I am trying to plan a backpacking trip to Europe for next fall. I dont really know where to start the more I research the more I want to do and the more confused I get. anyone know any cheap websites for flights or any advice for a first time backpacker??

OK, first and foremost, do not listen to anyone's advice but mine. As a complete staranger who has no idea what you like or dislike, how much money you have to spend, or the amount of time you have, I and I alone can give you the best counsel. And stop listening to that friend who has never been to Europe but knows everything.

First, have a great time starting today, you are too worried and confused. So ask yourself why did you want to go Europe in the first place?

Second, figure out how much time and money you can spend.

Third, list the things you want to see and what is important to you.

Here is an article that will help choose the best travel sites for you.

http://www.kiplinger.com/features/ar...you-money.html

Once you have answered some of the questions above, the things will become clearer and others can offer better advice when specific questions are posed.

Even though we went to Europe when we had no money, we never backpacked, so I can't help there. Any way our first trip was before backpacks were invented.

And lastly, this will be your first trip of many, so do not think you will have to see everything.

Have fun

Signed

The Dad you never wanted

Oh Dad...Right on...Cassie..listen to the Dad...1st timers always have to see it all, do it all and not really have the time to savor the experience. You will not be an only timer after your visit so make the lists, red pencil the don'ts and green pencil the does..Be doubly sure to hang on to your back pack and don't leave it out of your hands while out and about. Take only half of what you think you need except of cpourse $ and have a great time both planning and going..many threads here will be invaluable and remember the glass is always half full..Smiles to you and enjoy!!!

Well most backpackers take the train - zillions of young backpackers from all over the world riding the rails around Europe - often with a Eurail Youthpass (a bargain but only if under 26 years old) - trains go everywhere all the time. Buses are very limited, at least long-distance buses. There are cheap flights but then you only see tourist mecca cities and tarmacs and airports and not the often bucolic Europe that lies in between the big tourist cities that everyone naturally wants to see on their first trip to Europe - cities they have been dreaming about all their lives perhaps.

Some great sites for planning a European rail and backpacking trip - www.budgeteuropetravel.om (see their home page to download a free copy of their IMO superb European Planning & Rail Guide that has lots of rail-oriented itineries and is a great primer on learning the ins and outs of European trains - and also two other excellent sites IMO that provide much more than the usual 'add to cart some pass' button - www.ricksteves.com and www.seat62.com.

Ryan Air and EasyJet do low cost flights all over Europe, even internal flights in a particular country, maybe you might be interested in checking them out.

What do you find so confusing? Is it which countries to choose from? You do have to make some good research if you are not familiar with Europeon countries - so you do have to start off from there, taking into consideration your main preferences. Are you going to do this holiday solo or accompanied? How long do you plan to do your holiday? Are you within a very restricted budget?

Seriously, I think your question was too vague. For your own safety, do make sure that you will manage to do this holiday alone as a backpacker. Take care.