What backpacking gear is ideal?

When planning your backpacking trip, you need to think carefully about what equipment to take and what you can afford to leave behind.

There are some things that you simply must have. Whilst there are plenty of new gadgets and devices that are supposed to enhance your backpacking experience, when it comes down to it, there are some traditional items that you should never leave home without, regardless of what new technology you may have in your pack. These essential items are listed below.

Map

The key here is to choose a map which has sufficient detail to clearly show the trails and area details of where you will be backpacking. Apart from that, it really does not matter what type of map you choose.

Compass

You will need a good quality compass that will withstand the elements outside. The fact is you have to know which direction you are going. Just taking a map is not going to work.

Flashlight

It is very important that you always can see where you are going. A good quality flashlight is essential, plus batteries. You can now buy wind-up torches, which remove the need for batteries. Remember, it can be very dark in none-rural areas. Not having adequate lighting can contribute to falls or injuries which can really ruin a good backpacking trip.

Extra food and clothing

Instead of packing just what you need, you should try to pack extra just in case. You could get lost, or encounter bad weather, or you might just get stuck and not be able to get back. You must always be prepared for the unexpected, and extra food and clothing will help you cope.

First Aid Kit

This is a really important item. There are many things which can happen out in the wilderness. Even if you are traveling in a very well kept area, you can still find a need for a first aid kit. Make sure you get a kit that is well stocked with a variety of supplies.

Knife

Ideally you should have a multi-function knife which incorporates several different tools. Such tools can prove to be very important and their uses are endless when backpacking. At a minimum, a nice sharp knife that can cut through fabric and cord is necessary.

Matches

Matches can prove to be a lifesaver, particularly in cold weather conditions. You should either get waterproof matches or carry your matches in a waterproof container.

Water or water treatment

Drinking water is essential as you must stay hydrated while backpacking. If you do not carry water, an alternative is to have the necessary supplies to adequately treat water.

These are the essentials, but as you plan your trip you will quickly find there are many considerations when deciding on what to take. Make sure you seek good advice from the many resources available to you.

Backpacking in Europe

The thought of schools are always tied in with backpacking. What if you get a chance to go backpacking in Europe, one of the most beautiful locations in the world? It would be an experience to recall. The most important thing required for this trip is of course a backpack, which is strong enough to carry your belongings. Do not over pack your backpack, as you must remember that you have to do a lot of walking to catch the ferry or the tourist buses in and around the cities in Europe.There is a certain segment of individuals who prefer backpacking to Europe during summer as they can savor summer activities and visit various beaches. But there are others who opt to plan a trip to Europe in wintertime. Winter would not be disappointing for them too because France have the skiing opportunities. The best place for skiing would be Interlaken which is on a double lake system completely surrounded by mountain peaks. Another interesting event during winter is the winter carnival at Venice, Italy.It is very essential to pack according to the weather conditions when planning Backpacking in Europe. Don't forget to have two pants with lots of pouches if visiting in summer. It is more handy if you take pant that can convert to shorts when needed. Pack 2 -3 shirts with one or two long sleeve shirts. You have to have at least 3 pair or under garments. Hiking shoes or walking shoes would be the most preferable shoes for the backpacking trip as you have to walk a lot. You can also carry a pair of sandals or flip flops to walk around the place you stay.When you decide to go on backpacking trip to Europe, you may not be certain where you might pass the night. This is where travelers' inn comes in convenient. They are very much cheaper and handy that hotels. The best places to spend a night while in Europe are the traveler's hostel. They are cheap and you do not have to make any reservation. Do enquire about the stuff they provide at the hostel which would make it convenient about what to pack in your back pack.Most significantly, get copies of all your essential documents such as passport, your medical info and put it in different places in your backpack as well as your wallet and your trouser pouches. Last but not the least; Remember to enjoy your Europe trip and have fun backpacking!!

Why Take a Backpacking Europe Trip?

