How To Plan A Trip Abroad + Tips for Solo Travelers

Hey all! I've been meaning to make this video for quite some time so here is how I planned my backpacking trip throughout Europe things you should know before traveling by yourself. I talk about transportation, accommodation, budgeting, and activities when it comes to backpacking especially throughout Europe and some tips I learned as a solo female traveler.
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[@teagan1747]

This videos great for my imaginary vacation

[@iiAngelic]

Your comment made me laugh so hard because the struggle is real :) To be honest, I don't know who you are, but you will go somewhere someday. So plan for that next trip however long ahead of time it is :)

[@teagan1747]

RoomWithAView you’re so sweet wtf

[@comica3368]

Same. Im more paranoid about security and safety as a girl alone out in this dangerous world more than money concerns

[@Faye_Pindell]

LMAO 😂. I relate to this so much but I know I’m gonna travel somewhere one day !

[@katiecassidy8135]

This hot too close to home😭

[@carolem1531]

One tip I want to add is : do not try to be the traveler that you're not. Most of the time we see these travelers doing a lot of things, hiking whatever and we can feel like we have to be an explorer. But we don't have to. I've been travelling solo for 3 years. I don't short trips around Europe and bigger ones to Canada. I'm not a hiker and I have health issues so my trips are more chill and I don't put myself in extreme situation.

[@Lisa-kz7vw]

Great advice actually I'm not a hiker either go for the attractions, food and to relax.

[@laurakastner6102]

I’ve always found that it feels weird at first and then after a few days it feels totally natural. Solo traveling is so common nowadays and if you’re reading this you’re a badass so there’s no reason to be self conscious :-)

[@agirlbelngingtthewild9625]

I definitely get that. And Thank you for that, i am feeling pretty bad today 😎☠️💪🏻

[@gabrielaperalta5389]

wish there are a "love" button because I more than like this comment. This is what I needed to read after a super discouraging solo trip this week

[@swisdom9117]

@@gabrielaperalta5389 what happened?

[@coreno96]

Anyone else trying to plan a solo trip and dont know where to start aside from getting a plane ticket 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@SheaJordan]

Yes, I feel this 100%

[@elliesoininen2310]

LOl, I am only 15 and have planned my entire solo trip in France and Ireland this summer for 3 weeks. Honestly, Trip Advisor is the best website ever!

[@ElenaTaber]

After the ticket, find a place to stay and then go from there :)

[@emilystorck9560]

@@elliesoininen2310 traveling solo at 15? Girl I'm sure you know this but please be safe and dont trust anyone that gives you a weird vibe. I'm travelling solo soon at 21 and im scared as hell so good luck!

[@elliesoininen2310]

Emily Storck don’t worry I have done it before and I will be with different people for parts of it. I will probably make a lot of videos on t if u have any interest in those this summer! Thanks for looking out for me though!👍🏻😊💗

[@junetaylor5098]

Always ask younger people if you need help. Most european teenagers know English by now. And now have fun 😊.

[@lalavillafane]

To travel around Europe by train there is a pass called "interrail train pass" and you can travel to every country pretty cheap. There is also this pass for just a single country but sometimes it is not worth it if compare the price of the individual train tickets to the pass one.

[@LuvNickynGina4ever]

The interrail pass is only for european citizens, for everybody else there is a pass called Eurail.

[@Melanie-ww4yk]

I 100% agree with the "trust you gut" notion. I went backpacking with a college friend in Europe last summer, and on our last full day (we were in Munich, Germany), this guy that gave us both weird vibes came up and started talking to us in a crowd of people watching some street buskers. He ended up leading us to a different area (much less crowded), which was sort of a red flag for me (since we didn't know that area at all, and he did). We ended up just talking as the sun started setting (although his conversation also became a little strange: talking about the "have and have nots" and how "life isn't fair sometimes"), and we went are separate ways (probably due to intense "you're sketching me out" non-verbal communication by me lol, trying to leave before the sun fully set), so everything was fine. Turns out, my friend was on the phone with her mom when she noticed the guy staring at her from a far (for a long time), and was trying to give me "the look" before he approached (which I missed). Maybe we overreacted...who knows. Moral of the story: if you start getting a weird vibe, look out for red flags/reasons to go your separate way (avoid less crowded areas, leave before the sun goes down, etc.). We probably could have cut the conversation off a lot earlier, but both my friend and I were trying to be polite and missing/misreading each other's signals. Also, not sure if this is necessary info or not, but he also had like drawn on eyebrows (almost sharpie-like), which was a tad strange....but I ignored it cause he seemed pretty friendly.

