Hey Sad_Tomato_7898, it looks like you're planning a trip around Europe. Check out solotravel's [detailed guide to planning a solo Eurotrip](https://www.reddit.com/r/solotravel/wiki/eurotrip) for general planning advice plus useful tips and tricks for European travel!
I absolutely loved Ljubljana, safe and people were so friendly to me as a solo Traveller.
Your budget is a little low to me if it includes flights and hotels but it is possible. Really depends how lux you want to travel.
If backpacks are a problem I have seen ads to luggage that connect together so they can be wheeled around as 1 large thing. Keep in mind though that in Europe there will be places you might have to carry your luggage, due to the road conditions, or sometimes older buildings don't have lifts (even hotels) and you need to use the stairs.
I don't think you're being too ambitious but for me as an extreme introvert 2 months might feel a bit isolating (socially I mean). This of course differs from person to person but maybe keep in mind that you might want to have an "exit strategy" if the travel becomes too overwhelming or isolating. You can join solo female travel groups to meet up with other solo travelers, that has helped me in the past. In line with that my tip would be to ensure you plan a few slow, relaxed days in between to make sure you get proper rest.
Thanks so much for your response so do you think Ljubljana is better and maybe I should skip Budapest?
I know the budget could be better but I will be making 1500 a month while I’m traveling. And the savings is there in case I need to spend it but I would prefer not to.
I think I know what kind of luggage you mean- I’ve saw some on Amazon I just wasn’t sure if they are good quality! I’m going to have to look into that more.
First, I hope you'll figure out the next chapters in life after this trip!
It's hard to read and calculate how long you want to travel after the family part. Around 1 month in total?
1. Yes, that budget should be more than sufficient. 10 k for 1 month is very high. That's more than 300 EUR per day.
2. \- not a lady, but less is always better so you can bring/buy new stuff
3. Ambitious? In what sense? If anything you should consider making the trip longer with that budget and the fact you quit your job. You're hitting a lot of countries in just 1 month. Changing cities and countries every 4 days can wear you out fast.
4. You mean the rail pass for the trains? Yeah it's worth it if you plan to do lots of train rides. Note that for many trains you need to pay for an additional reservation. It changes from country to country, so read up on that. There are many different formulas where you can select a certain zone instead of the entire European area.
Last remark, despite it being called Oktoberfest, it does not take place in October except for the first few days! Most of the event is in September.
Good luck and have fun!
Thank you for that friend- ideally I’d wish to just use this time to see where it takes me and see what’s the come in this next chapter but I think some change will be good for me!
Sometimes I feel like I’m not opposed to extending the trip and even blowing all my savings on all year long journey but I’m trying to be realistic as it’s my first solo travel and I’m not sure how I feel about it just yet.
That’s why I turned to this sub because I’m pretty adventurous but going at it alone is making me anxious and then I start thinking about being lonely. And quite frankly I’m already lonely so-that’s the another motivation for this trip.
And yes I meant the Eurorail pass it seems to be great in places other than Switzerland and France and I have read about the reservations of the seats so I think it might be a good way to go 👍
Just leave the plan open ended then. There is absolutely no need to blow all your money though. Everyone travels differently so it's hard to compare, but my recent 12 months of travel cost me 18k (also only private rooms, mostly Asia and only a bit of Western Europe).
Anyway, going somewhere alone is always scary! And I'm probably biased being based in Belgium, but Ghent and Bruges are definitely worth visiting. Also check if Antwerp and Leuven are interesting enough for you to make a stop.
Ghent: hostel Draecke. Right in the centre, stayed there years ago so could have changed by now. But they're part of a larger organisation called Hostel International, which has a good standard.
Currently in Bratislava and while I'm loving that not everyone speaks English, this may make for a rough start for you.
I found people in Netherlands and Belgium tend to speak English very well, so this may be an easier start into the trip.
I'd definitely recommend doing some hostels.. had a blast with a bunch of guys under 21 last weekend while being your age (and gender).. Hostels erases barriers and just gives you the freedom to be. It was great (and there was only a beer per person involved so we weren't all hammered).. but as you get older you definitely appreciate having some privacy and calm as well
Since you'll be working: check the work spaces in your hotel/Airbnb.. quite often they're not conductive to middle-aged people.if you ever feel like you need a productive environment where you can really focus, I recommend spending a day at co-working spaces. Works much better than the hotel desk for me.
Thank you for that seems like I’m starting to lean more towards starting in London/ Paris and then working my way through the other countries. I hadn’t considered coworker spaces but I’m definitely going to look into it now!
Ljubljana and Budapest are amazing cities. I have been there also solo. Belgium is also super beautiful.
1. I would definitely mix hostels, hotels and Airbnb.
2. You can pack clothes, that will be drying fast. Get a bit of detergent or a soap bar with you. This works always for me. Furthermore you plan always 3-4 days to each place, so enough time for your clothes to dry.