Europe is a popular destination for students between semesters in college, or those young adults needing a break from the real world. If you want to get in one last great adventure before you start in on the adult world, backpacking Europe is one of the best ways to do it. You'll be able to see a lot of new things, meet new people, and experience new cultures - and have an absolute blast while doing all of the above.

A backpacking Europe itinerary has been traditional for many years. Well-off young men used to take a tour of the continent in their last years of school. The popularity of backpacking Europe rose in the 1960s and 1970s, too, with people traveling all over with a relatively small number of possessions. Now, people of all economic classes do the same. It's a wonderful way to learn and find some new experiences. You are guaranteed to make some new friends!

Generally, student travelers choose to backpack - which means living out of a small travel bag or backpack and sleeping mostly in inexpensive hostels and other budget accommodations. That's because they get the most out of their money this way and extend the time they can travel. After all, staying in hotels can get very costly and thus restrict the time you can spend on the road. You'll also see more of the real Europe by spending nights in a youth hostel, instead of just being stuck in quiet hotels or on tours and seeing only the touristy side of things.

People from all over the world choose to backpack through Europe, so you'll meet a wide variety of others looking for the same things you are. You may find that you don't speak a common language, but it's surprising how well you can communicate anyway. You'll probably learn a little of the local languages while you're traveling, as well. When in doubt, almost all young backpackers speak English these days anyway.

Just remember to interact as much with locals as you do with other backpackers if you really want to learn about the countries you're staying in. Politeness and open-mindedness are extremely important, too. The local rules will be different than you're used to, and it's a good idea to follow them. You'll get a lot more out of the experience of backpacking Europe if you put in a little bit of time and effort to get along with and understand the locals, no matter where you end up.

Backpacking Europe is an incredible experience, and if you have the chance to do it, don't pass it up. You'll be amazed at all the new experiences you can have, what you can see, and all the things you can learn. It's a lot of fun, and an extremely valuable experience. Check out the logistics of a backpacking Europe itinerary soon.

Travel In Europe

Thinking about travelling around Europe via train? Many students, couples, and groups of friends choose train travel as their main method of getting around Europe, and for good reason. Train travel can be a very convenient, beneficial, and cost-effective method of traversing this wonderful continent.

However, European train travel can get confusing, especially if you don't know where to start. Here are a few tips to help you with train travel in Europe:

First, opt for a train station information desk rather than the ticket window if you need more information or help in planning your trip. The ticket agent is simply there to help you buy your train ticket. Find out if you qualify for any special discounts, or if you can lower your ticket price by taking a different train.

If you're looking for ways to cut down on costs for European train travel, you have a few options. First, travelling by train in southern Europe is almost always cheaper than travelling by train in northern Europe. Second, slower trains are usually significantly cheaper than express trains. Third, travelling overnight for longer trips will help you save money, time, and hotel/hostel accommodation fare. A rail pass or other train pass may also help you to save money, especially if you'll be doing a lot of train travel.

When you do go to buy your ticket or pass at the ticket window, make sure you know the train time or number, whether you'll be travelling first or second-class, whether it's one-way or round trip, and when you'll be travelling. Keep in mind that express trains often require advance reservations and will likely be significantly pricier.

Whether or not you have a reservation for a train seat will affect your train travel in Europe. If you have one, you'll have a number for a car and seat. When you're at the train station, check each track or the wall for the Composition of Trains board, which should illustrate where each numbered car will be when the train comes in. If you don't have a reservation, this means you can sit anywhere-but check to make sure that the seat you've chosen isn't reserved for someone else.

For train travel in Europe, it's quite common for you to have to "validate" your ticket before you can board through a validation machine that will show you which end of the ticket to put in.

The train's eating options is another matter to think about insofar as European train travel is concerned. The longer the travelling distance, the more likely the train is to have a restaurant or café car. For medium distances, expect maybe a cart with a few drinks and snacks on it, but regional trains likely won't carry anything. Consider purchasing a few snacks at the train station before boarding to ensure you'll be fed, and to cut down on costs as well.