Hi everyone,
I'm currently 4.5 months into my year long solo backpacking trip as a 24 year old female women from the US, and wanted to share how I'm doing it. There weren't many resources available when I was doing my research, so I want to post to help other people who are considering doing the same thing. It's by far been the best experience of my life. I'm also open to answering any questions you may have, and will respond the best I can.
Biggest question I get: how have I been able to afford it?
I was fortunate to have a well paying job within sales, and worked my ass off, and saved everything I had for a few years. While my coworkers were buying nicer cars, and bigger homes, I was saving and investing. Once I realized I want to make a change in my life, I had the resources to do it. However, I've spoke with many solo travelers and everyones done it differently. My biggest monthly expense is accommodation, and if you want to stay for free around Europe, I strongly suggest volunteering at hostels. That's how many travelers who have been traveling long term afford it. Every hostels requirements are different, but on average you host 4-5 events a week, and sometimes get a food budget as well.
What's my itinerary?
I began my journey in December, so it was very cold. I started in Portugal and originally planned to go from there, to Spain, France and Italy. However, a few weeks into my trip it was so cold and hostels were dead, so I decided to not use my Schengen days on that. I booked a 16 day group tour in Morocco, bought a one way ticket, and left. While I was there a girl suggested Turkey, and that's where I ended up unexpectedly spending nearly 2 months there in Antalya. In mid March I came to Italy, and am now making my way along the west coast. I'm currently in Florence, then will go to south of France, Paris, and Spain. My recommendation is to plan your travels as you go. Speak with travelers to see where they've been, what they liked and go from there.
My rough plan is after Spain I'll likely go to Albania, back to Turkey to visit my new friends, pop over to Greece via ferry, then go to Montenegro or Croatia (The Balkans) to hike the alps. Majority of these countries I would've never considered before if it weren't for speaking with people.
What's my monthly budget?
I budgeted $3,500/mo for my travels which is very comfortable, but please keep in mind it varies a lot what country your in and during what season. For example, I was able to stay in a very nice hostel in Antalya Turkey in the winter for about $12 a night, and being in Florence Italy during April I'm paying about $45 a night - so it varies dramatically. However, as I suggested earlier, volunteering is the biggest way to significantly reduce your monthly expenses.
Travel tips:
-My biggest recommendation is to not go north Europe in the winter unless you're prepared for very cold winters, and understand you will need the proper equipment (big coat, snow shoes, etc.) which will take up a lot of your backpacking space. Now it's April in Europe, I'm starting to enjoy my travels much more due to the warmer weather.
-Bring earplugs and eye mask for your hostel!!! This is the biggest lifesaver. I got the wax ones on amazon and they've been great. I sleep like a baby every night.
-Pace yourself! Don't forget to account for recharge days throughout your week. I love having 1-2 days a week where I can relax, sleep in, catch up on "admin" work, check in with friends and do laundry. Everyone travels differently, but I've seen friends go home early because of how burnt out they are. I also enjoy my "going out" days because I have more energy.
-Spend a week in each city. This has been a baseline for me and so far I've loved it. It's enough to see a place, relax for a day or two and see everything I want. Some people travel faster (usually those who are on a few week trips), and some people stay in a country for a month - so find what works for you, but I've really liked this pace.
-For my luggage, I'm carrying a 40L BagSmart backpack and a TravelPro International carry on. This lets me put a backpack under the seat (if packed light enough), and suitcase overhead. I really like my set up. Keep in mind if you get a bigger backpack, you'll have to check it every time you fly which is an additional $35-$50, which isn't worth it imo.
So there you go - that's everything I've learned! I hope this was helpful. Please keep in mind, everyone travels differently, so this is one of many ways. I want to support other solo travelers who are considering doing this, so if you have any questions, feel free to ask! I'll respond once I can.
Cheers!