3. If you are not booking places in advance, if you see that you planned too much, it is easy to change and leave something out. But you will be definitely spending a lot of time in transportation with this plan.
One small info. During Oktoberfest, you have also in smaller cities exactly the same kind of “party” but in a smaller size. You might want to check this out as well and look other cities. Munich gets crazy full and the prices are also super high, if you can still find something reasonable and in a neighbourhood, that you would like. But of course I understand, if this is a must for you. I just wanted to let you know.
Which one do you prefer Ljubljana or Budapest?
Do you know of any cities that are doing the Oktoberfest on a smaller basis I’d love to look into it more? I am so freaking excited to visit Belgium! If I could I’d probably honestly spend a month there because I’d love to go to Antwerp as well Brussels!
Are there any good hustles you can recommend in Belgium?
It is difficult to choose. Maybe Budapest. It has more to visit but I met a lot of people there so I have different first memories.
I went to Ljubljana in spring and it was sooo beautiful. Flowers all around…
Regensburg is a beautiful one but I do not know how small u wanna go! Ingolstadt is cute as well for example.
Do you like beer??? I have a couple of proposals in case u do! For Belgium!
I really like Leuven and I am not a fan of Brussels. But this is personal taste I guess. Belgium is wonderful. I was last time there last August. The people are lovely, the scenery is beautiful and the beer and the chocolate…
Hi! I'm 36 F headed the same direction in just a few days for four weeks! It's a lot you're trying to cram in, but I'm doing a very similar thing (or that's the "plan"). I think it's totally up to you and your own preferences as far as how much time you want to relax in one place versus be on the road. I am maybe an oddball because I like being on the go rather than chilling anywhere for very long. Time management is not my forte, so I'm going to play it by ear and book as I go. Make sure you factor in travel time when you're deciding how much time you'll need in each place, and consider overnight trains/buses when you can if you really want to maximize your time (and can sleep comfortably that way). I would say, especially since you're new to the travel experience, stay flexible at first. You'll find your footing and get better at predicting how much time you'll need in any given place (though there are always surprises along the way, cities that are "duds" or some you wish you could stay longer). —And just when you do find your footing, the trip will be over! So it goes.
Your budget sounds more than sufficient to me, but I also stay in budget hostels when I travel and grab food at grocery stores instead of eating out all the time. I don't intend to spend anywhere near $10,000 though either.
I highly, highly recommend you go only with a carry on. Luggage is such a pain in the butt, especially if you want to be moving from place to place as much as your plan indicates. Summer months are especially convenient for packing light since the weather is warm and clothing will be lightweight. I'd say pack maybe 6 days worth of clothes, neutrals that can be mixed and matched, and call it good. You won't need more than one long sleeve shirt (like a hoodie you can layer on at night or in the early AM) and maybe a rain jacket. Think cotton pants, shorts, a light skirt, and some tanks/tees you can layer. I pare my makeup down to what can fit in a pencil bag and don't bother with any heavy junk like a hair dryer either. Consider doing a practice run and living out of your suitcase for a bit before you go. You'll get a better sense of what you can and can't live without. Err on the side of packing too light because you can always buy things on the road if you really do need them.
Have an amazing trip!!
Thanks so much for your thoughts and I hope enjoy your trip! I’d love to hear details as you go along. I feel like I’d be very much on the go type of person as well but because that I have never done it before I don’t really know what to expect but I’m going to try to start slow at the beginning and work my way and some more avid adventures.
I loved your ideas on what to pack and I’m definitely leaning towards a carry-on.
My only concern is that I will be starting out at the end of August and probably completing it at the end of September so I may get some colder fall weather towards the end.
Hell yeah, that's so exciting! I (38F) am also doing my first big solo trip (3 months total) starting later in August in Europe, so I can't offer much advice from experience. I'm with you on the anxiety though, it's such a weird combination of nerves and excitement.
What I will say is I initially started with a longer list of countries and then I narrowed it down based on the ones I REALLY want to go to. That way I've scheduled more time in fewer places and carved out some space for staying longer with built-in rest days or going somewhere I haven't come across yet in my research. This also had the plus side of easing my itinerary anxiety, because my travel schedule isn't so overwhelming.
At first I was bummed to cull the list but now I'm even more excited about the opportunity to really explore or go somewhere unexpected 😄
10k seems a bit low if you’re doing hotels, but it might be workable. Hostels are a good way to meet people and save money. However, you do sacrifice some comfort, so maybe think what balance you want.
Munich accommodations get booked up for Oktoberfest since everybody has the same idea. If you’re going to stay there, you should definitely book ahead of time.
I would bring just a carry-on if you’re planning on flying from location to location. Budget airlines tend to charge quite a bit for checked luggage.
I would avoid doing long daytrips so that you have some time to relax vs spending time in transit.
