JoshEurope is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations. It’s renowned for its jaw-dropping natural beauty, welcoming locals, and affordable prices.
That makes it a particularly great place to visit on a budget. This article shows you how to backpack through Europe without appearing like an inexperienced tourist.
Don’t Be Afraid of Hitchhiking & Public Transport
The great thing about Europe’s inexpensive airfare is that frequent flights connect many countries. So it’s possible to hop from country to country as you explore.
Hitchhiking is possible in many countries, and it’s much more comfortable than it used to be, thanks to increased safety and professionalism. Public transport is another cheap way to travel.
In many European cities, local buses and subways are cheaper than taxis. So, even if you’re staying in a hostel or Airbnb, you might be able to save money by getting to and from your destinations by public transport.
Eat Like the Locals
Although Western Europe has a reputation for expensive restaurants, many places in the region are much cheaper. It’s easy to have a great meal and save money simultaneously.
Wherever you are in Europe, you can save money by eating at a place that serves local food. You might even be able to try some delicious foods you’ve never tried before.
If you’re unsure of where to eat, ask some of the locals for food suggestions.
Couch-Surf or Live With Locals
Couch-surfing or living with a local family is another way to backpack through Europe. While this isn’t right for everyone, it can be an excellent way to experience Europe at a low cost.
Many people use sites like Airbnb to find accommodation as a way of traveling through Europe on a budget. Once you find an affordable place, all you have to do is pay the host when you arrive and pay them when you leave.
Then, enjoy the experience of staying with locals and experiencing their culture. While this might put some people off, it can be an advantageous way to travel.
Hit the Shop Sales
It may sound strange, but shopping during sales can be a great way to save money while traveling Europe. A lot of these sales happen in local markets.
So, if you want to shop, head to a local market. For example, in Germany, the Christmas Market in Nuremberg is one of the best places to shop for bargains during the Christmas and winter seasons.
During the summer, there are many sales and festivals throughout Europe. Many cities host festivals where you can buy things at reduced prices. There are also sales and discounts on public transport, cafés, and many museums throughout Europe.
Don’t forget to take care of your finances before you leave, which you can learn at paradigmlife.net before heading off on your adventure.
Tips to Backpack Through Europe
The beauty of attempting to backpack through Europe on a budget is that you can do it in many ways. If you want to explore cities and experience culture, you can visit museums and art galleries.
Or, you can stay in hostels and use public transport to explore more rural areas. Check out more backpacking tips and tricks in this section.