How do people on extended backpacking trips through Europe spend their time?
I have been on several extended backpacking trips, and some of my friends do it regularly (a couple actually backpack full time). Very few people I know that do this sort of trip spend time visiting museums and touristy sights. More often, the time is spent connecting with locals, exploring less-visited parts of the area, finding odd jobs to support themselves, volunteering, etc. Many of my friends get involved with the local music or arts scene, and spend much of their time in related activities. The goal is to immerse yourself as much as possible in that culture, which means living like the locals while you are there. It’s more about meeting people, exploring daily life and learning, than it is about being a regular tourist.
