Backpacking Europe {Part 1}

When i studied abroad last spring i had the opportunity to backpack

around Europe for 2 weeks, which isn't very long but still long enough to learn a few things.

We went to the following places;

Italy {Milan, Venice}

Switzerland {Interlaken, Bern}

England {London}

Ireland {Kilkenny, Dublin}

Scotland {Edinburgh}

If i could do it again i'd do it so much better.

I mean honestly we did really well considering we had never

been backpacking before, but there's always things you will learn

that you can use to your advantage the next time you go!

Like how much money you will need.

Yea, that's pretty important as you don't want to become stranded and broke.

You'll need to make sure your bank knows you are leaving the country.

This is important because they will freeze your account 

if they are not aware you are in another country!

You need to know where you're staying in each place.

I would suggest using the following resources..

Hostel World

Hostel Bookers

Airbnb

You need to know how you'll be getting from place to place.

I would suggest getting a Eurail pass for Europe.

If you're in the UK look into a BritRail pass.

Make sure you don't show up too early to catch planes/trains.
I know i know, better safe than sorry, but you might get 

stranded at Tours Airport with a serial killer.

Personal Experience....

I would say standard 2 hours before flight and an hour before a train departs.

Research is key!

Don't believe everything you read online about tourist destinations in Europe.

Try to find real reviews on places so you know exactly what you're walking into.

Also look into the politics of the countries you're wanting to visit,

make sure that while you're there, that there isn't any unrest in the country.
Not that thats something you can control...

Don't be afraid to go off the grid a little.

We walked 2 miles down a Scottish road to a castle that we never would

have found if we had stayed in tourist spots.

{see what i mean, you can't beat this}

Same goes for seeking out restaurants.
If you want a real experience with food in another country
go deeper into cities, away from the "Popular" and "Touristy" areas
and you will find cheaper, tastier, more authentic food!!

I hope this helps anyone who's interested in backpacking Europe! :)
I'll be doing a part 2 to this post in a few days about packing
and some more specifics about backpacking Europe!
If you have any questions you'd like for me to address in Part 2
I would love to answer them for you!! :)

Have an awesome Wednesday, I know i will.
I get to skype Tom-tom today, yippee ;)
-Emily