Your First Time Backpacking Europe: The 2026 Starter Pack

Europe vs Southeast Asia: Why Europe Might Win in 2026

Let’s face it, Southeast Asia has been the go-to spot for backpackers but things are starting to shift. Even places like Thailand, which used to be bursting with positive year-on-year figures, are now falling off. From Jan 1st to Sept 14th 2025, Thailand nervously swallowed a 7.08% drop in tourists, and the ones who are coming aren’t exactly the type of travellers Thailand actually wants.

So where does that leave new backpackers in 2026? Honestly, there are three places, but I’ll write separate blogs about each one: China, Europe and South America. Europe is looking hot right now and although it’s not cheaper, it gives you something completely different. You’ve got neighbouring countries that feel nothing alike, trains that take you across borders in hours, and a backpacker scene that still feels exciting rather than overcrowded. Hostels are social, the food is banging, the cities are walkable, and you’re discovering something new every time you jump to the next spot. If you’re planning your first big trip and want the same level of freedom without doing the same old loop, Europe is whispering your name.

Daily Budget Comparison

Before we dive into the simple 2026 guide, I want to quickly highlight the real cost difference compared to Southeast Asia. It’s important for any new traveller because, let’s be real, we’re all hunting for the hacks that stretch our trips as long as possible. I’m no different. If anything, I’m probably one of the most anal budget travellers you’ll ever meet, so here’s the honest breakdown you actually need before choosing your route.

In short, and with no surprise, Europe is pricier than Southeast Asia, especially in the big-name cities, but it delivers a completely different level of variety and quality. Eastern Europe is surprisingly similar to Southeast Asia if you’re smart about it, but Western Europe hits hard and you’ll feel the cash burn. Overall, the hostels, transport and food are generally higher quality and way easier to navigate. You pay more, but you get a lot back for it.

Who Europe Really Suits (And Who It Doesn't)

Europe suits travellers who want things to actually work while still feeling like they’re exploring. If you enjoy bouncing between walkable cities, jumping on a train and landing somewhere completely different a few hours later, checking out bars, old towns, beaches and museums all in one week, Europe is your place. A lot of travel blogs mention how easy it is to get around, how social the hostels are and how simple it is to meet people or join tours. But it’s not for everyone. If you prefer that raw, unpredictable, “anything can happen” energy you get in places like Vietnam or the Philippines, Europe can feel a bit too organised. It’s perfect for travellers who want variety, comfort and smooth travel days, but not ideal if you’re chasing wild chaos or off-the-grid adventures.

Where to Book Everything for Europe (2026 Links You Actually Need)

Here's the goldmine chapter of the blog, the recommended links, lets get stuck in!

Hostels

• Hostelworld - The classic, of course. It's a worldwide favey.
• Booking.com - Another classic hard to beat, trusted and offers great value for money.
• Hostelz.com - Compares prices so you don't overpay. DOWNLOAD IT.

Transport

• Trainline - Train bookings across most of Europe.
• Eurail / Interrail - Home of the train passes, check it out.
• FlixBus - Cheapest buses across almost every county in Europe.
• Omio - Great for comparing trains and trains. (Even flights)
• BlaBlaCar - Carpooling, weirdly useful and surprisingly legit.

Activities

• GetYourGuide - Biggest activity platform in Europe.
• Klool - Often cheaper in Central and Eastern Europe.
• GuruWalk - Free walking tours where you just tip the guide. (Love this idea)
• Viator - Another classic.

Planning & Navigation

• Rome2Rio - Tells you how to get from A to B.
• Google Maps - Legend in it's field, especially with offline maps.
• Maps.me - Underrated but I think you'll prefer Google.

Budgeting

• BudgetBro - A no brainer app for any type of travel. This is an up and coming startup with huge potential.

There we have it, your true 2026 Europe starter pack. With everything in this blog, you have everything at your disposal. Would you like to add anything to this list? I'm all ears! Drop me a message on Instagram, I'd love to hear it.