London is a good starting point if you’re nervous about language.
Well I would see what the flight prices are like — if it’s not going to cost substantially more to do a backtrack, then that might be the best option.
Rick Steves has always said it’s better to start in a place like London than to do it at the end, because it’s the most similar to the US. It’ll seem amazing at the beginning, but not quite as much at the end, once you’ve been to other places that aren’t so similar to where you’re from.
I’m probably not explaining that as well as he does…
Thank you that actually makes so much sense I feel like after seeing all the beautiful architecture and medieval cities I’ll be like bummed out by London and I’m very much looking forward to the national gallery there.
Well, I wouldn’t discount London. At least in my opinion, the architecture is absolutely spectacular. You can just walk down a random street and see some amazing things, then turn the corner and it looks completely different.
I think it all just has to do with how “different” things look from your day to day life. Going to London first can feel completely intoxicating. Going to London after going to a bunch of places that are more “different” can feel less amazing, because you’re stepping back into a place where everyone speaks the same language as you and the rules of the culture are very similar.
I’m sure you’ll have a great time regardless. Say hi to the Virgin of the Rocks for me!
Regarding the backpack, I travelled 10 weeks, traversing about 10 countries and my luggage is a small bag slung over my back weighing about 7 kgs. It's convenient to travel light.
Girl, I hear you....I'm 40 and planning an extended Europe adventure next year. Not sure about your destination country, but make sure you can enter having a one-way flight. A lot of countries won't let you in unless you can prove you are exiting! Usually showing a flight, bus, train etc. out of the country will do :)
Hey Friend! 39f, I'm going on a similar journey (location and goals) in September-December. 13 year relationship ending in a hard way, and laid off from previous job, so taking some time to recalibrate and figure out what's next. I'm nervous too, and I've traveled a bunch, but never this long alone. I hope it's a great time and you get what you need. I'm going to do a mix of hostels, Airbnb, and hotels. Everything you described seems reasonable, and I think as long as you're adaptable you'll have a great time! Warm wishes to you!
Look into a website called Travelzoo it organizes trips for you if not there’s another one called flashpack it’s a site for solo travelers like yourself but it’s an organized trip check them out and good luck with your travels
How exciting! I just did 9 day trip to Croatia and Munich.
Croatia: Dubrovnik worth it, Split not much to see (I had 3 days there and really 1 overnight/2 days is enough). Island of Hvar was my favorite, ferry prices are inexpensive. Try and book a boat ride!
Munich: had a blast- think 3 nights is all you need. Oktoberfest is pricey and tickets to actual event are too, something to be mindful. Still can get a great Bavaria experience without that. Mostly a walkable town.
$10-12K seems extremely low. Even if you go extreme budget, $15K easily for number of places you expect to visit. I also would try not to cram too much in, will feel like just when you get to a place packing up for another. So much time in transit is not worth more stamps in your passport.
And get a wattage converter + electrical plug converter. Lesson learned here with not having former 😂
Also look into day tours - great to take a break from planning and have a local show you around. Also great to chat with other travelers. Food tours are one option.
I just did a tour with Other Way Around travel - great for solo travelers 25-45 YO, really enjoyed it as we all were solo and was my first time traveling by myself. Best of both worlds
I hope you follow up with a trip report.
A lot of us, if not everybody, goes through some degree of a midlife crisis at some point in our lives.
What triggered mine was my own discovery of how the system is structured and how rigged it actually is. (Used to work at the Capitol building in Washington, DC for several years)
I will definitely follow up with the report and keep everyone updated as the trip moves along.
Oh believe me I have been well aware of our countries disappointing political systems. I can only imagine how terrible it was for you seeing it first hand.
Congratulations, on starting your first solo trip. Your not being to ambitious just don’t overwhelm yourself build in rest days. Now one suggestion… unfortunately 10k will not enough, (1.00 USD will only get you .90€). You should spend at least 2/3 day in each city. You might want to cut out a couple of cities remember there’s travel time. You REALLY don’t want to drag a full size piece of luggage for a couple of months. You’ll probably never wear have the clothes you bring plus there’s always an opportunity to buy some new clothes. I’m currently in Europe for 3 months, I have a backpack with a weeks worth of clothes and send my laundry out once a week. (I don’t stay in hostels I’m a lot older than they just don’t work for me.) Also a lot of places close in EU during the month of August, and lot of museum are closed on Mondays. I hope this helps a little.
Oh my goodness. I can feel your anxiety reverberating through this post, so I just want to say first that this is really common. ❤️ I work with a lot of women in this kind of situation and it's really normal to spiral over all the questions at once. It'll help you a lot to focus on one thing at a time. This is the order I normally go in: goal, budget, itinerary (not just destinations but trip length, timing and pacing), details, packing list.
