{"id":17520,"date":"2018-11-12T21:49:30","date_gmt":"2018-11-12T20:49:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tourradar.com\/days-to-come\/?p=17520"},"modified":"2019-06-13T09:38:47","modified_gmt":"2019-06-13T08:38:47","slug":"backpacking-europe-safe","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tourradar.com\/days-to-come\/backpacking-europe-safe\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Backpacking in Europe Safe?"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you\u2019re planning on a backpacking tour in Europe<\/a>, one question that\u2019s probably crossed your mind is, \u201cis it safe?\u201d It\u2019s a reasonable question that nearly everyone considers before packing their bags and leaving for an adventure. But at the end of the day, you need a straight answer: is backpacking in Europe safe, or not? <\/span><\/p>\n

Unfortunately, the answer isn\u2019t that simple. There are dozens of factors that influence the safety of one\u2019s trip through Europe, from where you stay to how you travel. Determining safety is entirely dependant on how you plan on traveling. Thankfully, with the right knowledge, tips, and resources, backpacking through Europe can be extremely safe and fulfilling.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Before you set out on a backpacking adventure, take a few steps to protect yourself | \u00a9 rawpixel\/Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Before you leave for your trip abroad, consider these tips and tricks to make sure your European backpacking expedition is a safe one.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Travel to: <\/em>Europe <\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n

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Safety tips for backpacking in Europe<\/b><\/h2>\n

Don\u2019t hitchhike <\/b><\/h3>\n

Hitching through Europe has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially as the millennial generation begins to travel. It\u2019s affordable, relatively easy, and a way to meet new people. That being said, it puts you at serious risk. You have no idea who is driving you, or what their intentions are. And while kidnappings are somewhat rare, most people would consider hitchhiking an unnecessary risk.<\/span><\/p>\n

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See Also: <\/em>Where to Find the Best Eastern European Christmas Markets<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n

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Read reviews <\/b><\/h3>\n

As you travel, you\u2019re probably going to end up in dozens of hostels, bed and breakfasts, or Airbnbs. But before you book, make sure you take the time to read the reviews. If a fellow traveller has had a negative experience or felt unsafe, you can bet they\u2019re going to post about it in the comments. Reading these reviews can help you avoid staying somewhere that might put you in a risky situation.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Will your backpacking adventure take you to Norway? | \u00a9 Lucija Ros\/Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Check travel advisories <\/b><\/h3>\n

Most countries have a government-run <\/span>travel advice and advisory resource<\/span> that helps travelers make informed decisions about where and when they travel. This can be an incredibly helpful resource, highlighting local laws and culture, safety considerations, areas to avoid, and much more. Before and as you travel, you should be checking these sites to make sure your plans are still safe. <\/span><\/p>\n

Keep important items close<\/b><\/h3>\n

Pickpockets and thieves have unbelievable methods of making your belongings their belongings. Airports, shopping centres, iconic landmarks, restaurants, and high-traffic areas in general are all targeted areas. Because it\u2019s hard to avoid these places, you\u2019ll need to keep your things safe. Money, passports, and important documents should all be kept as close to you as possible. Never put them in backpack pockets, suitcases, or pockets. The best place for them is in a money belt that\u2019s under all of your clothes.<\/span><\/p>\n

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See Also: <\/em>The Best Travel Yoga Mats<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n

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Travel with a tour company<\/b><\/h3>\n

If you\u2019re set on traveling around Europe but want to keep safety as a top priority, consider travelling with a tour company. With professional guides, safe transportation, and well thought-out itineraries, you can rest easy knowing you\u2019re being taken care of from the day you start to the day you finish. Hotels, tour sites, transportation, meals – it\u2019s all taken care of. If you have safety concerns, your guides are with you every step of the way, meaning you can focus on traveling worry-free.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Colourful houses in Denmark | \u00a9 Max Adulyanukosol\/Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Safest countries in Europe<\/b><\/h3>\n

As mentioned earlier, European countries are for the most part safe. However, there are always countries that consistently rank favourably on the Global Peace Index, making them some of the best destinations for travellers looking to backpack through Europe without worry about their safety. <\/span><\/p>\n