Backpacking Tips     

Safety Tips For Backpacking in Europe

Backpacking across Europe brings with it a whole range of concerns for the safety and comfort of the backpacker. There is no easy way to hide the fact that you are a tourist. The huge thing you carry on your back makes it pretty obvious. Nonetheless it is actually a better idea to downplay the fact when possible. It can potentially mean less hassle as you wind your way from country to country. That is why most backpacker's magazines and websites will suggest that no matter how proud you are of your home country you do not need to let everyone know where you come from just by looking at you.

The suggestions include not putting your flag on the back of your backpack, not wearing pins that say where you come from and not wearing t-shirts that show where you have been. Try not to draw attention to yourself.  This suggestion is made for all travelers. It does not matter if you are American, Canadian, British, Australian or from any other country. Tourists can be targets and that is something you want to avoid as best you can.

When seeing the sights try to avoid being out alone in the dark. Stay away from deserted areas no matter what time of day. You do not want to find yourself somewhere alone and unpopulated. These can make you an easy target for theft.  Meeting other backpackers is a great way to find travel companions. But, you must remember that these people are strangers to you. Most of them will be good people like you, some may not be. Do not trust everyone the moment you meet someone. Do not tell them how much money you are carrying or where you keep it. Caution will make your travels an adventure to enjoy instead of a regrettable disaster.

Another tip is for hitchhikers. Europeans seem to be more open to giving rides to strangers. But the backpacker must be careful when accepting a ride. Always keep your pack with you. Do not put it in the trunk of the car or even the back seat. Too may times the hitchhiker has gotten out of the car and the driver has driven off with all of their belongings. The only way to safeguard against this is to have the backpack with you at all times.

Not all the people of any given country like tourists. Some feel that they are invaders. The way to ensure that you do not make for bad feelings among the people you meet is to be polite and respectful. You are in their country. If possible learn the most basic of phrases in their language. Being able to say hello, goodbye, please and thank you can make more of a difference than you would expect.

This is not to say that a backpacking trip through Europe will be a disaster fraught with troubles. But it is a reminder that taking precautions is the only smart way to travel.