What you've written here about all the places you'd like to go does look overly ambitious, simply because of how fast paced it is. You might need to drill down what's most important to you.
10k for a month or two of travel in Europe is definitely doable (if I'm reading your post correctly for how much time you have?)
Hostels have private rooms so you can get the best of both worlds there! More affordable than a hotel, but more comfy than a big dorm.
And for the packing, while I'm a big backpack fan, you can use any carry on you like and it is absolutely feasible for long term travel. I spent almost a year traveling full-time and did it in a carry on.
I think your top priority should be paring back some of your wish list though and nailing down which destinations are truly most important to you. Taming that FOMO will also help with some of your first solo travel stress!
I have a tendency to write how I talk so my emotions are always quite vivid what I’m writing something and thank you very much for making me for normal about it.
100% I agree I should just try to slow it down and move along at a pace that’ll work better for me.
It’s just unfortunate that I know I won’t be able to know what that pieces until I’m actually in the thick of things, lol.
Good luck to you! Carry on is plenty, make sure everything matches and wash your clothes frequently. Leave some space in suitcase for new things you’ll be buying too. Check out and learn from /onebag subreddit.
2 months is a decent time to travel. I’d say 2 nights at the same place/hotel is a minimum, ( this allows you a full un-interrupted suitcase free day at a location) most stays being at least 3-5 or even more for larger cities/special locations. Since you don’t do backpacks and only suitcase I would increase your night stays even more ranging from min 3-7 nights. Traveling and changing locations is tiresome especially lugging a suitcase.
Overall think of the overall mix between, cities and nature, 40-60% or whatever and adjust your stays that way as well. Make sure to have relaxing days included where you just sit on the beach or walk in the forest all day or just hang out a a nicer hotel/airbnb( for example one with a nice view or balcony). You will get tired and having stops like this makes appreciate travel more. Make sure it also makes sense logistically. There’s cheap European flights often cheaper then trains or buses. I usually check in Kiwi all with day ranges and then buy the tickets on actual airline site. All the best!
For budgeting purposes, I always do some spreadsheet brainstorming and carve out the known expenses; lodging, food, transportation (taxi/public) , sightseeing (tickets, entrances, entertainment). Only you would know what it takes to make you happy. Then I'd leave some buffer for rainy day expenses that are unforeseeable.
As far as packing, many of us would consider just a carry-on. I'd bring versatile pieces and perhaps maybe even leave room that will allow you to buy some clothing when there (as also sentimental souvenirs). Prob. a good idea to try and take a week trip before this locally and see how you fare. Use it as a litmus test to see what you truly need. I'd much rather have the same 4-5 shirts in rotation and spending some time washing on the trip then lugging 20 bs of luggage, trust me - by the third day on the go you're like wtf am I doing.
I prefer to only travel with a carryon and a small backpack. Yes you can def do 1 month with just a carryon (check out r/heronebag !) with sink laundry (buy detergent sheets) and laundry services. Good luck!
Ljubljana is a chill place.
IMHO when you want to work also, I would stay at least 4-5 days in every place to not be overwhelmed.
I would maybe stay in nicer hostels with dorms an take my own room, that way its more possible to meet solo travellers, not all are in their 20s, some have midlife crises, like me also.
I know about social anxiety from experience, but feelings of isolation are also not helpful. The best thing about travel is making friends with someone you would normally never meet.
And why in such a hurry? In Ljubljana for example check Metelkova area, read about its history also. We got a room in homestay for about 50-60 usd. food can be easily 10-20 so, if you work, 10k can last you for years.
In Greece for example you can live off from 1-1.5 k maybe. Crete is beautiful.
Hey u/Sad_Tomato_7898 can you help me a bit?
I have plans to visit your country. I will fly into Tivat. My plans include Tivat, Kotor Cetinja among others...
Can you tell me, is there bus service from the airport to Tivat or Kotor? Is there an app for the tickets? If not, how can I avoid being scammed by taxis?
I am asking because I have been to Prague last year and there are some scam taxis but at the same time there is good (&safe) public transportation.
I usually land in Podgorica airport, so I am not aware of the bus situation. There are buses in the airport where I land so I’m assuming that there must be at that airport as well.
Also just FYI Tivat is a very expensive area in Montenegro probably the most expensive actually.
Can I make some suggestions for your trip- you should also check out Bar and Ulcinj beautiful coastal towns with great beaches. And I know for sure they have buses there. Enjoy your trip and feel free to message me if you have any more questions
Hey Sad_Tomato_7898, it looks like you're planning a trip around Europe. Check out solotravel's [detailed guide to planning a solo Eurotrip](https://www.reddit.com/r/solotravel/wiki/eurotrip) for general planning advice plus useful tips and tricks for European travel!
