently. You’ll soon realize that it’s a life-changing experience, and everything tends to work out despite any challenges. Rest assured, solo backpacking in Europe is safe. Dive into your first adventure and travel without any regrets!
Recent Posts about Solo Travel:
How to stay safe when backpacking solo
8 Best cities in Europe for solo travel
Camping alone: Tips on How to Feel Safe
Liked this article? Feel free and Share it!
2 thoughts on “Solo Backpacking Trip To Europe: 12 Simple Tips for Beginners”
Comments are closed.
IMAGES
VIDEO