“A South Africans Survival Guide to Backpacking Europe”

That’s me (Josh Pama age 22) in Amsterdam!

Going on a solo journey through Europe is a bucket list event for many South Africans finishing up with school or university. Well, this year I got the chance to go on my own kick-ass adventure.
Since returning home, my message box has been filled with questions people wanting to do the same. So, I’ve created MY TOP 10 stress, time and money savers I learned a long the way.

1. First things first, how the hell are you going to find affordable flights?
   Skyscanner searches airlines websites to help you find the cheapest flights at no cost. Once you’ve found your flight,you can even go check on the specific airlines official site to make sure the prices match!
2. Looking for a place to sleep?
   Hostelworld is the site that almost all backpackers use to find accommodation. Because of this almost all hostels have signed up and there is an abundance of goodreviews.
   Keep in mind that because of Hostelworlds power on the market they charge large commission and hostels will often appreciate it if you send them an email or Facebook message instead of booking through hostel world.
3. AVOID moving around during July and August time of year in Europe. This is peak season and prices double for accommodation, transport and food. I would recommend volunteering and stay in one place!
4. Okay well, how do I volunteer? I had some awesome experiences working on farms, at hostels and at festivals all through Workaway.info. Once you see the endless possibilities you’ll spend your free time from now on there instead of Facebook.
5. Trains are much more expensive than buses when choosing your form of transport. There’s a company called Flixbus that offers great prices, are clean, safe and by far the most popular way to get around atm.
6. Crisis, do yourself a flllavour and have a credit card. Without one you cannot pre book buses, hostels, planes, trains and will always be taking each day as it comes (like I did) It can be more spontaneous but the if you’re arriving somewhere late at night it is nice to know you have a bed. Remember that you do not automatically get one and should apply to your bank before leaving the country.
7. It may not be the most charming of ideas at first but Tinder is one of the best ways to get out of the backpacker circles and meeting some locals. Don’t just look for easy hook ups, but people who will show you a place from a locals perspective.

May you find beautiful places, people and adventures on your trip!

Like us on Facebook: The Cape Collective