2 week hiking trip

2-FOR-1 GA TICKETS WITH OUTSIDE+

Don’t miss Thundercat, Fleet Foxes, and more at the Outside Festival.

GET TICKETS

BEST WEEK EVER

Try out unlimited access with 7 days of Outside+ for free.

Start Your Free Trial

Powered by Outside

Notch Your First Two-Week Hike on These Idyllic Trails

Craving an escape, but don't want the commitment required to complete a months-long thru-hike try these fourteen-day-long adventures..

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

In our travel column, assistant editor Emma Veidt answers your hiking questions with the help of a rotating cast of experts.

I find myself wanting more of a challenge (and more of an escape) after coming back from a couple of days in the backcountry, but I don’t think I have it in me to be gone for months at a time on something like the Appalachian Trail. What can I do? — Looking For Remote

Dear Remote,

Completing a thru-hike as legendary as the ones on the Triple Crown takes a lot of planning. You have to take months off work—or quit your job outright—and say goodbye to your regular routine for months on end. But then, sometimes just one week in the woods isn’t enough to shake off frontcountry stressors. If that sounds like you, there’s a perfect mini-adventure middle ground: a two-week hike.

Depending on how many miles you’re willing to cover in a day, you should look for a trail that’s between 130 and 250 miles long. Luckily there are plenty of those available in the states. Here are four of our favorites. (Note: We’ve figured in one zero day on all of these for a more relaxed adventure. If you’re a “no days off”-style backpacker, adjust accordingly.)

River to River Trail, Illinois: 158

12.2 miles/day for 13 days of hiking and one zero day

This stretch between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers is a staple for first-time thru-hikers in the midwest. It encompasses hiking trails, equestrian trails, and road walks that pass through plains, bluffs, bayous, pine groves, and more.

The trail varies from wide and gravel-paved to single-track dirt paths that are overgrown to the point that it feels like you’re bushwhacking. (Word to the wise: Bring poison ivy wipes with you just in case.) Late winter or early spring is the best time to gaze at all the vistas at the tops of climbs before the dense greenery grows back. In the summer and early fall, the creek beds can run dry, so plan water caches ahead of time.

Looking for a thru-hiker classic meal once you hit town? Check out Shotgun Eddys in Eddyville , about a third of the way into the hike if you’re westbound.

Tahoe Rim Trail, California: 165

12.7 miles/day for 13 days of hiking and one zero day

Take a spin around Lake Tahoe, at the border between California and Nevada. Don’t expect flat terrain: This trail is in the Sierra Nevada, so it ranges in elevation from 6,223 feet at the outlet of Lake Tahoe to 10,338 feet at Relay Peak in Nevada. Regularly preserved and maintained by the Tahoe Rim Trail Association, this trail is chock-full of signs, directions, and more. Want to celebrate reaching the finish line with some swag ? The trail association can deck you out with some patches, shirts, hats, and more. Check out the Tahoe Rim Trail website for more information or check out our guide here .

Maah Daah Hey Trail, North Dakota: 144

11.1 miles/day for 13 days of hiking and one zero day

Sure, we included this trail in our roundup of weeklong trails. But that’s only feasible if you want to go ham for seven days straight. If you’re looking to ease your way into long-distance backpacking, with about 10 miles a day of hiking, this is the perfect itinerary for you. This trail earned a spot on our former map contributor Stuart Peck’s list of favorite midwest hikes: “We Midwestern backpackers spend a lot of time looking for routes that rise above the trees and deliver a view,” he says in this article . “That’s why the Maah Daah Hey Trail is special. The climbs are short and easy, and the views are nonstop.”

This Badlands trail winds through an ancient fossil wood forest and takes you along native mixed grasses with roaming bison and wild horses. There’s no better way to embrace your inner wild by watching stallions chase the wind. Side note: Four established campsites on the trail have potable water, but some choose to cache their water along the way.

Mason-Dixon Trail, Delaware/Maryland/Pennsylvania: 200

15.4 miles/day for 13 days of hiking and one zero day

Starting from Whiskey Springs on the AT and ending at the banks of the Brandywine River, this 200-mile path connects the Appalachian Trail with the Brandywine Trail. Accordingly, a lot of prospective ATers treat the Mason-Dixon Trail as a shakedown trip.

Along the M-DT, hikers will follow the outline of several creeks and rivers, largely the Susquehanna River. The trail occasionally traverses private land, but owners have permitted hikers to pass through. You won’t spend the entire time deep in the backcountry: You’ll also pass through rural and semi-urban landscapes, such as farmlands in Pennsylvania and historic sites and small towns in Maryland and Delaware.

Looking for resources as you plan? Check out the trail’s website for information on camping, lodging, water sources, resupply shops, mail drops, shuttles, and more.

Popular on Backpacker

Join Outside+ to get access to exclusive content, 1,000s of training plans, and more.

Healthy Living

• Clean Eating
• Vegetarian Times
• Yoga Journal
• Fly Fishing Film Tour
• National Park Trips
• Warren Miller
• Fastest Known Time
• Trail Runner
• Women's Running
• Bicycle Retailer & Industry News
• FinisherPix
• Outside Events Cycling Series
• Outside Shop

© 2024 Outside Interactive, Inc

APRIL SALE:   Discover and book at   up to 60% off!

2 Week Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips

Walk above bright blue icebergs in Torres del Paine National Park , explore stunning rice terraces in the Philippines , or check off your bucket-list with a hike of the Inca Trail . With just a guide, a map and avid adventurers, a hiking tour is a refreshing escape from your day-to-day life. 

Filters applied

2 week hiking & trekking tours with 5,374 reviews.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes
• Christmas & New Year

Everest Base Camp Trekking

My Everest Base Camp trek with Sherpa Expedition was nothing short of incredible. The team's attention to detail and dedication to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience were evident throughout the entire journey. The guides were not only knowledgeable about the area but also incredibly supportive and encouraging. The breathtaking landscapes, challenging yet rewarding trails, and warm hospitality made this trek a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. I am grateful for the memories created and would wholeheartedly endorse Sherpa Expedition for their exceptional service

Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days

I recently had the incredible opportunity to embark on a 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek with Sherpa Expedition, and it was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I contacted them to inquire about the trek to the moment I said goodbye to my guide and porter at the end of the journey, Sherpa Expedition provided exceptional service and support every step of the way. The team at Sherpa Expedition was professional, knowledgeable, and passionate about ensuring that my trek was not only safe but also enjoyable. Our guide was experienced and had an in-depth understanding of the local culture, history, and geography of the region, which added so much depth to the trek. He was also very attentive to our needs, constantly checking in on our well-being and making sure we were acclimatizing properly to the high altitudes. The itinerary for the trek was well-planned and allowed us to acclimatize gradually as we made our way to Everest Base Camp. Each day brought new breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching Base Camp was truly indescribable. The accommodations and meals provided during the trek were comfortable and delicious, giving us the energy we needed to continue our journey each day.

Everest Base Camp Trek

We had a blast on our EBC trek last November 2023. It was an adventure of a lifetime and Alpine Ramble Treks made it more special. Our guide and porters made sure we were taken care of from Day 1 until the end of the journey. Thumbs up to the team.

What a fantastic day we had exploring Nepal and all the Temples! Our guide, Phurba Sherpa was so lovely and very knowledgeable. Highly recommend this Company!!

• Jungle Trekking

Trek Hidden Costa Rica

Amazing!! This is a very challenging tour but an incredible experience. Jonnathan is an incredible host and leader. Highly recommended.

Well organised and communication good

Annapurna Circuit Trekking

I recently had the pleasure of embarking on the Annapurna Circuit trek with Sherpa Expedition, guided by Mingma Sherpa and supported by the incredible porter, Dendi. I cannot express enough how happy and satisfied I am with the exceptional service provided by Sherpa Expedition and the outstanding professionalism and expertise of Mingma and Dendi. From the moment I arrived in Nepal, Sherpa Expedition took care of every detail, ensuring a seamless and stress-free trekking experience. The team was responsive, friendly, and accommodating, making me feel at ease and excited for the adventure that awaited. Mingma Sherpa, our guide, was a true gem. His extensive knowledge of the Annapurna region, coupled with his passion for the mountains, added immense value to the trek. He ensured our safety every step of the way, providing insightful information about the local culture, history, and natural surroundings. Mingma's guidance and encouragement were instrumental in keeping our spirits high during challenging sections of the trek. Dendi, our porter, was a true hero. Despite carrying heavy loads, he always had a smile on his face and went above and beyond to make our trek comfortable. His strength and resilience were truly admirable, and his presence allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the Annapurna region without the burden of heavy backpacks. The accommodations provided by Sherpa Expedition along the trek were excellent. The teahouses were clean, cozy, and offered a warm and welcoming atmosphere after a long day of trekking. The meals served were delicious and nourishing, providing the energy needed to conquer the challenging terrain. Sherpa Expedition ensured that our dietary preferences and requirements were met, accommodating our individual needs with great care. The Annapurna Circuit itself was a breathtaking journey. The diverse landscapes, from lush forests to arid valleys, were a constant source of awe and inspiration. Every day brought new and stunning vistas, with the highlight being the Thorong La Pass. The sense of achievement upon reaching the pass, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, was indescribable. I am extremely happy and grateful for the exceptional service provided by Sherpa Expedition, Mingma Sherpa, and Dendi. Their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care for their clients surpassed all expectations. The Annapurna Circuit trek with Sherpa Expedition was an unforgettable experience, one that has left me with a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of Nepal and the warmth of its people. I highly recommend Sherpa Expedition for anyone seeking a remarkable trekking adventure in Nepal. Their commitment to providing outstanding service, combined with their knowledgeable guides and dedicated porters, ensures a truly memorable experience. Thank you, Sherpa Expedition, Mingma Sherpa, and Dendi, for making my Annapurna Circuit trek a dream come true.

Vietnam Signature In 14 Days by Realistic Asia

We were very happy with the tour,it was a great experience. The Realistic Asia team were excellent, we enjoyed all the activities and tours that they arranged, and our contact for them Lucy Do was fantastic and super helpful and regularly checked in to see how we were going, we will definitely recommend her/them to others, and use again ourself.

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Hike Patagonia In Depth

Fantastic trip which included a variety of activities from trekking to rafting to boating. Expertly handled by Gadventures

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Are you thinking about going to the Himaraya tour? If you are, I would definitely recommend you to join this tour. If this is your first time to climb the Himaraya, don't worry. It was my first time, too, but the organizer and guides were very kind and made sure I was doing all right. It was my best moment in my life.

Ace the Himalaya was an excellent choice. I did a lot of research before and saw that overall they had the best reviews and feedback. Our guide Dipesh and assistant guide Rabi were amazing. They made the trip even better than it was. They were caring and helpful and we didnt have to worry about where to stay, what to eat, and where to go. I highly recommend Ace and will hopefully get a chance to use them again! Overall, the trip was exactly what I knew it would be-a trip of a lifetime and Ace is definitely the main reason why...oh yeah and those amazing Himalayas :)

Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek (Poon hill trek, Annapurna sunrise view trek)

It was really amazing TOUR. Even in OFFPEAK times, the tour was everything and more i'd hoped for. Tour guide and manager were really helpful and caring. 100% would do it again with Tourradar.

Best of Northwest of Vietnam 14 Days Soft Trek

100% reliable: I went on a 14 days round trip with this travel agency. Every thing worked perfectly fine. I never felt unsure of anything and it was easy to get in contact if you had a question. I can highly recommend Legend Travel Group if you want to make a trip to Vietnam . Thank you so much. . Ingelise Frier, Denmark

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Mystique Vietnam Vacation In 13 Days by Realistic Asia

It was our third trip to Vietnam, before we were visiting it for a beach break, but for this time we decided to take and adventure trip in the mountains. We have heard a lot from other travelers about Sapa and Ha Long Bay and wanted to visit it. We were unconfident to arrange this trip by ourselves and decided to book it with Realistc Asia. It was a great decision for us. Our travel advisor Hien has recommended us this trip as we wanted to get a full insight into Northern Vietnam. We couldn’t expect more! We visited local villages, and the market in the mountains, met many interesting people. Personally I was blown away with the views in Mu Cang Chai, it is probably one of the most beautiful places I ever visited. For those who want to see rice terraces I recommend to go there. We got all what we wanted: adventures, less visited areas, beautiful sceneries and authentic experience. Hien, thank you so much for organizing everything! You are the best!

Mysterious Nepal - 13 Days

Nepal trip 2019 July August was very very good. Indeed it was a bit of a shock at the beginning but within a day or two it seemed very familiar. The weather throughout the journey was fairly good apart from the extreme heat in fact upto 45 degrees in Janakpur and Lumbini, Chitwan which was very very very hot! (Like having an outdoor Sauna,) and on our return to Kathmandu we also experienced the monsoon heavy rain showers in the evening! I can say we did face problems with the food as nearly all the hotels/restaurants did not provide pure vegetarian food hence we skipped many meals throughout the journey. Nonetheless in terms of the holiday we are very pleased to say that this spiritual/magical Nepal trip with some adventure was an absolute pleasure and superbly extravagant and have returned to London as very happy customers. Thank you so much Narayan Ji and Madhu ji and Sharma Ji. It was so lovely and peaceful, I cannot wait to go another time.

Reviews of 2 week Hiking & Trekking Tours

My Everest Base Camp trek with Sherpa Expedition was nothing short of incredible. The team's attention to detail and dedication to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience were evident throughout the entire journey. The guides were not only knowledgeable about the area but also incredibly supportive and encouraging. The breathtaking landscapes, challenging yet rewarding trails, and warm hospitality made this trek a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. I am grateful for the memories created and would wholeheartedly endorse Sherpa Expedition for their exceptional service

Overall we had an absolutely brilliant time, it was the trek of a lifetime. The tea houses were surprisingly good, with great food selection. The guide, Mindu, was brilliant and looked after everything so we had nothing to worry about. He was knowledgable and taught us lots about culture and the surroundings. Sherpa Expedition Trekking/ Teams (both the same- it’s not obvious that they are) provided down coats and sleeping bags, which were in brilliant condition, rated to -20 and were certainly warm enough. In fact, the sleeping bag was too warm for the lower tea houses. They also provided great duffel bags. Note- if you book the tour through tour radar and not Sherpa directly, it’s worth leaving the porter booking for the time being and sort it directly with Sherpa to avoid any confusion on how many are needed/ prices etc. The only thing we had concerns about was we’d have liked more constant and consistent monitoring of our symptoms for altitude. Our blood oxygen saturation readings were taken when we requested it, but there were discrepancies between what the guide told us was an acceptable SATs reading, and what we found on published medical journals. So I’d encourage you to be vigilant about this, and if it doesn’t seem right, speak up. Overall, holiday of a life time- take the plunge and enjoy it! Best, Dan

My Everest Base Camp trek was nothing short of phenomenal, and a huge part of that credit goes to Alpine Ramble Treks. Here's why they're the perfect partner for your EBC adventure: Expert Guidance: Alpine Ramble Treks's guides weren't just knowledgeable about the terrain; they were passionate about the Himalayas. They pointed out hidden wonders, shared fascinating stories about the region, and ensured our safety throughout the trek. Their experience with altitude management was invaluable, keeping us acclimatized and trekking strong. Top-Notch Support: The porters at Alpine Ramble Treks were absolute rockstars. They carried our gear with a smile, ensuring we could focus on enjoying the trek. Their friendly demeanor and helpfulness made them feel more like companions than just support staff. Unbeatable Service: From the very beginning, Alpine Ramble Treks impressed. Their communication was clear and prompt, answering all my questions patiently. The logistics were flawlessly handled, including permits, transportation, and cozy teahouse stays. They even surprised us with a special treat at Gorakshep! Unforgettable Experience: Alpine Ramble Treks went above and beyond to make the trek a truly unforgettable journey. They catered to our dietary needs with delicious and nutritious meals, even at high altitudes. They also organized a celebratory dinner at Namche Bazaar, which was a fantastic way to bond with fellow trekkers and the Alpine Ramble Treks team. Overall: Choosing Alpine Ramble Treks for my Everest Base Camp trek was the best decision I could have made. They are a professional, passionate, and incredibly supportive company. They turned a challenging trek into a life-changing experience filled with breathtaking scenery, cultural immersion, and personal accomplishment. Highly Recommend: If you're dreaming of conquering Everest Base Camp, look no further than Alpine Ramble Treks. They'll ensure your journey is safe, memorable, and filled with the spirit of adventure.

Travel Styles

Hiking & trekking tours.

• Mountain Hikes (244)
• Attraction-Based Hikes (69)
• Coastal Walks (7)
• Jungle Trekking (6)

Backpacking Europe Routes for 2 Weeks: Routes & Tips

Whether you are on a limited budget, have a limited amount of time for traveling, or merely want to pack a lot of sights into a short vacation, these ultimate backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks are the perfect way to fit a lot in on your European getaway!

Backpacking is my personal favorite way of traveling across Europe. With the help of the Eurail , small airlines, and budget-friendly hotels, it’s easier than ever to see multiple countries in a short amount of time.

In this post, you’ll find everything you’ll need to know if you’re considering a backpacking trip across Europe. From the best time to visit Europe all the way to my insider packing tips and more, you can be confident before jetting off to the airport.

Happy Travels!

When is the Best Time to Visit Europe?

Europe’s climate varies vastly across the continent. From the snowy Pyrenees in Spain to the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean in Greece, you could come across all four seasons no matter what time of the year you visit.

Most backpackers are trying to travel on a budget, so if you’re in the same boat, then the best time to visit Europe is in the spring or the fall !

The spring months of March through May and the fall months of late September through November provide great deals on flights, trains, accommodations, tours, and even food prices.

You’ll also get to experience everything with far fewer tourists so you’ll have more opportunities to connect better with the locals and get more of an inside look at what life is actually like for them.

This is by far my favorite time to go backpacking in Europe…

However, since you will be backpacking across Europe, there are a few things to keep in mind. While the winters provide an escape from many of the tourist crowds and you can often find extremely affordable accommodations, you’ll need to carry all of your winter gear on your back.

This means winter coats, boots, hats, scarves, gloves, wool socks, and everything in between. This is a lot of weight to carry and trudging through the snow for miles will be extremely exhausting.

So, if you really want to visit Europe in the winter, consider only visiting one or two countries to save on traveling with all of those heavy items.

If you prefer to visit Europe during the peak season (summer months of June through mid-September ), then you’ll usually get great weather. But, be prepared for expensive accommodations, food, tours, and travel methods as well as tens of thousands of tourists and long wait times everywhere you go.

In my opinion, visit Europe during the shoulder seasons for the best experiences!

What are the Best Countries to Go Backpacking in Europe?

Europe is home to over 40 different countries so choosing which ones to backpack through can be overwhelming! If you’re feeling like you aren’t sure where to begin, then keep reading.

If you enjoy backpacking but want to be in close proximity to stunning beaches , then Greece, Italy, Croatia, Portugal, and Spain are the top of the line.

If you want to backpack through the mountains , then northern Spain, France, Switzerland, northern Italy, and Austria make for fantastic destinations.

If you enjoy city life and want to train travel across the continent, then Germany, Poland, Czechia, the United Kingdom, and Denmark should be on your list.

If you want to make your way through medieval villages and across ancient canals via stone bridges, then Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg are some of the finest countries to visit in Europe.

The best part about visiting countries in Europe is many of them are extremely diverse so you can find mountains, beaches, city life, and medieval villages all in one! Take France, for example. It’s home to luxurious wine vineyards, medieval castles, the great Alps, and the French Riviera.

If this is one of your very first backpacking trips, then I suggest looking into visiting just one or two countries that will provide you with a great range of activities. Then, once you are comfortable getting around Europe, start planning slightly more complex itineraries.

So, what are the best countries to go backpacking in Europe? Coming from an avid backpacker, I believe it depends mostly on your interests, but also on how comfortable you are getting around.

I personally love backpacking through France, Spain, Portugal, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Czechia, Belgium, and Germany. However, this may change for you.

What You Need to Consider Before Backpacking Europe for 2 Weeks

If you are planning on following one of the below backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks, then there are a few things you need to consider before booking your flight.

✔️ What’s Your Budget?

If you plan on visiting the UK, Switzerland, and Italy on your trip, but are only budgeting for about $60 per day, that’s not going to work because these are some of the most expensive countries to visit in the world.

Once you have your budget figured out (include flights, train travel, accommodations, and food per day), then you can start thinking about the countries you want to visit.

✔️ Are You Okay With Walking Everywhere?

If you prefer to be close to train and bus stations everywhere you go to alleviate the amount of walking you’ll be doing, then include that in your budget, as well.

If you or someone you are traveling with has limited mobility, then you should consider visiting only one or two countries to reduce the amount of traveling you’ll be doing.

✔️ How Much Will You Pack?

If you thought your school backpack was heavy, just wait until you have two weeks’ worth of clothing, hygiene stuff, electronics, travel documents, and so on on your back!

If you don’t think you’ll be capable of carrying a lot of weight for long walks and hours on end, then it might be best to consider staying in accommodations with a washer and dryer so you don’t need to travel with as much clothing.

✔️ Can You Read a Map?

If not, then you might want to learn how. The tricky part about backpacking, especially solo, is there will occasionally be times where your phone dies and you aren’t sure where the train station is, etc.

This can be problematic especially if you don’t speak the local language and don’t want to pay for an expensive taxi. So, before you jet off to the airport, grab a map of your local town and teach yourself how to read it. If you need help, Youtube is a great place to start!

✔️ Do You Have Travel Insurance or Backup Funds?

This is where travel insurance comes in handy.

I use and LOVE SafetyWing. Practically every trip we’ve ever taken to Europe, we’ve had one or multiple checked bags get lost. SafetyWing was super fast when it came to filing the claims and we were covered when we needed to buy new clothes and travel items.

You can get travel insurance through SafetyWing by clicking here.

In the event that your trip gets delayed or canceled, you get injured or sick, or you need to cut your trip short for a personal or family emergency, you may have to purchase new flights or accommodations without much notice – and these are usually very expensive.

To save on these costs, I suggest purchasing travel insurance so you aren’t left with a hefty bill following your not-so-great vacation.

✔️ Have You Traveled to Europe Before?

If it’s your first time visiting Europe, take a peek at How to Plan a Trip to Europe in 9 Easy Steps and my Greatest Tips for Traveling to Europe for the First Time !

Ultimate Backpacking Europe Routes for 2 Weeks Itinerary Ideas

The following backpacking routes have been designed to last around two weeks, give or take a couple of days. Each route follows a different section of Europe such as North, South, East, and my favorite, West!

These are just a few of the limitless possibilities available to you when you go abroad. If you want to combine different regions into one trip, be sure to use Google Maps to map out your itinerary before booking anything to prevent an inefficient journey.

For example:

Paris ➡️ Barcelona ➡️ Berlin ➡️ Lisbon = inefficient

Lisbon ➡️ Barcelona ➡️ Paris ➡️ Berlin = efficient

2 Week Backpacking Europe Route #1: Ireland, Scotland, and the United Kingdom

These three countries are a match made in heaven for backpackers. While they are typically more expensive than many European countries (London being one of the most expensive places in the world), backpacking makes them affordable possible to visit for thousands of people every year!

This ultimate two-week guide will bring you across the best sights and scenic outlooks in these beautiful countries dotted with sheep, rolling hills, and endless beauty!

Day 1: Arrive into Cork International Airport in Ireland

Even though it will be tempting to fly into Dublin, especially if you are coming from the eastern side of Ireland, do your best to fly into Cork Airport. The flights will likely be more expensive, but this will save you a lot of money in train travel and will keep your trip route efficient.

This will be one of the only times I recommend renting a car… Ireland is one of the best road trip destinations in Europe , so it’s only fitting that you share in that experience!

Once you arrive in Cork, check into your accommodation and settle in. Then, spend the night out on the town in Cork – it’s full of lively pubs and colorful townhouses along the Lee River.

Best budget accommodation:   Rezz Hotel , $87/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Isaacs Cork City , $109/night

Click here to book the ultimate Cork Culinary Tour

Day 2: Cobh, Killarney, Dingle Peninsula

After a hearty full Irish breakfast, drive yourself down to Cobh (about a 25-minute drive). Walk the streets, especially the one known as the Deck of Cards over on Bandon Hill!

This will give you the best view of the city and the iconic Cobh Cathedral. If you have the time on your way to Killarney , you can try squeezing in Blarney Castle , but keep in mind that this will add about 25 more minutes of driving to your day.

Spend some time walking through Killarney’s vibrant town before moving on to the beautiful rolling hills of the Dingle Peninsula . As one of the most highly photographed regions in Ireland, this is one of my personal favorite spots in the country.

Click here to learn about the 11 Best Dingle Accommodations: Where to Stay in Dingle Ireland

Want to see Fungie the Dolphine on a seafari? Check out this amazing Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour from Dingle!

Day 3: Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, Galway

After a morning coffee overlooking the beautiful Dingle Peninsula, make your way up to Limerick for a quick poke around the old town before heading directly for the world-famous Cliffs of Moher !

If you do decide to fly into Dublin on your trip, check out these 9 Best Rated Cliffs of Moher Tours from Dublin or book the top-rated tour below. I also found the 9 BEST Tours from Galway to Cliffs of Moher for 2024 !

Click here to book your Cliffs of Moher and Doolin Day Trip from Dublin

After you’ve walked the edge of these mighty Irish cliffs, head up to the charming fishing village of Doolin . If you have the time and want to explore Galway , it’s a good place to see the wonderful Trad on the Prom show, but if not, ending your day in Doolin is just as good.

Once you make your way to Galway (either on Day 3 or early on Day 4), drop off the rental car and take the train from Galway to Dublin .

Day 4: Dublin

After exploring Dublin for a day (be sure to stay for at least one night so you can experience the lively pubs and live music that happens every night), take a train to Sligo . Spend some time exploring the town’s unique position on the northwest coastline.

Looking to spend a little more time in Dublin? Check out Our Perfect 2 Days in Dublin Itinerary

Best budget accommodation:   Hotel St. George by Nina , $86/night Best mid-range accommodation: Celtic Lodge Guesthouse , $120/night

Day 5: Sligo

County Sligo is home to some of Ireland’s most beautiful cliffs, and the country’s tallest, the Slieve League Cliffs ! You’ll also be close to the town of Donegal which produces Ireland’s famous Donegal tweed.

These both make for fantastic day trips from Sligo and can be easily reached via guided tour or a rental car. On your return to Sligo, hop on an evening train up to Belfast, United Kingdom !

Best budget accommodation:   The Riverside Hotel , $95/night Best mid-range accommodation: Sligo Southern Hotel , $130/night

Day 6: Giant’s Causeway and Londonderry, United Kingdom

Once you have had some time to explore the infamous town of Belfast located in Northern Ireland, it’s time to hop on a train up to the Giant’s Causeway .

This impressive nature reserve is home to more than 40,000 basalt columns that plunge out of the Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe and is one of the best places to visit in Europe!

After you have had time to explore this infamous site, hop on a train back to Belfast. If you have some extra time for sightseeing, consider including a train ride to Londonderry before your return to Belfast.

Book your Derrie Danders City Walls Historical Walking Tour in Londonderry Here

Best budget accommodation:   Bishop Gate B&B , $88/night Best mid-range accommodation: Maldron Hotel Derry , $104/night

Day 7: Morning flight to Glasgow

Take an early morning flight to Glasgow and explore the town for the day and evening. This port city is known for its excellent shopping and its Victorian architecture.

Book your Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands Small-Group Day Tour from Glasgow Here

Best budget accommodation:   Moxy Glasgow Merchant City , $64/night Best mid-range accommodation: Voco Grand Central Glasgow , $113/night

Day 8: Morning train to Edinburgh

Onto Edinburgh ! Spend the day and evening wandering the medieval Scottish capital. The city is best explored on foot, though renting bikes is quite fun, as well!

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, be sure to book your Scottish Highlands and Hogwarts Express Tour from Edinburgh

Best budget accommodation:   Novotel Edinburgh Park , $87/night Best mid-range accommodation: Ibis Edinburgh South Bridge , $111/night

Day 9: Morning train to Inverness

Located in the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is a great place to visit in Scotland. Take some time to explore the Inverness Cathedral , the Inverness Castle , and enjoy some live music at the famous Hootananny Pub .

Book your Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle Tour from Inverness Here

Best budget accommodation:   Columba Hotel Inverness , $69/night Best mid-range accommodation: Rowan Guest House , $97/night

Day 10: Loch Ness and Scottish Highlands

While these gothic towns are full of exciting character, ancient tales, and stunning beauty, I recommend spending the majority of your day exploring deep in the Scottish Highlands .

There are plenty of guided day tours that will bring you to the Jacobite Steam train (now famous due to its involvement in the Harry Potter films) and many of the movie’s famous filming locations.

Loch Ness is also wonderful for talking with the locals about the ancient tale of the famed Loch Ness monster!

Book your BMW X5 SUV Highland Whisky Tour Here

Best budget accommodation:   Kilmichael House B&B , $63/night Best mid-range accommodation: Loch Ness Inn , $130/night

Day 11: Morning train to Aberdeen

After you’ve explored Inverness, take an early morning train to Aberdeen . This is where you’ll find stunning beauty overlooking the Scottish coastline as well as many great museums, castles, cathedrals, and parks to explore.

Spend the day wandering the small town before taking an evening train down to the Scottish capital of Edinburgh !

Book your Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen Here

Best budget accommodation: Mercure Aberdeen Caledonian Hotel , $65/night Best mid-range accommodation:   The Craighaar Hotel , $88/night

Day 12: Morning flight to Manchester

Manchester is one of England’s largest cities and is full of character and charm. From endless art galleries and museums to the home of the infamous Manchester football (soccer in America) games, there’s a lot you can fill your day in Manchester with!

Book your Craft Beer Tour around Manchester Here

Best budget accommodation: Ibis Styles Manchester Portland Hotel , $67/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Whitworth Locke Hotel , $90/night

Day 13: Morning train to Birmingham

Birmingham makes for a great pitstop on your way down to Bristol and Bath. Spend some time wandering through the museums , visit the famous Cadbury World home to Cadbury chocolates, and visit the 17 th -century Aston Hall mansion .

Book your Shrewsbury Prison Guided Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Selina Birmingham , $61/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Aparthotel Adagio Birmingham City Centre , $91/night

Day 14: Bristol, Bath, and the Cotswolds 

Make your way from Birmingham down to Bristol via an early morning train and take in the sights from the Clifton Suspension Bridge before making your way to Bath .

As the name suggests, Bath is famous for its thermal spas and ancient Roman baths ! Take some time to soak in the Thermae Bath Spa and The Roman Baths before checking out Bath Abbey , Pulteney Bridge , and the Royal Crescent !

Book your Stonehenge, Avebury, & Cotswolds Small-Guided Day Tour from Bath Here

Best budget accommodation: Z Hotel Bath , $71/night Best mid-range accommodation:   The Devonshire House , $101/night

Day 15: Early train to London

Since many people typically spend at least two days in London , I suggest taking an early train from Bath or Bristol then taking an evening flight home the following day.

This will provide you with enough time to see all of the major sites and attractions as well as take some time to relax and reminisce on your wonderful 2 week backpacking route across Europe!