[@zazza0001ify]

Flixbus and Ryanair are your travel best friends in Europe.

[@ElenaTaber]

zanna0001 omg yes! I used both so much

[@wearilive]

THANK U my travel angel

[@madeleinejeann]

Yes!! I’ve been waiting for this!

[@laurawakefield9932]

I genuinely can’t express how happy your videos make me

[@elle3615]

Your videos always make my day 101% better

[@alycej6458]

THIS IS EXACTLY THE VIDEO IVE BEEN WAITING FOR THANKYOU FOR COMING THROUGH ELENA!!!! Look up to you so much 💘

[@emmacauvin]

Thank you so much for such a helpful and structured video! I am an Italian student currently on my first semester abroad and I'm going to visit some European countries in the spring so these tips will definitely be useful. Also, I just wanted to say that your videos are incredibly inspiring: we have lots in common but also some differences (also bc we belong to very different cultures) but your independent, curious and kind soul never ceases to inspire me and go for my dreams. I like the way you are into personal growth without making it a "burden". Keep up the good work, you have an amazing channel! Wish you the best :)

[@mamiokada6603]

It's always very useful to learn how to say numbers in the local language beforehand :)

[@_NadiaT]

i loved that you touched on the language and culture because it can help in so many instance including safety and avoiding getting lost!

[@sarahh662]

This was such and amazing video ! My planning on living in Belgium as an Au pair next year, and I’m planing on doing some solo traveling during my time off. You inspire me everyday, and remind me that anything possible ! xx

[@catherineong8741]

Thanks for all the tips. Would be embarking on my first solo trip and totally agreed with you on the challenging yourself.

[@ruthmccarthy4315]

This is so strange i was literally thinking earlier when is she going to post about travelling alone!!! Can't wait to watch this!

[@skloise]

I really wanna try backpacking to Europe!!! 💞 Ps: Looking forward to that haircare routine video, my queen!!

[@marissajohnson504]

Loving all the content you have been putting out lately!!

[@carminatv8827]

Just in time for my solo travel trip! Thank you Elena!

[@marie-evecouturier4330]

Just the video I needed!!!🙏🏼💕 i love your vibe and your videos so much!!!

[@annatheorange]

YESSSSSS I just finished watching all of your backpacking videos from last year in preparation for my own backpacking trip and was disappointed that you hadn't made a video giving backpacking advice! You heard me Elena! haha

[@LeighAnneMarie]

Solo traveling is my favorite, really great tips, Elena

[@kayleighkearnan]

I'm legit about to book flights for solo travel today this is so well timed lol

[@katiecampbell14]

this is perfect timing!! I'm leaving for Europe in 2 weeks and doing part of my travels alone!

[@cocoowen8691]

This could't have been uploaded at a more PERFECT time; currently reflecting on my recent travels and planning for my trips to Spain and France soon :)

[@askafkaf2229]

Hi coco

[@cocoowen8691]

@@askafkaf2229 hi

[@cocoowen8691]

@@askafkaf2229 haha why

[@askafkaf2229]

@@cocoowen8691 I'm single so y I asked

[@askafkaf2229]

@Lucía r u using Instagram

[@imzjik]

I took up basic French and Japanese classes and I must say, they're pretty helpful especially for me who wants to go to those countries. I've never travelled outside the country but I would love to do it once I get a job and save up.

[@freyaparton]

This inspired me so so much thank you!!! I really want to travel tonnes for my gap year and your videos always inspire me❤️❤️❤️

[@kristifrancisco1089]

was going to ask for this video soon!! thank you SO MUCH for making this :'-)

[@Nour-ep2np]

Hey!!! I love your channel and your personality!! I love how you do what you want when you want!!

[@elliee.232]

thank u so much for this vid! i'm so glad the first trip i'm planning to take is a pre-planned one and i don't have to worry about any of this stuff haha but i definitely want to do more travelling in the future and these videos are so helpful for us travel virgins who don't know the first thing about travelling lol

[@BonesofStarlight]

You are absolutely gorgeous! Thank you so much for the tips, they're very in depth and make a lot of sense to someone who's never done it before.

[@mackenziebigler447]

all of my moms side of the family lives in switzerland so we go every few years for the summer, its so amazing there, I can't wait to travel solo there one day

[@JakeBrewerMusic]

i’m actually just heading home from my first solo trip! these tips are GREAT.

[@d.l.4411]

i’m studying abroad in europe right now! i really want to plan solo travel trips so thank you for this ❤️

[@skloise]

Was just watching your old videos. I’m earlyyyyy and i’m excited!!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@LeilaHolley]

I’m going on my first overseas trip next month and I’m super nervous/excited. Thanks for the tips!

