You’re planning an adventure of a lifetime and don’t want anything to get in the way of enjoying the places and activities that you want to see and do. So we’ve put together 5 essential backpacking tips to help you make the most of your trip.

1. Don’t weigh yourself down

You’ll be spending a lot of time on the move, travelling from one destination to another so think realistically about what you can carry around with you. Cut back on the luxuries and don’t forget, you can still do your laundry regularly, so you don’t need to over-pack clothes.

Whilst on the topic of what to take, comfortable shoes are essential! Walking is one of the best ways to explore a city and you’ll do plenty of it so treat your feet well.

2. Budget, budget, budget

It’s important to have an idea of a budget per day to avoid being short on money part way through your trip. Keep in mind that Western Europe is more expensive than Eastern Europe, so allow yourself some more money if travelling in any parts of Western Europe.

Your budget will be unique to you however $70 per day is usually reasonable to pay for accommodation, transport costs, food and activities, leaving you with a little left over.

You will also need to make sure you have the correct currency for each country you’re visiting. Most countries in Europe accept the Euro but you can find out the other currencies here: https://www.interrail.eu/en/plan-your-trip/trip-ideas/currency-europe

3. Be adventurous and visit lesser known sights

Whilst there will be the popular attractions to visit on your list which are a must, give yourself time to find the hidden gems to enhance your travels.

Ask locals for recommendations and try the local cuisine to really experience the culture of the countries you’re visiting, they know their city best. You can also research online for off the beaten path and lesser known sights in Europe for fewer crowds and great experiences.

4. Learn the local language

In most countries and capital cities in Europe, English is a common language but when going out of the well-known tourist areas you may find yourself in a situation where you aren’t understood.

Out of politeness and to make your trip easier, learn the basics of the languages of the countries that you’re visiting. The locals will like that you’ve made the effort to learn their language and it will add more to your experience of the culture.

5. Hydration is key

It’s easy to forget this simple tip when you’re busy exploring new places but dehydration can easily occur. Staying hydrated will help you to stay healthy and on top form for your jam-packed itinerary.

Although tap water in Europe is generally deemed safe, you can’t always be sure. Our LifeSaver Liberty^TM water purifier bottle is becoming more and more popular to people backpacking or interrailing through Europe, giving them safe drinking water whilst on the move.

Benefits of the LifeSaver Liberty^TM water purifier bottle if you’re backpacking through Europe are:

• You don’t have to worry about getting ill from dodgy tap water
• It reduces plastic waste, helping to save the environment from single use plastics – the LifeSaver^TM Liberty water purifier bottle is perfect for sustainable travel, saving 4,000 500ml bottles going to landfill
• It’s easy to carry and doesn’t take up valuable space in your backpack – you can clip the bottle onto your backpack with a carabiner
• It saves you money on unnecessary water purchases

Not only is it the best backpacking water purifier for your trip to Europe, you can use the LifeSaver Liberty^TM bottle for all future adventures, giving you access to clean safe drinking water wherever you go.