Disappointing photos show what backpacking across Europe is really like
A travel reporter shares her experience backpacking through Europe, noting that the reality of budget travel often contrasts with the curated, glamorous images seen on social media. She highlights the logistical challenges and physical hardships of traveling light across multiple countries.
Why it matters
It provides a realistic perspective on travel culture and the influence of social media on consumer expectations.
Business Insider's reporter expected an Instagram-like backpacking adventure in Europe, but the reality was much less glamorous. Joey Hadden/Business Insider I spent two weeks backpacking in Europe for the first time in October 2022. My trip wasn't the glamorous, romantic adventure that it often looks like on Instagram. Overnight trains, tourist crowds, and limited outfit options disappointed me. I'd seen it all over Instagram — backpackers posing in otherwise empty cityscapes and epic natural scenes, with inspirational captions about life being an adventure. I started traveling with just a backpack before I took on the role as a travel reporter for Business Insider five years ago, when I realized I needed to lighten my load to make it easier to hit the road for longer periods. In August 2022, I spent a week backpacking for the first time through Eastern Canada.
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