[@EmilyMcDonald]

Great video with awesome content. I am currently traveling solo and living in Asia, I love your inspiration.

[@Sophiebe6877]

I was waiting for this video !!!! Very useful tips :)

[@guusjetonnaer7947]

*def the content i'm here for* ☀️

[@ninacampbell2911]

this video is so helpful thank you for making it! really de-mystifies solo travel. i just watched before sunrise + before sunset on the plane and i feel like you really embody the freedom of the characters!!

[@askafkaf2229]

Hi Nina

[@suzannabrandt219]

thanq for the bit at the end. sooo helpful cause im 15 and thinking of doing student exchange and that kind of encouraged me

[@spacewalker9375]

I have been patiently waiting for this video

[@manelzitouni991]

Hello from algeria ! Thank's for this video you did helpe me. You inspire me and i wanna thank you for that😊❤

[@danquarterman]

Great work!!! Thank you!

[@MAHIRAHUSSAIN]

I loved this video! Super helpful. Love you ❤

[@TWINCOAST]

Beautiful editing MY GOSH 🙌🏼

[@elainekim2704]

This is actually really helpful thank you so much

[@helloguyy]

I am travelling lover as well and I used most of your tips .. thanks for this helpful vidoe

[@miriyadila7178]

Aghh this is so great! Could you make a more in depth video about how you packed for this trip and what you carried around?

[@sophiapanossian4790]

Hahaa I have been waiting for you to upload! I love your videos!

[@irasingh8418]

Thanks. This was really helpful. I love your videos. ❤❤

[@sillybillyno1]

I'm going to Europe in like a month, traveling solo for the first time.. pretty nervous but u made me feel quite at ease 😊.

[@niamhgutteridge6570]

You've inspired me and my best friend to backpack around Europe 😭❤️

[@daisyblake72]

I’m currently on a bus solo to spend St Patrick’s Day weekend in Belfast & Dublin!! Perfect timing for this video🤩☘️

[@askafkaf2229]

Hi daisy

[@EmilyClaireDaly]

Yeeee I’m about to become a tour guide in Europe so I am *LOVING* this content Elena xx

[@danaekolyva3309]

may I ask how you went about becoming a tour guide? :)

[@katherinecusack164]

This is such solid, practical advice... thank you!

[@paulascorner]

it's so sad that as females we have to be like extra carefullll...just...in case someone...wants to...HURT ME? :(

[@hadiatou3374]

ok 01 and being rude won’t make you more safe

[@Moneybags78]

Lmaoooooooooooooo

[@16Ellehcar]

@ok 01 You're terrible.

[@rainadas2088]

ok 01 you’re just a dick

[@16Ellehcar]

@ok 01 It's about being kind. This person did nothing to instigate your mean comment.

[@queenlay9095]

Loved this !!!

[@silviaa.6934]

For the car transportation, I think you can use Uber or cabify. You “order” one and that driver take you (with his car )to the place you want

[@ramonabetschart]

ohh thank you for that video! I'm planing a solo trip abroad :D Greetings from Switzerland!

[@ybell10]

Thank you for making this, I want to do my first solo trip but I have no clue where to start

[@mariaclaral1]

Perfect timing!!!!

[@poppylucia9778]

This was so helpful!!

[@SheaJordan]

Amazing video! I just graduated from college and have been debating on whether or not to go on a solo trip. As a photographer/cinematographer, I'd love to make some cinematic travel videos and maybe find some other photographers along my journey. That's the dream! Of course, all the things like safety, budgeting, and just fear, in general, have prevented me from just booking a ticket one of these days. :/ But this definitely makes it feel much more doable as long as I plan and make sure I have all my bases covered. Thanks so much Elena!

[@SandysLondon]

Wow thank you so much for the phone advice about saving the addresses and screenshotting everything. Thinking your wifi is going to work everywhere. Thanks!

[@aineomalley6431]

Really great advice, thank you

[@JF-zj9ol]

Could you make a video about how you get and keep your life together because you’re just impressive

[@jiawanders]

I will be traveling abroad for the first time next year!!! Can't wait thanks for your tips and advice

[@ElenaTaber]

Wooo so exciting!

[@dawnforlife]

Great practical tips Elena! :)

[@sabrinainlove]

THIS CAME AT THE PERFECT TIME omfg

[@ashleym8446]

Love the video! I really did take some notes down 😹. Anyways thank you so much for the video! As, I am going to go solo in 58 days!(The countdown is real!) I needed to know some helpful tips when I am solo! As this is my first ever trip by myself as adult as an 18 year old. I am going to Canada( Montréal, Toronto), Japan, South Korea, and UK(London). Cannot wait❤️❤️❤️

[@hijasmyn]

loved this!

