While backpacking can be an adventure that you will never forget it can also end up costing you a lot of money. Yes, you do want to have the time of your life but you can do that on a budget. Budgets can be daunting and you may not always want to stick to them but with a few simple tips you can plan your trip without even thinking that you have a budget.
Set your Budget
The first thing you need to do is set your budget. It is important to write down how much you have to spend and work from there. When you have an overall budget set you can then set individual budgets for things like transportation and accommodation.
Flights
Flights are a difficult one because you could be spending over the odds for one flight when someone could be getting it a lot cheaper. It is even more difficult as you will be booking more than just the one flight. Research is the key here, there are many websites that will provide you with in dept information about all the flights you will need some may even offer package deals. Look around for the best deal, don’t assume that every provider will have the same prices.
Transportation
Like the flights you will also need to research when it comes to the transportation you will be using. This may include your lift to the airport when you are departing and another lift from the airport when you are coming home. You could use public transport, you could drive yourself or a family member could help you out. When you are abroad you can use taxis or other forms of transport but be careful that you aren’t being overcharged.
Food and Drinks
You will want to enjoy yourself while you are backpacking so it is good that there are plenty of cheap bars and restaurants for you to indulge yourself. Search each individual place you will stopping in and you will be sure to find an array of different places where you can eat and drink in.
Accommodation
Don’t assume that you will be able to stay in the best hotels at each stop! Hostels are great alternative to the pricey hotels and don’t cost as much as you think they do. You will need to save money somewhere along the way and this is where you could save loads. Be aware though some hostels may not be the cleanest so be prepared! On the plus side you won’t be staying in them for that long!
Go in Groups!
If you are thinking of going on your own or as a couple, why not consider asking some friends? This could save a lot money along the way as you will be splitting the cost of everything. Anyway, you will have more fun in a group!
When organising any trip away it is always important to do it on a budget and get value for money. It is even more important when you are visiting more than one place, hopefully the above few tips will help you backpack Europe on a budget you can afford!
