Nine Tips for Budget Backpackers

Pack Light

The key to backpacking is "less is more." Don't go overboard and bring six swimsuits and ten pairs of jeans—that's not the way to effectively backpack. If you're bogged down by too much stuff, you could miss opportunities—or miss that last-minute train. You'll also save money by not paying extra for overweight luggage or checked bags.

Leave Valuables at Home

Don't bring that favorite ring you got for graduation or those earrings Dad gave you for your birthday. The idea, when backpacking, is to only have the basics on hand. Keep this in mind, and only have items on you that you wouldn't mind replacing. Of course, it would still be a bummer if your bag got swiped and you had to buy new clothing, but replacing clothes is a whole lot easier than losing something you'd really miss.

Tell Someone Your Plans

Don't make the mistake of taking off on a trip without telling family or friends. Even if you want to avoid family breathing down your neck, it's a good idea to give someone back home a general idea of where you're going and for how long you'll be gone. Make sure there is some way that this person can get in touch with you. The last thing you want in an emergency is to have no means of communication.

Get a Hostel with a Kitchen

When you book your hostel, check to see if it has a communal kitchen or complimentary breakfast. Often, hostels will have kitchens with some utensils and cooking items available for use. Making a few meals while you're there will save you a lot of money in the long run.

Buy a Train Pass

If you know roughly where you'll be backpacking, you can pre-purchase a train pass that will allow you to travel within certain countries for a set amount of time. This will eliminate the stress of waiting in long lines at train stations. Plus, you'll end up saving money because you bought in bulk.

Beware of Pickpockets and Scam Artists

Many countries (even the most cosmopolitan) have pickpockets or scam artists who are trained to feed on tourists. The best way to save money when backpacking is to keep your cash and cards close to you. (The fastest way to lose money when traveling is having it stolen.)

Buy Alcohol at a Store

Bars and clubs love upcharging for drinks. Near tourist sites, bars will often charge much more, presuming that tourists won't want to stray too far. If you buy your alcohol at a store, you can have a drink at your hostel beforehand, then spend less when you go out. Moreover, many European cities allow public drinking, so check your guidebook before you go to an expensive bar.

Bring Your Own Snacks

Bringing some granola bars or fruit with you can help fight off daytime hunger cravings between meals. Buying snacks from the store every time you get hungry can easily add up to just as much money as a meal. But with bars in hand, you won't be spending your money on unnecessary food and can save it for other things.

Walk When You Can

It might be easier to hop a cab and head to a destination. But don't do it! Between the mileage cost, the tip, and the potential for a secretly added "tourist fee," you're looking at a hefty bill. A little extra walking is good for your body and the environment, not to mention your wallet. If something is really out of walking range, take a bus or train. Public transportation tends to cost less than $2 in most cities around the world.

Do you have any tips for backpackers on a budget? Tell us in the comments!

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