Book your London East End Food Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Astor Museum Hostel , $53/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hampton by Hilton London Waterloo , $116/night

Day 16: Fly home from London

Enjoy your last day exploring some museums or just sit back and people watch with some local food before your flight home. As backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks go, this is by far one of the most scenic and exciting options in my opinion!

2 Week Backpacking Europe Route #2: France, Spain, and Portugal

France, Spain, and Portugal are easily one of the most classic combinations for European itineraries out there. With similar climates, outstanding wine vineyards, vast mountain ranges, and endless beautiful beaches, this trio is easily one of the best backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks.

This itinerary can be completed in either direction, either beginning or ending in Portugal, but don’t begin it in Spain or you’ll end up backtracking a very long distance!

Please keep in mind that with only two weeks, there will be a lot that you won’t get to see. The itinerary below sums up some of the best places to see in Portugal, Spain, France, but is in no way all-inclusive.

Other fantastic day trips would include the mountains of the Andorra Region and the Caminito del Rey hike in Spain, as well as Normandy , Mont St Michel, Colmar, and the wine regions of France plus many more. Do some research on what you want to see and do most before booking your trip to prevent disappointment in the long run!

Want some more Spain travel inspiration? Check out my list of 33 Wonderfully Unique Places to Visit in Spain !

Day 1: Arrive in Porto

Porto and the Porto Valley are known for their exceptional wineries and limitless vineyards along the Douro River. You can spend your day strolling the city’s ancient streets or taking a wine tour along the river. With dozens of museums, art galleries, and exquisite lookouts to be had in Porto, a day here is sure to start your trip off perfectly!

Spend the night here before moving on to the next small towns on this Portugal itinerary – Coimbra and Obidos!

Book your Douro Valley Small-Group Tour with Wine Tasting, Lunch, and Optional Cruise Here

Best budget accommodation: The Passenger Hostel , $57/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Chic and Basic Gravity , $136/night

Day 2: Óbidos and Coimbra

Home to dozens of ancient ruins, Romanesque churches, sky-high cathedrals, and medieval cobblestone streets, Coimbra and Óbidos should be included on any backpacking itinerary through Portugal.

While Coimbra is home to a stunning riverside village covered with vibrant buildings and Roman ruins, Óbidos is known for its beautiful white-washed walls, red terracotta rooftops, and a medieval castle!

Coimbra can easily be reached via train whereas Óbidos may require several bus transfers, a car rental, or a guided tour.

Book your Óbidos Historic Village and Mafra Palace Private Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Epic Days Guest House , $40/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Ibis Coimbra Centro , $55/night

Day 3: Arrive in Lisbon

Lisbon is one of my favorite cities in Europe with its red clay roofs, exceptional cuisine, and hospitable people. While this itinerary is going to include nearly two days in Lisbon, if you would rather explore outside of the capital for longer then check out my ultimate one day in Lisbon itinerary !

Lisbon is home to museums galore with over 60 in the city alone! Take your time wandering the city streets, eating Pastel de Natas , and enjoying the sights from the several lookouts that have been strategically placed around the city.

Don’t forget to take a ride on the infamous Lisbon trolley !

Book your Lisbon Sunset Cruise Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Ritz and Freud B&B , $60/night Best mid-range accommodation:   LX Boutique Hotel , $113/night

Day 4: Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril

The region surrounding the capital of Lisbon is known for the beautiful Cascais beaches , the castles of Sintra , and even the popular bucket list destination of the Cabo da Roca – the westernmost point in Europe!

In these regions, you’ll find some of the country’s best flora and fauna, rugged coastlines, medieval castles, and gorgeous white sand beaches. Not to mention, charming towns and hospitable locals!

Book your Private Day Trip of Fairy Tale Sintra Here

Best budget accommodation: The Five House , $49/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Tivoli Sintra Hotel , $81/night

Day 5: Algarve Region

The Algarves are known for their popular towns of Lagos and Faro home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe! Visitors can enjoy swimming at the popular Marinha Beach and Praia do Camilo , boating through the Ponta da Piedade , and kayaking through the infamous Benagil Caves .

If you’re looking to soak up some serious sun on any one of these backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks, a trip to the Algarves should be in your future!

Book your Dolphins and Benagil Caves from Albufeira Tour Here

Day 6: Seville, Spain,

The Portugal piece of this backpacking itinerary ends in Faro as you take a train over the border into Seville, Spain !

Easily recognized for the Plaza de España , Catedral de Sevilla , and the Royal Alcázar of Seville , there is no end to the beautiful ancient architecture to be explored here.

Book your Cathedral, Alcazar and Giralda Guided Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Patio de las Cruces , $124/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Abanico , $181/night

Day 7: Fly from Seville to Valencia, Spain

While Valencia is reachable via train (about 9 hours from Seville), it is far more efficient to fly.

In just over an hour, you’ll land on the beautiful shores of Valencia where you’ll find the famous L’Oceanogràfic aquarium , a 15 th -century mercantile , and the 14 th -century Torres de Serranos which offers unbeatable views overlooking the sweeping Spanish coastline.

While it could also save you time to fly from Valencia from Madrid , the train is much more scenic and slightly more affordable ( most of the time – check prices prior to booking one or the other!)

Book your Valencia Old Town Tour with Wine & Tapas in 11th Century Historic Monument Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Casual de las Artes Valencia , $66/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Conqueridor , $72/night

Day 8: Madrid onto Barcelona

I suggest splitting your day between Madrid and Barcelona since you can see most of the best parts of them in a few hours, hence my one day in Barcelona itinerary , but if this feels too rushed then consider including an extra day on your itinerary or skipping one of the towns on the itinerary.

Barcelona is home to a unique network of cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, stunning churches, and an array of different neighborhoods each boasting its own unique personality! Take some time at the Arc de Triomf , in the Gothic Quarter , and on Las Ramblas .

Book your Sagrada Familia, Park Guell & Old Town Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Bruc & Bruc , $69/night Best mid-range accommodation:   HCC Monblanc , $88/night

Day 9: Girona and Cadaqués

From Barcelona, hop on a train and head up to the Costa Brava region of Spain. With endless beaches, white-washed villages, and decadent seafood dishes, you really could spend two weeks here alone.

But, since you’ll be short on time, be sure to take a walk on the Platja Gran in Cadaqués and photograph the colorful buildings lining the Ter River in Girona!

Book your Half-Day Game Of Thrones Walking Tour in Girona with a Guide Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Ubaldo , $65/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Can Pepín , $70/night

Day 10: Marseille, France

Time to depart Spain and make your way into France! The first stop on this France itinerary will be in Marseille ; a charming, yet sophisticated, fishing town known for its high-end restaurants and shopping as well as beautiful scenery around every corner.

Spend some time swimming (or kite surfing !) in the turquoise blue waters of the French Riviera , strolling through the Old Port , exploring the Château d’If , or even hiking through the Massif des Calanques National Park !

Book your Marseille Shore Excursion: Half Day Tour of Marseille by Electric Bike Here

Best budget accommodation: Ibis budget Marseille Vieux Port , $57/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Holiday Inn Express Marseille Saint Charles , $85/night

Day 11: Nice

Known for its iconic coastal promenade, the Promenade des Anglais , Nice is a beach bum’s dream paradise!

Visitors can also enjoy climbing to the hilltop Castle of Nice to take in exceptional views of the French Riviera or wandering the streets of the bustling Cours Saleya which overflows with flowers and goods.

This will be your last full day on the French Riviera before moving on to the French Alps ! If you enjoy wine tours, be sure to check out some of my favorite wine tours in France or simply book the top-rated tour below!

Book your Provence Wine Tour – Private Day Tour from Nice Here

Best budget accommodation: Hôtel Relais Acropolis , $68/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Villa Rivoli , $104/night

Day 12: Fly Nice to Lyon – train to Annecy

Take an early morning flight, if possible, to Lyon where you’ll board directly on a train to Annecy . While Lyon is a great spot to poke around and has its own unique sights and activities, you’ll likely have more fun in the alpine towns of Annecy and Chamonix .

After a one-hour flight from Nice to Lyon and a 2-hour train ride from Lyon to Annecy, you’ll be ready for some authentic cheese fondue and raclette!

Once you have eaten your weight in French dairy goodness, it’s time to explore Annecy’s Old Town – in particular, the Palais de I’Île . This iconic former prison is the centerpiece of the town. From here, wander over the romantic Puente de los Amores and rent paddleboards or pedal boats to explore Lake Annecy !

Book your Annecy Segway Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Hôtel du Palais de l’Isle , $98/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Atipik Hôtel Alexandra , $105/night

Day 13: Chamonix

The average bus ride from Annecy to Chamonix is only about an hour and 35 minutes, whereas the train will take you about 2 hours – and boy, is it worth it!

The French Alps are world-renowned for their cheese, wine, and, of course… mountain sports! Here, a small village is nestled between ranges of skyscraping snow-capped peaks and the infamous Chamonix Mont Blanc .

Year-round, you can enjoy hiking, paragliding, mountain trekking, rock climbing, white water rafting, rappelling, and more. In the winters, the alpine village transforms into the ultimate ski resort boasting incredible trails from both the Aiguille du Midi and Le Brevent cable cars.

Though Chamonix is a small town , try to include it on any of these western backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks! It is a cultural hub, quaint mountainside village, and adrenaline sport central all in one!

Book your Paragliding Tandem Flight over the Alps in Chamonix Here

Best budget accommodation: Chalet Hôtel Le Prieuré , $70/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Chalet hôtel le Whymper , $73/night

Day 14: Paris

The moment you have probably anticipated your entire life is here… you’re going to Paris ! Full of romance, high-end shopping, and Michelin-star cuisine, the City of Lights is on most people’s bucket lists and it would be a shame not to include it in your itinerary if you’ve never visited.

Of course, there is the Arc de Triomphe , Notre Dame , Les Champs -Élysées , the Sacré-Cœur , and the Eiffel Tower , but any Paris itinerary should also include cruising along the Seine River , exploring a few of the dozens of museums like Le Louvre or the Musée d’Orsay !

Book your Louvre Museum Skip-the-line Access Private Guided Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Pavillon de Montmartre , $89/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Le Regent Montmartre , $102/night

Day 15: Depart from Paris to go Home

Enjoy a croissant and a cup of coffee in the Luxembourg Gardens or the Tuileries Garden before heading off to the train station or airport to return home.

While any one of these itineraries for backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks would be amazing, this one, in particular, is a true gem. Full of fairytale castles, medieval villages, and adrenaline-pumping activities, this trio is one of my personal favorite backpacking combinations in all of Europe!

If you run out of time and only have the option between Barcelona or Lisbon, check out this guide: Barcelona vs Lisbon: The Ultimate City Comparison . Likewise goes for Paris and Amsterdam !

2 Week Backpacking Europe Route #3: Italy and Croatia

When it comes to choosing between any of these backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks, this one is the ultimate getaway! From romantic gondola rides in Venice to strolling the Old Town and ancient ruins of Dubrovnik, visitors are exposed to a range of budget to luxury experiences that are unparalleled across Europe.

While you could easily spend a couple of months in these destinations, the next two weeks will bring you across some of the best places to see in these beautiful countries!

Day 1: Arrive in Naples

Italy has several international airports and while it will usually be cheaper to fly directly into Rome or Milan, flying into Naples will prevent you from having to retrace your steps with this itinerary.

Try to land early in the morning so you have a full day in Naples before moving on to Pompei and the Amalfi Coast ! Naples is the birthplace of pizza … so go grab yourself a classic margherita and enjoy the view!

Book your Naples Street Food Tour With Local Expert Here

Best budget accommodation: B&B Hotel Napoli , $51/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Casa Mariella , $70/night

Day 2: Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast

Pompeii is overflowing with ruins from the ancient city including the House of the Faun and a former Roman amphitheater which was once home to gladiator fights and grand events!

The ancient city is also home to the active volcano of Mount Vesuvius and endless archaeological ruins.

Nearby Pompeii sits the popular Amalfi Coastline – home to beautiful the beautiful seaside village of Positano which is known for its vibrant, mountainside homes overlooking the sea!

This is by far one of the most scenic coastlines in Italy and should be included on any Italian itinerary. If you have extra time and are planning on skipping Bari, take a boat ride around Capri !

Book your Pompeii Small-Group Tour with an Archaeologist Here

Best budget accommodation: Pandora B&B , $38/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Il Vecchio Fauno , $57/night

Day 3: Train to Bari

If you are a lover of the sea and beautiful seaside villages, then jump on a train to Bari . Known as the capital of Puglia , this village is home to hundreds of white-washed homes that have been situated around the inlets of the beautiful, turquoise blue Adriatic Sea !

Have fun exploring the iconic Old Town before checking out the 13 th -century castle and the Piazza Mercantile !

Including Bari on your itinerary will add about 7 hours of traveling time versus if you were to just take a train directly to Rome , but since it is so beautiful we believe it is worth the journey. If you would prefer to have more time in Rome, then skip Bari.

Book your UNESCO’s Alberobello and Matera from Bari Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Olive Tree Hostel , $51/night Best mid-range accommodation:   San Nicola D’Amare B&B , $61/night

Day 4: Train to Rome

Whether you are departing Naples or Bari won’t change the fact that I suggest taking an early train to Rome, if possible.

We have only included one day in Rome since much of the sights and attractions are quite touristy and there are far better ones outside of Italy’s capital.

For this reason, we suggest getting an early start so you have at least one full day there to see the Colosseum , Trevi Fountain , Sistine Chapel , and the Vatican Museums .

But, if you really love museums and could spend an entire day exploring the Colosseum alone, then I suggest adding an extra day in Rome to your itinerary.

Book your Small-Group Tour of Colosseum Underground, Arena, and Forum Here

Best budget accommodation: The RomeHello , $76/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Napoleon Hotel , $114/night

Day 5: Florence and Pisa

Day 5 of this backpacking Europe route for 2 weeks will take you on a train to Florence and Pisa !

Home to the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore , Michelangelo’s David statue , the Ponte Vecchio , and the Piazzale Michelangelo , Florence is one of the most visited places in Europe!

A day trip to the leaning tower of Pisa is simple with either a guided tour from Florence or a self-guided tour via train! Since this journey from Florence to Pisa is only about 50 minutes, we highly suggest including it in your trip.

Book your Tuscany in One Day Sightseeing Tour from Florence Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel La Torre , $65/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Relais Centro Storico Residenza D’Epoca , $67/night

Day 6: Cinque Terre

In just 3 hours from Florence, a train ride will bring you to the quintessential Italian Riviera: Cinque Terre ! While there are a plentiful amount of sights to be seen in this gorgeous seaside region, the best part of visiting Cinque Terre is to walk through the 5 villages that make up this hillside town.

Each one has its own distinct characteristics and is home to stunning scenery as far as the eye can see. The villages are known as Vernazza, Manarola, Monterosso, Corniglia, and Riomaggiore and are all connected by dirt and cobblestone walkways.

Be sure to buy a bottle of freshly made limoncello while walking around! There are also plenty of great hiking trails between the villages with sweeping views of the coastline so if you like to hike , Cinque Terre is the perfect place to visit!

Book your Cinque Terre Half-Day Kayak Trip from Monterosso Here

Best budget accommodation: Santa Marta Rooms , $136/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Gianni Franzi , $146/night

Day 7: Milan

Another 3-hour train ride from Cinque Terre will bring you into the heart of downtown Milan.

Home to the infamous Duomo di Milano , the iconic cathedral that dominates this vast city, as well as the Sforzesco Castle and several museums and art galleries , Milan deserves one full day on this backpacking Europe route for 2 weeks!

Milan is also famous for its gelato , so be sure to try a scoop… or two… or three during your visit!

Book your Secrets to Learning How to Make Fresh Pasta and Tiramisù Food Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Sanpi Milano , $101/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Ibis Milano Centro , $95/night

Day 8: Venice

To get to Venice, you can hop on another 3-hour train ride or a quick 55 minute fly from Milan. Though flying will typically be more expensive (not always – compare pricing before booking!), since you’ll only have one day in Venice I suggest flying to get the most out of your day.

Over your 24 hours in Venice, be sure to stroll through St. Mark’s Squar e, take a gondola ride down the Grand Canal , walk over the iconic Bridge of Sighs , and if you get the chance, visit Saint Mark’s Basilica during sunset!

Even if you don’t get to all of these things, Venice is a breathtaking city to visit nevertheless. So, consider taking a day to people watch and eat as much gelato, pasta, and pizza as you can on your last day in Italy !

Book your Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola Ride Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Carlton On The Grand Canal , $126/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Ai Mori d’Oriente , $149/night

Day 9: Fly Venice to Zagreb, Croatia

You’re off to Croatia ! Spend the morning in Venice visiting any last-minute sights before jetting off to the airport. Croatia’s capital is home to an impressive Neo-gothic 12 th -century cathedral , the Ban Josip Jelačić Square , and a plethora of museums making it the perfect pitstop on your backpacking Europe route for 2 weeks!

Book your Slovenia, Ljubljana, and Lake Bled Full-Day Small-Group Excursion from Zagreb Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Jadran , $58/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Dubrovnik , $88/night

Day 10: Plitvice Lakes National Park

Just over two hours southwest of the capital sits the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park !

Home to dozens of tranquil blue waterfalls perfect for swimming, endless dense forestry with hiking trails galore, and long wooden bridges for crossing over crystal clear lakes , this is a nature enthusiast’s paradise!

Spend the day jumping into the deep, cool toppling waterfalls and enjoy a picnic on a mossy rock. To reach the national park without a car, hop on a bus in the center of town for a carefree journey!

Book your Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke, Small-Group Tour from Zagreb Here

Day 11: Zadar

Once you have swum until your heart’s content, jump back on the bus and get off at the nearest town with connections to Zadar .

This stunning seaside city is home to turquoise blue waters , endless white-sand beaches , the iconic People’s Square full of shopping, as well as the central Five Wells Square .

Book your Full-Day Sailing Tour in Zadar Archipelago Here

Best budget accommodation: Downtown Boutique Hostel , $29/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Villa Triana , $67/night

Day 12: Split

From Zadar, there is a 3-hour bus journey down to Split . Technically, you could spend days here just exploring all of the ancient ruins and hundreds of charming corners of this terracotta-roofed city, but since you’ll be a little short on time, here’s what you should do.

First, take some time to explore the Diocletian’s Palace (it once housed a Roman emperor!) and then move on to the 4 th -century Saint Domnius Cathedral .

Once you have taken some time to explore the Old Town and stick your feet in the crystal clear waters on one of the dozens of beaches , then it’s time to start strolling Riva ; a lively boardwalk overflowing with great bars and restaurants serving up authentic dishes focused on using fresh, local ingredients!

Book your Krka Waterfalls and Sibenik Day Trip Including Wine Tasting from Split Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Garden Apartment , $50/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Royal Suites Hotel , $95/night

Day 13: Dubrovnik

The last leg of your backpacking journey includes a 4.5-hour train ride down to the stunning coastal town of Dubrovnik . As one of the most popular destinations in the entire country, I suggest spending at least a day and a half here, but more would be best if you can swing it!

The city is easily recognized across the globe for the El hotel Stari Grad – Casco Viejo ; the medieval Old Town full of history and culture.

Along your Dubrovnik travels, you can stop in to see the Lovrijenac fortress which offers panoramic views of the city and sweeping coastline, as well as the Rector’s Palace , the Dubrovnik Cable Car , the Franciscan Church and Monastery , and the city’s main street of Stradun which offers great shops, bars, and restaurants!

There are endless possibilities for visiting Dubrovnik, so be sure to leave some of your energy for the end of your trip… we’ve left one of the best destinations for last !

Book your Blue Cave Small-Group Boat Tour from Dubrovnik Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Dubrovnik , $71/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Villa Katarina Dubrovnik , $92/night

Day 14: Dubrovnik and Return Home

As far as backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks go, this one is a popular favorite! Finish up this incredible journey in Dubrovnik before returning home.

Be sure to stuff as much local seafood in before leaving, as possible – I suggest trying the Black Risotto (made with squid ink)!

2 Week Backpacking Europe Route #4: Switzerland, Austria, and Czech Republic

There couldn’t be a more luxurious combination for a backpacking trip! From the iconic pedestrian bridge in Lucerne to the halls of Mozart in Salzburg and the Old Town Square of Prague, there is hardly a more sophisticated route across Europe!

Since you’ll be following this 2 week backpacking Europe route from west to east, it’s best to start in Geneva. However, you can also start the itinerary in Czechia, but don’t begin in Austria as you’ll need to backtrack across the country twice if you do.

$ Keep in mind that if you’re trying to backpack Europe on a budget, this itinerary may be difficult for you. Switzerland and Austria are quite expensive, so be sure to do some research on accommodations and train travel prices before setting your trip in stone!

Day 1: Geneva

Geneva is gratifying to say the least! From its exotic location on Lake Geneva (also known as Lac Léman) to its dramatic water fountain and a plethora of sophisticated museums , Geneva is a backpackers heaven!

Owing to the region’s vast beauty and endless, beautiful streets, backpackers can enjoy roaming here for days one end. However, even the hostels here can sometimes start around 80 USD per night for a single traveler, so I suggest spending only a night or two here if you’re on a budget.

Book your Chocolate Flavours Tours Geneva: 3-hour Chocolate Tasting and Old Town Visit Here

Best budget accommodation: Ibis Geneve Centre Lac , $115/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Bernina , $154/night

Day 2: Zermatt and the Matterhorn

Once you’ve had time to settle in in Geneva, it’s time for the first leg of your journey: visiting the Swiss Alps town of Zermatt which offers exceptional views of the Matterhorn !

The town is world-renowned for its winter sports and exceptional hiking trails up some of the tallest mountains in the Alps ! A trip here is high on most travelers’ bucket lists so whatever you do – don’t skip a trip to Zermatt!

Book your Tandem Paragliding Tour in Zermatt, Switzerland Here

Best budget accommodation: Youth Hostel Zermatt , $97/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Adonis , $149/night

Day 3: Lucerne

Next, we’re off to Lucerne . In just under 4 hours via train, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning Lake Lucerne , the iconic Chapel Bridge , and the Spreuer Bridge .

The region is known for its exceptional beauty coming from the surrounding mountains and crystal clear lake, making it the perfect place to sit back and rest your feet during your long journey.

Book your Lucerne Walking and Boat Tour: The Best Swiss Experience Here

Day 4: Zurich

The city of Zurich is known for its exclusive business and finance districts, the 12 th -century Grossmünster cathedral , top-of-the-line shopping on Bahnhofstrasse , and all of the water sports found on Lake Zurich !

If you can’t tell by now, many of the major destinations in Switzerland are situated on their own lake and surrounded by snow-capped mountains ; there is truly nothing more beautiful and elegant!

Book your Day Trip to Swiss Villages (Interlaken-Grindelwald) with a Local from Zurich Here

Best budget accommodation: Astor Museum Hostel, $53/night Best mid-range accommodation:  Hampton by Hilton London Waterloo, $116/night

Day 5: Fly from Zurich to Salzburg, Austria

Time to move onto Austria! Salzburg was the birthplace of the famed musical artist, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , so attending a musical event here is practically required.

After a show, take a hike up to the 11 th -century Fortress Hohensalzburg before exploring the famed Schloss Hellbrunn and picking out a souvenir on Getreidegasse (this is also where you can see Mozart’s birthplace!)

Book your Austrian Apple Strudel Cooking Class including Lunch in Salzburg Tour Here

Day 6: Hallstatt

The alpine village of Hallstatt rests directly over the Hallstätter See in a most enchanting cliffside. Nestled between mountains on all sides, Hallstatt is by far one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe!

Take some time to explore the Salzwelten Salt Mine or do some hiking on one of the hundreds of trails ranging from beginner to advanced. If you’re looking to include some time in nature on your 2 week Europe backpacking route, then be sure to include Hallstatt on your trip!

Book your Guided e-bike Tour of the Alpine Pastures in the Salzkammergut Here

Best budget accommodation: Pension Bergfried , $110/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Heritage Hotel Hallstatt , $180/night

Day 7: Vienna

In just under 4 hours via train, you’ll arrive in Austria’s capital of Vienna ! Wander the Stephansplatz Square , St. Stephen’s Cathedral , and the Schönbrunn Palace , or choose to relax at one of the dozens of streetside cafes and do some people watching.

Vienna is packed full of culture and immaculate architecture , so take some time to slow down and enjoy this stunning city!

Book your Vienna Classical Concert at St. Peter’s Church Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Ibis Wien Mariahilf , $61/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Mercure Wien Westbahnhof , $75/night

Day 8: Fly from Vienna to Brno, Czechia

Next, you’re onto the last leg of your backpacking journey – the Czech Republic (also known as Czechia)!

Recognized for its arched stone bridges , Špilberk Castle , Old Town Hall , and Moravian Museum , Brno is full of history and medieval charm .

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Amphone , $40/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Jacob Brno , $56/night

Day 9: Český Krumlov

Next on the list is the magical Český Krumlov ! We decided to include two days in this exceptional, fairytale town owing to its enchanting envelopment along the Vltava River .

The town has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional Castle , cathedrals , and unique design within the southwest regions of Czechia.

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Ebersbach , $79/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Monastery Garden , $107/night

Day 10: Český Krumlov

If you plan on taking part in this particular backpacking Europe route for 2 weeks, we suggest spending the second day of your time in Český Krumlov walking along the river, enjoying the local food, chatting with the hospitable locals, and taking in all of the astounding scenery that will surround you!

Day 11: Pilsen

Made famous to tourists by the original Pilsner Urquell Brewery , Pilsen is a great place to enjoy a pint or two!

The town is also home to the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew and the Great Synagogue – it’s the second largest in Europe! Spend some time wandering the Old Town before prepping for your trip to Karlovy Vary.

Book your Pilsen Highlights Small-Group Tour and Pilsner Brewery Tour including Lunch and Beer Tasting Tour Here

Day 12: Karlovy Vary

Recognized as one of the most special spa towns in all of Europe, Karlovy Vary is the ultimate place to unwind.

The Western Bohemian town is famous for its striking colonnades and endless thermal springs bringing relaxation and rejuvenation to visitors.

On any backpacking journey through the Czech Republic, a trip to Karlovy Vary is surely in order!

Best budget accommodation: Dvorak Hotel and Spa , $93/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Grandhotel Pupp , $148/night

Day 13: Prague

Finally, we’re off to Prague ! Czechia’s capital is the queen of fairytale, medieval towns in Europe!

Captivating its visitors with its breathtaking Old Town Square , Charles Bridge , Lesser Town , Prague Castle , St. Vitus Cathedral , bustling Wenceslas Square , and 600-year-old functional Astronomical Clock , there is no other town in Europe that compares to the gothic charm of Prague!

Be sure to spend some time enjoying the local cuisine – especially that of Trdelník , a slow-roasted dough that’s been rolled in cinnamon sugar and oftentimes filled with hazelnut chocolate!

Book your Best of 2 Countries in 1 Day: Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland from Prague Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: K+K Hotel Central , $104/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Grandium Hotel Prague , $116/night

Day 14: Return Home from Prague

If possible, try to take an evening flight so you have another whole day to enjoy Prague’s sights, attractions, and charming Old Town!

How to Get Around for 2 Weeks in Europe

You might be thinking, “if I’m backpacking, won’t I be walking most of the time?” and the answer to that question is yes – but within reason!

It wouldn’t be possible to follow one of the above backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks if you actually tried to walk everywhere. In fact, you probably wouldn’t make it out of a single country.

While walking will be your primary method of transportation in both rural and urban areas, you will need other modes of transportation to get between cities and countries.

✔️ Unless you get lucky and find a spectacular deal on a car rental where the company also lets you cross several international borders, don’t rent a car .

This purchase typically blows most budgets out of the water and often leads to headaches and frustration in the end.

Europe is known for its busy city streets and heavy pedestrian traffic, so trying to find a parking spot outside of the Eiffel Tower is just going to waste your time.

✔️ Bus, train, and budget airline travel is going to become your new best friend!

If the countries you have chosen for your backpacking trip aren’t sharing a border, check to see what flights would cost. On occasion, you can save a lot of money by flying versus taking the train.

In contrast to this, however, the Eurail is often times the most efficient and affordable method of transportation in Europe. This railway connects thousands and thousands of destinations across the continent and provides everything from economy to first-class tickets.

If you aren’t going to be crossing international borders for a specific leg of your journey (i.e. Annecy to Paris), then compare the local bus and train pricing. Often, you can book these journies online up to 90 days in advance and save up to 15% on pricing for booking early!

✔️ Try to avoid taking taxis altogether

This is by far the worst deal you can get on transportation in Europe since many major cities have highly developed metro and bus systems.

If you really need a ride, order an Uber. Most European cities are equipped with Uber and Lyft, and this is a much more affordable and safe travel method.

Important Tips for Backpacking Europe for 2 Weeks

So, you’ve decided to take on one of my backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks (or another route that you have skillfully designed) – how exciting!

Backpacking across 4 countries in 9 days was one of the greatest experiences of my life and it led me on to start designing dozens of more trips just like it. I hope you find your backpacking experience to be a happy one and it motivates you to continue your travels across Europe and the world!

But, before you run off to the airport, make note of these few tips below first.

✔️ While visiting more countries can oftentimes save you money in the long run, don’t try to squeeze too much into your two-week European itinerary . Try to be reasonable when planning your trip!

For example : backpacking from the south of Spain up to Amsterdam in two weeks: reasonable! Trying to include Paris, the Algarves, Italy, Croatia, and the Greek Islands in a two-week trip: not reasonable!

✔️ Don’t stay in one place for too long.

If you’re trying to use a backpacking journey as a method of seeing a lot of places in a short amount of time, don’t spend more than two days in each place. This is usually plenty of time for most major cities, but it won’t be nearly enough for places such as the Greek Islands or the European Alps.

Unfortunately, if you only have 2 weeks for traveling, you’re going to be limited on where you can go and how much you can see.

So, instead of choosing a lot of destinations and only visiting them for a day or so, pick two or three countries and see the best spots in all of them!

✔️ We’ll touch on this more below, but remember that whatever you pack you have to carry on your back!

So, leave the heels, hairdryer, and 9 different dresses at home!

✔️ I have said it before and I’ll say it again, travel to Europe in the shoulder seasons.

This will save you money, significantly reduce your wait times at attractions and restaurants, and you’ll get to experience each destination with far fewer tourists.

✔️ Invest in a good backpack.

This one is absolutely essential…

If you take a quick peek at the packing list below, you’ll notice that I have included a link to the 50-liter Osprey backpack . Yes, it typically costs around $250.

Even if you’re going to try to stay on a budget for your backpacking trip across Europe, don’t skimp on the backpack you use. It is the single most important item on your packing list and it will make or break your trip .

For a good backpacking experience, you need a high-quality backpack with a lifetime guarantee. It’s not going to be cheap, so plan to budget some money for it well in advance of your trip!

✔️ Lastly, decide if you want to go backpacking solo in Europe or with a friend or loved one.

This one is tough because while many of us would love to have our friends and family join us on a vacation, a backpacking trip can be a little bit more – tiring.

Keep in mind that walking several miles each day, moving between accommodations, and endless train travel can strain any relationship.