[@esmeemooren1530]

I'm currently on a solo backpacking trip and I've been traveling in Europe for 3 weeks now. I definitely found that in the low season that it is right now, you can risk going to a city without booking in advance and just go to a hostel and ask for a bed. Just make sure you take busses and trains throughout the week and not at night. Flixbus and regiojet busses are fine and cheap. The more to the east you go in Europe, the cheaper it will be. And a tip from a native dutch person, if you visit the Netherlands, please visit some other place (like Utrecht, Groningen, Rotterdam, Maastricht) besides Amsterdam. Really worth it for a real dutch experience!

[@abbieamavi]

*would be doing this right now if it weren't for flight training, but soon! Scenery was just unbelievable* :)

[@madisonelyse6517]

i think im going to go to costa rica alone this summer, im so nervous but so excited

[@brianauman1057]

I literally paused this video every 45 seconds to google all of these recommendations. This is helping a ton. Great video!

[@ElenaTaber]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@monikongkanabharadwaj9915]

Fiinnaally!!!!!! Was waiting for this video for soooooooo lonnnggg😊😊😊💃💃💃💃 Love you gorgeous!!!!♥️♥️♥️

[@_qahwa3rabie349]

that was i want to say , its really amazing video.

[@AngelOrias01]

Omg this is just what i need 😍

[@clarisseb5866]

using the actual train website of the country is always cheaper, at least in europe. Thank You Elena, because after my exam i'm going to visit 3 countries by myself and that's because you video gave me the idea

[@ElenaTaber]

clarisse bremaud ooo great point!

[@miarunion4542]

I haven’t done much traveling myself but when I went to DR I bought travel insurance , which u definitely need to have for that country. So find that out before your trip... Also, make sure u set up a phone plan before going out of the country, it’s definitely nice to have data to talk to family and use the gps

[@josepha133]

I love how realistic and down to earth you are. Unlike some other people on youtube who live such vastly different lives compared to your average 20-something-year-olds.

[@Lisa-kz7vw]

I definitely wanna backpack through Europe it's a goal of mine and has been for years but very nervous being female. I definitely enjoyed the tips and will remember once I get ready and all the covid restrictions end might be years but Europe will still be there.

[@luvrom]

Would you be interested in doing a video about your Parisian experience? You've mentioned living there for a year a few times already and I would love to see how you navigated the process of renting an apartment, budgeting, making friends, finding affordable activities, etc.

[@louisesb]

just got back from a month long backpacking trip and I wish I had watched this first, I missed out on so much from a lack of planning! listen to elena kids and PLAN YOUR TRAINS

[@ElenaTaber]

hahahahah glad this was helpful but sorry it was too late!

[@louisesb]

@@ElenaTaber omg aw you're the sweetest, i'm just glad this is here for other (hopefully smarter) travelers to watch! ur doing the good work

[@isabelxnelson]

i love watching your videos

[@blackswift008]

thank you so much :)

[@vibusanta9436]

Love it❤️

[@linneaburke7045]

i SO needed this!! I'm leaving for Europe solo in 3 weeks and I'm feeling a lil worried but this makes me feel better💞

[@Anoudhdnvvv]

Linnea Burke have fun

[@Yoshi123567]

Me too , in April

[@chrystalroy5113]

Your really inspiring❤

[@abigailmccarthy8975]

You can download cities on google maps ahead of time too! Doesn't take up too much space

[@millesolaiajensensteras3278]

I am going interrailing for 1 month this summer (July-August) I am going to Amsterdam, Paris, Bern, Venezia, Vienna, Prague, Budapest, Athens, Mykonos and Santorini!!

[@julietteboyens2541]

Hey Elena! I love your videos. Which vlog camera would you recommend for traveling? Just a good quality one for a beginner :)

[@MM-kh2fv]

Travelling in Europe can be really cheap if you plan it smartly. Also, if you choose flying by a plane somewhere, you have to keep in ur mind that most airports are far away from big cities and transfers to these cities can be extremely expensive.

[@monan2631]

a great video！

[@DailyDoseOfAgua]

For traveling in europe i prefer buses and i buy my tickets on goeuro.com

[@melamusicworld]

Thank you!!

[@Ayydreyy]

About to take a road trip through Cali coast! If anyone knows any good places to stop or tips for a road trip please comment 🌞💕 Love your content Elena 🌸