Costs and Money Issues
Costs and Money Issues for Backpackers
My biggest problem while backpacking wasn't anything to do with finding a place to stay, meeting people, crime, or anything like that - It was just being able to keep a few pennies in my pocket.
Europe is generally more expensive than Canada. Even Eastern Europe which used to be such a bargain is steadily climbing up to the same costs as Western Europe. That said, certain things are definitely cheaper.
Before you leave home you'll want to make sure you have the following:
Documents (passport, tickets, and photocopies)
Your biggest expenses on the road will be food and accomodation. I strongly recommend shopping at markets and stores, rather than eaiting out. Try to find a balance. I found that I could buy a cheap loaf of bread, some cheese, maybe a little something else and be quite content eating that for a week. Try to go out to at least one restaurant where you're staying though, as it's the best way to sample the local cuisine. Just make sure you check your guide book and with other travellers to fidn the good restaurants where the locals eat.
Cheap accomodation is hard to come by. Hostels are generally your best bet, but they get crowded and aren't that cheap. Major cities like Paris and Barcelona can be very very difficult to find a place to stay. Make a reservation as far in advance as you can, and stick to it. There's nothign worse than showing up in a city and having to spend the entire day trying to find a bed.
Soon, I'll be adding more information and specifics about costs and so on. Check back often.
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