So, just be mentally prepared for the bumps in the road and consider traveling solo if this doesn’t seem like a good fit for your travel style .

What to Pack for 2 Weeks in Europe

There is a little saying that Sean and I use when we go backpacking, camping, etc…

“ Ounces equal pounds and pounds equal pain “

This means that when you pack something just because it is only a few ounces, those ounces are going to add up – fast! The more ounces you have, the more pounds you’re carrying, and the more pounds you carry… well, the more you’re likely to be in pain.

So, when beginning to pack for one of the above backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks, be sure to only pack the items that you know you will use, wear, and actually need. This is essential for a successful backpacking trip to Europe!

In my experience, if you can try to budget for one accommodation with a washer and dryer, you’ll save yourself from carrying a lot of weight in extra clothes.

✔️ The packing list below has been designed for visiting Europe in the shoulder seasons and having at least one accommodation with the means of doing your laundry.

Packing List for Backpacking Europe for 2 Weeks

Since this is a lot to look at, let’s go over it a little bit…

Layers are going to be your best friend in Europe . The weather can change in a matter of hours from a balmy 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius) to a chilly 50 degrees (10 degrees Celsius) after the sun goes down.

You’ll be happy when you have a sweater and a warm coat right there in your bag or when the skies decide to open up and your rain jacket is a quick unzip away!

Next, try to book an accommodation with a washer and dryer about halfway through your trip. This will allow you to wear a variety of outfits then restart the lineup during the second week.

This way, you won’t have the same clothes on in all of your pictures across different countries and you won’t need to carry as many clothes with you.

Also, good walking shoes are essential to a happy trip ! Comfortable, supportive shoes that prevent blisters and early fatigue will make or break you along your travels. Opt to break in any new shoes before departing to prevent the wearing and tearing of your feet.

If you are planning on doing a few of these backpacking trips, do yourself a favor and purchase some TSA-approved travel bottles and a TSA-approved clear bag . This set here combines the two, making it simple to keep all of your lotions and liquids together without the mess!

Next, if you aren’t sure what Dramamine is, it’s a motion sickness relief tablet. These have saved my life on numerous bus, train, flight, and ferry rides, and I highly recommend them if you are prone to motion sickness.

Since you’ll be on the road rather frequently, charging outlets can sometimes be difficult to find (unless you want to sit in a McDonald’s for a few hours). I never travel without my backup battery pack since I use my phone as my only camera which can kill my battery rather quickly.

The backup battery pack is perfect for on the go and it fits perfectly inside my Himawari Day Ba ckpack! It comes with its very own USB charging port, a large pouch for my laptop and extra layers, and plenty of inner zippers to hold my important documents.

It’s perfect for when you want to leave your 50-liter pack back at your accommodation and walk around with a lot less weight on you.

I personally bring this backpack everywhere with me including in Europe, so if you’re looking for a good backpack to explore some European cities with, this is the best one I have found!

For a more in-depth look at everything I pack when I travel to Europe, check out my Europe Travel Essentials List !

How Much Money Do You Need to Travel Europe for 2 Weeks?

Since this is going to vary greatly depending on which countries you visit, how long you spend in each country, the activities you do, what you eat, where you stay, and so on, I’m going to give you a list of the average cost of the most popular expenses you’ll have while backpacking Europe.

Keep in mind, that if you’re already in Europe, you can save a considerable amount of money on flights and train travel, whereas if you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll likely need to book a flight to get there.

Use the averages below to add up how much money you will be spending per day. The lower end of the averages are for more affordable countries such as Portugal and the higher end of the averages are for expensive countries such as Switzerland.

If your addition comes outside of your budget, consider off-season travel or one of the less expensive backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks.

Transportation

Travel prices rise and fall with the seasons and major holidays in Europe, just like most places in the world. In the summers and around the winter holidays, you’ll see flights and train tickets skyrocket.

✔️ In the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, you can usually score a great deal on nearly half-priced airfare and train travel.

✔️ Taxis will be expensive regardless of when you visit and you’ll have a higher likelihood of getting scammed year-round by using them (always make sure the taxi is with a reputable company).

✔️ You can occasionally get a good deal on car rentals in the shoulder season , but keep in mind that the chance of poor driving conditions increases outside of the summer months in most European destinations.

In the peak season summer months, car rentals will be expensive (with limited kilometers – extra money for unlimited) and can book up almost a year in advance on some occasions!

✔️ So, overall, the most cost-efficient method of getting around in popular travel destinations is to walk, take the metro, or rent a bicycle !

Bicycles can often be rented for as little as €10 per 24 hours, and can also often be rented for up to a week at a time for good deals, as well. By combining walking and biking around major cities, you’ll save a lot of money.

✔️ 3 Km Taxi Ride: €4.50-24 ✔️ Single Metro Ride: €1.50-2.75 ✔️ 24 Hour Bike Rental: €14 ✔️ One Week Car Rental in France: $155-700+

Accommodation

If you’re trying to stick to a budget but also want to avoid hostels, you’re in luck. Europe is covered in budget-friendly hotels and there are usually at least a few in every country you visit.

These accommodations have been priced to show the difference between the shoulder season (low end) and peak season (high end).

Budget Hostel: €33-55 (per night of single occupancy) Mid-Range Hotel: €83-130 (per night of double occupancy) Luxury Hotel: €240-550+ (per night of double occupancy)

If you choose one of the above backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks, chances are you’ll likely be eating most of your meals out of food carts and the supermarket, with few meals being saved for sit-down restaurants.

Lunch and dinner are by far the most expensive meals to eat at a sit-down restaurant, so if you’re going to splurge on anything, go for a local breakfast or brunch.

Hot Coffee: €1-3.50 Sandwich and Pastry: €4-6 Meal from a Food Truck: €5-12 Meal at Typical Restaurant for One: €15-25 Dinner for Two at a Nice Restaurant: €40-70

For the most part, outside of museums, ticket prices are similar for many major attractions year-round. So, if you’re trying to stick to a budget, make a list of all of the major attractions in each place your visiting, and choose in advance which ones you want to pay to see.

When I was backpacking through France, I went and saw the Eiffel Tower, but I decided to skip going up it. I really wanted to go paragliding in the French Alps, so I decided to do that instead of going inside all of the sights and museums in Paris.

Choose what means the most to you, then budget for it and book tickets online in advance to save money!

Eiffel Tower (stairs vs. lift and 1st vs. 3rd floor), Paris, France: €10-26 Park Güell in Barcelona, Spain: €10 Sintra Castle in Sintra, Portugal: €10 Belfry Tower in Bruges, Belgium: €12 Casemates du Bock in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg: €6

Other Expenses

Unfortunately, things happen when traveling. Take into account that pickpocketing, scams, petty theft, and losing items are all possible when taking part in any of the above backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks.

Budget for upwards of €200 in losses over the course of a 2-week trip. Keep in mind that you may not have anything happen, but if your phone gets stolen or you miss your flight, you’ll be happy you at the very least budgeted for the loss.

To help reduce your risk of needing to use this budget, avoid:

Street Games Exchanging Currency on the Street Using Streetside ATMs Taking Taxis Leaving Your Belongings Unattended Walking Home Alone (especially at night) Flashing Your Valuables in Public Spaces (wallet, jewelry, etc.)

How to Backpack Europe for 2 Weeks on a Budget

The first time I backpacked across 4 countries in Europe I was only 20 years old and in college… so, I know what you mean by being on a budget!

From my experiences, I have a few really great tips for following my backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks on a budget.

✔️ First, you’re going to have to eat food from supermarkets, street carts, and food stands .

Sit-down restaurants can cost you upwards of 25 euros per person or more in Europe, so instead just enjoy the delicious food being whipped up right outside.

✔️ Also, bring your own reusable water bottle .

Beer and wine are far cheaper than bottled water in Europe, so when it’s time to hydrate, you’ll be spending nearly 3-4 euros per small bottle.

I always use my LifeStraw Bottle since it has a 2-step filtering process and I’ve used it all over the world and have never had any issues drinking tap and even stream water.

✔️ Look for budget accommodations .

Airbnb’s, budget hotels, or even hostels can be great options. Just be sure to do some research first and ensure you pick a safe hostel in a safe part of town if that’s the route you choose to go.

✔️ Walking, bike rentals, and the metro will be your new best friend.

Taxis and cabs are super expensive (and dangerous at times), so opt to take a more eco-friendly approach to get around. It’s cheap and it’s better for you and our planet!

✔️ When getting between countries, compare flight and train prices .

Trains are most often cheaper, but can sometimes take far longer than a plane. Compare your options and see what fits best for your itinerary.

✔️ Pro Tip : I prefer to travel on the Eurail since it’s always scenic, affordable, easy-to-use, and comfortable. I highly recommend buying a multi-country or multi-week pass if you plan on getting around primarily by train! It will save you a ton of money in comparison to buying individual tickets, especially if you’re keeping your itinerary flexible.

Unique Experiences to Have in Europe

Whether this is your first visit to Europe or your 10 th , there are seemingly endless experiences that can be had on this beautiful and diverse continent!

✔️ Hiking and Mountaineering

Everything from summer to winter hiking on the tallest mountain in the Alps (Mont Blanc), rock climbing, rappelling, cave exploring, and more is available to adventure seekers looking to hit the ground running.

✔️ Surfing and Water Sports

Surfing, snorkeling, jet-skiing, windsurfing, boating, fishing, sunbathing… you get it.

From the French Riviera to Italy’s Cinque de Terre, there is no end in sight to what you can do on the water in Europe!

✔️ Paragliding and Skydiving

We actually went paragliding on our second backpacking trip through Europe when we were in the southeast of France, and it was easily one of the best experiences of our lives!

You also have the option of going skydiving or even riding in a bush plane or taking a helicopter tour through the Alps.

✔️ Winter Sports

When it comes to winter sports, there really is no shortage in Europe. Skiing, snowboarding, ice climbing, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and hiking!

You can also opt to enjoy your time in one of the thousands of unique spa retreats scattered across the region if that’s more your style.

What to Eat in Europe

As I previously mentioned, if you’re looking to stay on somewhat of a budget you’ll need to primarily eat at street carts and food stands. This is, however, far from a bad thing!

The street food in Europe is some of the best I’ve ever had in my life. From bratwurst and French fries in Germany to homemade spaetzle and sauerkraut in Prague and delicate crepes in France, there is no end to the amazing food to try in Europe on a budget!

Or, if you’re not on much of a budget and are hoping to find the best foods in every country, these street foods should also be on your list… seriously, they’re that good!

Below is a list of some of our favorite street foods and where to try them if you plan on choosing one of our backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks!

✔️ Doner Kebab – Anywhere ✔️ Sweet or Savory Crepes – France ✔️ Curry Schnitzel Cone – Germany ✔️ Beef Stew – Budapest ✔️ Bratwurst with Mustard, Peppers, and Onions – Prague ✔️ Mulled Wine – Christmas Markets, anywhere ✔️ Pastel de Nata – Portugal ✔️ Steet Tapas – Spain ✔️ Stroopwafels and Bitterballen – Amsterdam ✔️ Chocolate and Waffles – Belgium ✔️ Trdelník – Prague ✔️ Pizza – Naples, Italy ✔️ English Yorkshire – London

Tips for Traveling Europe During COVID

Navigating the challenges of traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic can be very frustrating and overwhelming. Trust me, I’ve been there!

Each country has its own set of rules and restrictions that you’ll need to abide by if you wish to enter and have a pleasant experience, so be sure to thoroughly research current travel requirements for each country on your European backpacking itinerary.

In many cases, you’ll need to show a valid vaccine passport with the second dose being taken at least 2 weeks prior to arrival. Additionally, you will likely need to show a negative RT-PCR OR Rapid Antigen test result that was taken within a specific hourly period before your departure for Europe.

You may also need to fill out health declaration forms, quarantine without notice, have your temperature taken and symptoms checked, and even take additional COVID-19 tests after arrival.

✔️ While we try to keep this page updated as much as possible, travel requirements are changing too frequently to keep up with. Always check your government or local Embassy’s website for the most up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 protocols. Requirements are changing very frequently and sometimes without notice, so you’ll need to be prepared for any changes to your itinerary. This is another big reason that having travel insurance that covers COVID-19 is extremely useful! Keep in mind that most travel insurance needs to be booked within 2 weeks of booking your trip , or it may not cover everything.

Travel Insurance for Europe

If you have plans to follow any of the above backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks, you should definitely be buying travel insurance. While I don’t want to scare you or make you think that backpacking isn’t a safe idea, there are endless possibilities for things that could go wrong.

Pickpockets, lost luggage, travel delays and cancelations, or worse… injuries, are all possible. We always use SafetyWing since it’s ridiculously affordable (like $42 per month of travel per person…) and it covers practically everything, including COVID.

We have also heard of other travelers being happy with the service from World Nomads , but we haven’t used them so we can’t vouch for them personally.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

I can’t recommend the backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks above enough – seriously! Backpacking Europe makes up some of my favorite travel experiences to date, and I am notorious for oversharing my fond memories with practically strangers…

But, there are a few things you should know before you jump on a plane, train, or ferry over to Europe to keep you safe. Just like anywhere in the world, Europe is a very safe region but there are things you should be aware of and look out for.

✔️ For example, avoid street games at all costs.

This is a classic “local scams the tourist” scenario, so don’t give anybody on the street your money or show them your wallet.

✔️ Also, avoid using streetside ATMs !

Many of them have a plastic covering over the card reader that you won’t be able to see that will steal all of your credit card information. This is especially true in Prague. Only ever exchange or withdraw money at a local bank or at an ATM behind a locked door with cameras.

✔️ Don’t do what the girls in the photo above are doing… letting their guards down with all of their belongings on them.

Never make your way through a new city with all of your belongings unless you are en route to your accommodation.

✔️ Save all of your sightseeing until you can get your bags to safety .

When you have your bags on your person, look confident and maintain a steady pace to your hotel or dorm room. Otherwise, you become a very easy target for pickpockets and scam artists.

✔️ Furthermore, try to avoid walking alone at night.

If you are strictly traveling solo, only walk through well-lit and densely-populated areas after dark. Avoid residential neighborhoods and “shortcuts.”

✔️ If you would prefer to get a ride, have a bartender or your hotel order you a taxi .

Generally, they will be using reputable companies, but don’t get in if there is already someone inside.

✔️ If you must take a taxi on the street, always pull up the directions before getting in and show the driver. Also, ask the driver how much the ride will cost before they start driving.

Otherwise, you could get scammed out of a lot of money. A friend of mine got scammed for $100 for a couple-mile-long taxi ride in Europe, so take my advice on this!

✔️ Avoid taking any drinks from people at bars or clubs that you didn’t see get made or opened. If you leave your drink unattended for any amount of time, buy a new one.

Date rape drugs are quite common across Europe, sadly.

✔️ Lastly, pickpocketing is very common in Europe , unfortunately.

Do your best to keep your belongings zipped up and on the front of your person. Never leave any bags hanging on the back of your chair or your phone or wallet on a table, etc.

Other Helpful Resources

Check out some of these other related articles – they may have the answers to all of your burning European travel questions!

The Top 40 Hidden Gems in Europe To Visit in 2021 143 Once in a Lifetime Experiences for Your Europe Bucket List Minimalist Packing List for Females Traveling to Europe Packing List for Europe in Winter: A Full Country by Country Guide European Honeymoon Itinerary: 9 Incredible Options for 1 Week, 2 Weeks, + 1 Month 30+ Best Places to Visit in Europe in December 73 Best Places to Visit in Europe in January 2024 25 Best Places in Europe for New Years Celebrations 30+ BEST Places to Visit in Europe in March 2024 30+ BEST Places to Visit in Europe in April 2024 Is Azerbaijan in Europe? The Facts for 2024 Is Norway in Europe? Norway & the EEA EFTA States 11 BEST Wine Tours in Tuscany from Florence in 2024

Europe is full of everything from enchanting castles and medieval villages to white-sand beaches and snowy mountain tops as well as sophisticated cities and small, romantic towns.

With so much to do and see on one of the most diverse continents in the world, it can be challenging to decide where to go!

That’s why I have created these diverse backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks that cover every region of Europe! Use them to help you plan your ultimate European journey with all of the sights, activities, and food of your wildest dreams.

I hope this post comes in handy when planning your next backpacking trip to Europe and you have the experience of a lifetime!

The Ultimate Guide To Traveling Europe On a Budget!

With just pennies to my name, I figured out how to travel to some of the most expensive countries in Europe!

​ ​ Get my simple 5-step guide on how I have saved thousands on European travel by subscribing below.

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

Table of contents

How to Train for Hiking & Backpacking Trips

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links

If you’ve got your sights set on a difficult hike or an epic backpacking trip, it’s smart to prepare your body in the weeks and months leading up to it by doing some training. When you’re in tip-top shape, you can truly enjoy the experience instead of worrying about being sore and exhausted. Training can also be a lot of fun and you can do it at home without spending a dime.

If you’re already active and feel like you’re in good shape, you may think you don’t need to condition for your trip. But be honest with yourself – when’s the last time you put on a backpack and slogged up flights of stairs for hours upon hours? Hiking and backpacking are more than just walking, they’re an endurance sports. The more you train, the better you’ll feel when the big day comes.

The Benefits of Training

A BETTER EXPERIENCE

Training will allow you to enjoy your time on the trail more. Instead of feeling tired and miserable while hiking, you can focus on having fun and soaking in nature’s beauty. If you aren’t over-exerting yourself, you’ll have more energy left in the tank to explore side trails, take photos, savor your time in camp, or whatever brings you joy. If you have quads of steel, you’ll also be able to carry more food or luxury items, like a Kindle , mini travel game , or a flask . The benefits don’t end when the trek is over either. A fit person doesn’t need as much time to recover after a trip and their memories of the experience will be more positive.

AVOID BLISTERS & INJURIES

A little pre-trip training will help you avoid potential blisters and injuries. Developing strength and flexibility in the knees, ankles, and feet is especially critical for backpacking. Resistance training strengthens muscles and tendons while increasing the flexibility of the ligaments. This helps mitigate the risk of strains or tears. Training can also help prevent blisters by gradually toughening up the skin and by giving you time to break-in and become familiar with your footwear . Become a blister-fighting ninja by reading our How to Prevent and Treat Blisters While Hiking post .

MOTIVATION FOR LONG-TERM HEALTH & FITNESS

An upcoming adventure makes a great goal to motivate you to work on your fitness. Every time you think of those beautiful mountains you’re going to climb, your drive to walk or do squats will be reignited. It’s also a ton of fun to train since it gets you active and going outside regularly. You may even inspire your family or friends to train with you!

Conditioning doesn’t have to build up and end with a single trip either. You can use training to develop a bomber stress-relieving routine for your long-term mental and physical health. To galvanize training into your lifestyle, pencil in several challenging hikes or backpacking trips on your calendar throughout the year. For us, there’s nothing as powerful as an epic vista to incentivize ongoing exercise. Check out our Backpacking Trip Guides for inspiration.

Where to Start

Zero in on your goals.

Training is most effective when you have specific goals you want to reach, which is why it pays to do your research and get to know the route you plan to hike. Look closely at your backpacking itinerary and zero-in on logistics. Pay attention to details like how many miles you’d like to travel per day, how much elevation gain and loss there is on your route, and how much weight you’ll likely carry in your backpack . Remember to factor in food weight if you’ll have long carries between resupply points and water weight if you’ll traverse significant dry stretches. Once you have a good grasp on these facts, you can start practicing for these specific conditions. Check out our video on trip planning for more details.

NAVIGATE THE NUMBERS

It’s really helpful to know about how long it takes you to hike a mile for both training and trip-planning purposes. Your speed will change depending on your fitness level, obstacles on the trail, weather, and the weight on your back. Once you’re in shape, a good hiking pace to strive for (with a backpack on and over variable terrain), is 2-3 miles per hour. That’s about 20-30 minutes per mile. Plan to take about 30 minutes longer for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain (uphill).

The most important thing you can do to start training for a hike is to start moving regularly. It doesn’t really matter what you do, just get up and get your blood flowing for at least 20 minutes a day. Walk, dance, vigorously clean – whatever is the most accessible and enjoyable to you at the time. This will start exercising your heart and lungs – the real workhorses of hiking and backpacking. It’s best to start training about eight weeks before a big hike, but it can’t hurt to start earlier. If you’ve been sedentary for a while or your sights are set on a particularly long or challenging trip, we recommend training for at least a few months so you can ease into it gradually.

START A WALKING ROUTINE

Start walking as often as possible. Begin with a couple of easy walks per week. Then work up to doing several more intense walks mid-week and a longer hike on the weekend. Keep track of how many miles you walk, how long it takes, and how you feel. Some people like to use a phone app or a fitness watch, such as a Fitbit , to track their activity. These indicators will give you an idea of what your current fitness level is and how much you need to push yourself to be ready for your trip. Increase the length and difficulty of your walks in baby steps. The last thing you want to do while training is strain something and have to put your plans on hold. Consistently work towards small, attainable goals and make sure you’re enjoying yourself along the way.

HEAD FOR THE HILLS

Hilly terrain creates an excellent opportunity for bursts of intensity followed by periods of recovery, which builds up your endurance for backpacking like nothing else can. Alternating between high-intensity uphill sections and lower-intensity flat or downhill sections keeps your heart rate fluctuating. This type of interval training gives you a great workout in less time. It also revs up your calorie-burning ability and keeps training more interesting. Most importantly, it boosts your aerobic capacity, so you can eventually hike longer and steeper routes.

Once you’re feeling strong on your walks, start wearing a daypack to add to the challenge. Load your daypack with enough weight to account for about 25% of the total amount you plan to carry on your trek. Water bottles are heavy when full and make great weights. Gradually add more weight to the backpack until you can easily handle at least 75% of the total weight you intend to carry on your trip. Towards the end, you should transition to wearing the backpack you plan to use on your backpacking trip.That way you can practice making adjustments and troubleshoot any issues with friction or fit. If you’re not sure how heavy your backpack will be yet, check out our Ultralight Backpacking Basics Guide and our Ultimate Backpacking Checklist to learn more.

Finding the Time to Train With a Busy Schedule

We understand that it can be tough to find the time to train when you have a busy schedule. If all you can manage is a walking routine, don’t beat yourself up. Logging miles is by far the most important part of training. Bonus points if you can also carve out 20 or 30 minutes two or three times a week to do some of the following exercises. Your body will thank you for it. To maximize your time, focus on exercises that improve overall fitness and target multiple muscle groups with each repetition.

Strengthening exercises

PARTS OF THE BODY WE USE MOST WHILE HIKING & BACKPACKING:

• Core (abdominals, obliques, back)
• Legs (quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves)
• Hips (hip flexors)

Top 5 Training Exercises

It’s ideal to do the following strength training exercises two or three times per week on the days you aren’t walking or doing cardio. Make sure to stretch and warm up for a few minutes before you start to protect your joints.

If you only have time for one exercise, do squats. They’re super effective at strengthening your glutes and legs, which are constantly challenged while backpacking. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Keeping your knees in line with your ankles, bend at your knees and sit back as if you are sitting into a low chair behind you. Keep your chest open and upright. Then, driving your weight into your heels, stand back up, squeezing your glutes as you come up. Extra credit: Hold weight in hands while you do your squats to add resistance. Reps: 1-3 sets of 20+

Lunges will help strengthen your quads, the largest muscles in your legs so you’ll be ready to charge up those relentless uphill sections of trail. To do this exercise, start by standing with your feet together. Step your right foot forward and lunge forward. Then step your right foot back to meet your left again. Next, step your right foot to the right and lunge to the side. Bring your right foot back to meet your left. Then, step your right foot back behind you and lunge back. Bring your right foot forward to meet your left. Repeat on your left side. That’s one rep. Extra credit: Hold a weight or water bottle in each hand if you want to up your game. Reps : 1-3 sets of 10+

MOUNTAIN CLIMBERS

Mountain climbers give you a burst of cardio to help get your lungs and heart ready for backpacking. At the same time, they strengthen your core, which supports your load and provides stability on uneven terrain. Start in a high plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders on the floor and your legs extended behind you. Keep your body in a straight line and float your right knee up to meet your chest or outer right elbow (try both). Hold for a second, then, return your foot to plank position. Repeat with your left knee, using your core to keep everything tight. Repeat, as fast as you can with control, alternating sides. Reps: 1-3 sets of 20+

The step up exercise builds strength and endurance in your glutes and quad muscles, so you’ll be ready to step up and over any amount of downed logs or obstacles that stand in your way. You’ll need a stable surface, about 8 inches off the ground to step up onto. The bottom step on a flight of stairs works well. Start with your left foot on the ground and your right foot on top of the step (your right knee will be bent). Step up until you are standing with your right leg nearly straight and you’re balanced on top of the step. Pause in a balanced position with your left foot a few inches above the step. Then step down, returning your left leg and right foot to the starting position. Do all your reps on one side, then repeat the exercise on the other side. Extra credit: wear a backpack with some weight or increase the step height to add to the challenge. Reps: 1-3 sets of 20+

CALF RAISES/HEEL DIPS

Calf raises and heel dips will give you chiseled calves as well as strong ankles and feet, so you’ll be less fatigued and more stable on uneven terrain. You’ll need a stable step to do this exercise. The bottom step on a flight of stairs works well. Start with both feet on top of the step, positioned so that your weight is on your toes/balls of the feet and your heels are floating over the edge. First, stand up high on your toes, squeezing your calves and pausing at the top. Then, lower your heels, dipping them lower than the edge of the step. Come back to a neutral position, then repeat. Reps: 1-3 sets of 20+

Mental Aspects of Training

Hiking and backpacking can be intense both mentally and physically. Training will not only tone your body, but it will also help you develop mental stamina.

Your brain plays a critical role in training for a hike or big undertaking of any kind. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become in your body and your abilities. After you reach a big goal for the first time, you’ll know what it feels like, and you’ll be certain you can do it again. You’ll likely find that you’re much tougher that you ever imagined and that you can breathe to get through challenges instead of giving up when things get hard.

If you’re having a bad day and you’re dragging, listen to music to get pumped up or push a little less if you need to. The toughest part is getting going. The hardest and most worthwhile hikes take perseverance, grit, and a positive attitude. Being present and having gratitude for the beauty around you will go a long way.

Shoes & Boots

It’s really important to wear the same footwear you’ll be wearing for your hike while you train. The more experience you have with your shoes or boots, the less likely you are to develop blisters or have problems on your trip. Wear your shoes for several weeks to get to know them and use the opportunity to nip troubles in the bud while resources are still close at hand.

We prefer to hike in trail running shoes most of the time because they’re lightweight, breathable, and they sap less energy with every step. Learn more about why we prefer trail running shoes for backpacking trips by reading or 5 Reasons to Ditch Your Boots article. We have experience with a ton of footwear and we’re happy to share it.

Check out our footwear lists for our top recommendations:

• Best Trail Running Shoes ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Best Hiking Shoes ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Best Hiking Boots ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Best Winter Boots ( Men’s / Women’s )

Training for High Altitude Hikes

It’s especially important to train before hiking and backpacking at high elevations. When we go higher than 8,000 feet (or 2,400 meters) above sea level, our bodies can start to be affected by the lower air pressure. Lower air pressure means there’s less oxygen for us to breathe and we run less efficiently because of it. It’s not uncommon to be more tired than usual, have a mild headache, or to feel like you need to breathe deeper to fill your lungs.

ALTITUDE SICKNESS

Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a lot like a hangover. Some people are affected more than others and it can be a really miserable experience. Fortunately, there are precautions you can take to avoid it. That said, it’s important to know the signs and symptoms of AMS so you can keep it from escalating into a major issue (see HACE and HAPE below).

The first symptoms of altitude sickness are headache, loss of appetite, and trouble sleeping. If these symptoms don’t go away in a day or if they get worse you should consider descending to rest. More serious symptoms include vomiting, feeling dizzy, confusion or spaciness, feeling unable to walk, and having bluish lips or fingernails.

HACE & HAPE

High altitude cerebral oedema (HACE) or pulmonary oedema (HAPE) , are fatal conditions to look out for while hiking and backpacking at high altitude. Excess fluid in the lungs or fluid around the brain can kill you quickly. The good news is, these conditions rarely occur unless you spend a significant amount of time above 10,000 feet. Patients usually don’t present symptoms unless they spend more than 48 hours above 13,000 feet. Know the signs before you embark on an adventure in extremely high places. Shortness of breath at rest, confusion, or extreme drowsiness are signs of a life-threatening emergency.

TIPS FOR HIGH ALTITUDE SUCCESS

• Acclimate – If you’ll be traveling to a location with a much higher altitude than the place where you live, try to give yourself an extra day or two in town to get used to the lower air pressure before you start. If you plan to tackle a high mountain summit, build up to it by climbing lower mountains in the area in the weeks before if you can.
• Ascend gradually – Climb high during the day, but try not to camp more than 1,000 feet higher than you did the night before to give your body a chance to acclimate slowly (remember the phrase: climb high, sleep low).
• Adjust your pace – You may have to hike a bit slower than usual or take breaks more often. That’s okay. It’s critical to listen to your body and not push too hard.
• Drink plenty of water and eat well – Lots of water and a diet rich in carbohydrates will help stave off symptoms of altitude sickness. Snack often to fuel your body consistently.
• Avoid alcohol – Since hydration is so important at high altitude, it’s best to save the booze for celebration after your trip.
• Bring warm clothes – Temperatures fluctuate drastically during the course of a day at high elevations and conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared with a hat, gloves, and extra layers to regulate your temperature and keep you well-insulated, even in the summer.
• Wear sunscreen – The sun is extra intense at high elevations and the health of your skin plays a huge role in your ability to thermoregulate and stay well at high altitude.

Final Tips For Training

TRIP PLANNING

After you’ve had some time to train and you have an idea of what your body can handle, be honest with yourself about your fitness level and the amount of time you have left to make more progress before your trip. Revisit your trip plans and dial them in with realistic expectations. If you realize you’ve overestimated your abilities, you’ll still have time to adjust your plans. If you’re not going for a speed record, you’ll probably have a better time if you’re a bit conservative with your estimates. If you’re new to backpacking, check out our 12 Tips for Planning Great Backpacking Adventures Tutorial .

REST BEFORE THE BIG DAY – As your trip date approaches, plan to rest for a few days, or even a whole week before your trip. This will give your body a chance to fully recover so you can be at your best on the day of your trip. Light exercise is a good thing, just keep in mind that last-minute planning, packing, and travel can sap energy, so it’s best to take a break from rigorous training just before your big day. Eat well, sleep well, and get pumped!

Once you get into the habit of walking, moving, and getting outdoors, you probably won’t want to stop. We make continuous training for adventures part of our lifestyle. It helps relieve stress, gives us something to look forward to, and keeps us in shape so we’re not scrambling when the next opportunity for adventure comes up. We hope this helps you reach your goals and inspires you to plan a trip if you haven’t already.

Related Content

The 35 Best Ways to Save At REI’s Member Moment Event 2024

10 Campfire Safety Tips

Get the best content from cleverhiker & around the backpacking world.

Social media is great, but our bi-weekly newsletter is a much better way to stay in the know.