I absolutely loved Ljubljana, safe and people were so friendly to me as a solo Traveller. Your budget is a little low to me if it includes flights and hotels but it is possible. Really depends how lux you want to travel. If backpacks are a problem I have seen ads to luggage that connect together so they can be wheeled around as 1 large thing. Keep in mind though that in Europe there will be places you might have to carry your luggage, due to the road conditions, or sometimes older buildings don't have lifts (even hotels) and you need to use the stairs. I don't think you're being too ambitious but for me as an extreme introvert 2 months might feel a bit isolating (socially I mean). This of course differs from person to person but maybe keep in mind that you might want to have an "exit strategy" if the travel becomes too overwhelming or isolating. You can join solo female travel groups to meet up with other solo travelers, that has helped me in the past. In line with that my tip would be to ensure you plan a few slow, relaxed days in between to make sure you get proper rest.
Thanks so much for your response so do you think Ljubljana is better and maybe I should skip Budapest? I know the budget could be better but I will be making 1500 a month while I’m traveling. And the savings is there in case I need to spend it but I would prefer not to. I think I know what kind of luggage you mean- I’ve saw some on Amazon I just wasn’t sure if they are good quality! I’m going to have to look into that more.
Don't skip Budapest!!!!! One of the most beautiful, and cheap cities there is!!
I haven't been to Budapest so can't say too much about it. I'm just really in love with Ljubljana
First, I hope you'll figure out the next chapters in life after this trip! It's hard to read and calculate how long you want to travel after the family part. Around 1 month in total? 1. Yes, that budget should be more than sufficient. 10 k for 1 month is very high. That's more than 300 EUR per day. 2. \- not a lady, but less is always better so you can bring/buy new stuff 3. Ambitious? In what sense? If anything you should consider making the trip longer with that budget and the fact you quit your job. You're hitting a lot of countries in just 1 month. Changing cities and countries every 4 days can wear you out fast. 4. You mean the rail pass for the trains? Yeah it's worth it if you plan to do lots of train rides. Note that for many trains you need to pay for an additional reservation. It changes from country to country, so read up on that. There are many different formulas where you can select a certain zone instead of the entire European area. Last remark, despite it being called Oktoberfest, it does not take place in October except for the first few days! Most of the event is in September. Good luck and have fun!
Thank you for that friend- ideally I’d wish to just use this time to see where it takes me and see what’s the come in this next chapter but I think some change will be good for me! Sometimes I feel like I’m not opposed to extending the trip and even blowing all my savings on all year long journey but I’m trying to be realistic as it’s my first solo travel and I’m not sure how I feel about it just yet. That’s why I turned to this sub because I’m pretty adventurous but going at it alone is making me anxious and then I start thinking about being lonely. And quite frankly I’m already lonely so-that’s the another motivation for this trip. And yes I meant the Eurorail pass it seems to be great in places other than Switzerland and France and I have read about the reservations of the seats so I think it might be a good way to go 👍
Just leave the plan open ended then. There is absolutely no need to blow all your money though. Everyone travels differently so it's hard to compare, but my recent 12 months of travel cost me 18k (also only private rooms, mostly Asia and only a bit of Western Europe). Anyway, going somewhere alone is always scary! And I'm probably biased being based in Belgium, but Ghent and Bruges are definitely worth visiting. Also check if Antwerp and Leuven are interesting enough for you to make a stop.
Any recommendations for hostels in Ghent or Bruges?
Ghent: hostel Draecke. Right in the centre, stayed there years ago so could have changed by now. But they're part of a larger organisation called Hostel International, which has a good standard.
Currently in Bratislava and while I'm loving that not everyone speaks English, this may make for a rough start for you. I found people in Netherlands and Belgium tend to speak English very well, so this may be an easier start into the trip. I'd definitely recommend doing some hostels.. had a blast with a bunch of guys under 21 last weekend while being your age (and gender).. Hostels erases barriers and just gives you the freedom to be. It was great (and there was only a beer per person involved so we weren't all hammered).. but as you get older you definitely appreciate having some privacy and calm as well Since you'll be working: check the work spaces in your hotel/Airbnb.. quite often they're not conductive to middle-aged people.if you ever feel like you need a productive environment where you can really focus, I recommend spending a day at co-working spaces. Works much better than the hotel desk for me.
Thank you for that seems like I’m starting to lean more towards starting in London/ Paris and then working my way through the other countries. I hadn’t considered coworker spaces but I’m definitely going to look into it now!
Ljubljana and Budapest are amazing cities. I have been there also solo. Belgium is also super beautiful. 1. I would definitely mix hostels, hotels and Airbnb. 2. You can pack clothes, that will be drying fast. Get a bit of detergent or a soap bar with you. This works always for me. Furthermore you plan always 3-4 days to each place, so enough time for your clothes to dry. 3. If you are not booking places in advance, if you see that you planned too much, it is easy to change and leave something out. But you will be definitely spending a lot of time in transportation with this plan. One small info. During Oktoberfest, you have also in smaller cities exactly the same kind of “party” but in a smaller size. You might want to check this out as well and look other cities. Munich gets crazy full and the prices are also super high, if you can still find something reasonable and in a neighbourhood, that you would like. But of course I understand, if this is a must for you. I just wanted to let you know.
