Are you looking to travel Europe on a backpacker’s budget? Then you’ve come to the right place! Here are five cheap and fabulous ways for backpacking through Europe in summer of 2023. We’ve covered you, from camping under the stars to hitchhiking your way around. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
Consider traveling to Europe during the shoulder season for cheaper flights and accommodations.
The idea of backpacking during the summer may conjure up images of overcrowded tourist spots and expensive flights and accommodations; however, traveling to Europe during the shoulder season can be a great way to save money. Shoulder seasons span between peak seasons and typically offer more affordable flights and hotel bookings in exchange for milder weather. While you won’t slide down snowy hills or enjoy beautiful spring blooms in full bloom, you will have plenty of time to explore major European cities without the huge crowds and long waiting lines at attractions. Though it may not be as perfect an experience as backpacking through Europe in summer, shoulder season travel is still a fantastic opportunity to see this part of the world.
Use public transportation whenever possible to save money on transportation costs.
Summertime is the perfect opportunity to backpack through Europe on a budget. Instead of paying for transportation costs, take advantage of the numerous public transportation options available. From metros, buses, and trams, traveling can be incredibly affordable to get from one destination to the next. Doing so saves time, energy, and, most importantly, money. Plus, it gives a unique experience of my local traveling and sightseeing with minimal expense. So if you’re backpacking through Europe this summer, use public transportation whenever possible – you won’t regret it!
Stay in hostels or Couchsurf to save money on accommodation expenses.
Backpacking through Europe in the summer can be daunting, especially when trying to save money on accommodation expenses! Fortunately, so many reliable and budget-friendly options like Couchsurfing and hostels make it much more achievable. Couchsurfing allows you to stay with a local host in their home at no cost, while hostels offer private or shared accommodations for an affordable price. Generally speaking, staying in either of these accommodations offers a unique opportunity to get to know the locals and save some money while backpacking.
Cook your own meals as much as possible to avoid eating out all the time
Gourmet restaurants, fast food drive-thru, and lunch stops galore can make backpacking through Europe in the summer seem like a dream come true. But often, with every delicious food comes a hefty price tag. Eating out can quickly become expensive if you’re not careful. To avoid going over budget and straining your wallet, try to cook your meals as much as possible. Picking up some groceries from the store allows you to save money for souvenirs and explore the different tastes of Europe on a budget! Aside from being cost-efficient, home-cooked meals give you more freedom with flavors. Plus, bringing back whatever dishes you create back home gives you bragging rights among all your friends who backpacked too!
Find free or cheap activities to do in each city you visit.
Backpacking through Europe in the summer is an unforgettable experience, and you can make it even more magical by exploring each city with a budget-friendly adventure. Whether you’d like to visit famous museums or just stroll around the city’s cobblestoned streets, there are plenty of ways to get out and explore without breaking the bank. From free walking tours and discounted food markets to art installations and riverside walks — chances are, with a bit of research, you can easily find some fun and engaging activities in each city at no cost or for very little money. A backpacking trip through Europe isn’t complete without making the most of local experiences, so why not gear up for some penny-pinching entertainment?
Conclusion
With some planning and research, traveling to Europe during the shoulder season can be a great way to save money on your trip. By utilizing public transportation, staying in hostels or Couchsurfing, cooking your meals, and finding free or cheap activities, you can backpack through Europe easily and without breaking the bank. So start planning your trip for summer 2023 – and don’t forget to apply for an ETIAS visa waiver!