Sign up to get our curated emails with the best content from CleverHiker and around the backpacking world. You’ll be turned on to new videos, trip reports, gear reviews, inspiring outdoor stories and much more. So get in the mix!

Classic Patagonia Itinerary: 2 Weeks of Hiking and Adventure

Posted on Last updated: June 1, 2022

So, you need an adventurous 2 week Patagonia itinerary . I’ll tell you now, you’ve made a fantastic choice to plan a trip to Patagonia! Visiting Patagonia may just be one of the best decisions of my life, and I don’t think I will ever get over the incredible views and scenery I saw here while doing some of the most scenic hiking and trekking in Patagonia – the best in the world.

This 2 week Patagonia itinerary will take you through some of the best places in both Chilean Patagonia and Argentinian Patagonia (Chile and Argentina), in the southern part of both regions.

More specifically, you’ll see Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine National Park, El Calafate, El Chalten/Cerro Torre , and a few sights in Los Glaciares National Park . These are the most famous must-sees in Patagonia.

These places are where the most dramatic and impressive mountains stand sentinel over tiny wooded towns in Chile and Argentina, and thin blankets of snow cover arid landscapes along remote mountain roads.

What to Expect from this Patagonia Itinerary

This itinerary involves lots of hiking trails – the W Trek in Torres del Paine, the Fitz Roy trek and possibly Laguna Torre treks in El Chalten, and the Perito Moreno glacier in El Calafate. It’s a classic route for first-timers to Patagonia and can be combined with my northern Patagonia itinerary to make a one month in Patagonia if desired.

This 2 week Patagonia itinerary is more of a freestyle guideline where you can ‘choose your own adventure.’ I will suggest activities and accommodation and you can select what is best for you. This Patagonia itinerary is the exact 2 weeks that I spent when I was there, so I know it’s possible!

You will want to plan many of these tours out beforehand, so follow the links I have included if you want my best tips on companies to book with. This is true especially for the W Trek, because the refugios book up very quickly. This route does not include Ushuaia in Argentina, so make sure to add some time if you’s like to go there too.

But First – Why Not Check Out Some More Patagonia/Argentina and Chile Content? (These Open in a New Tab!)

• A complete guide to Buenos Aires
• My Torres del Paine W Trek – Triumph and Struggle
• San Pedro de Atacame Chile Guide 
• A Guide to the Salta + Jujuy regions of Northern Argentina

When is the Best time to Go to Patagonia?

You may be wondering what time of year is the best to take a trip to Patagonia. Honestly, pretty much any time of year is great for 2 weeks in Patagonia because each season has its benefits in both Chile and Argentina.

Weather is unpredictable all year, especially in Torres del Paine, so there’s no way to get around possible inclement weather. However, here’s my rundown of each season in Patagonia.

Summer in Patagonia is the most ideal because temperatures will be far warmer. Summer is the best for camping but is also very crowded.

Autumn in Patagonia is when I went, and I honestly believe this to be the best season to go. I’m not kidding when I say I have NEVER seen fall colors as I did in Patagonia. It is definitely colder and camping is not a good idea at this time of year, but if you don’t mind a bit of cold, the color is worth it a million times over. Read more about autumn in Patagonia.

Winter in Patagonia is probably not the best idea. Refugios close around early to mid-May, and there are only a few companies (including ChileTour Patagonia) that will organize camping in the winter. But it will be freezing!

Spring in Patagonia would also be an ideal and slightly less crowded time to visit Patagonia. Flowers bloom (on all the trees that turn bright colors in the autumn) between spring and summer, which is another amazing sight to see along any trek. It will still be chilly!

What to Know About the W Trek

I have included the 5 day/4 night Torres del Paine W trek in this Patagonia Itinerary because it’s one of the most famous treks in the world and presents some of the best views Patagonia can offer. It’s truly an adventurer’s dream!

You should have your W Trek planned out far before you arrive in Puerto Natales. The refugios and campsites book up quickly, especially in summer. For this reason, you’ll want to either book a tour that reserves everything for you, or reserve your spots as soon as you can.

I have included links to book the refugios and campsites below, so you can check if your dates are currently available. Make sure to also know what to pack for hiking in Patagonia.

Campsites book up less quickly than refugios, however, and are often far more accessible at the last minute. You can do some research on the hiking trails and plan it out yourself, or check out my Torres del Paine W Trek post that I did with ChileTour Patagonia , a company that I loved and was fairly affordable compared to other companies.

Patagonia Itinerary Day 1-2: Fly Into Punta Arenas, Chile

Once you arrive in Punta Arenas, settle in and rest! Depending on your flight arrival time you may have more or less time in the city, but use it to spend the day getting accustomed to Patagonian weather and beat any jet lag you may have before traveling in Patagonia.

Getting to Punta Arenas

There are very cheap flights to Punta Arenas from Santiago, the capital of Chile. Santiago is the easiest place to fly into; you can get here from many places in South America, North America, and even direct from Australia. Check Aerolineas Argentina, LATAM, and more. From there, you can get another cheap flight down to Punta Arenas.

I booked my flight to Punta Arenas less than a month before, and it came out to around $72 with a bag (even cheaper if you book in advance)! This is the cheapest airport to fly into in Southern Patagonia.

Where to Stay in Punta Arenas:

Comfort accommodation in punta arenas:.

Hotel Almasur Punta Arenas (Prev. Hotel Rey Don Felipe) is a beautiful hotel right in the center of town, with an amazing hot buffet breakfast that was absolutely to-die-for! There was a lovely view from the window, and I woke up each morning to the sun shining over the beautiful and colorful city.

They have an all-day snack menu or a fancy dinner menu at their fully equipped restaurant. We even tried a classic Patagonian ‘Calafate Sour’ as a welcome drink! The staff were always so helpful and their common space was a perfect place for me to catch up on work.

Budget Accommodation in Punta Arenas:

There are a few hostels in Punta Arenas for backpackers. I recommend Hospedaje Magallanes.

Patagonia Itinerary  Day 1: Rest, relax, explore Punta Arenas, and prepare yourself! 

Today, depending on what time you fly in, you might have an entire day or just an evening in Punta Arenas to begin your trip to Patagonia. You can spend the day walking around town, shopping for any trekking/mountain supplies/clothes you may need, finding $1 street empanadas, and walking down to the shore to see the ‘Patagonian Penguins.”

You can check out some of the cute cafe’s, shop at the markets along the streets (where I got my hat I wore all throughout Patagonia!), find a nice restaurant for dinner, and get adjusted to the jet lag, because it’ll be go-go-go from here!

Patagonia Itinerary  Day 2: Day Tour to Tierra del Fuego to see the Penguins!

Depending on the time of year, you can book a day tour from Punta Arenas going south to the Isla Tierra del Fuego to see some Antarctic Magellan penguins! There are usually tours each day, but check to make sure there are tours and that it’s the right time of year for penguins. Book a tour in advance here!

This tour will take you on a ferry to Porvinir from Punta Arenas, to the penguins for a few hours, and the up to some historical sites in San Gregorio and a few other points of interest. It’s not quite a visit to the arctic circle without seeing some real live penguins now, is it?!

Another option is to spend the day taking a tour to Magdalena Island from Punta Arenas . This is a bit closer (only a half-day tour) and is another great place to see penguins.

View the rest of my photo album from Puerto Natales: click here!

Patagonia Itinerary Day 3: Get To Puerto Natales + Prepare for the W Trek

Now it’s time to start making your way north to the closest town to Torres del Paine!

Getting to Puerto Natales from Punta Arenas

Grab a bus at any time from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales! The bus station is right in town in Punta Arenas, and is within walking distance from any accommodation in the center. It should take about 3 hours, and there are multiple busses each day.

Once you arrive in Puerto Natales, you’ll be at the bus station about 2km from the center of town. You can get a taxi for about 1500 pesos to pretty much anywhere in the center, or just walk it!

Where to Stay in Puerto Natales

Puerto Natales and Torres del Paine cater very well to the luxury traveler, so there are quite a few amazing places to stay (including one of the top hotels on the continent!). There are also a lot of backpacker hostels.

I stayed in the guesthouse of ChileTour Patagonia (the W Trek company I used) because our whole tour was run from there (and meals included) but here are some ideas for both the budget and comfort traveler.

Comfort Accommodation in Puerto Natales:

• The Singular Patagonia : This hotel is just outside of Puerto Natales town and is one of the top rated on the continent! Surrounded by beautiful ranch land and on the edge of a lake, The Singular presents all rooms with an incredible view along with spa facilities, an amazing restaurant, a pool, casino, wellness center, and more. If you have extra time and money…
• Hotel Costaustralis : This hotel is constructed in an old style and is right in the center of town. All rooms will look out to the lake and be within walking distance of everything.
• Remota Hotel :   This lovely space is both architecturally creative and has all the amenities you could need for a luxurious stay – including a warm pool with a mountain view!
• Tierra Patagonia : This is a bit farther outside the city, but is uber-luxurious and closer to Torres del Paine.

 Budget Accommodation in Puerto Natales:

• Hostel Last Hope: a great community vibe hostel in a lovely old wooden house.
• The Singing Lamb Backpackers: Clean and homey space for backpackers to socialize and plan treks

Preparing for the W Trek (and Exploring Town)

First of all, make sure you’re ready for your big trek! As you will have seen in my Torres del Paine W Trek post, the weather is very unpredictable and you should be prepared for the worst, just in case.

If you must, you can rent lots of supplies from your hiking company or shops around town. This includes all kinds of camping gear if you choose to camp, hiking poles (recommended), hiking shoes, hiking pants, gloves, and jackets for the hiking trails.

Apart from making sure you’re ready to trek, you should walk around town a bit. Puerto Natales is a beautiful and cozy little town with lots of beautiful sculptures along the water. Explore some of the shops, cafes, and bars, and walk along the water. The sunset could be great over the lake if you get a clear day! Chile also has cheap good wine and also artisanal beer – but maybe you should wait until after the trek to try it!

Most people visit Puerto Natales to get to Torres del Paine, but you can also ride bikes around the town and also take a glacier boat tour . For those who do not want to do the whole 5 days in the national park, there are also full day tours to Torres del Paine from Puerto Natales if you don’t have much time.

What You Will Need for the W Trek

• Sweat absorbent bottom layer – Women’s / Men’s
• Fleece/down middle layer – like this one. To be layered with
• Waterproof top layer jacket with hood – Women’s / Men’s
• Exercise tights/pants and waterproof hiking/rain pants
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Multiple pairs of woolen socks
• Plastic rain poncho
• Gloves (one pair for warmth and/or another thicker waterproof pair for protection)
• Warm hat/beanie
• Backpacking backpack with a waterproof cover (35-45L ideal)
• Hiking poles
• Camera/GoPro
• extra plastic bags for keeping things dry
• make sure to travel with a headlamp whether camping or not!
• Thermos Bottle to fill with hot coffee in the morning and water later on (an idea that I loved)
• Reusable water bottle
• snacks (fruit, chocolate bars, muesli bars)
• oatmeal for breakfast
• sandwich supplies for lunch
• pasta and veggies for dinner
• Tent (waterproof and able to withstand wind/elements)
• Sleeping bag suitable for freezing temperatures
• Inflatable pillow
• String/line to hang wet clothes
• Water bottle to fill with warm water for inside sleeping bag
• Changes of clothes

Patagonia Itinerary Days 4-8: W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park

All tour companies plan the W trek differently, and there are trekkers going both from right to left on the hiking trails and from left to right. To keep it easy I’m going to list the way I did the trek for this Patagonia itinerary, but keep in mind you can do it both ways.

You can look at a trail map (they give you one upon entry) for specific trekking instructions; I have simply listed out the order and points of interest to make a more complete Patagonia itinerary. You can also see my post for my experience each day.

As far as food goes, full board is available from all refugios, which I recommend. It’s pricey, but is much easier in my eyes than carting around cooking/food supplies to cook in the camping areas. If you have full board, there will be hot Chilean breakfast each morning, a packed lunch, and a hot three-course dinner served each evening. It’s lush, and it’s awesome.

Torres del Paine is a place to splurge for many people. However, the camping areas pretty much all have functional kitchens as well. It’s up to you!

For some inspo, here are some views you will see in Torres del Paine:

Getting to To Torres del Paine from Puerto Natales

There are lots of buses to the National Park from Puerto Natales. If you have an organized tour, your transport may be accounted for. If not, you can purchase a ticket to the park on any of many regular busses.

For day 1 of the W trek, you’ll want to get the earliest bus you can to the National Park entrance (where you will pay about $35USD entry) and then to the first refugio, Refugio Las Torres.

Patagonia Itinerary Day 4 (W Trek Day 1): Mirador de Las Torres

After arriving at Refugio Las Torres, it’s time to begin one of the most exciting days of the trip to Patagonia! Put your things away (aka set up your tent or find your room/dorm bed) and get going – you have a long way to go! It’s a big plus, however, that you can leave your heavy things at the bottom today.

Today you will hike about 22km round trip to the most famous view of the trek, the base of the towers (Mirador de las Torres). This day has the most vertical gain, which you get over with while your legs are fresh. You’re welcome.

Refugios on the way: You can stop at Refugio Chileno, which is 5km in, to grab a snack or drink if you need.

Comfort Accommodation Day 1 W Trek:

• Hotel Las Torres: This is the ONLY luxury hotel in Torres del Paine National Park – so if you have the funds, splurge! It’s super nice and has a beautiful view. The famous towers hike starts from it as well.

Budget Accommodation Day 1 W Trek:

• Refugio Torre Central – This is a very nice refugio with great heating, comfy dorm beds, lockers, and towels included. The food is great too!
• Camping Torre Central – outside the refugio with access to amenities

Patagonia Itinerary Day 5 (W Trek Day 2): Trek to Valle Frances

Today you walk approx. 14-15km along a beautiful lake to Refugio Frances. This day doesn’t have any specific viewpoints but is beautiful throughout. It’s more of a transit day so you can position yourself well to ascend the French Valley tomorrow, going along the first bottom curve of the ‘W.’

You have the water on your left nearly all day, and if the weather is nice you’ll see the famous mountains above you! You will go across beaches, over rivers, and up and down hills, with plenty of photo ops.

Refugios on the way: Refugio Los Cuernos is about 4km from Frances – a perfect place to stop for lunch.

Accommodation Day 2 W Trek:

Tonight you stay in Duomos Frances – dorms in three massive green domes on the hillside – or camping Frances. This refugio is a lot smaller than Torre Central and was really cold for us in fall – bundle up!

Patagonia Itinerary Day 6 (W Trek Day 3): French Valley + Mirador Brittanica to Paine Grande

Today is another long day! Today you ascend the second massive viewpoint of the trek – mirador Brittanica. That is, if there isn’t a snowstorm like there was when I went (have you read my post yet?!). There are two lookout points (miradores): the French and British Lookout (Mirador Frances and Mirador Brittanica). I hope you’ll be able to see them! All I saw was a LOT of grey 😛

After you trek up to the viewpoints, you come back down again and head to Paine Grande refugio. When you reach the bottom, you have about 7.5km to go along the lake to reach the next refugio, Paine Grande.

Refugios on the way: You can leave your bags at a campsite at the bottom of the valley called Italiano. Most trekkers do this – they pack a day bag for the ascent and leave their heavy things at the bottom until they return down the middle straight of the W.

Note: if you don’t want to do the whole thing and are after some more remote luxury, you can head back after today and stay  few nights at another luxurious hotel on the other side of the park called Hotel Lago Grey.

Accommodation Day 3 W Trek:

• Paine Grande Lodge is one of the bigger refugios, with lots of space to hang out inside. It has a camping area and dorm rooms. They don’t turn the heat on until 5pm, which we learned the hard way after being turned around from the French Valley!
• Paine Grande Camping is outside the lodge and against the hillside, with access to amenities.

Patagonia Itinerary Day 7 (W Trek Day 4): Paine Grande to Refugio Grey + Grey Glacier + Hanging Bridges

Today you make your way 11km up the last stretch of the W, to Refugio Grey. This leg of the trek is beautiful, and after a few kilometers, you will get a view of the massive and incredible Grey Glacier. But, the real treat happens once you get there.

If you trek a few extra hours from Refugio Grey (and leave your heavy stuff behind), you can get much closer to the glacier and cross two incredible hanging bridges with views of the glacier. The first bridge is after about 45 more minutes, and the second is about that far from the first. DO THIS! I can’t stress it enough. This was my first clear day of the trek, and had some of the best views I’ve ever seen in my life.

Accommodation Day 4 W Trek:

• Refugio Grey is a bit smaller and does not have heating in each room. Like the rest, it does have a full bar and great food. We had live Chilean music too!
• Camping Grey is located within the trees near the refugio. They had good amenities, like a shop and a kitchen.

Patagonia Itinerary Day 8 (W Trek Day 5): Refugio Grey to Paine Grande + Catamaran to bus to Puerto Natales

Today you head back down the straight of the W you went up the day before, back to Paine Grande. You did it! To get out, you must take a catamaran from Paine Grande back to the other side of the park, where busses pick you up to go back to Puerto Natales.

Want my expert adventurer advice? Get back to Paine Grande for an early-ish catamaran – the 11:30 one is ideal (so make sure you begin hiking before 8!).

Once the catamaran gets to Pudeto, don’t take the busses straight away – wait until the later bus (for me this was at 7:20pm), and do an extra trek to another viewpoint called Mirador Los Cuernos. I was the only one of my group to do this, and it was incredible! Even after 5 days trekking, it was so worth it – what’s an extra 7km anyways?!

You walk past a waterfall and past some incredible bays to get to a viewpoint that directly faces ALL of the mountains you just trekked past. You can see the Las Torres peaks and the Paine Grande peaks, and if you have a zoom lens or binoculars you can even see the little green Duomos Frances.

It’s a pretty epic way to end your time in Torres del Paine and is one of the best views of the whole week. I saved my lunch to have on a beach that looked right out to the mountains, and had a wonderful few hours of solitude.

Getting Back to Puerto Natales from Torres del Paine

Again, busses pick you up right from the catamaran and go straight to Puerto Natales (after stopping at the park entrance first as well). While booking your trek you should get this bus booked as well, or any trekking company would figure it out for you as well.

Accommodation

You’re back in Puerto Natales – GET SOME SLEEP! Rest those tired legs, you deserve it. You can book another night in the same place you booked for your other night in Puerto Natales.

Patagonia Itinerary Days 9-11: El Calafate

Now it’s time to head to Argentinian Patagonia for the hiking and adventures offered there. First stop is less full-on and should give your legs a break before more trekking!

Getting to El Calafate from Puerto Natales

There are at least a few busses daily to El Calafate from Puerto Natales – more in high season. This bus will cross the border into Argentina ( make sure you have the proper visa before you depart!) after the first hour or so, and take about 5 hours total to reach El Calafate.

You’ll be traveling the famous Argentinian Ruta 40, which crosses some arid and beautiful land. Make sure to spend some time taking in the scenery between naps!

The El Calafate bus station is up the hill from town, about a 10-15 minute walk from the center. You can get a taxi or opt to walk. The taxis use a meter and the driver approximated 150 pesos to us (about $7USD) , which was very high for a 15-minute walk. So… we walked!

Where to Stay in El Calafate

El Calafate really has it all when it comes to accommodation options. It caters very well to the luxury tourist, but also has some really incredible hostels that seem like hotels! Here are my picks:

Comfort Accommodation in El Calafate:

• Mirador Del Lago: This lovely hotel is just outside town and, like its name suggests, has a view of the lake. It has all the luxurious amenities you could need.
• Xelena Hotel + Suites: beautiful 5 star accommodation with a great view of the bay that El Calafate sits on.
• Hotel Kosten Aike: A large and beautiful hotel property somehow nestled right in the center of town. Has a mountain lodge feel and nice spaces to relax.

Budget Accommodation in El Calafate:

• America Del Sur Hostel:  America Del Sur hostel is located up on the hillside with a lovely view of the town, which is also about a 10-15 minute walk away. They have a lovely homey space with a fire and often have live music and Argentinian BBQ’s. Also very clean and all 4-bed dorms.
• Folk Hostel El Calafate: This is a new hostel in 2018 right by the bus station with great amenities. It’s more affordable than other hostels in the area as well.
• Calafate Hostel – This hostel is right in the center of town and is very well known and popular. The location couldn’t be better and they have a nice space as well.

Patagonia Itinerary Day 9: Bus Ride, relax, and check out the town

After your bus arrives, you may have some time after finding your accommodation to check out the amazing little town. People say there’s not much to do in El Calafate, but personally, I really loved the little town.

There’s lots of shopping to do, lots of bakeries (Argentinian chocolate and alfajores – helloooo!), restaurants for any budget, and many cafes with wifi! Use this day to treat yourself to a nice dinner or grab a beer in town, getting to know it a little.

Patagonia Itinerary Day 10: Perito Moreno Glacier Tour

El Calafate is best known for its proximity to the southern part of Los Glaciares National Park, or even better yet, the Perito Moreno Glacier. I know I said the Grey Glacier in Torres del Paine was incredible, which it is, but this glacier is on another level entirely. It’s simply mind-blowing, and I can’t find adequate words to describe it.

It’s massive and stretches on for so many miles you can’t perceive the distance anymore. It’s 50-70m tall, which you can only fully comprehend when you realize that the tiny dot next to it is a two-story boat.

You can choose from a few different tours to the Perito Moreno glacier.

Option 1 : One is a basic tour, which will take you to the viewing area and give you a few hours to explore the marked boardwalks. Don’t worry – you could walk all these boardwalks 10x over and it would still not compare to the walking you’ve just done. I wouldn’t do that to you!

After a few hours, you’ll have the option to take an hour-long boat tour up close to the glacier. You can opt to take this boat tour for an extra $25, and you go as close as safely possible to the 50-70m tall glacier. You can’t go too close, though, because as one of the most active glaciers in the area, pieces fall off every 20 minutes!

Option 2 : You can actually trek on the glacier if you are so inclined. There are tours that take you to a special part of the jagged glacier where you can put crampons on and actually walk on it, and check out some glacier caves too.

Patagonia Itinerary Day 11: Optional El Calafate Tours

Luckily for you, I actually wrote an entire post about El Calafate Day Trips because it’s such an adventure hub in Southerm Patagonia! You can go ziplining, 4x4ing, hiking, biking, boating to two different other glaciers, explore a beautiful estate in the national park called Estancia Christina, or do a few other boat tours on the arms (brazos) of the national park lakes. Click the image below to see what else is available in this city!

Check out all my photos of El Chalten right here!

Patagonia Itinerary Days 12-14: El Chalten + Cerro Torre

Now that you’ve had a few days of rest (aka not trekking 20k+ km), it’s time to get back into it! El Chalten has quite a few adventures and treks, and you’ll be spoilt for choice here just like in El Calafate.

Most of the hikes here can be done as day hikes and are free, which sets it apart from El Calafate and especially Torres del Paine. The Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre Mountains Peaks (dividing Chile and Argentina) will be visible. Here are my picks!

Getting to El Chalten from El Calafate

There are multiple busses a day from El Calafate to El Chalten, which take about three hours. Busses will stop at the main bus station in El Calafate, which is slightly out of town, but will also often stop at the end of town outside Rancho Grande Hostel. Ask your driver!

Where to Stay in El Chalten

Like everywhere else in Patagonia, El Chalten has great luxury options with budget ones to balance it out. Here are my picks:

Comfort Accommodation in El Chalten

• Los Cerros Boutique Hotel + Spa : Situated on the hilltop overlooking the town, Los Cerros is a fantastic luxurious choice in El Chalten. As its name suggests, it also has a spa (you might be in need of a massage or ten after all your hiking!), lovely spaces, and fantastic views.
• Estancia La Quinta : Located quite far outside of the town, this is the option for people who prefer to feel removed from it all and have the feeling of truly being out in the middle of the Patagonian landscape – but still with luxury amenities.
• Infinito Sur: Located right in the center of town, Infinito Sur provides the amenities and comforts of a hotel but at a more affordable price.

Budget Accommodation in El Chalten

• Rancho Grande Hostel:  Rancho Grande is kind of the hostel to stay in El Chalten. It’s at the end of the main road, many busses will stop outside, and it has a bar/restaurant open 24h.
• Aylen Aike Hostel : A smaller family-run hostel with a helpful staff and community vibe. Also on the central street.

Patagonia Itinerary Day 12: Transit to El Chalten

Today you can opt to take one last morning tour in El Calafate before getting a bus to El Chalten, or grab an early bus to have a half a day in the adorable little town. Again, the ride is about three hours. El Chalten is a bit smaller than El Calafate, and just as cute!

There’s one main road bordered by most hotels, hostels, restaurants, shops, and cafes. You can explore the town or chill out and watch a movie – you have a big day ahead!

Patagonia Itinerary Day 13: Mt Fitz Roy Laguna de Los Tres Trek

The FitzRoy Trek to Laguna de Los Tres was one of the highlights of my Patagonia Itinerary for sure. We received a top tip from a hostel worker the night before, to wake up before sunrise and hike the first 4km to watch the sun come up over Lago Capri.

We were going to trek from a different place (El Pilar) to make the hike a one-way deal rather than a round trip. But instead, we took his advice that the hike is different on the way up than on the way down, and that there are different arms of the trail we can take too.

Fast forward to sunrise (8:45 am in fall): this was the BEST advice ever. I got to the lake to find a completely perfect reflection of Mt Fitz Roy on an equally perfect windless day.

I was already mind blown when the snowy mountaintops slowly started to turn PINK when the sun started coming up, getting more and more intense and turning a golden yellow and the sun rose. It was …. ridiculous. It was insane. It was everything. It was nature in its purest form. It was… I don’t even know.

After staying for the sunrise, you have 6-7 more km to go to reach Laguna de Los Tres. All of these kilometers are fairly flat and manageable until the last one… where it is completely the opposite. The last km is icy, vertical, slippery, dangerous, and intense. But, IT WILL BE WORTH IT! Hiking poles are a great idea for this, and watch your footing and watch out for ice.

This is where I did one of the most ridiculous thins I’ve ever done, pictured in the photo above. Yes, it was freezing, and yes, it’s silly. But the photo turned out pretty rad now didn’t it?! Oh, the things we do for the ‘gram.

On the way back down, make sure to take the pathway that goes toward the ‘mirador’ which is different than the path that crosses the Lago Capri, just for some variety in your life.

Patagonia Itinerary Day 14: Optional other El Chalten Adventures

Now, on the last day of this 2 week Patagonia Itinerary, you have another free choice on whether you’d like to continue the adventure or rest. There’s another amazing hike in El Chalten called Laguna Torre that you can reach from town, which is much easier (less vertical) and has amazing views of Fitz Roy.

Depending on the time of year, you can also do lots of adventure activities in El Chalten, like rafting, ice trekking, climbing lessons, and kayak and canoe trips. Choose which one sounds best for you!

After Patagonia Itinerary

Well, that’s 14 days! This completes your 2 week Patagonia Itinerary, and from here you have a few options:

Finish Your Trip – Flying Out

• Back to Punta Arenas:  You can catch 3 busses back to Punta Arenas to fly out of there, in the opposite order as you did before. Punta Arenas is the cheapest to fly out of and would be easy to buy round trip tickets from if this is the end of your travels.
• Fly out of El Calafate: El Calafate also has an airport, but it’s much more expensive. Depending on your further travels, you can look at flights from El Calafate to skip out on a few more hours on a bus getting back to Punta Arenas. Check Aerolineas Argentinas, LATAM, and more.

Continue Going North

If you are traveling on, you can continue north from El Chalten. There are a few options here (best understood while looking at Google Maps):

• Bus to Bariloche/El Bolson: Most backpackers take a LONG bus from here to Bariloche or El Bolson, especially later in the season. This skips out on a lot of the middle of Patagonia. There is not much between El Chalten and El Bolson in Argentinian Patagonia, besides the beautiful Route 40.

THIS CONTINUES ON TO MY NORTHERN PATAGONIA ITINERARY – Read Here if you fancy making your two weeks into a month and seeing some more incredible parts of Patagonia.

• Back to Chilean Patagonia : However, if you went back into Chile, many people travel/drive/hitchhike the Carretera Austral up Chilean Patagonia, the Route 7. This is a beautiful and scenic road which, unlike the Route 40, has many possible stops along the way.
• You could go back into Chile at Chile Chico (bus from El Chalten) if it’s in high season, and travel up to Puerto Montt and Isla Chiloe from there. From there you could go to Bariloche and El Bolson.
• If you cross into Chile Chico, you could visit the Marble Caves in Chile   which seem awesome, and continue of the Carretera Austral through some more awesome National Parks.

OR, you could simply get the 24-hour bus from El Chalten to El Bolson, and go from there. Check my Northern Patagonia Highlights Itinerary for info on where to go from El Bolson!

PHEW! I hope I didn’t inundate you with too much information there. If you enjoyed my Patagonia Itinerary, please leave a comment below, share it, or Pin it to your Pinterest boards! I would appreciate it a LOT 🙂

More South America Content:

• Cafayate, Argentina Itinerary
• What to Do in Buenos Aires
• Argentina Bukcet List: 50 Things to Do
• Guide to visiting Salta + Jujuy
• Riding the Tren a Las Nubes in Salta

Don’t forget to check out my photography website for more Patagonia photography and textures!

Mendoza Wine Tasting with Mendoza Wine Camp: More than Just Malbec

Tuesday 19th of June 2018

[…] about from our amazing tour guide and owner of Mendoza Wine Camp, Adam. Having previously been in southern Patagonia for two weeks and northern Patagonia for two weeks, I had not learned too much about Argentina’s history. […]

Two Week Northern Patagonia Highlights Itinerary: Bariloche to Pucon - Adventures & Sunsets

Saturday 16th of June 2018

[…] this two week northern Patagonia Itinerary by itself, or you can also do it as a continuation of my classic Patagonia Itinerary. The classic itinerary takes place in the southern part of Patagonia, between Torres del Paine, El […]

Top Things to do in El Calafate in Argentina's Patagonia

Thursday 14th of June 2018

[…] Continuing through Patagonia? Check out this two-week classic Patagonia itinerary. […]

Nafisa Habib

Saturday 2nd of June 2018

WOW, what a mind-blowing destination!!!! Completely loving every landscape.. A perfect spot to photograph a lot. Nice to know all about Patagonia!

Monday 4th of June 2018

It's truly a photographer's paradise! Thanks so much!

Amy Fujimoto

Oh my, aren't you cold in that bikini shot?? Lol. Looks like a ton of fun though, what a beautiful (and cold) spot! I'd love to make it out here one day!

Privacy Overview

JAVASCRIPT IS DISABLED. Please enable JavaScript on your browser to best view this site.

Survival Training & Consulting

• Survival Training Courses
• Bug Out Bag Essentials
• Prepping 101

Ultimate Two Week Hiking Road Trip Itinerary

2 Weeks Hiking Northwest Parks

We flew into and spent the night in Vegas, drove down to Los Angeles and San Diego for a bit, and then went on a proper road trip. From Vegas to Southern Utah to Northern Arizona and back, in two weeks , with lots of National Parks, State Parks and National Monuments along the way.

After our trip ended, we created this two week USA road trip itinerary that includes some of the most stunning natural landscapes in all of the United States.

