
So, you're thinking of going travelling for three months? It's an exciting prospect, but it can also be a little daunting. Where do you even start? Well, first things first: planning your destination. Do you want to go to a variety of places, or stick to one region? If you're keen to see lots of different countries, you might want to consider their proximity to each other. That way, you can save time on travel and get to know each place a little better.
Once you've decided where you want to go, it's time to think about budgeting. How much money will you need? This will depend on your travel style and the time of year. For example, Europe in summer is known for being expensive. So, if you're on a budget, you might want to consider travelling in the off-season.
When it comes to accommodation, staying in hostels or Airbnbs can be a great way to save money. Or, if you want to splurge, you can balance it out with some cheaper meals. Speaking of food, eating street food and cooking for yourself can also help keep costs down.
As for transportation, using public transport is usually cheaper than taking cabs or Ubers. And, if you're travelling between countries, taking a bus, train or ferry is often more affordable than flying.
Lastly, when it comes to packing, it's a good idea to invest in some packing cubes to maximise space. You'll also want to bring a mix of clothes for different weather conditions and activities. And don't forget your important documents, like your passport and any necessary visas!
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Planning | Creating an itinerary, budgeting, booking flights and accommodation |
Budgeting | $5,500 for 3 months in Europe is possible |
Accommodation | Hostels, Airbnbs, Couchsurfing, staying with friends |
Transport | Flights, buses, trains, ferries, Ubers and cabs |
Food | Street food, cooking for yourself, shopping at local grocery stores |
Activities | Free walking tours, city cards, free museums, churches |
Necessities | Shampoo & conditioner, toothbrush, razor, hairbrush, first aid kit, important documents |
What You'll Learn
Budgeting
Research and Plan:
- Research the costs of flights, accommodation, transportation, food, and activities for your desired destinations. This will give you an idea of the overall expenses.
- Prioritize your spending based on your preferences and interests. For example, if you enjoy trying new cuisines, allocate more money for food. If you prefer exploring nature, budget for activities like hiking or wildlife tours.
- Consider the time of year you plan to travel, as prices for accommodation and activities may vary depending on the season.
Set a Daily Budget:
- Determine a realistic daily budget that covers your essential expenses, such as food, transportation, and accommodation.
- Be mindful of your spending habits and try to stick to your daily budget. This will help you stay on track and avoid overspending.
Save and Allocate Funds:
- Start saving early and set a target amount to reach before your trip.
- Allocate your funds according to your priorities and expected costs. For example, if you plan to indulge in fine dining, set aside a larger portion of your budget for food.
- Consider using budgeting apps or spreadsheets to track your spending and ensure you're staying within your budget.
Find Ways to Save:
- Look for deals on flights and accommodation by booking in advance or taking advantage of early bird discounts.
- Opt for cheaper alternatives like hostels, Airbnb, or couch surfing instead of expensive hotels.
- Cook your own meals or eat at local eateries instead of dining at tourist traps and fancy restaurants.
- Use public transportation or walk whenever possible to save on transportation costs.
- Take advantage of free activities, such as walking tours, visiting parks, or exploring local markets.
Be Flexible and Adapt:
- Understand that unexpected expenses may arise during your travels. Be prepared to adjust your budget accordingly.
- If you find yourself overspending in one area, compensate by cutting back in another. For example, if you spend more on activities one week, cook your own meals or opt for cheaper food options the following week.
By following these budgeting tips, you can make your three-month trip a memorable and financially manageable experience. Happy travels!
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Itinerary planning
- Decide on a rough route and pace: Do you want to take things slow and spend more time in fewer places, or would you rather move faster and see more places? You could opt for a mix of both, spending more time in your must-visit destinations and less time in other places.
- Consider your travel style: Do you prefer to plan things out in advance, or do you like to be more spontaneous and flexible? You could also do a mix of both by laying out a basic itinerary and booking your first few accommodations and transport options, leaving room for changes and spontaneity during your trip.
- Do your research: Research the places you want to visit, including transportation options, accommodation, activities, and estimated costs. This will help you create a realistic itinerary that fits your budget and travel style.
- Be flexible: Even with the best planning, things might not always go according to plan. Be prepared to adapt and embrace the unexpected. Remember, part of the fun of travelling is the sense of adventure and exploration!
