How to Plan a Seamless Multi-Country Itinerary for First-Time Backpackers

You’ll never forget sipping coffee in Paris or hiking through the Swiss mountains. So, if you’re thinking about it – go for it!

But as with any great outcome, it’ll be preceded by requirements. To be able to enjoy your travels as a backpacker and make your dream come true, you’ll need to plan right.

Check out this First-Time Backpacker guide to learn how you can make your trip carefree.

How to Plan a Seamless Multi-Country Itinerary for First-Time Backpackers

Pick Your Destinations Wisely

First off, list the countries you’ve always wanted to visit. Do you prefer iconic cityscapes (Rome and Amsterdam) or natural wonders (the Norwegian fjords)? Consider your budget, travel seasons, and interests.

Tip: avoid the temptation to cram in too many destinations. A super busy tour sounds fun, but it can leave you feeling burnt out.

Instead, try to focus on a few countries that are either geographically close or well-connected by transport (For example, a classic Western European route might include France, Spain, and Italy. Planning this way will ensure you don’t spend half your trip stuck on buses or planes. The goal is to create a seamless flow between stops).

Pack Smart

The golden rule? Pack light! 

• A 40-liter backpack should be more than enough for most trips.

• Get versatile clothing that works for different climates and occasions. 

• Layers are great! think lightweight sweaters, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes for walking.

• Don’t forget a universal travel adapter, a reusable water bottle, and copies of important documents like your passport. 

• Packing cubes can also help you stay organized, which is a game-changer when you’re living out of a bag.

  
  

Packing light is essential, but you also need to think about the tech gear you’ll rely on during your journey. A dead laptop can throw a wrench in your plans, especially when Macbook pro m1 battery draining fast becomes a frequent issue. It’s frustrating to deal with a Mac battery draining fast when you’re trying to book tickets or check directions. To avoid running into problems with a Macbook dying fast or a Mac not holding charge, pack a high-capacity power bank. It’ll keep your devices powered and your itinerary on track, no matter where you are.

If you are planning a backpacking trip around South America, make sure to check out my 'South America Packing List' guide!

What’s the Best Time to Travel?

Some destinations might be better to visit during specific times of the year. 

• Summers: perfect for Greek beaches but could also mean crowded streets and sky-high prices in other parts of Europe.

• Fall: perfect for the Spanish islands but less fun during summer, when the heat’s spreading all over the buildings. 

Spend time researching:

• each destination’s weather, 

• peak tourist seasons, and 

• major events.

If you’re flexible with dates, aim for the shoulder season. These are the magical months right before or after peak times. You’ll save money and avoid long lines at popular attractions. Plus, you’ll also have more room to enjoy authentic experiences. Think about exploring quaint markets or savoring seamless food without battling hordes of tourists – pretty cool, right?

Budgeting is your Friend!

This whole backpacking experience could sound like a low-cost endeavor at first, but costs can add up quickly without a solid plan. 

• Find your overall budget; break it down into categories: transportation, accommodation, food, and activities.

• Use apps – Trail Wallet, XE Currency, for example. They can help you keep track of spending while traveling. 

• For accommodations, go for hostels (a classic choice for backpackers), but don’t overlook budget alternatives; some hotels or Airbnbs might offer good deals if you know where to look. You could also try Couchsurfing for a free, local experience.

• When it comes to food, skip the tourist traps and eat where locals do. Street food stalls and small family-owned restaurants often serve the most seamless food experiences. Most likely the food will be delicious, authentic, and wallet-friendly.

Know Your Transportation Options

So, how to get from Point A to Point B (and beyond) easily? For long distances, budget airlines like Ryanair or EasyJet can be lifesavers. Remember! Check baggage policies, as fees can quickly add up if you’re not careful.

If no airplane is needed (so for shorter trips), trains and buses are good options. If traveling in Europe, consider getting a Eurail pass; it’s flexible & affordable. Websites like Bookaway are also excellent for comparing transportation options and costs.

Side note: always book your tickets in advance where possible.  This will save you money and help you reduce the stress of last-minute changes.

Do you have a Realistic Itinerary?

Resist the urge to pack every single attraction into your schedule. Instead, aim for a balanced itinerary; but also leave room for spontaneity. The best travel moments are when you’re not rushing to tick off landmarks.

When planning your visit-a-city itinerary:

• Prioritise top attractions but also carve out time for exploration (Maybe you’ll discover a hidden bookstore in Vienna or stumble upon a jazz band playing in a Lisbon square. These unplanned experiences often become the highlight of the trip).

• Include buffer days or downtime to rest and recharge; this way, you won’t be rushing from one attraction to the next and won’t experience travel burnout.

• Research local festivals or events happening during your stay. You could attend a traditional celebration or live concert!

Stay Safe and Prepared

Get travel insurance! You’ll also want to keep a list of emergency contacts (make sure you’ve got the local embassy information for each country). Stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas or public transportation hubs where pickpockets operate – and when in doubt, follow the locals’ lead;  if they avoid certain areas after dark, you should too. Oh, and don’t forget to inform someone back home about your itinerary, just in case.

Use Travel Apps

Google Maps is indispensable for navigating new cities! And Duolingo can help you pick up basic phrases. For accommodations, Hostelworld and Booking.com are reliable. And if you’re looking to explore the local food scene, Yelp or HappyCow can guide you to delicious food spots.

Embrace that Flexibility!

Flights get delayed, attractions close unexpectedly, or maybe you’ll just fall in love with a place and want to stay longer – plans can change! Build some flexibility into your schedule to accommodate these surprises. Don’t stress over changes but try to see them as part of the adventure.