For some people simply sitting on a beach and relaxing is not the idea of a perfect holiday. These people like to be active and constantly exploring; it is these people that prefer to be go backpacking.

Backpacking in the 21st century is hardly slumming it however. The hostels you will encounter whilst backpacking in europe are not far off hotel standards but are far cheaper. Gone are the days of large dormitories, most hostels now have private rooms and some even have en suites. You do of course pay slightly more for these luxuries but for some it is well worth it.

The great think about backpacking around Europe is that you never need to plan anything. Trains are so frequent and cheap that it is possibly to simply turn up at the station before deciding where to visit next. Hostels are rarely fully booked even in summer months although you may have slightly less choice.