Even though there are about 20 different parks along the way, don’t worry about the cost . National park entrance fees are super low if you know how to do it right. The most important thing will be to get an annual pass for all national parks . You can just buy this at the first park entrance you go to. It only costs $80 for a car and all the people in it! That is quite a bargain considering one single park is usually $15 to $30 to get into for a few days. This includes national parks and national monuments , whereas state parks in fact do cost extra. Lots of them are five or ten dollars though, so nothing to worry about.

The best strategy is usually to be in one place for a night, then drive elsewhere for the next night, and see stuff along the way. Note that most National Parks offer enough to get lost on its trails for weeks. If you have a limited amount of time though, this itinerary allows you to see a whole lot of stuff in a short period of time , but without it getting too stressful.

We’ll also give you a rough idea of motel prices along the way. Keep in mind these can vary greatly depending on the season and type of motel. The prices given in the text roughly represent the average for a basic but good motel in the summer months . If you’re just fine with the cheapest place in town, expect to pay about a third less. There are some creepy places around though!

Obviously, there often is no limit on how much you could spend if you wanted to.

Day 1: Valley of Fire

From las vegas to st. george / hurricane / springdale.

After a night or more in Las Vegas, start driving out of the city northbound on I-15.

The Valley of Fire is just over an hour drive from Las Vegas and features some of the most picturesque rock formations in Nevada.

The most scenic way will be turning off I-15 onto Valley of Fire Highway, then take Mouse’s Tank Road through the middle of the amazing state park and back. While in the park, make sure to check out some of their amazing trails .

Pretty much all of them will be accessible from Mouse’s Tank Road, winding through the park:

If you’re here in summer though, only wander out knowing that you can take extreme heat. A ton of water is obviously a must as well.

Once back by the visitor center, keep going along the Valley of Fire Highway until you reach Nevada State Route 169, turn north and drive until it crosses the I-15 again to head further north.

With Zion National Park on your list for the next morning, the destination for tonight should be either St. George, Hurricane, or Springdale. They’re getting closer to Zion – and thus more expensive – in that order. During summer, you’ll pay roughly $250 for a motel in Springdale (5 minutes from the park), as opposed to $130 in Hurricane (20 minutes from the park) and $80 in St. George (an hour from the park).

Day 2: Zion

From st. george / hurricane / springdale to panguitch / hatch.

Do yourself a favor and wake up early for this one. Zion has a lot to offer and takes a while to explore. You don’t want to miss out on that. Additionally, in summer you can’t drive your own car through the park, but have to hop on a shuttle bus instead. On summer mornings they run super frequently (like one after another frequently), but even so the wait to get on might be up to one hour! Additionally, parking spots in the park will be filled by about 9am in high season. After that, you might have to use the park-and-ride service in Springdale.

Once on the bus, you’ll have to decide which stop to get off at. The most iconic hikes are Angels Landing or The Narrows (don’t underestimate these!), but there are tons of other ones as well. Info on Zion National Park with all the trails and much more you’ll find here . After all, Zion was the first ever National Park in Utah, which should speak for itself.

After completing your hikes in Zion, head towards Bryce Canyon. There are a few ways to go, but please make sure you’re going the scenic way, the Zion – Mount Carmel Highway .

This takes you up some switchbacks inside Zion Canyon and then through a pitch-black tunnel blasted into the canyon walls some 90 years ago. Upon exiting the tunnel, a beautiful scenery of orange-golden hills dotted with green trees awaits you.

Only a few miles later, the red sandstone will fully give way to grass and forest, with the backside of Bryce’s cliffs already towering in the distance. Once you reach Mount Carmel Junction, just turn north onto Route 89 and that’ll take you near Bryce.

Again, you can stay right by the Bryce park entrance and pay some ridiculous US$250, or you settle for a the night a bit further away. The town of Panguitch is the main stop for Bryce visitors with most motels starting just over US$100 in summer, but there are some small towns on the way up from Zion dotted along the route. Hatch is the closest village to Bryce, where we stayed at the railway-themed Hatch Station Motel for US$80.

Day 3: Bryce & Scenic Byway 12

From panguitch / hatch to torrey.

Only about half an hour from Panguitch or Hatch you’ll find the entrance to Bryce National Park . Bryce is almost as popular as Zion, but even in summer, you’ll still be able to drive your own car through the park. This is because the Bryce drive is on top of a wide plateau with lots of space for parking areas, compared to the narrow canyon forming Zion. Bryce is a fabulous national park especially if you don’t want to walk far. All the viewpoints are very accessible, since the drive goes pretty much along the rim.

However, to experience the stunning rock formations first hand, you should absolutely do some walking. There are a couple of trails with a good length of about one to three hours, venturing off from Sunrise Point as well as Sunset Point. Just be prepared for a bit of a parking issue at these two if you’re not getting the shuttle bus. For trail information and more click here .

Keep in mind: Bryce is among the coldest and most breezy national parks in the area. If you’re not going between mid-June and mid-August, you’ll most likely need a warm jacket at least in the morning hours. In winter, night temperatures often drop to -30°C / -22°F.  The drive along the plateau is located at heights of up to 9,100 ft / 2,800 m, but nevertheless, summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C / 95°F on hot days. Be prepared!

If you’re craving some food by now, stop at “Pizza Place” in the village of Tropic, an amazing little restaurant.

Now, it’s still quite a bit of a drive to Torrey, the stop for the night. If you don’t want to do that and spend more time in Bryce instead, stay in Escalante for the night. It will be more expensive though.

The Scenic Byway 12 is really quite scenic all the way from Bryce to Torrey, but the best part goes from Escalante all the way up into the forest past Boulder. Breathtaking! Such beautiful landscapes.

The night in Torrey shouldn’t cost you more than US$90.

Day 4: Capitol Reef & Goblins

From torrey to green river / moab.

The next day won’t be too stressful. First on the list is Capitol Reef National Park, which isnt’t all that famous, but offers some amazing scenic roads along towering red cliffs. The settlement of Fruita, right at the start of Capitol Reef, is where the Information Center is located. This is also where the actual scenic drive  forks off, which you should absolutely do, even though it’s not a thorough road.

Back in Fruita, if you want to do a little bit of hiking, you should consider walking the Cohab Canyon Trail. At least walk up the hill to the entrance of the little canyon, what a great view! Another popular trail leads to the Hickman Natural Bridge. You’ll find all the necessary info here .

And guess what, you’re in for some more super scenic roads! When done with hiking, just follow the Utah State Route 24 through the park and through Caineville. Your surroundings are now going to quickly turn into a moon-like landscape. Super grey and mountainous. Just insane, how many entirely different sorts of views you get within a couple of hours on the roads of Utah!

The next town will be Hanksville, where you’ll have to take a left turn to stay on Route 24. After a while, the access road to Goblin Valley State Park will be off to the left, in the middle of absolutely nowhere. Goblin Valley is a tiny place, but very unique and if you venture far enough into it, you’ll quickly escape the people walking around the first few Goblins. Just please follow the signs and do not step onto them, as sadly we saw many people doing. It should take the average visitor only about an hour from entering to exiting the park. If you want to find out more, head to this website.

After another two and a bit hours of driving, partly along I-70 East, you’ll be in Moab. Moab is an amazing place with a ton of natural beauty near it, and therefore will be expensive to stay at. For the first night, you may alternatively choose Green River, before heading into Moab the following morning. That’s because the average basic but solid motel in Green River will set you back US$70… In Moab, it can easily be twice that.

Day 5: Canyonlands & Highway 128

Moab / green river to moab.

While in Moab, you’ll have to determine for yourself where to go for the sunrises, where to go for the sunsets, and where to go during the day. There are tons of options inside and outside of the three parks surrounding Moab.

An example itinerary could include a nice spot in Canyonlands National Park like Grand View Point or Mesa Arch for sunrise. Do leave Moab more than an hour before the actual sunrise though.

Afterward, head over to Upheaval Dome . It’s an impressive and massively eroded crater, of which you can partly walk the rim. When we went, it was super quiet despite being the middle of summer.

There also are a lot of nice viewpoints here and there along the roads as well. That means you don’t necessarily have to walk much to see the surroundings of Canyonlands. If you want to get some hiking done though, which I do recommend for every park, have a look at the trails here .

Depending on how much of Canyonlands you want to see, you can then have a much needed lunch break. In the afternoon head up to Cisco, a ghost town near the Colorado border, along scenic highway 128 . It definitely is one of the prettiest roads I’ve seen outside a national park in my whole life. When you drive along it, you’ll see what I mean. On the way up from Moab to Cisco, go off on a little side trip into Castle Valley. If time allows, maybe even head up into the mountains!

Then continue past Dewey, the place with the old bridge, towards Cisco. It might seem a bit creepy but it really is quite interesting. As of now (Summer 2017) there is actually a woman living in one of the old houses. Don’t worry about her, she’s a genuine person and just carries her gun in case of trespassing criminals. The Amtrak California Zephyr train passes through Cisco every day at just after 5 pm. It used to stop here back in the day for refill water, but that’s not needed anymore… Which essentially is what made Cisco become deserted, along with the construction of I-70 completely bypassing the town.

On the way back, stop to watch the Fisher Towers glow red in the setting sun. If you’ve got a proper tele lens with you, stop near  mile post 26 and watch the bright red Fisher Towers with the snow-covered peaks of La Sal mountains in the background and the Colorado River underneath them. If you do not have a telelens with you, you might as well get up and close to the towers and watch the sunset from there, which is at least as impressive. This shot looks a lot more amazing in winter:

Day 6: Dead Horse Point & Arches

Moab to moab.

Another day in the beautiful surroundings of Moab. Again, it’s completely up to your preferences where to go at what time of day for the best light conditions. An example could be Dead Horse Point State Park for sunrise and a nap after that. If you’re not feeling too tired, go experience some of the trails in the park . Unfortunately, we couldn’t witness this beauty with our own eyes yet, because we only had two nights in Moab and thus decided to skip Dead Horse Point, State Park.

In the afternoon, head over to Arches for some more stunning nature like Delicate Arch, Devils Garden or Fiery Furnace. Keep in mind that Arches is up there with Zion and Bryce in terms of popularity. Thus, if you don’t like being around a ton of people, come here at odd hours. The park is usually open 24/7, meaning you could even go on some great hikes under the full moon. During our visit the park was closed at night, so we didn’t have that choice. But obviously, it was still amazing.

If you’re already out of the park before sunset, watch the sky turn red from Moab Sunset Grill . It’s a really cool restaurant sitting right atop a cliff in Moab, with absolutely superb views. Another (more affordable) place we can seriously recommend after a long day of exploring is the Moab Brewery !

Day 7: Needles District, Natural Bridges, Goosenecks and many more

From moab to mexican hat / bluff.

So, time to move on. Monument Valley is the next big thing on the list, so we’ll move south from Moab. If you get up early, a side trip to the La Sal Mountains might be worth it. If not, you should head straight towards Needles Overlook and / or Big Spring Canyon Overlook . It is quite a detour and even though we did originally plan to go, we ended up not having enough time. That was because we saw Arches on that same morning.

The Needles District is actually the southern part of Canyonlands National Park . Its many small canyon formations are super unique and definitely worth some overnight hiking trips if you’re into that.

Once back on the main road, head further south until you’ve passed Blanding. Turn right onto Utah State Route 95 and follow this scenic drive.

Keep going on the 95 (which also takes you past the Butler Wash Ruins ) for a good 30 minutes until the 275 turns off to the right, taking you to the Natural Bridges National Monument . We were positively surprised by this place, as it seemed like we were almost the only tourists in the whole park, despite it being the middle of high season and many other parks had thousands of visitors in them!

A small scenic oneway road leads you around the park for about nine miles. There are a lot of viewpoints to stop along the way and some hikes as well. If you’ve got a considerable amount of time to spare, a walk through the entire riverbed is highly recommended. Even if not, at least take the short walk down to Owachomo Bridge, which is what we did.

Afterwards, take State Route 261 down towards the Mexican Hat. Be aware that part of this (the Moki Dugway ) is a gravel road, but the views are absolutely incredible! We had no problem driving it in our Ford Mustang. I guess that means just about any car will be fine, as long as the road is dry. The Moki Dugway is quite a sight in itself, with sweeping views over the Valley of the Gods .

If you have a car with higher ground clearance than a Mustang, also don’t miss out on Muley Point . This is quite an impressive viewpoint just before going down the Moki Dugway. Unfortunately, the access road became quite soft and sandy at one point, so we decided to turn around.

Last stop for the day, after going down the Moki Dugway, is Goosenecks State Park . It’s merely a viewpoint and therefore only costs five dollars, but the view is indeed awesome! These are some of the largest meanders in the whole world  and really quite impressive. The grey-looking landscape is a nice change from the all-too-common red rock in this area.

The night before seeing Monument Valley you should spend in Mexican Hat or Bluff. Mexican Hat has a notorious lack of decent accommodation, but there is one awesome yet affordable motel! It’s called the San Juan Inn and is an old former trading post situated right on the San Juan River. In summer, it should be around US$100 for a night. If you don’t want to spend that much, you should probably rather sleep in Bluff than in Mexican Hat.

Day 8: Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

From mexican hat / bluff to page / marble canyon.

Today is packed with more great photo opportunities. The first major sight will be Monument Valley . At the very start of it, you can take one of these super iconic shots.

This is best done in the morning as the sun will be behind you. We actually came for sunrise since it’s not even 20 minutes from Mexican Hat, however, that was mainly for “emptiness” purposes, as the photos themselves will still be as good if not better until just before noon. You’ll have a harder time later though, with more tourists around and the road being a lot busier.

Continue along US Highway 163 past El Capitan / Agathla Peak  which is an old and eroded volcanic plug, through Kayenta, onto US 160, and then onto Arizona State Route 98 towards Page. Shortly before getting to Page, there are  Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon   pretty close to the road. These are some incredibly fascinating slot canyons, that I would consider some of the coolest and most unique sights in the world. Upper Antelope Canyon is wider, easy to walk and famous for its light beams in summer. Lower Antelope Canyon is a lot narrower, making it harder to navigate, but the corkscrew-like rock formations are stunning.

On the downside though, the tourism here literally sky-rocketed exponentially and still keeps doing so. When I first visited, they were already saying how crowded it had become “nowadays”. When I came back three years later, I couldn’t believe my eyes. For hundreds of cars, you need advance reservations, and even so, there are still waiting times of up to two hours on popular days. There are so many people down in the canyon, it’s really hard to take photos with nobody in.

If you feel like lunch/dinner, Fiesta Mexicana is a great restaurant in Page. Afterwards, head towards  Horseshoe Bend,  just a few minutes from here. The walk looks like a couple of minutes on the map, but be sure to bring your water as always. There is no shade at all around this area. For the best photos, you should either come between noon and early afternoon, or for sunset. Otherwise, half the canyon will be in the shade and the other half in the sun. You’ll either want all of it in the shade (plus a sunset in the back), or as little shade as possible. We couldn’t get the timing quite right, but it is still really impressive.

The page seems to be the only place around here where there are motels, and it’s expensive. I’d say at least on one level with Moab, possibly more costly. That leads us to search for alternatives and we found the Marble Canyon Lodge, which I totally recommend. We only paid US$75 for the night here, as opposed to US$150 in Page, and it’s definitely a decent place. It is half an hour of a detour, but it’s definitely worth it, not only because it’s cheaper. The lodge is situated beautifully right by the Colorado River and the drive is super scenic, especially during sunset.

Day 9: Grand Canyon

From page to williams / flagstaff / grand canyon village.

This day you can completely dedicate to Grand Canyon National Park . If you’re not that much into hiking at all, you could instead put some of the next day’s stuff into today. Grand Canyon however is a hiker’s haven. You can totally spend multiple days exploring its trails , but even half a day will be good for a taste.

Driving along the South Rim from East to West, you’ll have a ton of viewpoints to stop at. On the map, it might not look like they’re all that different, but the truth is far from it! The variety these lookouts offer is staggering, despite they’re so close to each other! So yes, be sure to stop at each and every one of them.

For spending the night, you’ve essentially got three options. Grand Canyon Village (super expensive), Williams (fairly reasonable), and Flagstaff (on the cheaper end). We chose Flagstaff, and that was a good option! It’s not only the cheapest, but the drive there is also the most scenic, along US Highway 180. It takes you past Humphrey’s Peak, the highest mountain in Arizona, and also home to Arizona Snowbowl, one of the three popular ski resorts in the state.

Basic but decent Flagstaff motels should be available from around US$70. In Williams, you can expect US$100 and up, while Grand Canyon Village will be more like US$250.

Flagstaff to Sedona

Flagstaff to Sedona doesn’t cover much of a distance, but there are a lot of cool sights around the area. First thing in the morning, head to Barringer Crater , also known as Winslow Meteor Crater. This is the most accessible and well-preserved large meteor crater on earth. While it’s privately maintained and thus not cheap , it’s still worth it if you’ve never seen anything like it.

The next sight on the list is the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument . Yes, there even are volcanic landscapes around here. Arizona and Utah literally have it all! While these volcanoes are not active anymore, they are still really young. Like less than 1,000 years young! The landscape quickly changes into an amazing contrast of black lava and green pine trees. Ideally combined with clear blue skies (or even an orange car), that looks pretty amazing! Even if you don’t want to walk far, which is certainly possible, still do a couple of their short walks .

Continuing along the 395 Loop Road is quite scenic once again and will eventually take you to Wupatki National Monument . It cooperates with Sunset Crater as one park and consists of ancient pueblos . People built these here about 1,000 years ago, possibly drawn by the fertile ashes of the new volcanoes nearby.

By the end of the day, head down towards Sedona. Try and make it there before sunset, because otherwise the scenic road 89A will be closed and you’ll have to use the Interstate, which by far isn’t as pretty. This is Oak Creek Vista, about halfway from Flagstaff to Sedona along 89A:

Another great spot to get out the car is Midgley Bridge. You can just enjoy the view, or take the 15 minute walk down to the bottom of Oak Creek Canyon.

Day 11: Sedona

Sedona to seligman.

Around Sedona, there are quite a few nice spots to hike or just admire the rock formations. Do that for however long you like and then head towards Jerome . Jerome is a former mining town that boomed until about 1930. Its population then quickly fell from almost 5,000 to just about 100 people in the 1950s and has since made a very slow recovery to roughly 450 permanent citizens. Jerome is famous for haunted buildings such as the Jerome Grand Hotel. Many ghost hunters come here and many suspicious things have been reported.

Jerome lies on a steep slope and the 89A starts winding up into the mountains right here. The next ten miles make for a great curvy drive if you have a nice car.

Check Out:  Top 10 Most Beautiful Places in Arizona

Afterward, turn from 89A onto 89 and follow it all the way up to the I-40. Shortly thereafter, you’ll be able to turn off onto the Historic Route 66 . And not only that – this is the longest continuous Route 66 stretch you can still drive along! It’s almost two hours, all the way into Kingman.

Kingman is a good place to sleep for the night. It’s cheap, there are tons of restaurants and it’s in a good location. Decent motels from US$80 should be available through most of the summer.

Day 12: Route 66, Oatman, Hoover Dam

From kingman to las vegas.

The way back to Las Vegas will start with one of my favorites: The arguably most beautiful part of Route 66 through the Black Mountains, across the Sitgreaves Pass , into Oatman. It’s best done during sunrise or sunset, but should still be amazing during the day.

Oatman itself is a cute little town that actually still looks like the typical western town. It almost became a ghost town after the construction of the I-40, but also managed a recovery because of tourism. Nevertheless, this is still not an overly popular place and we loved that! Also, everywhere around are wild donkeys or burros, just wandering the area.

Next stop is Hoover Dam . Tip: If you drive across the dam to the Arizona side of it, there is some free parking over there! I can definitely recommend taking a guided tour of the dam. Seeing the outside is magnificent, but the inside is impressive as well and without a tour, you can’t get down there.

And then you’re back in Vegas. If you can manage to, don’t stay here on a Friday or Saturday night. Hotel prices are just horrendous. You literally get a five-star luxury strip hotel during the week for the same as a basic off-strip motel on a Friday or Saturday. Staying Thursday or Sunday night will give you the best mix: Parties are still on but prices are low. Monday to Wednesday night, nightlife can be a bit slow. Also make sure to avoid big conventions or festivals as that can easily quadruple hotel prices.

Day 13: Optional day trip from Las Vegas to Death Valley

Death valley from las vegas.

If you feel like visiting the Death Valley as well, you can do this as a daytrip from Las Vegas. The hottest, driest and lowest National Park in the United States, as it calls itself, has a lot more to offer than just scorching heat. When you go the way displayed on the image above, you’ll be able to see most of the popular spots. Zabriskie Point, Furnace Creek, Artist’s Palette, Badwater Basin , and much more. Maybe you’ll even get up to some hiking, although you might want to skip that in summer: Temperatures do surpass 50°C / 122°F fairly regularly and Furnace Creek holds the world record for the highest ever recorded temperature of 56.7°C / 134°F… Insane!

Somehow, I haven’t yet managed to visit Death Valley myself. But I did once plan to – and that is roughly what I came up with.

So there you have it, an epic USA road trip itinerary. Oh and last but not least… Americans don’t get a lot of days off work, so when they do, they make use of it. Thus, do not go to any of the parks during long weekends such as Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, or Easter. You’ll definitely enjoy the parks more on days with fewer crowds.

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

Comments are closed.

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

What to Pack for Hiking: 38 Essentials

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Don’t hit the trails without packing these hiking essentials that could save your life, or just your summit attempt.

Download Our Ultimate Hiking Packing List

Don’t hit the trails without our editable hiking trip packing list.

Hiking Essentials: Gear

Backpack: A good backpack is key to a comfortable hiking trip. The right backpack for you will depend on personal fit and the length of your trip (along with how much you’ll be carrying.) For a short hike, pick a backpack that’s lightweight and big enough to hold all your hiking essentials, but not so big that you’re tempted to overpack. The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak Ultralight Daypack is one of the lightest daypacks out there, weighing in at just 1.26 pounds. The light weight doesn’t mean that important features are skimped on—it still has comfortable padded straps, a hip belt that can be stashed away, a water-resistant exterior, and a padded back panel. Keep your backpack organized with Hyperlite Mountain Gear’s Stuff Sacks   which are equally lightweight. Bonus: All Hyperlite gear is hand-made in Maine.

For a longer trip, we love Osprey’s Eja backpack , which comes in a variety of sizes. This backpack can hold a ton without adding extra weight (it weighs just over 2.5 lbs.). The Eja features Osprey’s trademarked AirSpeed suspension system that allows for maximum airflow between your back and the pack, keeping you cool instead of sweaty.

Water Bottle: If you don’t want to carry a ton of water on a long hike, or just want to be prepared in case of an emergency, the Lifestraw Peak Series is a good choice for a water bottle. The included filter removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, so that you can safely and quickly drink from any water source you find. The soft bottle is lightweight, easy to pack, and collapsible when not in use.

The Ultimate Camping Packing List

Portable Battery: Don’t be stuck with a dead phone in an emergency. The Biolite Charge 80 PD won’t take up too much room in your pack and can charge anything from a smartphone to a 13″ laptop.

Trekking Poles: A good set of hiking poles can help save your knees from strain on the descent, and prevent slips and falls on tough terrain or muddy trails. I like  LEKI’s Cressida FX Carbon poles , which quickly break down to a packable size, making them easy to store in your backpack when you’re not using them. With a hollow shaft made from a lightweight carbon fiber, these poles won’t weigh you down, coming in at a mere 8.64 ounces.

Hiking Essentials: Footwear

Hiking Shoes: Low-top hiking shoes are lighter weight and more nimble than hiking boots. Danner’s Trail 2650 GTX shoes are designed to comfortably carry you no matter what distance you’re hiking. Even though they weigh just 18 oz. per pair, they are still waterproof, so you can trample through mud and streams without worry.

Hiking Boots: Opt for hiking boots over shoes when you’re facing a longer, tougher hike, or for those times when you’ll be carrying a heavier pack—like on an overnight trip. Hiking boots offer more ankle support, as well as additional protection from bites, scrapes, and water. I love Salewa’s Pedroc Pro Powertex Hiking Boots which focus on three important factors: comfort, protection, and lightness. Weighing an impressive 290 grams per shoe, these boots won’t slow you down on the trail.

The 10 Most Comfortable Travel Shoes for 2023

Hiking Essentials: Clothing

Hiking Tights: Tights are a tempting choice for hikes. You probably already own something similar to these super-flexible leggings in your wardrobe for running or yoga, but a hiking version are designed to withstand the rigors of an intense hiking trail. Fjallraven’s Abisko Trekking Tights are tough enough for hiking thanks to a super durable four-way stretch fabric that has extra reinforcement over the rear and knees to protect your skin when you’re scrambling over rocks or sitting on the ground. Plus, unlike most leggings, these trekking tights come with plenty of pockets and are available in a men’s version as well.

Socks: Good socks are the key to comfortable hiking. They keep your feet dry, prevent blisters, and provide cushioning and warmth. These socks from Smartwool are made from upcycled nylon and merino wool, with a padded sock cushion for extra relief.

Hiking Pants: For serious backcountry hikes you’ll want some heavy-duty hiking pants, like Arcteryx’s Gamme LT Pant. These pants are lightweight, durable, and wind and water resistant. These pants are specially designed for women with a lower adjustable waist and a slim feminine silhouette.

Base Layer: For cold weather hikes, add a layer underneath your hiking pants with lululemon’s Fast and Free Tight , which are made from patented Nulux fabric that’s quick-drying and sweat-wicking, yet designed to feel like you’re not wearing anything at all. For trail running or less-intense hikes that don’t involve scrambling these can be worn alone.

Sunglasses: Enjoying the view at the summit means protecting your eyes with sunglasses like these options from Maui Jim . Opt for their wrap-around frames for full eye protection and scratch-resistant lenses to handle whatever the hiking trail throws at you.

The 8 Best Travel Sunglasses

Hiking Underwear: Your favorite delicates might be comfortable, but they aren’t immune from the wear of lengthy hiking trips. Look for underwear that’s moisture-wicking and odor-resistant, like these pairs from ExOfficio for both women and men . For women, Patagonia’s Switchback Sports Bra is a soft and supportive option that’s also quick-drying and won’t cause chafing.

Hiking Shirts: Smartwool’s Merino 150 Base Layer Micro Stripe Short Sleeve tops for both women and men can be worn alone or layered for cooler days, and merino wool fabric means it won’t smell, even on a longer backpacking trip. For warmer days, Patagonia Capilene Lightweight T-Shirts for women and men are an ultra-light option that’s moisture-wicking, breathable and features patented Polygiene for odor control.

Hiking Tanks: For ultra-hot days (or hikes where you want to look good in the summit photo), Krimson Klover’s Cora Sleeveless Graphic Top is a fun option. Made from a cooling cotton/spandex fabric, the tank is available in a variety of fun colors and graphics (we like the Explore mountain option).

Hiking Shorts: For hot trail days, Helly Hansen’s Technical Trail Shorts are designed to keep you cool and dry, thanks to a moisture-wicking fabric. These lightweight shorts offer plenty of stretch so you can scramble over anything in your path, and a zippered back pocket keeps your valuables secure.

Jacket: Even if it looks like it’s going to be a warm day, packing a jacket is always a good idea on hikes, especially ones with a summit above the tree line (where it can be significantly colder/windier than it is  at the base). The weather can change quickly: Prepare by bringing along a lightweight jacket like the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody, available for both women and men , which delivers an impressive amount of warmth and wind-resistance for the weight.

Hat: You’ll want a hat to keep the sun off of your face, but a regular ball caps can get very sweaty after a while. Get a hat that’s made for activities and wicks away moisture, like Arc’teryx’s Calvus Cap .

Gloves: On chilly fall hikes or cool summer mornings, a pair of lightweight, waterproof gloves are essential. These picks for both men and women will keep you warm and dry, even in a sudden downpour.

Gaiters: Although not very fashionable, gaiters , waterproof covers that slip on over your boots to protect your ankles and calves from rain and mud, are very practical. I like this pair from Outdoor Research which easily slip on and off.

The Only Travel Packing Checklist You’ll Ever Need

Hiking Essentials:  Miscellaneous

• Hand Sanitizer
• Emergency kit
• Blister bandaids
• Lipbalm with SPF

Snacks: Peanut butter sandwiches, bananas, and trail mix are also good options for packable sustenance.

Caroline Morse Teel loves to hike, especially in New England. Follow Caroline on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline for photos from the summit.

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Porto to Lisbon: 7-Nt, Small-Group Portugal...

Indus Travels

Greenland: Luxe, All-Incl. 11-Nt Exploration Small-Ship...

Swan Hellenic

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

What I Packed for 2-Weeks of Hiking and Camping Around National Parks

Camping , Hiking , Packing , Packing Tips , Road Trip

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

I recently completed a fun 2-week road trip across Utah, where I visited 6 national parks! If you want to do a similar hiking and camping trip to other national parks, I’m sharing my full packing list! 

National Parks Essential Packing List

Table of contents.

I decided before I move back to Playa del Carmen to visit some amazing outdoor spots and recently visited these national parks in Utah: Great Sand Dunes, Mesa Verde, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands. Amazing, I know!

If you want to know more, read my complete Trip Diary , where I discuss all the sights I saw and what favorite items got me through. You can also review my Instagram stories where I share videos and photos of my little road adventure; access my Insta stories here  and  here .  Although a whirlwind trip, it was SO exciting to be on the move!

It had been a while since I’d done a substantial trip, so I had to really figure out all the right things to pack. I first got a ton of great advice from the TFG Facebook group members , and then I started planning! 

I culled together a National Park Checklist on my Amazon Blogger Page but knew I also had to add a few more items to ensure my trip was entirely comfortable. Also, feel free to visit my entire Blogger Page for my other lists, like my winter haul, spring and summer, and even my home decor finds!

If you want some extra packing help for national parks or road-tripping, check out our packing guides:

• Summer Camping Essentials Checklist for Overnight Trips
• Hiking and Camping Supplies List for Overnight Trips
• Best Hiking Gear List for Women: Clothing, Equipment, and Essentials
• USA Road Trip Packing List

If you want more specific information on where I traveled to, in this case, Utah, check our guides about that destination:

• What to Wear When Visiting Utah National Parks
• What to Wear when Visiting Utah National Parks in Spring
• What to Wear to Utah in the Summer
• Car Camping Checklist for a Week in the National Parks in Utah

I bought some new gear for this trip, including hiking boots, an outdoor light jacket, and a waist pack (my first one!). Keep reading to find out my complete packing list and what worked and what didn’t!

Hiking Clothes and Gear I Packed

Shop: Backcountry

Favorite Find: Patagonia Pack In Jacket

I’ve heard many amazing things about Patagonia jackets, but I’ve never owned one myself, but I bought the Patagonia Pack In jacket instead of fleece. I was concerned it would be too light to keep me warm, but I had no choice but to give it a try as it was a last-minute purchase. It was the perfect mid-layer and surprisingly warm!

Tackling sand dunes in  Patagonia Fleece Shell ,  Zella Leggings , and  Scarpa Hiking Boots

Best investment piece ever—SO stretchy and comfy. I wore it many times during my hikes.

