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Post by beccat13 on Nov 25, 2012 1:26:14 GMT -5
I'm planing on backpacking through Europe in the spring of 2014. My plan is to get to as many countries as possible, starting in Ireland in February and going around Europe until June. I'm planning on just taking a backpack for ease, but I'm wondering if that's the best idea. I'd like to get some feed back on how to potentially pack for that, so I can start looking at backpacks possibly. Also, if you have a recommendation for a type of back pack, I would love some suggestions!
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Post by Eagle on Dec 1, 2012 1:42:03 GMT -5
It would help to know which country you're from? If you're not an E.U. resident, you'll have to ensure that you don't exceed the 90-day Schengen limit, as penalties can be severe if you're caught!
Using a Backpack is a good idea (that's the method I use). If you haven't bought a pack yet, you might consider a panel-loading model (with zippers), one with a detachable Daypack (good for carry-on) and one which has a "stowable harness" (so it isn't damaged by airport conveyor systems). Check Eagle Creek, Osprey or others.
On the topic of "packing", the general rule is to pack the same for three weeks as for three months. Try to travel "light" and plan to do laundry on a regular basis, even if it's just in the hotel room sink.
One of the most important points in planning, is to plan an efficient route and allow adequate travel time between locations. If you haven't been to Europe before, you may want to read Europe Through The Back Door, as that provides a lot of good information on "how" to travel in Europe.
Good luck with your planning!
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Post by beccat13 on Dec 2, 2012 2:18:35 GMT -5
I was under the impression (or I read somewhere) the limit was if you stayed in one country, where as I'm planning to spend a week or two in each country. I'm from Canada. I'll look into that a bit more unless you know the answer. But thank you! That's some really great advice. Thanks so much!
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Post by madamtrashheap on Dec 29, 2012 20:57:33 GMT -5
beccat13, the information on the Schengen Zone that Eagle has given is absolutely correct - you can only stay in the Schengen Zone countries for up to 90 days within a 180 day period. If you think you will go over this limit, the best thing is to identify the country or countries you'll be in after the time limit and apply for appropriate visas to extend your stay with a long-stay visa It's worth noting that they will likely want to know why you are staying so long, how you plan to fund your travels, where you're staying (ie with friends, hostel, etc). If you have ancestry rights to a visa or passport from an EU country (parents for most, grandparents for UK, Ireland) then it might be worth applying for an entry clearance visa or passport if applicable, then you won't have to worry about the time limit and you can also work legally.
As for packing, well, that completely depends on what you plan to do (skiing, hiking, etc). As you are covering a number of seasons, you'll need a heavy duty jacket, warm boots, etc. Backpacks are an easy way of getting around, so when you look at them, try them on to see how they feel and how they compare to your height and ability to carry weight on your back. That's really the only way to choose the right pack for yourself.
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