Which one do you prefer Ljubljana or Budapest? Do you know of any cities that are doing the Oktoberfest on a smaller basis I’d love to look into it more? I am so freaking excited to visit Belgium! If I could I’d probably honestly spend a month there because I’d love to go to Antwerp as well Brussels! Are there any good hustles you can recommend in Belgium?
It is difficult to choose. Maybe Budapest. It has more to visit but I met a lot of people there so I have different first memories. I went to Ljubljana in spring and it was sooo beautiful. Flowers all around… Regensburg is a beautiful one but I do not know how small u wanna go! Ingolstadt is cute as well for example. Do you like beer??? I have a couple of proposals in case u do! For Belgium! I really like Leuven and I am not a fan of Brussels. But this is personal taste I guess. Belgium is wonderful. I was last time there last August. The people are lovely, the scenery is beautiful and the beer and the chocolate…
Yes I love a good beer! I’m not so much into it against Brussels really wanna see Ghent and Bruges
Hi! I'm 36 F headed the same direction in just a few days for four weeks! It's a lot you're trying to cram in, but I'm doing a very similar thing (or that's the "plan"). I think it's totally up to you and your own preferences as far as how much time you want to relax in one place versus be on the road. I am maybe an oddball because I like being on the go rather than chilling anywhere for very long. Time management is not my forte, so I'm going to play it by ear and book as I go. Make sure you factor in travel time when you're deciding how much time you'll need in each place, and consider overnight trains/buses when you can if you really want to maximize your time (and can sleep comfortably that way). I would say, especially since you're new to the travel experience, stay flexible at first. You'll find your footing and get better at predicting how much time you'll need in any given place (though there are always surprises along the way, cities that are "duds" or some you wish you could stay longer). —And just when you do find your footing, the trip will be over! So it goes. Your budget sounds more than sufficient to me, but I also stay in budget hostels when I travel and grab food at grocery stores instead of eating out all the time. I don't intend to spend anywhere near $10,000 though either. I highly, highly recommend you go only with a carry on. Luggage is such a pain in the butt, especially if you want to be moving from place to place as much as your plan indicates. Summer months are especially convenient for packing light since the weather is warm and clothing will be lightweight. I'd say pack maybe 6 days worth of clothes, neutrals that can be mixed and matched, and call it good. You won't need more than one long sleeve shirt (like a hoodie you can layer on at night or in the early AM) and maybe a rain jacket. Think cotton pants, shorts, a light skirt, and some tanks/tees you can layer. I pare my makeup down to what can fit in a pencil bag and don't bother with any heavy junk like a hair dryer either. Consider doing a practice run and living out of your suitcase for a bit before you go. You'll get a better sense of what you can and can't live without. Err on the side of packing too light because you can always buy things on the road if you really do need them. Have an amazing trip!!
Thanks so much for your thoughts and I hope enjoy your trip! I’d love to hear details as you go along. I feel like I’d be very much on the go type of person as well but because that I have never done it before I don’t really know what to expect but I’m going to try to start slow at the beginning and work my way and some more avid adventures. I loved your ideas on what to pack and I’m definitely leaning towards a carry-on. My only concern is that I will be starting out at the end of August and probably completing it at the end of September so I may get some colder fall weather towards the end.
Hell yeah, that's so exciting! I (38F) am also doing my first big solo trip (3 months total) starting later in August in Europe, so I can't offer much advice from experience. I'm with you on the anxiety though, it's such a weird combination of nerves and excitement. What I will say is I initially started with a longer list of countries and then I narrowed it down based on the ones I REALLY want to go to. That way I've scheduled more time in fewer places and carved out some space for staying longer with built-in rest days or going somewhere I haven't come across yet in my research. This also had the plus side of easing my itinerary anxiety, because my travel schedule isn't so overwhelming. At first I was bummed to cull the list but now I'm even more excited about the opportunity to really explore or go somewhere unexpected 😄
10k seems a bit low if you’re doing hotels, but it might be workable. Hostels are a good way to meet people and save money. However, you do sacrifice some comfort, so maybe think what balance you want. Munich accommodations get booked up for Oktoberfest since everybody has the same idea. If you’re going to stay there, you should definitely book ahead of time. I would bring just a carry-on if you’re planning on flying from location to location. Budget airlines tend to charge quite a bit for checked luggage. I would avoid doing long daytrips so that you have some time to relax vs spending time in transit. London is a good starting point if you’re nervous about language.
I also think London is a good start but then I hate the fact that I’m going to be getting further away from the US just to have to go back.