It’s packable, water-resistant, and has moisture-wicking capabilities, so perfect for many types of outdoor activities. I’m officially hooked and now want all Patagonia jackets. This one comes in sizes XS-XL . 

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon | Eddie Bauer  

Favorite All-Around Shirt: Eddie Bauer Mountain Ripstop Long-Sleeve Shirt

I became a fan of the Eddie Bauer Ripstop shirt immediately. I’ve used it as a beach cover up to pairing it with my favorite jeans to fly; I can’t get enough of this top!!

Taking in Bryce National Park in my Eddie Bauer Ripstop Shirt , Zella Leggings, Outdoor Research Cap , and Osprey Tempest 20 Daypack

This shirt has  UPF 50 sun protection and moisture-wicking capabilities, so I don’t overheat, and the cut isn’t overly fitted or saggy. And it doesn’t wrinkle. I can throw it in my suitcase or daypack if I’m going hiking, and it comes out looking fresh! 

For hiking, I wore this to layer over t-shirts or tank tops, or just solo. Truly, this is a fantastic all-around travel shirt!

Shop: Amazon | Icebreaker |  Backcountry

Favorite Merino Wool Shirt: Icebreaker Tech Lite T-Shirt

A classic hiking shirt, the Icebreaker Tech Lite t-shirt , performed well for me. I could rewear it without washing, and it doesn’t absorb smells. I did wash it one day on the trip, and it did dry overnight without a problem.

At Valley of Fire State Park in Icebreaker Tee, Outdoor Research Sun Cap, and Ray Ban Sunglasses

It’s great for layering, too, as I wore it under my Eddie Bauer long sleeve shirt  to hike in Bryce Canyon . I would definitely get another one of these for moderate weather trips and to layer underneath. 

I also used it for sleeping and long drive days. The verdict: super versatile and looks like a regular tee with no obvious logo

s—I would totally recommend it! I originally bought it at Moosejaw last year, but they also sell it on Amazon .

Shop: Amazon | Columbia | Dick’s Sporting Goods

Columbia Arcadia II Jacket

While my new Patagonia fleece shell kept me nice and warm, I was so glad I had my Columbia waterproof jacket to offer some reprieve from the fierce wind and sand whipping me at the Great Sand Dunes.

This jacket is a great lightweight addition to a hiking daypack for just these occasions and if a sudden rain were to hit. Super comfortable and breathable. It comes in sizes XS-3X .

Shop: Amazon | Columbia | Moosejaw

Columbia Carson Pass II Jacket

The Columbia Carson Pass II jacket is perfect for those trips where there’s a distinct drop in temperature, which is what I experienced as I passed through Colorado Springs and checked out Garden of the Gods .

Garden of the Gods in my Columbia Jacket and Ugg Simmens Boots ( similar )

This is a good quality winter coat that’s perfect for staying warm and dry, and I found it surprisingly necessary for the cold weather on my trip; and I also wore it at night camping under the stars. It’s a lightweight jacket that has excellent thermal insulation, and I never feel bulky in it! I also love how Columbia has inclusive sizing, ranging from sizes XS-3X .

Check out my full review on the Columbia Carson Pass II Jacket and learn why it’s the best winter jacket around!

Shop (similar): Eddie Bauer  | Moosejaw

Eddie Bauer Trail Light Draped-Back Tank Top

I bought my Eddie Bauer top last summer, but this link is a similar style, just not the print, as mine is a camo print. Overall, the tank is nice and comfy, airy, and can also be worn off the trail. 

I wore it with biking shorts to Arches because the weather was the hottest and saved the shorts and sleeveless top combo for this day.

There is nothing too special to say about this top other than I plan to buy more Eddie Bauer hiking shirts because they’re awesome. Plus, they always have sales. The sizes ( XS-XXL )  sell out quickly, though, so you have to move fast!

Shop Nordstrom:  Sizes XXS-XXL | Plus Sizes 1X-3X

Zella Live In High Waist Leggings

I wore my Zella Live In leggings to hike Valley of Fire, Water Canyon, and Bryce paired with my Ice Breaker tee and Eddie Bauer top . 

While the Zella is for fitness and the fabric was good enough, I would’ve preferred more technical hiking pants or hiking leggings. The sun felt hot and outdoor fabrics would’ve been preferable to reflect the heat, repel the dust, and provide a bit more comfort with more effective moisture-wicking properties.

Hitting the trail in Zella Leggings , Icebreaker Tee , Scarpa Boots , and Osprey Tempest 20 Daypack

Don’t get me wrong, these were so much better than using something less practical such as the soft H&M leggings I wore for the long drives, but I would’ve rather worn my Eddie Bauer trail tights .

Shop: Amazon | Zappos

Scarpa Women’s Moraine Mid GTX Hiking Shoe

I absolutely love my Meindl leather hiking boots and didn’t want to replace them, but I was desperate for lighter hiking shoes because they’re so heavy. The Scarpa boots weren’t the lightest in the market, but they’re so much lighter and more comfortable than my Meindl shoes. I was happy with them immediately after the first wear and very satisfied with my purchase.

Navigating a slight incline in my Scarpa Boots , with Trail Buddy Hiking Poles , Outdoor Research Hat , and Osprey Tempest 20 Daypack

They have excellent traction!!! They’re waterproof, supportive, and have a wide toe box. I wanted the less expensive Merrell Moabs, but these ended up being incredible. So happy with this purchase. I wore these with the bestselling Kirkland merino wool socks . 

I normally wear a size 7 but based on the recommendation of the sales associate, I sized up to a 7.5, and this was a good choice allowing room for my toes not to touch the tip of the boots when hiking on inclines.

Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom Rack | Zappos

UGG Lorna Waterproof Boot (Similar to UGG Simmens)

Everyone was asking me what other boots I took, and they were the UGG Simmens boots, but there are currently barely any sizes left, so a very similar boot is the UGG Lorna .

Because of the cold, my Simmens were crucial and also easy to wear but remove quickly while in the car. Love them!! I want them in black, too! 

If you want another great waterproof choice, I also love the UGG Wilde boots , which look slightly different than the Simmens but are still comfy, sturdy, and stylish!

Shop: Amazon

Outdoor Research Radar Pocket Cap – UV Protection Foldable Hat

I found the Outdoor Research hat through my searches and was intrigued because it’s compact and looks more like a regular cap. I love how lightweight it is, how breathable it is in the hot sun (with UPF 50+ protection), and how it stayed super clean! I hiked in a lot of dusty areas, and the dust fell right off of it!

In my Outdoor Research Hat and Old Navy Tank Top   (similar)

The cap is adjustable but slightly still too large on the back of my head, which can be seen in some of the pics. Wish it did have a slightly more secure band for strong gusts of wind, especially in the Great Sand Dunes , but not sure any hat could’ve stayed on with that wind!

Shop: Old Navy   (similar)

Old Navy Breathe ON Mesh-Back Tank Top 

This Old Navy workout top was very comfortable and lightweight for hot hiking days. I would love to get another one because I liked it so much! 

Its stretch knit with a modest scoop neck and a terrific mesh panel on the back helps vent and allow for airflow. And with the moisture-wicking tech, I felt dry and comfy for sure. It comes in sizes XS-XXL .

Shop: Backcountry  | Dick’s Sporting Goods

Patagonia Pack Out Lightweight Crop Tights

I got these Patagonia tights in the Forge Grey color and they are SO comfy! I also liked the high waist panel. These were breathable, along with having odor control and moisture-wicking properties, so I never felt gross. I wore them to hike on warm to hot days. I would like the blue color, too! 

Scarpa Boots with Old Navy Tank Top (similar) , Trail Buddy Hiking Poles , and Outdoor Research Hat

Right now, it’s only available on the Backcountry website in sizes XS-L . If you want the long version of the leggings, you can find them here .

Shop: Amazon | Osprey | Backcountry

Osprey Waist Pack Tempest 6 

I’ve been wanting something like this Osprey waist pack since last year when I went hiking at Red River Gorge. It was hot and having a daypack felt a little uncomfortable on my back, so I wanted something smaller and lighter to carry a few of my essentials. This was perfect! 

So glad when I found this on the Osprey website . It has space for 2 water bottles, 2 decent sizes stash pockets on the hip belt, and 2 interior pockets that are spacious enough to hold my sunglasses , my Eddie Bauer long sleeve , and a couple of snacks.

Enjoying Capitol Reef in  Old Navy Tank Top   (similar) ,  Patagonia Tights ,  Osprey Tempest 6 Waist Pack , and holding  Trail Buddy Hiking Poles

I didn’t fill it all the way as I still wanted to keep the weight down, but it was perfect. A little skeptical about the look at first, the comfort and convenience made up for it, and in the end, so happy with this new addition to my hiking gear!

Shop: Amazon | Osprey | REI

Osprey Women’s Tempest 20 

If you’ve been a reader of TFG for a while, you may have noticed I’m incredibly brand loyal. Osprey is a brand that first impressed me on my 9-month round-the-world trip with the Aura 65L , and it’s been my go-to travel and outdoor gear brand ever since!

The Tempest 20 is the latest item in my collection. It’s feather-light, and my first official Osprey daypack as the previous one I had was a part of the 55L Farpoint . At first, I wish I would’ve gotten the size 22 for just a little extra space for multi-day trips. However, the size ended up being just perfect for this trip!

Taking in Canyonlands with Osprey Tempest 20 Daypack , Outdoor Research Cap , Patagonia Tights , and Old Navy Tank Top   (similar)

I loved that it felt feather light. Because I’ve had back issues, I prioritize lightweight backpacks , and this is as good as it gets! The air stream increased the comfort level as it felt breathable and light on my back. Osprey’s signature ripstop fabric makes it easy to keep this bag clean despite the insane amount of sand blown at me on the Great Sand Dunes or the dusty Utah red rock.

The features mark all the points on my wishlist: hiking pole inserts, mesh exterior pocket for quick access to my waterproof jacket or phone with mini-tripod, 2 mesh secure water bottle holders, a small upper stash pocket for essentials, and a main compartment with just enough space for some snacks, silk thermals , Columbia waterproof jacket , and Patagonia shell .

Read this post to learn about my favorite Osprey bags!

Extra Accessories or Clothes

Shop: H&M

H&M Jersey Jeggings

I have a black and heather grey pair of these H&M jeggings (worn in Mesa Verde since I didn’t hike). They’re comfy and soft for long car rides and sleeping but not a good fabric for hiking. It Comes in sizes XS-XXL .

H&M Ribbed Pants

I got these super cute and comfy H&M ribbed flare pants in light beige. No pics with them on, but I love them so much I’m also ordering them in black! I wore them for long car rides with flip-flops, then dressed them up with ankle boots in LA.

Minus33 Merino Wool Thermals

It definitely got cold at night when camping, so the thermals I brought were Minuso33 from the best thermal post . These worked fine, but overall, I would’ve preferred the Ice Breaker ones I took to Utah in February because they’re lighter, better quality, warmer, and a better fit, but I wanted to have a black color for this trip vs. the white and blue I took on the last trip. 

I will eventually trade in my Minus33 for Ice Breaker if I can find them on sale. I will be keeping an eye out!

Kirkland Signature Trail Socks 

I found these Kirkland socks from a post on warm socks and love them! These are great socks for hiking and regular winter travel (at home use too).

They come in a pack of four, and you can choose from several different patterns and colors. With a cushioned footbed and reinforced heel and toe, these simply feel great!

Shop: Nordstrom | Sunglass Hat | Ray-Ban

Ray-Ban Aviator Total Black

I’ve had these Ray-Ban sunglasses for a couple of years. I did smash them in the pocket of my Columbia jacket accidentally, so I need to replace them. Unless it’s a cheap fashion pair of sunglasses, I always get polarized to protect my eyes from the sun, sand, and ocean since I spend so much time in these areas. 

The sun’s reflection is really damaging—I learned the hard way a few years ago when I didn’t wear sunglasses for 4 months while traveling in Southeast Asia and scuba diving. My eyes burned so bad and got really dried out. I love an aviator style; it’s a timeless design that suits my style preferences!

BUFF CoolNet UV + Multfunctional Headwear and Face Mask

This is more a wishlist item than what I actually brought! I wish I would’ve had a BUFF to create a light layer on my neck on cooler hiking days, plus to ALSO cover my face from the sand at THE Great Sand Dunes and general red rock dust. These also have UPF 50+ sun protection and come in a ton of colors!

Shop: Amazon | Walmart

TrailBuddy Lightweight Trekking Poles – 2 Piece Pack

I was so happy with my TrailBuddy hiking poles ! I was a bit worried because they were in the lower price range and didn’t boast the lightweight aluminum materials as the higher-end models such as the Black Diamond, which I originally wanted, but they were fantastic!

At Arches National Park in Eddie Bauer Tank Top   (similar) , with Trail Buddy Hiking Poles , Scarpa Boots , and Osprey Tempest 20 Daypack

Perfect for the price point. Durable, cost-effective, and they work well. Although they’re not the most lightweight materials on the market, they didn’t feel heavy and felt light and comfortable to carry even when I wasn’t actively using them. This was a must for me as they were supportive, protected my knees, and very helpful on steep inclines.

Tip: When I was 25, I went to Egypt and Jordan and wasn’t wearing sturdy travel sandals, so I slipped and hurt my knee. Walking through Petra was miserable and took me hours to make the hike back down. I learned my lesson and now use good travel shoes plus hiking poles for challenging treks.

Camping Gear I Brought

Chef-Master 90011 Portable Butane Stove

The Chef-master stove was easy to use and of good value. It also has an electronic ignition system, so I didn’t have to mess around with matches!

Vont 2 Pack LED Camping Lantern

The Vont camping lantern was amazing!! A real must-have. It was good value and very convenient. I plan to buy another set for home emergency hurricane use too!

Shop: Amazon   (sold out)

Sable Full Size XL Air Mattress with Built-in Electric Pump

The Sable air mattress is a good choice to make sure you have a decent night’s sleep. For my purposes, it was pretty big for my tent but super comfortable and easy to inflate/deflate. You can get this in a full and queen size. I went for the queen size.

Kelty Cosmic 20 Degree Down Sleeping Bag

The Kelty is a 3-season sleeping bag that was very warm and cozy at 34℉ when paired with merino wool thermals plus my Sea to Summit silk liner ! And it rolled up easy in the morning when packing the car up.

CR Ventilated Memory Foam Contour Pillow

The CR is my memory foam pillow for home that I brought on the road trip to camp, and for long car rides, I pair it with my LilySilk pillowcase , the same pillowcase I also used to take traveling, so I had my own pillowcase in budget places. Both are staples in my sleeping routine for at home or travel!

Shop: Amazon | The North Face

The North Face Stormbreak 2 Two-Person Camping Tent

The North Face Stormbreak tent comes from a trusted outdoor brand, and it wasn’t difficult to set up, and the doors were easy to get out of if I had to take a bathroom break. A good buy overall!

Shop: Amazon | REI  | Moosejaw | Backcountry

Black Diamond Cosmo 300 Headlamp

I bought a new Black Diamond headlamp for this trip. It was well priced and sufficient lighting for my needs. Although I will say that I love traveling with a headlamp for the hands-free convenience, I preferred the two led lanterns while camping. One thing to note is that I always pack my headlamp in my hiking daypack because I once got caught on a mountain in the late afternoon, and the sun set way faster than expected. 

I didn’t have a light or a phone (it was ten years ago) and had to use my camera flash to make the 45-minute hike down. Lesson learned! Even if I have a phone now, it’s not uncommon to have it on low charge, especially if camping. It’s a small extra emergency item to pack, but it can be a major help on the trail in an emergency.

Smyrna Original Turkish Towel

I usually bring my Sea to Summit travel towel on trips like these, but I couldn’t find it when I was packing, so I threw a Turkish beach towel in my bag. Not as compact or absorbent, I didn’t end up using it for camping, but it did end up being useful to dry my hands when I washed them on the campsite. 

Tip: bring a small bar of soap in a Ziploc bag as not all places have hand soap. I also use this trick when traveling in dusty or remote areas such as Africa on safari, Egypt, or India.

Road Trip Essentials I Took

Monoki First Aid Kit

A total road trip essential! A first aid kit is a must in case of emergencies or sudden illness. This one is equipped with 201 pieces that include everything from bandages to antibiotic ointment packs.

Shop: Amazon  

Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount

This Gskyer telescope is low-cost in comparison to others and worked remarkably well for the price point. It even has a wireless camera remote and a smartphone adaptor to take pics of what you see. I was happy to have it along and gaze at the stars when the urge hit!

Orange Mud Transition & Seat Wrap

This   Orange Mud Seat Wrap was a random item I came across before my trip, and I was intrigued to try it out for travel. It’s meant to be used for the gym when you may not necessarily want to get back into your car gross and sweaty. In addition to protecting your car seat, it also has an option to tie it around your body so you can change comfortably without exposing yourself.

I wanted this was because I thought it would keep the leather car seat cool in the heat and help keep my dusty hiking clothes from dirtying the car. I could change at the campsite should I need to, but most importantly, I could use it to pop a squat without exposing myself in case of an emergency! 

While I didn’t end up using it for this purpose, I’ve been caught in this situation on too many long bus rides and road trips to risk it. While many female travelers love urinal devices , I haven’t had the best luck using these, so I’ll stick to a good old-fashioned squat for the time being.

GOOD TO-GO Weekender 3-Pack Meals

I used the Good to-go dehydrated meal packs while glamping in Zion on my propane stove and they were easy to do. Just unseal, add water, and it was done in minutes. I also tried the RightOnTrek customized backpacking meals and liked those as well!

Water Bottle Large Capacity BPA Free 2.2L

Because I drink a lot of water, especially when outdoors, but avoid buying plastic water bottles, I brought along a 2.2L water bottle in addition to my hiking water bottle. I filled it up daily in the water fountain or filtered water dispenser at the hotel, and I was able to save money on buying water while also reducing my plastic waste. I may not be perfect, but every little bit of effort counts. While I don’t drink cold water, many people love ice-cold water, so you may prefer an insulated steel water flask like this one . 

Tip: Why don’t I drink cold water? Because when you’re traveling long term it can be hard to find cold or ice water and you can’t miss what you’re not used to having. As a plus, apparently, room temperature water is better for your digestive system. A major plus in my book!

What’s on your national park packing list for this summer? Share in the comments!

If you want more help with camping or hiking ideas, please read: 

• What to Take on a Hike: Gear and Safety
• Best Hiking Gear List for Women

LIKE THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

We hope you liked this post on what I packed for 2-weeks exploring national parks . Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Amazing list! Thanks for the tips!

Excellent choices. My Tempest 20 is my favorite. I am hoping to see some southwestern parks someday. Your beautiful photos make me wish I could go sooner.

Thank you so much for sharing your feedback, so pleased you enjoyed the post ?

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Perfect 2-Week Scotland Itinerary

• Facebook 45
• Pinterest 143

From the dramatic mountain peaks and Munros of the Scottish Highlands to the history-laden streets of Edinburgh , two weeks in Scotland is an adventure you’ll never forget. 

Scotland is a destination that can satisfy even the most experienced of travelers. The beauty of a two-week trip to Scotland lies in its contrasts, as you switch seamlessly from city center sightseeing in Glasgow to hiking in the Cairngorms National Park. 

The same can be said for the Scottish weather. No matter the season, you can enjoy clear skies in the morning only to find yourself shivering atop a hilltop in the afternoon!

Our two-week Scotland itinerary is designed for first-time travelers looking to hit those bucket-list-worthy attractions. You’ll see staggering natural attractions like Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, you’ll walk among Fairy Glens on the Isle of Skye, and you can visit John O’Groats, where mainland Britain disappears into the North Sea.

You’ll also be immersed in Scottish history and culture as you embrace the regal past of Edinburgh, dive into Glasgow’s art galleries, and of course, indulge in a few wee drams of Scotch whisky at the best distilleries in Scotland . Get ready for an action-packed vacation as we present to you our perfect two-week Scotland itinerary!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Two Weeks in Scotland

Preparing for scotland.

Being fully prepared will make sure your two-week Scotland itinerary goes smoothly. Scotland is a surprisingly vast country, and you’ll love the contrasts between fast-paced urban life in Glasgow and Edinburgh and the relaxed, rural way of life in the Scottish Highlands and islands. 

You can use the itinerary below as a starting point to prepare your own personalized Scottish adventure. If you prefer outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, or mountain biking, then you may wish to spend more days in the national parks and cut down on the time you spend in Glasgow, for example. 

Likewise, the culture vultures out there might want to plan an extra night or two at the start or end of the trip to fully experience all of the fantastic museums and galleries in the cities.

When you’re preparing your itinerary, you may want to factor in extra travel time so you’re not so rushed and plan for any disruptions that could be caused by the weather. In peak season, you always want to book in advance, as the best hotels and tours can quickly sell out. 

Always plan for all seasons in Scotland, even if you’re visiting in the height of summer. The weather can change quickly, particularly if you’re traveling in the Scottish Highlands. Make sure you pack warm and waterproof gear for hiking, and never leave your raincoat or umbrella behind! 

Things to Know Before You Go

There are several useful things to know before your 2-week trip to Scotland begins. This is an exciting destination to visit, but as we’ve already explained, the weather can be unpredictable. 

This means that the majority of visitors tend to travel around Scotland in the summer months, with June, July, and August being exceptionally busy times. Even supposedly “quiet” destinations like the Scottish Highlands or remote locations like the ever-popular North Coast 500 road trip route get seriously packed this time of year.

Instead of visiting in summer, try to plan your trip for the shoulder seasons when there’s more availability and fewer tourists. Sure, you might get rained on, but that’s all part of your Scottish experience. 

You could even plan a winter trip to Scotland, when the national parks are covered in snow, winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing have begun, and Christmas, Hogmanay (Scotland’s New Year), and Burns Night (January 25) are all celebrated. 

Politically, Scotland is, of course, part of the United Kingdom, but it’s important not to conflate the Scots with the English. Scotland has its own unique history, culture, and national government (based in Edinburgh), and Scots are exceptionally proud of this (there’s currently a big independence movement). Although English is the first language, you’ll also hear Scots (a local dialect of English) being spoken, while in more remote island communities, you may encounter Gaelic speakers. 

Scottish culture extends to the cuisine, too. When it comes to traditional Scottish foods , be prepared for either a simple yet filling bowl of porridge for breakfast or a full Scottish breakfast packed with sausages, bacon, tattie scones, and even haggis. Modern Scottish cooking is delightful! 

Fresh seafood is readily available on the coast, and in Glasgow, the fusion of Indian and British cooking is exceptional. There’s the ubiquitous Scotch whisky to enjoy, a great beer scene, and plenty of traditional pubs where you can soak up the culture and cuisine.

Money-wise, Scotland uses the Pound Sterling. This is the same currency in circulation in the rest of the United Kingdom. Although, be aware that Scottish pounds printed in Scotland aren’t always accepted over the border in England (banks in England will always exchange them for free). 

In terms of visas, this depends on your nationality. Many nations have visa-free access to the United Kingdom for short stays, including citizens of the US and Europe. 

Getting Around Scotland

Your journey will begin in Edinburgh, which has excellent international and domestic connections. There are direct flights to Edinburgh from most major European cities, as well as many US, Asian, and Middle Eastern hubs (like Singapore, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai, for example). International connections may also transit through London airports, or you can fly into London and take a fast train north (four to five hours travel time to Edinburgh or Glasgow). 

Large towns and cities are well connected by bus and train (Edinburgh is just a one-hour train ride from Glasgow, for example). One of the best sections of your 14-day Scotland itinerary even involves taking the Jacobite Express, a stunning train ride through the Scottish Highlands. 

However, things get a little trickier when you’re trying to reach more remote destinations, including the Scottish Islands. You’ll need to consider ferry times and onward connections, so we’ve tried to keep the itinerary below simple and accessible by public transport where possible. 

However, to really maximize your time in Scotland, you’ll want to consider renting a car for the journey. This allows you to get off the beaten track, explore more rural villages in the Scottish Highlands, and drive the famous North Coast 500 when you’re up in the north of Scotland. 

Scotland Itinerary: 2 Weeks to Explore the Highlights of Scotland

Edinburgh – 2 nights.

Edinburgh is one of the best cities to visit in Scotland. Teeming with history and packed with sightseeing opportunities, the nation’s capital is the best place to start your two-week adventure. 

You could easily spend weeks in Edinburgh, so you’re going to have a busy two days when you arrive in Scotland. There’s a lot to pack in, so we recommend booking a hotel that’s within walking distance of the Royal Mile. 

Edinburgh Castle

The Royal Mile is the historic heart of the city, and it connects Edinburgh Castle with Holyrood Palace. Along its one-mile-long length, you’ll find historic churches, quirky museums, and traditional pubs.

Start with a walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town, where you’ll be shown around by local guides with in-depth knowledge of the city. Many of these tours are free, and you only tip what you think the tour was worth at the end. 

Explore the Edinburgh Castle

Walking tours will take you to Edinburgh Castle, which has sat on a dramatic outcrop of volcanic rock since the medieval period. You’ll explore historic sights like Grassmarket, St Giles Cathedral , and Greyfriars Kirkyard . Depending on your interests, you could book a specialist walking tour, such as a foodie tour, ghost tour, or a Harry Potter -themed tour of Edinburgh. 

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Guided Tour to Greyfriars Kirkyard

National Museum of Scotland

After the tour, take your pick of Edinburgh’s museums for the afternoon. The main attraction is the National Museum of Scotland , which is home to over 12 million objects covering everything from the dinosaurs to modern Scotland. 

Discover the National Museum of Scotland

Other options include the National Gallery , The Writers’ Museum , or The Museum of Childhood . In the evening, head to the pubs on the Royal Mile for a traditional dinner of haggis and neeps, washed down by a dram of whisky.

Calton Hill

The next day you’re up bright and early for a stroll along the Royal Mile. Make your way to Calton Hill, where you’ll find Greco-Roman-style monuments built by the Victorians on top of a hill overlooking the city. 

Experience a Pirate Treasure Hunt in Calton Hill

Holyrood Palace

The views are wonderful but don’t stay too long as you need time for a tour of Holyrood Palace . This is where the royal family resides when they’re in Edinburgh, and you’ll love seeing how the other half live!

Holyrood Palace is next to the Scottish Parliament building, and you’ll walk past the home of Scottish democracy on your way to Arthur’s Seat. This dramatic natural feature offers the best views of Edinburgh. It’s an extinct volcano, and it will take you around two hours to walk to the summit and back down again. 

Grab a Holyrood Palace Ticket

Scotch Whisky Experience

If you’ve got time, you can finish the day with a tour of the Scotch Whisky Experience , where you can delve into the history and nuances of whisky. Enjoy one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh in the evening, with our top picks being Dishoom , Timberyard , and Kanpai . 

Book a Scotch Whiskey Experience

Glasgow – 1 Night

Next up is Glasgow , Scotland’s second city and the traditional rival to Edinburgh. Glasgow is, in fact, the most populous city in Scotland, and it’s just a one-hour train ride away from the Scottish capital.

Take the train from Edinburgh Waverley Station, and you’ll arrive at Glasgow Central Station, where you can check into one of the coolest boutique hotels in Glasgow before exploring the city. 

As in Edinburgh, we suggest starting with a walking tour. That way, you can quickly find your feet in Glasgow, learn more about the city’s history, and get a few local tips from the guide. Free walking tours start at 11 am from outside the train station where you arrived earlier, or you can sign up to join a foodie tour, graffiti and street art tour, or an art and design tour focused on the city’s Mackintosh architecture. 

Buchanan Street

Walking tours will show you around main sights like Buchanan Street, Merchant City, and George Square, where magnificent public buildings and art galleries line the city center.

Try the Buchanan Street Silent Disco Tour

Merchant City

Take a Music Tour of Merchant City

You’ll also visit Glasgow Cathedral and the eerie, yet fascinating, Glasgow Necropolis , and you can follow up the tour by walking south to the River Clyde, where you can pop into the People’s Palace , a grand museum dedicated to working-class Glaswegian history. 

If you’ve got time, you can also visit the Hunterian Museum , the Riverside Museum , or the Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery . Finish the day with a trip to the Clydeside Distillery and a fine dining experience at Hotel du Vin , Ox and Finch , or Shish Mahal .

Clydeside Distillery

Explore The Clydeside Distillery

Hotel du Vin

Book a Room at Hotel Du Vin

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs – 2 Nights

Loch lomond and the trossachs national park.

You’ve only got time for one night in Glasgow, and the next day your outdoor adventures really begin in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. 

Loch Lomond

Just a 40-minute drive from Glasgow is the quaint town of Balloch, which sits at the southern end of Loch Lomond. This is the largest freshwater lake in the UK, and its beauty is more surprising given how close it is to the country’s largest cities.

Balloch can be your base, and from here, you can explore the lake on foot, mountain bike, boat, kayak, or paddleboard. This is Glasgow’s adventure playground, and there are hiking and biking trails for any and all abilities, including parts of the long-distance West Highland Way.

Admire the Views of Loch Lomond

If you’re up for a serious challenge, then you can consider hiking to the summit of Ben Lomond. This mighty Munro (a peak over 914.4 meters or 3,000 feet) sits a lofty 974 meters (3,196 feet) above Loch Lomond, and the main “Mountain Path” begins in the Rowardennan car park by the loch and takes some five hours for a 12.5-kilometer (7.8-mile) return hike to the summit. 

If you prefer camping rather than staying in Balloch, you can find camping sites all over the park. We recommend two nights in this beautiful area of the Highlands, but you can vary the itinerary by spending an extra night in Glasgow instead if you’re more of a culture vulture, rather than an outdoorsy person.

Cruise around Ben Lomond

Fort William – 3 Nights

Now you’re traveling deep into the Scottish Highlands, and you’ll notice how the scenery changes with every mile you travel further north. Your destination today is Fort William, which will be your base for the next three days.

It’s a two-hour drive to Fort William, which sits on the banks of Loch Linnhe. The town itself is home to the West Highland Museum , where you can learn more about the history of the landscapes, people, geology, and culture found in the region. 

But the real draw of Fort William is its proximity to nature. You may choose to extend your stay here because there’s a lot for you to do. One of the highlights is Ben Nevis, which looks large over the town. The summit of Ben Nevis is 1,345 meters (4,413 feet) tall, making this the highest mountain in the United Kingdom.

You can tackle the summit hike if you’re in shape and the weather is good. There’s a marked trail to the top, and it takes an average of 7 hours to complete (there and back). You’ll need to start early, so you’d have to do this on your second day in Fort William. Get a good night’s sleep the day before!

To the south of Fort William, you can fall in love with the glorious valleys of Glencoe, where you can hike through Highland scenery or drive the dramatic Glen Etive (which you may remember from the James Bond film Skyfall ). There’s a darker side to Glencoe, too, and you can learn more about the Highland massacres at the Glencoe Visitor Centre .

Jacobite Express

After exploring Fort William and its surroundings, it’s time for an epic train ride to the coast. Hop on the Jacobite Express, and cross epic Highland scenery and dramatic viaducts (Glenfinnan Viaduct features in the Harry Potter movie) before arriving 135 kilometers (84 miles) later in Mallaig. 

