Backpacking Europe Does Not Exist

Backpacking Europe Does Not Exist 

5 Surprising Facts About Traveling Europe in 2024 

During my six-month study abroad and my most recent backpacking trip across Europe, I learned a few hard truths about long-term, short form travel that I wasn't prepared for. Many of the myths I believed in were quickly debunked, and some of the lessons I learned were downright surprising.

1. Backpacking Europe Doesn’t Really Exist

Let’s start with the clickbait title of this blog: "Backpacking Europe" (capital B, capital E) doesn’t exist the way it used to—or at least, not in the way it's often portrayed. Whether it's the internet or just the passage of time, the idealized image of backpacking has evolved so much that I’d argue the original, rugged “backpacking” experience no longer applies.

Now, this isn’t to say that there aren’t still people completing a traditional backpacking trip across Europe in the past five years. But if such travelers do exist, they’re likely men who’ve sacrificed comfort, safety, and personal intentions along the way.

When visualizing the term backpacking Europe, you might picture yourself carrying a single backpack, hopping on trains between cities, and staying in bare-bones hostels, constantly meeting like-minded wanderers. But in reality, the term “backpacking” has become so commercialized and mainstream that it’s lost some of its original charm. Most backpackers aren’t traveling on shoestring budgets anymore- which is good because it costs a lot more now than it used to- and the idea of cramming everything into one bag is often abandoned once you realize how much stuff you need for a comfortable trip.

A lot of the people we met at hostels were already traveling in big groups and had plans in place for the weeks to come. Others were working remotely and viewed their travels in a slightly different way than the traditional “backpacker.”

But the main difference here is the sheer cost of traveling and accommodation. There is an incredible difference in the cost of a flight, bus ticket, or hostel when booking three months in advance versus three days. We had booked a few different buses, trains, and accommodation beforehand and these were priced just fine. We ran into big trouble when it came time to decide where next we wanted to travel. This so-called freedom is often the highlight of backpacking. For us, it was our downfall. Hostels that cost $20 a night booked in advance now were priced closer to $60+. And this was in the fall! I cannot imagine the prices or availability in the summer months.

So, while we were still “backpacking,” it ended up looking a lot different from the romanticized version we had expected.

2. Hostels Aren’t Always the Cheapest Option

When we were planning, we assumed that hostels would be the most affordable option for budget-conscious travelers. But in many cases, hostels aren’t always as cheap as you might think—especially if you’re traveling with a friend.

Hostels often charge you per person per night, and while that may seem like a bargain initially, the cost can quickly add up. If you’re also booking last minute, as most backpackers are prone to do, the highly rated hostels are often completely booked, so you may be stuck in a not ideal situation. And while some hostels are nice, most are … hostels. On the flip side, Airbnb offers great alternatives—especially when you split the total price with a travel buddy. You’ll often find a better deal for a private room (or even an entire apartment) for the same or lower price than a hostel bed. Plus, Airbnb often feels safer than staying in a crowded dorm room with strangers, and it’s easier to find a place that fits your specific needs.

We stayed in some beautiful places for far less than a hotel and only a bit more than a hostel.

3. The Airport Surprise: Sometimes Quick, Sometimes a Nightmare

Airport experiences in Europe can be wildly inconsistent, even at the same airport across different days. One day, you might breeze through check-in and security in 15 minutes, only to find yourself stuck in a nightmare queue the next time, waiting three hours to board.

Speaking from personal experience, If you’re flying out of Paris CDG, even Orly, make sure you plan plenty of time to get through security. Even if you think you have plenty enough time planned- add more. The airport rules are different over there- and they’re never the same. You may find yourself stuck in a long line for a flight that's running on European time—which can mean delayed departures, mysterious cancellations, or sudden gate changes.

4. Buses: A Love-Hate Relationship

Buses are great. If the trip is less than 5 hours and you get to the stop in plenty of time to figure out what terminal your bus will be arriving at. And if you don’t get stopped at the border of another country where half the people get off and there seems to be a big issue with the police involved, but you have no idea what is going on because everyone is speaking a different language and you just happen to not know any of them. Not speaking from experience, of course.

So yes, buses are a viable option for some routes, but be sure to check schedules and leave yourself some extra time. Because nothing says "European adventure" quite like missing a bus in a foreign city with no idea what to do next!

5. Warning– Opinion Piece: French Aperol Spritzes Are Not Good

I would be remiss if I failed to include this fact. French Aperol Spritzes are awful. Like, think of an adult Capri Sun gone wrong. It’s syrupy, overly sweet, and in no way resembles the crisp, refreshing Aperol Spritz you get in Italy.

I get it, France is known for its wine, and they certainly have their own cocktail culture, but come on, guys—how can you be so close to Italy and mess up the Aperol Spritz this badly? Every time I took a sip, I felt personally betrayed. If you’re in France and you want something refreshing, just go for the wine. Trust me on this one.

Final Thoughts

Traveling through Europe in 2024 is anything but predictable. Whether you're hopping from city to city or spending weeks exploring hidden gems, there are always surprises along the way. From the myth of “backpacking Europe” to the reality of hostel costs, adaptability, a little delusion, and preparing for chaos are key to making your trip memorable.

So, while your Europe trip might not be as affordable or carefree as it’s often made out to be, the adventure and memories you create will be priceless. Just remember—expect the unexpected, and always trust your intuition. Oh, and skip the French Aperol Spritz. You’ve been warned.