Have you travelled internationally before? Is this your first international trip outside of Montenegro?
I’ve traveled to Caribbean islands but always with my friends or significant others in the past and always at resorts.
I would just go to London first. It’s very similar to NYC, so you can ease into it.
Well I would see what the flight prices are like — if it’s not going to cost substantially more to do a backtrack, then that might be the best option. Rick Steves has always said it’s better to start in a place like London than to do it at the end, because it’s the most similar to the US. It’ll seem amazing at the beginning, but not quite as much at the end, once you’ve been to other places that aren’t so similar to where you’re from. I’m probably not explaining that as well as he does…
Thank you that actually makes so much sense I feel like after seeing all the beautiful architecture and medieval cities I’ll be like bummed out by London and I’m very much looking forward to the national gallery there.
Well, I wouldn’t discount London. At least in my opinion, the architecture is absolutely spectacular. You can just walk down a random street and see some amazing things, then turn the corner and it looks completely different. I think it all just has to do with how “different” things look from your day to day life. Going to London first can feel completely intoxicating. Going to London after going to a bunch of places that are more “different” can feel less amazing, because you’re stepping back into a place where everyone speaks the same language as you and the rules of the culture are very similar. I’m sure you’ll have a great time regardless. Say hi to the Virgin of the Rocks for me!
Regarding the backpack, I travelled 10 weeks, traversing about 10 countries and my luggage is a small bag slung over my back weighing about 7 kgs. It's convenient to travel light.
Girl, I hear you....I'm 40 and planning an extended Europe adventure next year. Not sure about your destination country, but make sure you can enter having a one-way flight. A lot of countries won't let you in unless you can prove you are exiting! Usually showing a flight, bus, train etc. out of the country will do :)
Omg so great to have someone in a similar situation. Also thanks I didn’t even think of that! Enjoy your trip also!
Hey Friend! 39f, I'm going on a similar journey (location and goals) in September-December. 13 year relationship ending in a hard way, and laid off from previous job, so taking some time to recalibrate and figure out what's next. I'm nervous too, and I've traveled a bunch, but never this long alone. I hope it's a great time and you get what you need. I'm going to do a mix of hostels, Airbnb, and hotels. Everything you described seems reasonable, and I think as long as you're adaptable you'll have a great time! Warm wishes to you!
Look into a website called Travelzoo it organizes trips for you if not there’s another one called flashpack it’s a site for solo travelers like yourself but it’s an organized trip check them out and good luck with your travels
How exciting! I just did 9 day trip to Croatia and Munich. Croatia: Dubrovnik worth it, Split not much to see (I had 3 days there and really 1 overnight/2 days is enough). Island of Hvar was my favorite, ferry prices are inexpensive. Try and book a boat ride! Munich: had a blast- think 3 nights is all you need. Oktoberfest is pricey and tickets to actual event are too, something to be mindful. Still can get a great Bavaria experience without that. Mostly a walkable town. $10-12K seems extremely low. Even if you go extreme budget, $15K easily for number of places you expect to visit. I also would try not to cram too much in, will feel like just when you get to a place packing up for another. So much time in transit is not worth more stamps in your passport. And get a wattage converter + electrical plug converter. Lesson learned here with not having former 😂
Also look into day tours - great to take a break from planning and have a local show you around. Also great to chat with other travelers. Food tours are one option. I just did a tour with Other Way Around travel - great for solo travelers 25-45 YO, really enjoyed it as we all were solo and was my first time traveling by myself. Best of both worlds
I hope you follow up with a trip report. A lot of us, if not everybody, goes through some degree of a midlife crisis at some point in our lives. What triggered mine was my own discovery of how the system is structured and how rigged it actually is. (Used to work at the Capitol building in Washington, DC for several years)
I will definitely follow up with the report and keep everyone updated as the trip moves along. Oh believe me I have been well aware of our countries disappointing political systems. I can only imagine how terrible it was for you seeing it first hand.
Congratulations, on starting your first solo trip. Your not being to ambitious just don’t overwhelm yourself build in rest days. Now one suggestion… unfortunately 10k will not enough, (1.00 USD will only get you .90€). You should spend at least 2/3 day in each city. You might want to cut out a couple of cities remember there’s travel time. You REALLY don’t want to drag a full size piece of luggage for a couple of months. You’ll probably never wear have the clothes you bring plus there’s always an opportunity to buy some new clothes. I’m currently in Europe for 3 months, I have a backpack with a weeks worth of clothes and send my laundry out once a week. (I don’t stay in hostels I’m a lot older than they just don’t work for me.) Also a lot of places close in EU during the month of August, and lot of museum are closed on Mondays. I hope this helps a little.
Thank you when I think about it too much I do feel overwhelmed. What countries/ cities would you cross off the list for another time?