If you’ve rented a car, you can leave it in Fort William and return the same day (journey time is about two hours each way). If you’re traveling via public transport, then spend the night in Mallaig and catch the ferry to the Isle of Skye the next day.

Journey on the Jacobite Express

Isle of Skye – 2 Nights

Your journey continues as you either drive north and cross the bridge to the Isle of Skye or take the ferry from Mallaig. The Isle of Skye is one of the best places to go in Scotland, and you’ll quickly fall in love with the romantic landscapes and rugged terrain.

Spend a Day in the Isle of Skye

This is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides, and it’s the perfect place to escape the mainland. The largest town is Portree (population: 2,300), a colorful loch-side town where you can stay in homey bed and breakfasts.

The Old Man of Storr

The Isle of Skye is all about the scenery, so strap on your hiking boots and prepare to be awed. There are multiple walks and scenic viewpoints you can include in your itinerary. The Old Man of Storr, a unique rock formation that rises vertically from the ocean, is a favorite, as are the myth-shrouded Fairy Pools and the unusual geological history of the Quiraing. 

Take a Fairy Pools & Castles Tour

Loch Ness and Inverness – 2 Nights

From the Isle of Skye, you’re traveling back to the mainland, where your next destination is Loch Ness. This somewhat infamous loch is one of the top places to see in Scotland. The large freshwater loch is one of the deepest bodies of water in the UK, and legends abound of the Loch Ness Monster that inhabits its depths. 

You’ll want to join a boat trip across Loch Ness as soon as you arrive. There are dedicated monster-spotting trips on the loch if you’re looking for a little fun, but it’s safe to say that the loch itself has more than enough natural beauty to keep you enthralled (with or without the monster!).

After delving into the depths of the loch, you can explore the banks of Loch Ness on foot or by mountain bike. You could camp out under the stars, rent out a lodge, or book a bed and breakfast. 

Inverness Castle

Alternatively, you can base yourself in the city of Inverness to the north of Loch Ness. Here you can explore the slower pace of life at the top of Scotland, day trip to Loch Ness, and visit Inverness Castle, Leakey’s Bookshop , and the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery. 

Sail across Loch Ness and take a Castle Tour

John O’Groats – 1 Night (Optional)

Inverness is far north, but there’s still further to go if you’ve got an extra day to spare and enjoy a long but scenic drive. 

You can take the iconic North Coast 500 road trip route north to John O’Groats, where you’ll find yourself at the most northerly point in main Britain. This scenic road trip takes you on a 500-mile loop starting from Inverness Castle, but you’ll need around five extra days to really appreciate the sights along the way. 

Inverness to John O’Groats is two and a half hours each way, so this section of the North Coast 500 is doable on a day trip. There are even a few tour operators running day trips from Inverness for those of you without your own vehicle. 

Enjoy a day tour from John O’Groats

Cairngorms – 2 nights

One of the must-see places in Scotland is the Cairngorms, a stunning national park that begins south of Inverness. The size of the Cairngorms is staggering, and it stretches southward toward Perth and east toward Aberdeen .

If you’re road-tripping, then take the Snow Roads Scenic Route through the national park, where you’ll traverse 90 miles of Scotland’s highest altitude and most stunning driving routes.

Visit Highland towns like Aviemore, where ancient stone circles are found alongside the beautiful River Spey, or stop off in Braemar, home of the Highland Games Centre and Braemar Castle . 

If you’re visiting Scotland in summer, then the Cairngorms is a great place for hiking. Take your pick of the Speyside Way, Deeside Way, or the many Munros located in the park. In winter, the Cairngorms is Scotland’s winter sports haven.

Deeside Way

You can ski and snowboard on the slopes or join backcountry ski or snowshoe tours across the national park.

Once you’ve explored the Cairngorms, your 14-day Scotland itinerary will come to a close. From here, you can travel back to Edinburgh, where you can catch your flight back home or continue your journey onwards to other parts of the United Kingdom!

There you have it! That’s our perfect two-week Scotland itinerary. Where will you be visiting on your trip to Scotland?

Planning a trip to Scotland? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST

About the Author:

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

View all posts

Related Posts

The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Trieste, Italy

The 12 Best Luxury Hotels in Dubrovnik, Croatia

3 Days in Barcelona: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary 

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

How to Pack for a Multi-Day Hike: Packing List & Tips (2023)

Camotrek is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. See the disclosure page for more information.

This article is for all those who would like to know what to bring on their next hiking trip and how to pack their gear efficiently so that they could travel light and enjoy their hiking or camping trip more. Here you will find a backpacking packing list of the most important items you will need for a multi-day hiking trip so you can purchase your gear before you set off on your backpacking adventure . To enhance clarity, we have divided the hiking packing list into two sections: essentials and additional items that are typically needed for multi-day hikes in the backcountry.

Packing for a  multi-day hiking trip  brings many more problems and concerns than  preparing for a day hike . The right equipment can make the difference between a trip you want to repeat and a nightmare. In extreme circumstances, the inadequate gear could even be life-threatening.

Three major factors govern the choice of gear: performance, durability, and weight. You need to pick your gear carefully and pack it efficiently, as the weight of your load directly impacts your hiking experience. Heavier loads require more frequent rest breaks, slow down your pace, and increase the likelihood of stopping to set up camp earlier. As a rule, the lighter your pack, the more comfortable you’ll feel on the trail.

Before jumping to the hiking packing list with all the essential gear, let’s first discuss some basic principles. They’re about planning and organizing your trip and the content of your backpack:

• Plan and organize your hike carefully – it takes time and energy to plan a multi-day hike, however, the planning phase plays a crucial role in determining the overall outcome of your hike.
• Avoid excess weight and travel as lightly as possible. However, don’t go too far unless you are stoic enough to endure minimum comfort at camp, especially during unfavorable weather conditions.
• There are huge price ranges – especially in clothing, where high prices often just mean the latest style, color, or fabric rather than better performance. The simplest, lightest designs – not the most expensive – are often best.
• Don’t forget to inform someone about your destination and the route you plan to take.

Table of Contents

Hiking backpack

Check Price on Amazon

Before packing a hiking backpack, p lan carefully the contents of your pack. Consider several factors, including:

• The duration of your trip
• The expected weather conditions
• The specific features of the terrain
• The potential hazards along the trail
• Your individual needs and preferences

You will need a good multi-day hiking backpack equipped with a rain cover. For longer trips, or when carrying additional gear, a spacious internal-frame pack is ideal for comfortably accommodating heavier loads. While there are a lot of good options available, we highly recommend the  Osprey Atmos AG 65 (depicted in the image above). It’s a wonderful backpack that won’t disappoint you during multiple-day trips in the backcountry. If you prefer a smaller and lighter pack or don’t require the capacity of a 65L backpack, we suggest exploring alternatives like the Osprey Kestrel . It offers great comfort and can comfortably store all the essential hiking gear needed for 3-day backpacking trips, including a 3L reservoir.

A day pack is also an option and although lighter, it is highly improbable that it will be as comfortable as a framed pack. Lighter gear and efficient packing are critical to having a more comfortable experience on the trail so it’s worth thinking about investing in some lighter equipment. We recommend the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack because it’s a compact lightweight backpack that’s also waterproof. This foldable backpack packs down into its own carrying case so you could pack it away and tuck it into your pocket when not using it.

Pack liner and dry sacks (sleep bag sack, food sack, clothing sack, ditty sack) will keep your stuff dry when backpacking in the rain .

Hiking shoes and boots

You will need appropriate and comfortable hiking footwear. When choosing hiking shoes or boots, there are several key factors to consider. They should fit well, provide protection for your feet, offer good traction, and be durable, lightweight, and breathable. It’s important to note that sometimes you may need to prioritize stability over speed or durability over comfort, depending on your specific needs.

Many hikers opt for trail-running shoes or hiking shoes because they’re light, breathable, and don’t need to be broken in. Additionally, these types of shoes tend to dry faster than standard hiking boots. We recommend considering all-terrain shoes that are lightweight, breathable, and comfortable, such as the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor or Salomon Speedcross . Merrell is also a good option. Renowned for their versatile and reliable hiking shoes, Merrell offers classic options like the Merrell Moab 3 that are highly regarded by numerous outdoor enthusiasts.

See Men’s Ultra Raptor on Amazon See Women’s Ultra Raptor on Amazon

Hiking sandals are a popular choice among many hikers, not just for low-intensity summer trips, but also for three-season conditions. These versatile footwear options are particularly well-suited for well-maintained trails, stream crossings, and warm weather. Hiking sandals offer the benefits of multifunctionality, providing instant comfort and exceptional breathability right from the start. KEEN Newport H2 are functional and stylish rugged hiking sandals built to withstand extensive mileage while delivering reliable performance.

Wearing the right hiking footwear is very important as your choice of footwear is perhaps most critical when it comes to comfort and stability on uneven, slippery terrain. Whether you’re traversing muddy trails, bushwhacking through dense vegetation, or navigating rocky slopes, having excellent traction and balance is essential. Certain hiking boot models, like the Salomon Quest 4 GTX with their comfortable fit and stiff cuffs, offer enhanced support and stability, making them well-suited for off-trail hikes and rugged terrain. Another outstanding option is the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX boots, which excel in challenging terrain and changing weather conditions. Don’t get us wrong, traveling over difficult terrain is a skill that can be learned and mastered, but wearing the right footwear can make the whole experience less painful.

When hiking in cold conditions, it’s important to wear warm boots that provide the necessary stability and support. During winter, stiff-soled boots offer superior stability compared to soft-soled boots and shoes. While your foot may exert more effort in stiff-soled boots, they provide added ankle support and better balance. See our post about hiking footwear  for more in-depth information about the different types of hiking footwear.

Backpacking clothes checklist

Wear layers of clothes to match the forecast and season. Avoid cotton except for backpacking in hot and dry climates . Cotton fiber and cotton clothes absorb a lot of moisture, cling to your body, and take a long time to dry. This increases the risk of hypothermia in cool-to-cold and windy weather. Instead, opt for natural materials like merino wool and synthetic fabrics such as polyester for base layers and mid-layers. When it comes to outer layers, man-made materials are preferred. If you’re unsure about what to wear on the trail, here’s a sample clothing guide for changing weather:

Socks (two pairs made of merino wool, synthetic fabrics or a blend of merino and man-made materials like polyester, nylon, and acrylic). Choose moisture-wicking socks that will keep your feet dry and reduce friction, minimizing the chances of developing hot spots and blisters. Some hikers also find sock liners beneficial as they further reduce friction, provide an extra layer of insulation, and help regulate temperature and moisture.

Merino socks are a great choice for hiking as they offer temperature regulation, keeping your feet warm in winter and cool in summer. On the other hand, synthetic materials have their advantages too. They are cheaper, more durable, wick moisture faster, and easy and fast to dry. Certain synthetic fibers like Thermolite and Hollofil provide excellent insulation for cold conditions , while others like COOLMAX are designed to transport moisture away from the body, keeping you cool and dry in warm weather (and can also provide insulation on colder days). If you are still unsure about which type or model of socks to choose, be sure to check out our comprehensive post on the best outdoor socks . There you will find plenty of info including a sock comparison table with the most important characteristics, pros, and cons of each pair of socks on our list to help you make an informed decision.

Base layer set and two pairs of polyester underpants as you need a moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and breathable first layer. This first layer should effectively pull moisture away from your body and transport it to the outer layer. The material, whether it’s merino wool or polyester , plays a significant role, but the design, fit, weight, and fabric density are equally important.

Merino wool base layers offer a soft and comfortable feel, along with antimicrobial properties that help prevent odors. Even when wet, merino wool retains some warmth. Smartwool is a reputable brand known for their high-quality all-merino wool base layers. If you prefer the benefits of merino wool and want a reliable base layer option, Smartwool is definitely worth considering. On the other hand, polyester base layers are more affordable and durable, but not very breathable, and retain odors. Additionally, they may not provide the same level of comfort when worn directly against the skin. When it comes to synthetic base layers, Helly Hansen’s LIFA base layers are highly regarded for their quality and affordability. They offer a great price-quality ratio compared to other options on the market.

Merino blend base layers, such as the Helly Hansen LIFA Merino Midweight , offer the best of both worlds with a combination of merino wool and man-made fibers. This unique blend provides superior thermoregulation, exceptional comfort, and enhanced durability. The merino wool component adds natural insulation and moisture-wicking properties, while the synthetic fibers contribute to increased durability and quick-drying capabilities. If you’re looking for a versatile base layer that can adapt to various cold weather conditions, we highly recommend considering a base layer like the Helly Hansen LIFA Merino Midweight Crew .

Base layers: base layer top and base layer pant (from left to right)

Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Amazon

For your hiking pants , there are a few options to consider based on your preferences and the weather conditions. Fleece-lined trousers or softshell hiking pants provide added warmth and comfort, while waterproof breathable pants keep you dry in wet conditions. If you’re looking for versatility and comfort in warm weather, nylon/polyester zip-offs or shorts (one of our favorites at the moment is the Free Soldier Cargo as they are functional, durable, and versatile shorts) are an excellent option, especially if you don’t like the idea of wearing hot-weather pants . Zip-off pants or shorts offer the flexibility to switch between pants and shorts based on your personal preference and the temperature. When the weather is warm, you can pair them with polyester T-shirts and shirts to stay cool and comfortable during your outdoor activities.

Your pants should keep you cool and dry from the inside and from the outside; they should be rugged, functional, comfortable, and as light as possible. The main materials used for quality hiking pants are polyester and nylon, although there are also blends that combine the best qualities of multiple fibers like poly-cotton, nylon/cotton, or wool/polyester.

For most climates and environments, we recommend reliable and well-crafted hiking pants like the Outdoor Research Ferrosi . These trousers are water-repellent, durable, and resistant to abrasions, making them suitable for various outdoor activities. In case of inclement weather, hardshell pants provide good protection. And for cold winter adventures, a pair of snow pants like the Columbia Bugaboo IV Snow will keep you warm and comfortable.

Three types of hiking pants: fleece-lined pants, rain pants, and convertible pants (from left to right)

Check Price on REI   Check Price on Outdoor Research   Check Price on KUHL

Fleece top made either from polyester fleece or merino wool. Fleece fabric shares similar properties to wool, as it can trap still air between its fibers, providing extra insulation and warmth to the wearer. It is also known for being moisture-wicking, quick-drying, lightweight, durable, highly breathable, and retaining warmth even when wet. When choosing a fleece garment, opt for a close-fitting design without hoods or excessive pockets to minimize weight and maintain performance. The thickness of the fleece can vary depending on the weather conditions and personal preference. Lightweight fleeces are suitable for those who prefer traveling light, while midweight and heavyweight options offer better insulation in colder winter conditions.

Both full and half zip tops allow for temperature regulation and ventilation, which can be handy when backpacking in environments with changing temperatures.

Two types of fleece tops: half zip and full zip (from left to right)

Insulation jackets and/or rain jackets are expected to keep you dry and protected in various weather conditions. Windproof and waterproof breathable materials are quite popular. They are often touted as something they are not – fully waterproof and extremely breathable. Well… that’s nearly impossible as there is always a tradeoff between weight and functionality, as well as between thickness and breathability.

The main shell fabrics used for these jackets are polyester and nylon, which offer durability and weather resistance. The lining of these jackets can be made of down or man-made fabrics such as Primaloft, Thinsulate, and polyester fleece. These linings provide insulation and help retain warmth in cold conditions.  Ponchos are a good alternative to rain jackets for milder climates and emergency situations as they offer good ventilation and provide sufficient protection from light rain and showers.

The left jacket in the image below is The North Face Clement Triclimate , which is an excellent insulation jacket with a great warmth-to-weight ratio. It’s specifically designed for snowy conditions and comes with numerous useful features. On the right side of the image, you’ll find the Outdoor Research Foray II , a highly recommended rain jacket made with GORE-TEX PACLITE material. This jacket offers full protection against wind and water.

If you’re seeking a versatile option that performs well in both windy and rainy conditions, while also being stylish and comfortable for everyday wear, take a look at the Helly Hansen Seven J Outdoor Rain jacket. It comes at an affordable price point. For those on a tighter budget, we believe that the REI Co-op Traimade is one of the best options available.

Two types of jackets: insulation jacket and rain jacket (from left to right)

Don’t forget to pack a sun hat, a warm beanie, and reliable gloves suitable for the season and expected weather conditions. If you’re planning a mountain hike or facing colder temperatures, it’s a good idea to have a pair of lighter gloves for added dexterity and a pair of shell gloves for extra protection.

If you’re interested in learning more about the various types of headgear available, we have a fantastic article that covers different models, designs, and materials, featuring over 20 different types of headwear. It’s definitely worth checking out!

It’s worth reminding you that if you have more clothes, you can always take off some of them in case it becomes too hot. However, you can’t put on layers that you didn’t bring along.

Apart from your backpack, footwear, and clothing, there are other essential items you’ll need for your multi-day hike.

What to bring backpacking – essential hiking gear

If you are a seasoned backpacker, you probably have enough experience to know what to bring on a hiking trip in different environments and conditions. But if you don’t have so much experience, the following hiking packing list is aimed at giving you some insight about what to bring on your next multi-day hike.

#1 Sleeping bag (We recommend the Kelty Cosmic Down 20)

Select one according to the season, weather conditions, and temperatures. It’s among the most important tools that will keep you warm at camp at night together with your sleeping pad and shelter.

If you’re looking for an affordable sleeping bag that is suitable for three-season hiking and backpacking (not for winter), the Kelty Cosmic Down 20 is a good option. Its outer shell is made of soft yet durable 20-denier nylon taffeta, which can handle some wear and tear. The bag is insulated with 550-fill-power down, providing warmth for temperatures as low as 0°C or 32°F. However, it’s worth noting that the downside of this sleeping bag is its weight, which ranges from 1200-1330 grams (2 lbs 10 oz to 2 lbs 15 oz) for the regular and long sizes, respectively.

Down insulation is a popular choice for lightweight sleeping bags. Down is known for being a lightweight, highly insulating, and durable material that recovers well from compression, although it can be quite expensive. The REI Magma 15 is a great example of a lightweight sleeping bag filled with down. It weighs between 800 and 870 grams (1 lb 12.2 oz for the regular version and 1 lb 14.6 oz for the long version). This sleeping bag is considered a top-quality option for most conditions, but it comes with a higher price tag.

Alternatively, there are sleeping bags filled with various synthetic materials. Such sleeping bags are more affordable but they are typically heavier compared to down-filled bags. The shells of sleeping bags can be made from waterproof breathable fabric to provide maximum protection against cold, wind, and water. However, it’s important to note that even with waterproof breathable shells, the seams are rarely perfectly sealed, and over time, water may leak through.

Sleeping bag liners can make a big difference by increasing the temperature rating of your bag. They can add up to 10-15 degrees of warmth (and can extend a 3-season sleeping bag) for a comfortable sleep experience on cold nights. Good liners are lightweight, comfortable, pack well, and will keep your sleeping bag clean.

#2 Sleeping pad (A must-have)

The primary function of a sleeping pad is to minimize conductive heat loss. It’s particularly important to have one, especially when it’s cold outside because neither the shelter nor the sleeping bag will help you feel warm enough if the shelter floor is cold or covered with snow. In addition to insulation, sleeping pads also enhance comfort by providing cushioning for a more restful night’s sleep.

We recommend using a 4-season sleeping pad like the Klymit Insulated Static V . With an R-value of 4.4 (any sleeping pad with an R-value of 3 or higher is suitable for cold weather) and weighing around 25 oz (about 700 g), it offers great value for your money. If you prefer a lighter option, consider the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT . It weighs just over a pound for the largest version (specifically, 1 lb 1 oz or 480 g; 13 oz or 370 g for the regular size), making it a popular choice among ultralight enthusiasts. Note that the Therm-a-Rest model is more expensive, costing more than twice the price of the Klymit Insulated Static V. Keep in mind that lighter gear often comes with a higher price tag. Anyway, choosing lighter gear has its trade-offs and costs.

Check Price on REI

Your shelter must protect you from precipitation, wind, and insects. Depending on factors like the weather, location, and your hiking style, you have options such as a tent (recommended for most backpackers), a tarp system, or a hammock.

If you’re looking for a reliable and reasonably-priced tent, we suggest considering the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ . It offers great value for its performance. An even cheaper option is the REI Co-op Trailmade 2 tent. This 2-person tent is suitable for 3-season and it is definitely a must-see as it has one of the best if not the best price-to-quality ratios on the market today.

For those seeking top-notch quality, Big Agnes is known for producing some of the best tents on the market. Their Copper Spur HV UL design is no exception.

During hiking, your body burns a significant amount of calories. On average, a 70 kg person burns between 430 and 440 calories per hour, while a 90 kg person burns around 550 calories. Therefore, you need some source of energy and the best one is a food rich in carbs, fats, and sugar. In a highly active lifestyle, such kind of a diet provides much-needed energy that few other foods can match. For your backpacking trip, you can prepare a food packing list according to your taste. Choose food that you want to eat because it tastes good and not because someone else has recommended it.

Before planning your backcountry menu, it’s important to think about the weight and volume of the food, the duration of your trip, the destination you’re heading to, and the availability of water and fuel for food preparation on the trail.

Next, it’s time to think about the specific foods you’ll bring. It’s important to consider the weight, nutritional value, and perishability of different food options, as well as your own food preferences, any special dietary needs you may have, and pack space. Additionally, take into account the environmental conditions you’ll be facing and whether you’ll be hiking alone or with a group. Remember that what you eat directly impacts your energy levels, strength, health, ability to think clearly, and even your mood and attitude toward others. Try to balance your nutritional needs with what’s practical for your trip.

Well, still wondering what to eat on the trail? Here’s a list of foods to give you some ideas for your meal plan. These options provide a mix of energy, nutrition, and convenience:

• Nuts (such as walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, cashews, etc.)
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Peanut butter
• Energy bars

It’s also a good idea to have something to drink other than water. Consider packing items like cocoa, tea, drink mixes, powdered milk, or hot chocolate .

When planning your meals, it’s important to estimate the number of calories you’ll need to fuel your trip in the backcountry. Divide these calories into ration periods, so you have a rough idea of how much food you’ll need each day. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to take some extra meals to be able to fuel properly in case something unexpected happens. You can also check out this five-day backpacking meal plan . It provides around 3500 calories per day from 900-1000 g of food.

#5 Cookware

Cookstove (and enough fuel), cook pot, food jar, and spoon. Having the ability to eat hot food can provide a significant psychological boost, especially in cold and wet weather. While it may add some extra weight to your pack, carrying a stove, cookware , and fuel is often well worth it.

If you’re in need of a reliable stove for your outdoor adventures, consider the MSR PocketRocket . This affordable and lightweight burner is suitable for backpacking, camping, and travel. It’s compact, easy to set up and operate, and works efficiently even in windy conditions. It’s a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts. Another excellent option to consider is the SOTO WindMaster Stove with 4Flex . This lightweight backpacking stove offers great performance and reliability. It’s designed to handle various weather conditions and provides efficient cooking capabilities.

#6 Hydration

Don’t forget to bring an ample supply of water. Depending on your location, water availability can range from a minor concern to a critical factor. In some situations, you may need to carry ten or more liters of water, while in others, just a liter or two may suffice. Water is the most essential nutrient in the backcountry, as you can only survive for a few days without it. Water plays several crucial roles in your body, including maintaining body temperature, transporting nutrients, and eliminating waste products. Insufficient water intake can lead to various symptoms such as lethargy, headaches, cramps, stomach pain, disorientation, fatigue, and even exhaustion.

The amount of water you require can vary based on factors such as physical activity, environmental conditions, food intake, and water loss through perspiration and urination. Normally, a person consuming 2000 calories per day typically needs at least 2-3 liters of water. If your calorie intake increases to 4000 calories per day, you should aim for 4-6 liters of water. Keep in mind that adequate hydration is even more important at high altitudes and in the desert. In these conditions, you may need 5-7 liters or more of water to prevent altitude sickness and compensate for excessive water loss due to sweating and urination.

Drink fluids regularly and don’t wait until you feel thirsty. Feeling thirsty means that the process of dehydration has already started. You are more prone to dehydration when hiking in winter and at elevation. Dehydration can occur without you even realizing it, especially in cold weather when people tend to drink less than they should. Not eating properly can also contribute to dehydration because food contains water.

A portable water filter is an indispensable tool for ensuring that you have clean drinking water during your hike into the backcountry. Even if a stream appears clean, it can still be contaminated with harmful pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Simply filling up your water bottle with water from a nearby stream is not a recommended approach.

Boiling water is an effective method for water purification, but it can be impractical due to the large amount of fuel required to boil enough water for a backpacking trip. Therefore, a portable water filter is a much more practical solution. It allows you to filter out impurities and pathogens, ensuring that the water you consume is clean and safe. By using a water filter, you can confidently source water from natural water sources along your hike, providing you with a continuous supply of clean drinking water.

#7 Trekking poles (for additional support and stability)

They will reduce the strain and force of gravity on your legs when hiking. Most serious hikers consider them a critical piece of equipment. The main function of hiking sticks is to provide traction, stability, and additional support on slippery and uneven surfaces (such as snow, ice, wet grass, mud, and scree) when crossing streams and rivers or for canyon hikes. Besides, trekking poles are multifunctional as they can be used for pitching tents, defense against wild animals, retrieving bear bags or as medical splints in emergencies. Learning how to use trekking poles properly is highly recommended if you want to take full advantage of having them.

#8 Raincoat/ loose-fitting poncho

Raincoat or a loose-fitting poncho can be added to your backpacking packing list with essentials depending on the weather forecast and the hiking location. Ponchos allow lots of air circulation and are more convenient than raincoats in most cases. Moreover, they are lightweight, compact, and much cheaper and are perfect for hiking in the fog and drizzle. Ponchos serve multiple purposes and can be used as a backpack rain cover or as a protective layer for your sleeping bag during heavy rain, functioning as a makeshift tarp shelter.

Another option to consider is using an umbrella , which offers exceptional rain protection and additional benefits. Umbrellas provide superior ventilation compared to rain jackets and ponchos, allowing for better airflow. They can also come in handy during sunny weather, providing shade while you sit or walk.

#9 First aid kit and repair kit

We recommend that you build up your first aid kit. Among the essentials in your first aid kit, you should include some analgesics/antibiotics/anaphylaxis (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen or Aspirin, Sting relief pad, etc.) to treat headaches, pain, bacterial infections, inflammations, and severe allergic reactions. Bandages, antiseptic towelettes, blister care pads, 2″x2″ and 3″x3″ gauze sponges are used to cover small and larger wounds, absorb and control bleeding, cleanse the skin, and cover abrasions and burns. Some other important items include a safety whistle , water-purifying tablets , and a fire starter.

If you don’t have enough time or desire to collect everything you would need in an emergency, we recommend buying a pre-assembled first aid kit. There are many good options such as Everlit Emergency Trauma Kit shown in the picture above. This kit contains not only first aid kit supplies but also some extra items such as a compass, safety whistle, paracord bracelet, emergency blanket, flashlight, and a fire starter.

Your repair kit should include at least extra shoelaces, duct tape, and a multi-purpose tool .

#10 Map and compass

You will need to have a map and a compass to orient yourself. Among the worst-case scenarios when in the outdoors is getting lost and not having means to orient, especially if the place is totally unfamiliar to you. A light and inexpensive compass can perform most of the functions that a more expensive compass can. So, if you’re satisfied with the basic features, a budget-friendly compass will suffice. However, if you require additional features and a compass with a glowing bezel for easy reading at night, it’s advisable to invest in a high-quality compass designed for serious outdoor navigation. The SUUNTO MC-2 is an excellent option for those who prioritize accuracy and reliability in their outdoor adventures.

#11 Toiletries packing list

You’d need several items for maintaining good personal hygiene on the trail. Among them:

• Toilet paper
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Quick-drying towel
• Handkerchiefs

These are the essential items to have in your wash bag but you are free to add anything else that you might consider important.

#12 Sunglasses

Sunglasses, sunscreen with UPF, and lip balm will help you prevent sunburn. Get a pair of decent polarized sunglasses that won’t break easily like the Oakley Sutro . They are lightweight sunnies built with the thought of providing travelers with everything they’d need from a pair of sunglasses.

Taking some precautions in hot conditions is reasonable but don’t underestimate the sun when hiking at altitude either. As a matter of fact, the UV radiation at 1000 m above sea level is up to 20% higher than the radiation at sea level. Generally, the UV radiation increases by up to 20% for every 1000 m above the sea. Excessive exposure to UV radiation can result in sunburns and various conditions such as heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and snow blindness. Hence, it is crucial to protect your eyes from sunlight and snow glare by wearing glasses with mountaineering lenses . However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly alternative without compromising on functionality, the Julbo Camino Mountain sunglasses are worth considering for your mountain adventures.

#13 Flashlight or headlamp (preferably compact and durable light)

Having a reliable source of light is a must when being outdoors at night . We recommend a tough and compact flashlight that is both durable and lightweight, making it easy to carry in your pocket wherever you go. A great option to consider is the Olight Perun 2 , which not only serves as a flashlight but can also be used as a headlamp when needed. Alternatively, high-quality headlamps are an excellent choice as they are lightweight, functional, and come with useful features to enhance your night vision.

#14 Bear spray

Bear spray is a must for self-defense in bear country. Exploring and camping in bear country can be exciting but also very dangerous unless you hike responsibly without underestimating the risks and dangers of sharing the same territory with bears. Just follow some basic rules for safe hiking in bear country and you can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering bears up close.

#15 Mobile phone (in a shock and waterproof case)

The shockproof and waterproof case is a valuable accessory that ensures the safety and security of your mobile phone, particularly during challenging outdoor activities such as hiking steep terrains or crossing rivers. With this protective case, you can have peace of mind knowing that your phone is shielded from potential impacts and water damage, allowing you to fully enjoy your adventure without worrying about the safety of your device. Phone holsters are another excellent option for carrying safely your phone on and off the trail.

#16 Camera (rugged and waterproof)

Rugged and compact waterproof cameras are ideal for hiking and backpacking (and a ton of other outdoor activities) because they’re capable of doing a beautiful job on the trail. If you’re looking for a tough and reliable camera that’s easy to use in various settings and environments, check out the Olympus TG-6 . It’s waterproof, shockproof, and crushproof, and can take hundreds of great photos per charge.

#17 Wallet and documents

Don’t forget to pack your wallet with some cash for smaller expenses and debit/credit cards for larger expenses, along with all the necessary documents such as your ID and any required permits for your backpacking trip. A low-profile wallet that’s reasonably light and can comfortably accommodate your essentials will suffice for most trips in the wilderness. Having these items readily accessible will ensure that you are prepared for any financial needs or identification requirements that may arise during your wilderness adventure.

Download: Packing for a Multi-Day Hike: Cheat Sheet

Backpacking checklist of the essential and extra stuff in PDF format

In addition to the essentials, it’s a good idea to consider carrying some extra items that may become essential depending on the season, location, and your personal preferences. These additional items can greatly enhance your backpacking experience.

Hiking packing list – extra stuff

Gaiters can be of good use depending on the season and terrain. Depending on the season and weather conditions, gaiters might be part of your hiking list with essentials.