- Make a list of must-visit places: With only three months, it's important to prioritise. Make a list of your top destinations and experiences, and build your itinerary around them. This will ensure you get to see and do the things that are most important to you.
- Variety is the spice of life: When planning your itinerary, try to include a mix of different locations and activities. Consider visiting big cities, small towns, beaches, mountains, historical sites, and natural wonders. This will give you a well-rounded travel experience and expose you to a variety of cultures and environments.
- Don't forget downtime: Travelling can be exhausting, especially if you're constantly on the move. Build in some downtime into your itinerary to relax, recharge, and reflect on your experiences. This could be a day at the beach, a walk in a park, or even just a quiet evening at your accommodation.
- Stay informed: Keep up to date with the latest travel advice and restrictions for your destinations. This includes visa requirements, health and safety guidelines, and any other relevant information that may impact your trip.
- Be prepared for the unexpected: Things might not always go according to plan, and that's okay! Be prepared to embrace the unexpected and make the most of any changes or surprises that come your way. Remember to stay flexible, adaptable, and open-minded.
- Consider joining travel groups: Facebook groups and other online communities can be a great source of information and advice. Consider joining groups specific to your destinations or travel style to connect with other travellers and gain insights from their experiences.
- Month 1: Start your journey in Zurich, Switzerland, and spend a week exploring the city and the surrounding area, including the Swiss capital and the Jungfrau region.
- Month 2: Head to Italy for a month, spending time in Tuscany, Rome, Puglia, and Venice. Indulge in the amazing food, explore historic cities, and relax on the beautiful beaches.
- Month 3: Begin your third month in Lake Bled, Slovenia, before making your way to Croatia. Spend time on the stunning Croatian islands, visit the coastal town of Makarska, and explore the medieval city of Dubrovnik. End your trip with a few days in Budapest and Prague, two of Europe's most captivating cities.
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Packing
Clothing
- Check the weather forecast for your destination in advance and a few days before you leave. This will help you determine how many warm and cold weather items to pack.
- Pack clothing that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits.
- Bring clothing that is comfortable and suitable for the activities you plan to do. For example, if you'll be doing a lot of walking, make sure to pack comfortable shoes.
- Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space.
- Use packing cubes to compress your clothing and maximise space in your luggage.
- Pack a variety of clothing suitable for different weather conditions. This includes two outerwear items, a long-sleeve top, and leggings.
- Bring at least two pairs of shoes, one for sightseeing/walking and another for any special activities you have planned.
- Pack underwear and socks for each week, plus a few extra pairs.
Toiletries and Cosmetics
- Downsize your toiletries by finding combination items, such as two-in-one shampoos and conditioners.
- Purchase empty containers to store your toiletries instead of buying travel-sized products.
- Simplify your skincare and makeup routine for the trip, bringing only the essentials.
- Replace liquid beauty products with solid alternatives to comply with carry-on liquid restrictions.
- Choose a compact toiletry bag that fits easily into your luggage.
Documents and Electronics
- Make sure you have all the necessary travel documents, such as your passport, visa (if required), and any other identification.
- Save copies of your important documents in a secure location, such as the cloud or a portable hard drive.
- Bring any necessary electrical adapters for the countries you'll be visiting.
- Pack a spare battery pack to charge your electronic devices.
Miscellaneous
- Bring a lightweight, packable jacket instead of a bulky coat to save space.
- Pack a first aid kit with essential medications and supplies.
- Include a lightweight towel in your luggage.
- Bring entertainment for long journeys, such as a deck of cards, books, or an e-reader.
- Pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during your travels.
- Consider bringing a lightweight sleeping bag or travel pillow if you plan to camp or sleep on overnight transportation.
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Accommodation
When it comes to accommodation, there are a few options to consider for your three-month trip. Here are some detailed suggestions to help you plan your travels and find the right places to stay:
Hostels
Hostels are a great option for budget-conscious travellers. They offer cheap accommodation, with prices ranging from $7 to $25 per night. Hostels are also excellent for meeting other travellers and often have organised activities. Booking platforms such as Hostelworld can help you find and reserve your preferred hostels in advance.
Airbnb
Airbnb can offer more privacy and comfort than hostels, especially if you're travelling with a group. They are usually more expensive than hostels but can be a good option if you're looking to splurge a little or want to explore a particular neighbourhood.
Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing is a fantastic way to save money on accommodation. It allows you to stay with locals for free, giving you a unique opportunity to connect with people and experience the local culture more intimately.
Serviced Apartments
If you're looking for a place to stay for three months or longer, serviced apartments can be an excellent option. These apartments come with various amenities, including fully equipped kitchens, Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and comfortable sleeping quarters. Some even offer additional facilities like gyms, swimming pools, and business centres. Serviced apartments are available in different sizes, from studios to five-bedroom apartments, making them suitable for solo travellers, couples, families, and large groups.
When choosing accommodation, it's essential to consider your budget, the length of your stay, the amenities you require, and the location that best suits your interests and the purpose of your trip.
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Transportation
Planning Your Route
Before you set off, it's a good idea to plan your route as best you can. This will help you choose the most suitable transport options and give you a sense of the overall costs. Consider the following:
- Geographical area: The size of the area you want to cover will influence your choice of transport. For example, if you're travelling across a continent, you might opt for flights, whereas a smaller region may be better suited to trains or buses.
- Number of destinations: Think about how many places you want to visit. The more destinations, the more transport connections you'll need to make. This may impact your budget, as each connection incurs a cost.
- Time constraints: If you're on a tight schedule, you might prefer faster transport options to make the most of your time. On the other hand, if you have a more flexible itinerary, you can consider slower but perhaps more scenic or cost-effective options.
Choosing Transport Options
There are various transport options available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some common choices:
- Flights: Flying is often the quickest way to cover long distances, making it ideal for tight schedules or far-flung destinations. However, it can be more expensive and less environmentally friendly than other options.
- Trains: Trains offer a good balance between speed and cost-effectiveness. They are particularly useful for travelling through regions with efficient rail networks, such as much of Europe.
- Buses: Buses are usually the most affordable option for land travel, making them ideal for those on a budget. However, they can be slower and less comfortable than other choices.
- Cars: Renting a car gives you flexibility and freedom during your trip. It's a good option if you want to explore off-the-beaten-path locations that may not be accessible by public transport. However, it can be costly, especially when factoring in fuel prices.
- Boats: For coastal or island destinations, boats or ferries may be necessary. They can also offer a unique travel experience, such as a cruise.
Reducing Transport Costs
- Book in advance: Many transport providers offer discounts for early bookings. Keep an eye out for deals, and consider booking your connections in advance to save money.
- Use price comparison websites: Websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights allow you to compare prices across different airlines and find the best deals.
- Take overnight transport: Opting for overnight buses or trains can save you the cost of accommodation for that night. It also saves you time, as you travel while you sleep!
- Consider a rail pass: If you're travelling extensively by train, a rail pass can offer significant savings. For example, the Eurail Pass provides access to trains in multiple European countries.
- Walk or cycle: In some destinations, walking or cycling may be a feasible and cost-free way to get around. It's a great way to explore a place at a slower pace and get some exercise during your trip.
Packing for Transport Efficiency
The way you pack can also impact your choice of transport and overall travel experience:
- Pack light: Travelling with a heavy bag can be cumbersome and tiring. Opt for lightweight luggage and only pack the essentials to make your transport connections easier and more comfortable.
- Consider a backpack: A backpack is often the most versatile option for travellers, especially if you plan to use multiple transport types. It allows you to keep your hands free and navigate crowded spaces more easily.
- Use packing cubes: Packing cubes help compress and organise your belongings, making it easier to pack and unpack when using various transport options.
Remember to always research the specific transport options available in your chosen destinations, as these can vary greatly depending on the region. Safe travels!
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Frequently asked questions
This depends on your travel style, the season you plan to travel in, and how much you plan on splurging vs. sticking to a budget. One person who travelled around Europe for three months spent $5,500, which amounted to $61 a day.
It depends on where you're going and what you plan to do, but generally, you should pack clothes for different weather conditions, toiletries, electronics, and important documents. You can also bring entertainment, such as a deck of cards, and items to keep you healthy, like a first aid kit.
This depends on your interests and budget. If you want to visit multiple places, consider choosing a region where 2-3 countries are bordered by each other or a short flight apart. This will save you time on transportation and give you more time to explore and relax.