Advice for going Abroad

I have been to several countries by either backpacking or studying there. I do have some advice, For now I will focu on backpacking through countries.

Backpacking Europe is a popular college dream and adventure, so much so some terrible films have been made about it. Backpacking through europe is not nearly as difficult or expensive as you might first think. Of course it does cost a pretty penny but it is worth every bit. If you are young DO IT! Never tell yourself you can just do it later, start now! Start right now by putting money aside each month. It took me one year to save the money for it, and I was a highschool student, I am sure you can spend a year of saving for an amazing adventure.

So my short bit on backpacking across europe.
1. Research
-figure where you want to go and why
-find out what it would cost to go from america to europe
2. Go with a friend
3. Save $
-your trip will be much more pleasureable if you do not have to count pennies every time you want to see something
-medical reasearch is a great way to get a little extra disposable income. Medical research is not always as scary as it sounds. I've been paid 400$ to get a flu shot...
4. Plan to not have plans
-this may be the hardest but most significant thing to look at when backpacking. It is a good idea to plan ahead and reserve your hostel ahead of time but do not go so far as to schedual what you will see and what you don't.
-Don't reserve every hostel room for the entire trip. Only plan a few days ahead. this allows you to change your plans and go somewhere else on the fly.
-Euro Rail has great options. You can hop on a train in any city and go to any city! It does not get easier
-Don't discount airlines. In Europe flying place to place can be dirt cheap! But it is a pain to get to airports vs walking to a train station. There is something to be said for no security lines, walk in, self service, no terminals to get lost in.
5. Pack light
-you want everything to fit into one backpack
-the most rediculous thing is to see girls "backpacking" with a backpack, rolling suit case, and giant purse.
-you do not need a lot! You only need at max 3 outfits. One to wear, one to wash, one in case it rains. that is it!
-Worry about having comfortable shoes vs pretty shoes.
6. Work on a Budget
-Know what you money you have and what you dont
-Chain stores are the same, that is the point. Don't bother shopping unless you want a little nicknack or where you are is famous for something, like leather in florence...
-Go to hostels, not hotels. You will be out walking around the city all day. All you need is a bed and place to shower. You did not fly around the world to hang out in a hotel.
-carrying a guide book can be a great reference book to carry for extra information
-Tip for eating cheap. Don't go out for every meal. Stop at a store and get some fruit. It sounds ridiculous but a day pack with a loaf of bread and fruit will cost 10$ and keep you full all day. It is amazing how much some fruit and bread will keep you happy.
7. Trade!
-you will meet people from all over the world! Bring stuff from your hometown and share and trade. Tee shirts, recipies, buttons, etc. I have traded stuff like this for other tee shirts.


This is from my experience. I went on a 6 week trek across Europe and the bulk of the money spent was on the trip was the euro rail ticket and airline ticket. I went with my cousin and I and we hit France, Monaco, Italy, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Netherland. Do not pass up the opportunity to go and do this.