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I spent 2 weeks backpacking across Europe for the first time. I loved it, but made 5 mistakes I won't repeat on my next adventure.
I spent 2 weeks backpacking across Europe for the first time. I loved it, but made 5 mistakes I won't repeat on my next adventure.
Joey HaddenMar 11, 2023, 18:18 IST
Insider's reporter made some mistakes during her first backpacking trip to Europe.Joey Hadden/Insider
I recently spent two weeks backpacking through four European countries for the first time.
I made mistakes along the way, like booking a regular seat on an overnight train instead of a bunk.
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In 2022, I spent two weeks sleeping on trains and staying in budget Airbnbs while backpacking through four European countries for the first time.
The author went to Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland in October 2022.Joey Hadden/Insider
Five months later, I'm still thinking about my trip, including some things I plan to do differently next time.
Insider's reporter took a one-week solo backpacking trip in Berlin and Vienna, sleeping in budget Airbnbs and shared train cabins.Joey Hadden/Insider
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Looking back on the trip, two weeks wasn't enough time for me to explore six different cities. Next time, I'll plan for fewer destinations to spend more time in each place.
The author's calendar shows her time spent in Europe.Joey Hadden/Insider
I'll also pack less into my backpack to make it easier to carry.
The author wished she packed fewer socks and skipped the maxi dress for her Europe trip.Joey Hadden/Insider
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If I book another red-eye flight, I'll be sure my accommodation is in the city I'm arriving into to ensure an easy commute.
The author arrives in Berlin (L) and waits at a train platform near the airport (R).Joey Hadden/Insider
And when it comes to overnight trains, I'll never book a regular seat again.
A seating carriage onboard a Nightjet train traveling from Berlin to Vienna in October 2022.Joey Hadden/Insider
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The biggest mistake I made was dwelling on them. Next time I'll begin my journey with a flexible mindset and let go of the factors I can't control.
The author arrives at her Airbnb outside of Berlin (L) and enjoys a kebab in Vienna (R).Joey Hadden/Insider