What backpack should I bring to Europe?

Assuming you're taking a plane, the best-size backpack for traveling Europe will meet carry-on standards. The maximum carry-on size for European backpacks (in liters) is generally around 40-45L. But 35L is a good size to ensure you slide under the limits.



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Is 65L backpack too big for Europe? I recommend a backpack around 40L-50L. Personally, I wouldn't go over 65L, but some people like a bigger bag. You can always go smaller, but I wouldn't recommend anything smaller than 35L — unless you're into minimalist travel.

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Carry-on Luggage Size Matters Generally, most of the European airlines limit carry-on luggage to a maximum size of 55 x 40 x 20 cm ( 21.6 x 15.7 x 7.8 in); however, a few airlines do accept bags up to 25 cm wide (9.84 inc) or do not accept more than 35cm tall (13.7 in).

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If you prefer dealing in cash, then by all means get some euros out before your trip. But actually, you'll find that debit and credit cards are widely accepted in most European cities. Paying by card can be easier and more convenient, without the potential security risk of carrying cash around you.

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In general, spaces are a lot smaller, the infrastructure isn't very suitcase friendly and if you're backpacking, you'll probably be flying with a lot of low-cost airlines or taking the train or a bus. All this is what makes travel backpacks the ideal packing method for a European vacation.

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While your exact expenses depend on a lot of factors, here is the short answer to the question: how much do I need to budget for backpacking Europe? Backpackers should expect to spend between $40 – $70 USD/day in Eastern Europe, $70 – $100/day in Western Europe, and $150 – $200/day in the Nordic countries.

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You will need to have euros on hand if you are travelling to one of the many countries in Europe which use the euro as legal tender. In total, there are 19 EU member countries who have adopted the Euro as their official currency. The most commonly used notes in euros are the €5, €10, €20, €50, and €100 bills.

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Whether you're planning to see it all or explore the hidden corners of the continent, these are our top 15 tips for backpacking through Europe.
  1. Pick your season wisely.
  2. Take the train.
  3. Be savvy about accommodation.
  4. Plan your trip around a festival.
  5. Eat like a local.
  6. Find the freebies.
  7. Get outdoors.


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You probably won't have a problem, but if you do, you would lose the bag and could end up with a hefty fine. To me, it wouldn't be worth the hassle or the worry. If it has the Louis Vuitton label on it and it is fake, don't take it.

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Debit cards with a Mastercard or Visa logo are widely accepted in Europe. American Express is somewhat less common, except at tourist destinations. Most banks charge a foreign transaction fee and/or a currency conversion fee, so it is worth double-checking these costs before departure.

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Oversized Carry-Ons Need to Be Checked-in
If your carry-on is oversized (and doesn't physically fit inside the overhead compartments) or you encounter a strict airline employee, they will ask you to check it in at the gate.

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If you plan on regular international travel and want to do carry-on then you should get a smaller international-sized bag. And if you are planning to regularly fly internationally on a discount airline then you may want a smaller and lighter carry-on.

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