Europe is a dream destination for many travelers from Brazil. Backpacking Europe on a budget is possible if you follow the right steps.
This guide focuses on planning, transport, food, and smart choices. Smart decisions make your journey affordable and enjoyable.
Planning Ahead is Key
Start with solid preparation to avoid unnecessary spending. Backpacking Europe on a budget requires you to plan every detail.
Travel during the low season, such as between February and April. Avoid peak summer when prices for flights and accommodations are highest.
Choose fewer cities and stay longer to reduce transport costs. Pick countries like Poland, Romania, or Portugal that are more budget-friendly.
Flights from Brazil to Europe – How to Book Smart
Flying from Brazil to Europe is often the biggest part of your budget. Understanding flight strategies can help you save a lot when backpacking Europe on a budget.
Use Tools to Compare Fares
Flight comparison tools make it easier to find the lowest fares. Use sites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak to scan different airlines.
Set up alerts for price drops and flexible dates. Always check prices in incognito mode to avoid price hikes.
Choose Cheaper Destinations and Routes
Some European cities are cheaper to fly into than others. Lisbon, Madrid, and Milan often have low-cost options from Brazil.
You can then use budget airlines to travel within Europe. Booking a multi-city ticket can also save money.
Use Points and Credit Card Miles
Take advantage of loyalty programs in Brazil. Use accumulated miles or points to reduce ticket costs.
Some Brazilian banks offer international travel benefits. Check if you can combine points with partner airlines in Europe.
Visas, Documents, and Insurance
Below is a clear breakdown of what you need to understand and prepare when backpacking Europe on a budget.
Understand the 90-Day Rule
Brazilian travelers can visit Schengen countries for up to 90 days without a visa. This applies to tourism, business, or short family visits.
The 90 days apply within a 180-day window, not per country. Track your days carefully to avoid fines or bans.
Prepare the Right Travel Documents
Even without a visa, entry is not guaranteed. You must show proof of accommodation, return or onward tickets, and funds.
Border agents may ask for these on arrival. Print or download confirmations to your device for easy access.
Don’t Skip Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required by Schengen rules. It must cover at least €30,000 in medical expenses.
Choose a policy accepted across Europe. Wise or other multi-currency cards help manage emergency payments securely.
Budget Accommodation Options
Staying overnight can be cheap if you pick the right type of lodging. There are many safe, low-cost options across Europe.
Use Hostelworld and Booking.com to find highly rated hostels. Couchsurfing lets you stay for free and meet locals.
Workaway and Worldpackers allow you to exchange work for accommodation. Some night buses or trains can help save a night's lodging.
Cheap and Free Transportation
Getting around Europe can be very affordable. You need to understand all transport options.
Ryanair and Wizz Air offer low-cost flights across major cities. Use FlixBus or BlaBlaCar for cheap overland routes.
Trains can be affordable with passes or early bookings. Some cities have bike-sharing and tourist transport cards.
How to Eat Cheap Without Sacrificing Health?
Food doesn’t have to drain your budget. You can eat well with a bit of strategy.
Buy groceries and cook at the hostel whenever possible. Street food and bakeries often provide filling meals for less.
Use apps like Too Good To Go to grab leftover meals at low prices. Avoid tourist traps by choosing local joints where workers eat.
Must-Have Travel Apps
The right tools help keep your trip smooth and cheap. Install these apps before you go. Hostelworld and Booking help you compare cheap stays.
Rome2Rio shows routes using any transport mode. XE Currency tracks exchange rates in real time. Airalo and Holafly offer prepaid eSIMs for affordable data.
Earning While Traveling
If your trip is long, earning some money helps extend your stay. Some options are also open to Brazilians.
Freelancing in areas like writing or design can be done remotely through platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. Teaching Portuguese online is a growing opportunity on websites such as Preply or iTalki.
Platforms like Worldpackers allow you to exchange labor for a stay. Monetizing travel blogs or social media is a slow process, but it is possible.
Safety and Cultural Awareness
Safety is crucial when traveling on a tight budget. Being aware of local customs also avoids problems.
Be cautious of pickpockets in tourist areas and on public transportation. Carry only what you need and secure your valuables.
Respect local cultural norms, such as dress codes, in religious areas. Register with the Brazilian embassy or consulate in case of emergencies.
Sample 3-Week Budget Itinerary
Here’s a route that strikes a balance between cost and diversity. It includes different regions and languages.
Start in Lisbon for a warm welcome and low prices. Move to Madrid by bus, then take a cheap flight to Budapest.
Go overland to Krakow and end in Prague. This route gives rich culture, good value, and manageable distances.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Being smart helps you stay on budget. Learn from the frequent mistakes travelers often make on their first backpacking trip.
- Don’t book everything too far in advance: Flexible plans can help you grab last-minute deals and adapt to changing conditions.
- Watch luggage limits on budget airlines: Extra weight fees can be more expensive than the flight itself.
- Always carry some cash: Small shops, public transport, and local markets may not accept cards.
- Avoid airport currency exchanges: Use ATMs or multi-currency cards to get better exchange rates and avoid high fees.
Tips from Brazilian Travelers
Other Brazilians have done it and shared valuable insights. These tips are based on real experiences that have helped travelers save money and travel more effectively.
- Join forums like Mochileiros.com: These communities are filled with updated budget tips, hostel reviews, and travel hacks shared in Portuguese.
- Use hostels as social and budget hubs: Many Brazilian travelers report that hostels are not only cheap but also great places to connect and get insider advice.
- Try Couchsurfing for deeper connections: It provides free accommodation and opens the door to learning more about the local culture through hosts.
- Travel on night buses or trains: Brazilians recommend overnight travel to save on accommodation and maximize daytime exploring.
Final Words: You Can Travel Far With Little
Backpacking Europe on a budget is achievable with thoughtful planning. Brazilians can explore many countries without needing a fortune.
Focus on timing, transportation, food, and lodging for optimal results. With these tips, your dream of a European backpacking trip can become a reality.