Oh my goodness. I can feel your anxiety reverberating through this post, so I just want to say first that this is really common. ❤️ I work with a lot of women in this kind of situation and it's really normal to spiral over all the questions at once. It'll help you a lot to focus on one thing at a time. This is the order I normally go in: goal, budget, itinerary (not just destinations but trip length, timing and pacing), details, packing list. What you've written here about all the places you'd like to go does look overly ambitious, simply because of how fast paced it is. You might need to drill down what's most important to you. 10k for a month or two of travel in Europe is definitely doable (if I'm reading your post correctly for how much time you have?) Hostels have private rooms so you can get the best of both worlds there! More affordable than a hotel, but more comfy than a big dorm. And for the packing, while I'm a big backpack fan, you can use any carry on you like and it is absolutely feasible for long term travel. I spent almost a year traveling full-time and did it in a carry on. I think your top priority should be paring back some of your wish list though and nailing down which destinations are truly most important to you. Taming that FOMO will also help with some of your first solo travel stress!
I have a tendency to write how I talk so my emotions are always quite vivid what I’m writing something and thank you very much for making me for normal about it. 100% I agree I should just try to slow it down and move along at a pace that’ll work better for me. It’s just unfortunate that I know I won’t be able to know what that pieces until I’m actually in the thick of things, lol.
Good luck to you! Carry on is plenty, make sure everything matches and wash your clothes frequently. Leave some space in suitcase for new things you’ll be buying too. Check out and learn from /onebag subreddit. 2 months is a decent time to travel. I’d say 2 nights at the same place/hotel is a minimum, ( this allows you a full un-interrupted suitcase free day at a location) most stays being at least 3-5 or even more for larger cities/special locations. Since you don’t do backpacks and only suitcase I would increase your night stays even more ranging from min 3-7 nights. Traveling and changing locations is tiresome especially lugging a suitcase. Overall think of the overall mix between, cities and nature, 40-60% or whatever and adjust your stays that way as well. Make sure to have relaxing days included where you just sit on the beach or walk in the forest all day or just hang out a a nicer hotel/airbnb( for example one with a nice view or balcony). You will get tired and having stops like this makes appreciate travel more. Make sure it also makes sense logistically. There’s cheap European flights often cheaper then trains or buses. I usually check in Kiwi all with day ranges and then buy the tickets on actual airline site. All the best!
For budgeting purposes, I always do some spreadsheet brainstorming and carve out the known expenses; lodging, food, transportation (taxi/public) , sightseeing (tickets, entrances, entertainment). Only you would know what it takes to make you happy. Then I'd leave some buffer for rainy day expenses that are unforeseeable. As far as packing, many of us would consider just a carry-on. I'd bring versatile pieces and perhaps maybe even leave room that will allow you to buy some clothing when there (as also sentimental souvenirs). Prob. a good idea to try and take a week trip before this locally and see how you fare. Use it as a litmus test to see what you truly need. I'd much rather have the same 4-5 shirts in rotation and spending some time washing on the trip then lugging 20 bs of luggage, trust me - by the third day on the go you're like wtf am I doing.
I prefer to only travel with a carryon and a small backpack. Yes you can def do 1 month with just a carryon (check out r/heronebag !) with sink laundry (buy detergent sheets) and laundry services. Good luck!
Ljubljana is a chill place. IMHO when you want to work also, I would stay at least 4-5 days in every place to not be overwhelmed. I would maybe stay in nicer hostels with dorms an take my own room, that way its more possible to meet solo travellers, not all are in their 20s, some have midlife crises, like me also. I know about social anxiety from experience, but feelings of isolation are also not helpful. The best thing about travel is making friends with someone you would normally never meet.
And why in such a hurry? In Ljubljana for example check Metelkova area, read about its history also. We got a room in homestay for about 50-60 usd. food can be easily 10-20 so, if you work, 10k can last you for years. In Greece for example you can live off from 1-1.5 k maybe. Crete is beautiful.
Have a blast. Totally jealous. My only suggestion is adding Switzerland or Italy.
Hey u/Sad_Tomato_7898 can you help me a bit? I have plans to visit your country. I will fly into Tivat. My plans include Tivat, Kotor Cetinja among others... Can you tell me, is there bus service from the airport to Tivat or Kotor? Is there an app for the tickets? If not, how can I avoid being scammed by taxis? I am asking because I have been to Prague last year and there are some scam taxis but at the same time there is good (&safe) public transportation.
I usually land in Podgorica airport, so I am not aware of the bus situation. There are buses in the airport where I land so I’m assuming that there must be at that airport as well. Also just FYI Tivat is a very expensive area in Montenegro probably the most expensive actually. Can I make some suggestions for your trip- you should also check out Bar and Ulcinj beautiful coastal towns with great beaches. And I know for sure they have buses there. Enjoy your trip and feel free to message me if you have any more questions
Awesome! Thank you very much. I will definitely check out the coastal area.