Signal mirror  is a simple but effective tool ( glass signal mirrors have superior reflectivity) to signal your location in case of an emergency.

Insect repellents  offer long-lasting protection against buzzy and bloodsucking insects. Be aware that some repellents like DEET can have a harmful effect on plastic and synthetic gear components so be careful.

Book or a Kindle (and a charger) – especially useful if you prefer solo hiking as you’ll have a ton of spare time. Having a real paperback book(s) in your backpack while traveling is great but unfortunately, it is easy to damage a book in the wilderness.

Headphones/earphones may not be an essential part of most people’s hiking packing list but are extremely useful if you want to listen to music from your iTunes library or your phone. Keep in mind that you should avoid using them when in the mountain because you won’t be able to hear if there’s a landslide or an avalanche (and this might be deadly).

Notebook and pen

GPS devices make sure that you don’t get lost during hiking and backpacking trips in unfamiliar areas. Set up is easy and you can track your distance, and on dangerous mountain ridges in low visibility.

Multi-function watch with an altimeter can be an essential item on your backpacking packing list. You can use it to track your progress and stay safe when hiking, running or traveling in mountainous regions.

Toilet trowel

Bear canister is very important for hiking and camping in bear country. Proper storage of food, toiletries, and medications is essential for your safety when traveling in bear country. Here come bear-resistant containers and reusable storage bags .

How to pack a hiking backpack?

Organize your hiking clothes and gear into logical groups and separate them into stuff sacks. When you start unpacking at your campsite or along the trail, it’s important to ensure that the items you’ll need are grouped together and easily accessible. This will prevent a chaotic “pack explosion” when you’re searching for a specific item buried deep within your backpack. Keeping your hiking pack neat and well-organized is key, as it allows you to have a clear idea of where everything is located.

Here’s how to pack a hiking backpack:

• Place the heaviest items (such as food, water, and stove fuel) against your back and tighten the pack’s compression straps to balance the pack. You can place softer items like tents, between the heavier items to fill gaps and to prevent shifting.
• Put bulky items like a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and clothes you will sleep in on the bottom. This arrangement serves as a shock absorber and creates a soft cushion for the rest of your gear to sit on top of. By doing so, you ensure a more comfortable and balanced load while hiking.
• Keep spare clothes near the top of your pack for easy access without having to unpack other gear. Include essentials like an insulation jacket, a rain jacket, and pants in this accessible section. Additionally, keep important items like your first aid kit, water filter, and personal hygiene supplies such as toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and a bag for packing out used toilet paper within easy reach. This ensures that you can readily grab them whenever needed during your backpacking trip.
• Keep items you’ll use often during the day within reach. These include snacks, maps, cameras, water bottles, sunglasses, and other essentials. Convenient locations for storing these items can be hipbelt pockets or side pockets, where you can retrieve them without the need to take off your backpack.

Source: thegearhunt.com

Pack weight and terrain features

In general, avoid heavy packs full of irrelevant things and aim to keep your gear weight between 15-20 kg, including your food and water supplies, along with the clothes you’re wearing. On rare occasions, you’ll have to carry a heavier load. Bring enough water, especially when hiking in arid regions since water is, by far, the most important thing you’ll carry with you on a hike in an arid environment. If you’re traveling with a group, sharing camping and cooking equipment will reduce individual pack weight slightly. Specialized and warmer gear for winter conditions will add to it. Keep in mind that the perception of weight can be subjective and influenced by factors such as terrain, weather conditions, physical fitness, and even personal hiking experience.

Be conservative in planning your hike and gather as much information as possible. Sorting through the details will help you determine what is truly important and what can be disregarded for your specific hike. Your hiking adventure requires careful planning, thorough preparation, self-reliance, and the ability to make sound decisions.

Mistakes to avoid: how and what not to pack for hiking

• Last-minute packing

Do the packing the day(s) before the hike to avoid forgetting some important things like a raincoat, headlamp, fire starter , etc. Novice backpackers often make the mistake to do their packing in a rush the night before a hiking trip.

• Not packing properly for the occasion

This can happen to both novice backpackers lacking experience and experienced hikers who underestimate the unpredictable weather changes in the mountains. It’s crucial, especially when ascending a mountain, to pack essentials such as a rain jacket, windbreaker, and warm clothing, even if you believe you won’t require them.

• Not bringing an extra pair of socks

Especially in cold or winter conditions, bring at least one pair of thick woolen socks (ideally two or three). These socks not only provide warmth for your feet but also have the advantage of feeling less damp when wet compared to synthetic or cotton socks. Furthermore, in extremely cold weather, you can repurpose your extra pair of socks as makeshift mittens to keep your hands warm.

• Using untested gear such as a tent or sleeping bag

This can lead to unpleasant situations where you may end up wet, cold, and shivery for days. Always test your most essential gear items before a long hiking trip. By doing so, you can ensure their reliability and make any necessary adjustments or replacements in advance.

• Overpacking

Remember that light is your friend on the trail even if you’re not an ultralighter. A heavy pack full of irrelevant things is your enemy. The best way to eliminate redundancy is to fine-tune the packing by making detailed lists of what you used and what you didn’t use during your previous hiking trips.

• Not keeping a dry set of clothes to sleep in

Staying warm and dry during your time for rest is good for both health and morale. Thus, bringing an extra set of clothes to sleep in is highly recommended.

The process of planning and packing for a multi-day hike is similar to what you should do before a day hike, though now it will take more time and effort. Make sure to invest in suitable hiking attire that matches the environment you’ll be hiking in. Pick up a pair of well-fitting hiking shoes, choose a comfortable hiking backpack, and create a hiking packing list so that you can start packing for your multi-day adventure. And finally, remember that good gear is not a substitute for skill. It’s far more important to have knowledge, skills, and experience than to buy only the latest high-tech designs. Even without the best gear, get outside and hike. Nature is not your adversary. It’s beautiful, and authentic, and should be treated with respect.

Do you have a backpacking packing list for multi-day hikes? Is there anything unique or specific that you include? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below. We’d love to hear from you!

Related Articles

Packing for a Day Hike

Ultimate Guide to Planning Hikes

Best Guide to Hiking Apparel

Polyester vs Wool for Clothing

Polyester vs Cotton for Clothing

Hiking Backpack Types and Essentials

Like this post? PIN ME!!

1 thought on “How to Pack for a Multi-Day Hike: Packing List & Tips (2023)”

Exceptionally individual friendly site. Enormous information available on couple of clicks on.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Packing for a 2-Week Trip and Checklist

DISCLAIMER: twoweektraveller.com is a participant in the Amazon services LLC associates program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.

Since hanging my backpack, a holiday that lasts for 2 weeks is one of my favourite kinds of vacation. Since it’s shorter than I’m used to, I always ensure that no work-related emails, calls, or texts come to my phone. I want this holiday to be all about exploring, relaxing, and myself.

Another thing I love about this type of holiday is how easy it is to pack. While full-time travelling lets me pack the same stuff I brought for endless time on the road, it still gets frustrating especially when I’m going from a warm place to a colder one.

Bringing swimsuits feels silly if I’m going skiing, while buying new winter clothes is a waste of money if I’m only there for a week or two. But with a 2-week holiday, I know exactly what to pack. I’m trying to say that your packing list changes depending on where and what season you plan to spend your 2-week vacation .

I will show you what my packing for a 2-week trip looks like. Since I’m a woman, I had to ask my friend and one of the main contributors to this site to help me write one for men. I will also show you the extra things to remember if you are going on a specific holiday (i.e summer, winter, hiking, etc).

It’s also helpful to write your 2-week travel itinerary before you start packing or creating a list. Having some sort of travel plan will give a visual idea of the activities you will be doing, which will help you pack accordingly.

HOW MANY CLOTHES TO PACK FOR 2 WEEKS

About 4-5 clothes are plenty for a 2-week trip assuming you will be doing laundry. If not, I recommend at least eight clothes, including what you wear on the flight. This should be enough, assuming you can wear the same clothes a few times.

This is true for a beach holiday, usually, people wear the same swimsuit and a simple summer dress or a t-shirt that they can use for the next 2-3 days on the beach. What you typically wear after spending time on the beach, showering, with a plan to go back the next day, can be worn multiple times.

It is also true for winter vacation. Most people don’t sweat that much in their jeans, shirts, jumpers/pullovers, and overalls. These clothes can be worn a few times.

As long as you have 8-14 underwear, you will be just fine. If you run out of clean clothes, popular tourist destinations always offer easy-to-use laundry machines or services.

See our packing list for a 2-week winter trip .

WHAT TO PACK FOR A 2-WEEK TRIP CHECKLIST

I will write a separate checklist for men and women, and later on, I will list the items that apply to all genders, such as gadgets, documents, first-aid kits, etc. Please remember that even though this is a 2-week packing list, it applies to people who intend to acquire laundry service while on holiday.

Check out our packing list for a 2-week summer trip

Packing for a 2 weeks trip for women

This list is for the general type of holiday, mostly applicable for spring, autumn, and summer. If travelling during winter, the list might change dramatically.

Clothes and footwear

• 1 casual pair of short
• 1 long trousers
• 1 walking sandals/flipflops (choose something that’s okay for getting wet at the beach)
• 2 bras/sport bras
• 1 pair of walking shoes (or hiking boots if serious hiking is on the itinerary)
• 1 jumper or pullover (don’t pack this, wear it during the flight or hang it on your personal bag)
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 1 pair of swimsuits (if this is summer vacation, bring an extra one, disregard if going to a colder place)
• 3 pairs of socks

Check if there are items you can simply buy at your destination. I don’t normally bring toothpaste and mouthwash. Instead, I buy a travel size at the airport or when I arrive, this gives me some extra space in my luggage. If you decide to bring liquid, I highly recommend using a high-quality ziplock .

• microfibre towel (if staying in hotels, there’s no need for this)
• a small bar of soap (better than shower gel)
• a bar of shampoo and conditioner
• 100ml toothpaste
• toothbrush (bring the charger if you use an electric)
• 100 ml mouthwash (you can also buy this when you land)
• 1 pocket-size loofah
• tampons/menstrual cup (tampons and period cups are not available worldwide, if you use a pad, you can get one when you arrive)
• comb/hairbrush

Makeup/skincare

I’m sure our skincare routine and makeup items are very different. I’m not at doing makeup, hence I only bring basic items. My skin is quite sensitive, so I have space for those items. It might be different for you.

• eyebrow liner and angled brush – using pomade with brow liner was a game-changer for me
• finish powder – bareMinerals is my go-to
• mascara by Maybelline is easily the most famous one for affordability and decent quality
• lipstick – e.l.f’s are long-lasting, perfect for all-day exploring
• pocket mirror
• lotion/moisturizer
• Body Shop facial wash
• niacinamide
• Body Shop vitamin c serum
• Body Shop toner
• Body Shop tea tree oil – to minimise redness and swell of pimples
• Body Shop tea tree daily serum plus Versed gel as a moisturiser

Packing for a 2 weeks trip for men

I can imagine that when a man thinks of “what to pack for a 2-week trip checklist”, it’s much different than for women. That’s why I asked Ryan to provide his personal packing list when he travels for a short period of time, like 14 days.

• 3 cotton/lightweight shirt
• 1 pair of shorts
• 1 pair of trousers
• 4 pairs of underwear
• 1 jumper/pullover
• 1 pair of walking sandals or flipflops
• 1 walking/hiking shoes

Toiletries and shaving kit

• 1 toothbrush
• 1 small tube of toothpaste (I also started using tablet toothpaste )
• 1 deodorant
• 1 bar of shampoo
• 1 bar of soap
• 1 lightweight loofah
• shaving kit (handheld razor, small shaving cream)
• microfibre towel (or not, but it’s useful for the beach)

Others/unisex

• 20ml perfume
• neck pillow
• reusable ziplock (you’ll never know when you need one)
• reusable water bottle
• first-aid kit

Gadgets and documents

Nowadays, when packing for a 2-week trip has to include gadgets and electronics even though you don’t really use any smart or new devices. You probably still want to bring your Kindle, fitness watch, or even just an extension cord which is really helpful in hotels.

• phone charger
• universal adapter
• camera and camera charger
• pocket-size tripod (useful when travelling alone)
• headphones (wired or Bluetooth) – can’t complain on a JBL sound
• ebook/kindle
• extension cord – you can get a really easy-to-pack kind
• passport (valid for another 6 months, no broken parts)
• digital and photocopy of your passport
• visa/evisa letter (if needed, print this)
• digital copy of your flight ticket/booking confirmation
• digital copy of your hotel bookings – I have a separate folder in my personal email titled with the destination and year (i.e Europe 2023) and have all email confirmation there
• travel insurance card/letter – check your destination if you need one that covers COVID-19
• yellow fever card/certificate – this is needed for some places in Latin America, Africa, and sometimes even Australia
• fight ticket home (many immigration officers at your destination will ask for this)
• address of your first hotel (this is required when filling out “arrival cards”
• prescription letter – if you’re taking prescription medicine, also bring plenty with you

COVID PACKING LIST AND CHECKLIST

It seems like not too long ago, the world has changed. We were confined to our houses and apartments and going out just to the grocery store wasn’t easy – let alone travel. But two years after the world opened up – we seemed to be back to the pre-COVID-19 travel routine.

COVID-19 travel requirements are pretty much obsolete these days. But for those who want to stay vigilant, here are some things you might want to bring when packing for a 2-week trip:

• check if your destination requires a COVID19 vaccination card
• look for entry requirements – before, it was only visa, flight home, etc, now vaccination or even quarantine might be a requirement
• a quick antigen test upon arrival might be required
• vaccination card – many countries require tourists to be fully vaccinated, and some allow “proof of recovery in the last 90 days”
• PCR test 72 hours before arrival or taken 24 hours before departure
• travel insurance that covers COVID-19
• masks – even if your country/destination doesn’t require them, the airline might
• bring hand sanitiser
• pack some home test kit

PRINTABLE PACKING LIST FOR 2-WEEK TRIP (FREE)

We have a free packing list for a 2-week trip, which you can download below. This packing list can be used for any type of trip and for all genders.

SEND ME, PLEASE

BEST LUGGAGE A FOR 2-WEEK TRIP

I used to travel with a backpack only and a small daily backpack. But this changed when I decided to have a home and go on shorter vacations, like 14 days. With this change, my luggage choices also changed, primarily due to my back getting old.

I want to share my now, list of favourite travel luggage. The sizes of these are amazing, it’s not too small nor too high that slow me down when running around the airport. If you like flying with one bag only or luggage that fits above the overhead cabin, these luggage might be suitable for you:

• Osprey Farpoint 40L – there are male and female options + different colours
• Osprey Ozone Wheeled Carry-on 42L
• Mountaintop Hiking Backpack 40L – the best choice for an affordable backpack
• Samsonite Wheeled Backpack
• Travelpro 22-inch – highly-rated wheeled suitcase
• Standard Luggage 35L – it can also sit on top of a suitcase, it has a strap for it
• Kelty Redwing 50L Backpack
• Samsonite Freeform 21-inch
• American Tourister Belle Voyage Expandable Softside

BEST PACKING CUBES FOR A 2-WEEK TRIP

I’m not sure how I travelled without packing cubes before. These tiny cubes helped me stay organised, pack smartly, and unpack efficiently. There are even packing cubes with velcro tape to attach each cube and hang like a travelling wardrobe. You can also get ones with a separate section for dirty laundry.

• Amazon Basics 4-set
• Veken 6-pack with a laundry bag
• Osprey 3-set
• Bagail 6-pack with shoes/laundry bag

EFFICIENT TOILETRIES BAG

I actually didn’t use a proper toiletry bag until recently. I only used separate pouches that I get on a free flight or as free stuff when buying cameras, makeup, etc. But then I decided to invest in my skincare, which means I now have a handful of bottles that are harder to pack.

My unintentional collection of power cables is also out of control. The charger for my phone doesn’t work for the camera. Then I also need a charger for my Kindle, a charger for my smart/fitness watch, and a charger for my power bank. Using a good toiletry bag doesn’t only an excellent job for the bathroom and all the charger cables.

• Bosidu hanging travel toiletries bag
• Men’s toiletries bag/kit
• Bagsmart hanging toiletries bag

SUMMARY OF PACKING FOR A 2-WEEK TRIP

Packing may not be the most fun part of going on a holiday (wait until you have to unpack after), but if it’s done properly, you can save time and money. You can even have enough space for a souvenir to take home.

I’ve been travelling for nearly a decade now, and I still have a lot to learn to get to the point that I can say “I’m an expert at packing”. Especially with the pandemic, I realised on my first trip after lockdown, that when I got to my destination, I forgot to pack so many things! I survived, though, but having a checklist that I used regardless of travelling for 14 days or 3 months is a lifesaver.

I hope that I was able to help you with packing for a 2-week trip list and that I made your life easier and got you excited about your upcoming trip.

SAVE THESE TRAVEL TIPS ON YOUR PINTEREST:

Backpacking Peru 2 Week Itinerary

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Nov 8, 2023 | Travel Tips

Peru is an amazing destination when it comes to trekking and experiencing wonders.

Pretty famous for the Machu Picchu, for the colorful Rainbow Mountain as well as the cute alpacas, there’s a lot to see and discover in this beautiful country. If you’re planning your backpacking route in Peru, check out this 2-week itinerary in Peru.

Days 1-5 — Cusco

Peru travel blog

We’re kicking off our Peru backpacking itinerary in the city that has it all, Cusco. Cusco is a stunning South American city and was once the capital of the great Inca Empire.

The city is adorned with Spanish architecture, bustling plazas and is the true beating heart of Peruvian culture.

If you’re wanting to experience trekking in Peru — Cusco is the perfect city to begin your travels. The extremely popular Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu (ever heard of it?)  is only about 2 hours outside of Cusco.

When it comes to finding the right trekking experience, Action Peru Treks provides unique, quality, superior and authentic options. The team members have grown up on this land and are well equipped to show you the most beautiful scenery around. Bonus: their tours are eco-friendly and sustainable.

Spending 5 days in Cusco sounds like a lot but once you realize how many things the city and surrounding areas have to offer, you’ll wish you had more time!

While in Cusco, head to the Plaza de Armas to experience the city’s vibrant daily life. Explore the city’s stunning cathedrals and stroll along the streets trying the food.

Popular day and overnight trips from Cusco include trekking Machu Picchu, experiencing one of the best Peru treks on Rainbow Mountain, exploring the Sacred Valley’s culture and ruins and all-day Peruvian cooking classes. Read more about Machu Picchu travel costs here .

If you only have 2 weeks in Peru, the entire time can be spent in and around Cusco. But alas, we’ve got other places to see!

Where to stay in Cusco

Peru backpacking itinerary 2 weeks

Hostels: Nao Victoria Hostel / Pariwana Hostel / Picol Hostal

Mid-range: Yanuy Culinary Guest House / Casona La Recoleta / Sonesta Hotel Cusco

Luxury: Garden of San Blas / Antigua Casona San Blas / Palacio del Inka

Days 6-8 — Arequipa

Peru 2 weeks itinerary

If you want to experience what life on Mars would look like, visit Arequipa. The unique and dramatic volcanic backdrops and white volcanic stone that covers the city give it the nickname of The White City.

Arequipa is a popular destination on the Peru backpacking route because the base it provides for adventure seekers.

A laid back city itself, Arequipa keeps travelers entertained with its beautiful city centers and chilling museums. Be sure to visit Museo Santuarios Andinos, where Juanita the Ice Maiden lays to rest.

Juanita’s mummified body was found in 1995 and she was believed to be an Inca human sacrifice. A grim story, but a good insight into the Inca’s lifestyle and traditions.

Arequipa also serves as the perfect place to take adventure tours such as white water rafting, sandboarding and rock climbing. No matter the length of your Peru itinerary, do not miss the beautiful city of Arequipa.

Where to stay in Arequipa

Hostels: Limbo Jump Hostel / Vallecito Backpackers / Selina Arequipa

Mid-range: Tierra Viva Arequipa Plaza / Palla Boutique Hotel / Los Tambos

Luxury: Katari Hotel at Plaza de Armas / Casa Andina Premium Arequipa / Wyndham Costa del Sol

Days 9-10 — Huacachina

Backpacking Peru itinerary

The small village of Huacachina is an oasis in the middle of the Peruvian desert and popular stop on a 2-weeks in Peru travel itinerary!

You’ll spend these new few days in Huacachina relaxing from your travels thus far and enjoying the movie-scene like the desert.

Popular things to do in Huacachina involve dune-buggying, sandboarding and desert stargazing.

If you’re a fan of wine, spend the day touring the vineyards in Huacachina!

Where to stay in Huacachina

Hostels: Banana’s Adventure Hostel / Desert Nights Hostel

Mid-range: Desert Nights Ecocamp / Hotel El Huacachinero

Days 11-12 — Paracas/ Islas Ballestas

Before we head onto the capital city of Lima, stop in the sleepy town of Paracas to experience what’s known as the “Poor Man’s Galapagos”.

Admittedly, the town of Paracas is nothing itself but one of the best experiences you can have while backpacking Peru is a tour to Islas Ballestas.

When you arrive in Paracas, book a tour to Islas Ballestas through your hostel and hotel. Boats usually leave between 8am-10am.

Your half-day or a full day tour of Islas Ballestas will include a bumpy boat ride that ends in wildlife paradise. Experience sea lions, penguins, dolphins and countless seabirds — up close and personal!

Where to stay in Paracas

Hostels: Atenas Backpacker / Kokopelli Hostel / El Buen Samaritano

Mid-range: Betania / Arena Hospedaje / Aquamarine Paracas

Luxury: Hotel Paracas / La Hacienda Bahia Paracas / DoubleTree by Hilton

Days 12-14 — Lima

Your 2 week Peru itinerary is sadly coming to an end and you’re either gearing up to head back home or extend your time in Peru another 2 weeks. The latter is an extremely likely option!

As you wind down your Peru backpacking trip, don’t let the potential altitude sickness or end-of-trip travel blues keep you from exploring Lima!

Lima is one of those cities that you either live with — or not. The city can be a bit hectic, smoggy and other big city stereotypes.

Popular highlights in the “City of Kings” include exploring the architecture and history in their Plaza de Armas. Noted as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this is the location where the city was founded in 1535!

In the evening time, catch a light and water show at Parque de la Reserva! During the day, explore Peru’s history at the National Museum or take note of Peruvian art at the Parque de la Exposición. All while ensuring your stomach is full of fresh ceviche and the popular snack of guinea pig — if you’re into that kind of thing!

Where to stay in Lima

Hostels: La Unsha Hostel / Lima White House / Lima Backpackers

Mid-range: Belma Boutique Bed and Breakfast / Residencial Miraflores / 3B Barrancos

Luxury: Quinta Miraflores Boutique Hotel / Royal Park Hotel / Hyatt Centric

Are you Peru ready?

What to Pack for Peru:

• Trekking gear and warmer clothes: if you’re planning on trekking during your stay in Peru.
• Comfortable shoes : even if you’re not planning on hiking during your trip, you could always walk a lot around the sites.
• Mosquito repellant : to keep your body happy.
• Camera gear : to keep your memories in the loop.
• Travel insurance: to keep you ready for the unexpected. Did you know that Safety Wing is super affordable?

MY TOP RECOMMENDATIONS

BOOK HOTEL ON BOOKING.COM

BOOK HOSTEL ON HOSTELWORLD

GET YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

LEARN HOW TO START A TRAVEL BLOG

LEARN HOW TO VOLUNTEER ABROAD

• Switzerland Tourism
• Switzerland Hotels
• Switzerland Bed and Breakfast
• Switzerland Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Switzerland
• Switzerland Restaurants
• Things to Do in Switzerland
• Switzerland Travel Forum
• Switzerland Photos
• All Switzerland Hotels
• Switzerland Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Switzerland
• Switzerland
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Hiking in May - Switzerland Forum

• Europe    
• Switzerland    

Hiking in May

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Europe forums
• Switzerland forum

What’s the best option in terms of weather. Cold is fine, so is a little drizzle but I prefer no downpours. Know it’s all a crapshoot but would love guidance. Wildflowers are a big plus.

I looked at Zermatt but their likely weather looks very wet.

For hikes, I’m thinking two hikes of 15 to 25 kilometers, up to 3,500 elevation and maybe an easy hike or two. I’ll be looking at options on AllTrails but open to suggestions.

If it matters, I’ll probably be coming from somewhere in France and then heading back to Germany . Only coming to Switzerland for the hiking portion. Yes a tight timeline.

Thank you in advance for your wisdom.

6 replies to this topic

Nobody can predict the weather this far out. For Swiss readers, 3,500 feet = 1,066 meters. So hikes at this elevation are doable in early May. But telling us you want to hike 15-25km without telling us how much ascent/descent you can handle doesn't help. Hiking trails are measured by how long they take to hike and rarely by distance.

Start looking for hikes here:

https://schweizmobil.ch/en/hiking-in-switzerland

You would probably find what you are looking for around lake Luzern , or lakes Thun and Brienz in the Oberland, or the lake of Zürich or the Bodensee or the Léman. All these lakes have at least hills behind or around them. With lovely views. However - an empirical observation - yesterday at about 800m above lake Thun the ground was all white.

It seems we are not in a great weather pattern right now. Yesterday there was fresh snow at Frutigen in the Kandertal, and even in the cities on the plateau like Bern . And the forecast is not at all spring like. Unlike this past weekend which was more like July! For good weather forecasts with historical data - http://www.meteoswiss.ch or www.meteoblue.ch. Check those to get an idea of what is happening here.

Flowers - below 800m there will be some. We have some little ones in the grasses in the Valais where I live (471m) right now. For real Alpine flowers you should come here in late June and July. Also in May in the mountains there aren’t any window boxes full of flowers which add such a lovely splash of colour. As a rule we can’t plant flowers outside until early June over about 1000m because of frost danger.

It does help us Swiss to read things in metric measurements- like metres or Celsius or kilometres - but we are not quite so thick that we can’t figure old fashioned ones out either!! (I have read that a yard measure was established by the distance from a king’s nose to his hand. Not sure if that is true but perhaps someone can comment…)

I meant that I’m comfortable with a hike that’s 15 to 25 kilometers with a 1,000 meter elevation gain. Though it sounds like any elevation gain this time of year will be tough due to snow.

And I’m from San Francisco, our specialty is baffling tourists with weather.

Hello Susie and fellows DE's,

That said, if you don't mind playing hide-and-seek with the clouds and face with a waterproof jacket the occasional rainshower, you can go where you want the most.

The 800m-1600m altitude range could be the sweet spot for hikes early May. Adding the wildflowers to the equation, this week the cherry trees and the rapefields are blossoming. Therefore, I mention the Jura range as further valid option to hike. My hiking season started last week with the Gorges de l'Areuse, the Tablettes 1300m high mountain and the 1100m high Chaumont in Jura near Neuchâtel and with a 1650m high antecedent summit of Monte Tamaro (with some snow on the last 150m, north exposed) in central Ticino.

Look for example in Ticino at Monte San Salvatore (900m high) - Parco San Grato (Carona); Monte Generoso (1700m, the south exposed flank); Brè - Monte Boglia (1500m, the south flank); Arosio - Monte Ferraro (1500m, and possibly Gradiccioli 1900m from the south ridge); Miglieglia - Monte Lema (1600m, south-eastern flank), all hikes around Lugano . It's still early for the Monte Tamaro - Monte Lema famous ridge trail, as the north exposed sections are still snowcovered.

Around Locarno : Cardada - Cimetta and the beautiful, long trail at the bottom of the Valle Verzasca (including the iconic Ponte dei Salti) or the Curzutt - Carasc tibetan bridge - San Defendente hike. In northern Ticino however there is still a lot of snow above 1400m-1600m, thus stay lower.

In the Jura range they had up to 30cm snow two days ago but it's melting fast, especially on the south exposed flanks. The Chaumont is already free. To the aforementioned Gorges de l'Areuse you have many hikes in amazing lower river gorges that are in their best year period: Orbe, Taubenloch, Vaux, Twannbach, etc. But, in two weeks, I'm confident I will hike the higher Creux du Van (spectacular!), the ridge Tête de Ran - Mont Racine (very scenic and off the beaten path!) and others. The Doubs river shores from it's waterfall (Saut du Doubs) to the Les Brenets lake will also be an option as well as other unsung mountains as the Weissenstein, the Chasseron, etc. I'm eager of the wild Narcissus blossoming in a few time in the Jura pastures!

From Interlaken , around the lakes Thun and Brienz you have some interesting hikes, as well on the valley bottoms (including the atractions Aare gorges, Ballenberg open air museum, Lauterbrunnen valley) but imo it's too early to hike in the Bernese Oberland, being the best trails still at least partly snowcovered or a bit muddy close to the snowline.

Wow, so many options.

Suggestions for a base city: Locarno - Ascona , Lucerne , Neuchâtel, Montreux - Vevey .

Except for hiking boots (and warm but not too warm socks) and a rain jacket you don't need any technical gear to hike but comfortable/hiking clothes, a backpack to carry the jacket, enough to drink, something to eat, a cap, suncream and sunglasses, your credit card and passport, your fully charged mobile telephone with the following apps: SBB for public transportation, Switzerland mobility to plan and execute your hikes, Meteoswiss for local short term forecasts, Rega for air rescue (hoping to not use it).

The rest is optional: hiking poles, a paper map, thin gloves, a spare t-shirt, a pullover, a bandana, some cash, a foldable umbrella, a guide of the region, everything you want have and will to carry.

Stay at least 3 nights in every place, up to 7 in each location: the less you move, the more you enjoy your time and have flexibility to manage weather and mood. Travel by public transportation, more convenient under many points of view.

• Hiking Trockener Steg to Schwarzsee 4:42 am
• Navigating GVA airport - solo teen traveller 4:36 am
• hotel d'Angleterre or hotel les armures?: 4:33 am
• Private transfer from Geneva City Center To Courmayeur Italy 4:29 am
• Where to stay in Switzerland 4:21 am
• Guidance on 4:16 am
• Renting car in Switzerland,Liechtenstein, Italy: IDP needed 4:09 am
• Train suggestions 3:24 am
• Super saver ticket 9:12 pm
• [Info] Public transport tickets new available 6 months out 8:24 pm
• Two days in interlaken area 6:41 pm
• Lausanne Transport Card 5:45 pm
• Trip planning 5:39 pm
• Transportation 5:17 pm
• best time to visit Switzerland 7 replies
• Best place to visit Switzerland in July 2 replies
• Factory Outlet 5 replies
• Weather in December 4 replies
• Basel to Geneva by Train 8 replies
• Switzerland in december 7 replies
• Switzerland in November 4 replies
• VAT Tax Refund 146 replies
• Swiss Trains 1st Class vs 2nd Class 10 replies
• Cost of food 8 replies
• Information about the Corona Virus (COVID_19) in Switzerland
• [0] How to use these Top Questions
• [1] News & important updates 2022
• [2] Introduction & basic information
• [3] Before you start to planning your trip
• [4] Public transport in Switzerland
• [5] Scenic trains & postal bus routes
• [6] Driving in Switzerland
• [7] Hiking and sightseeing
• [8] Arriving or leaving by Rhine river cruise
• [9] Christmas markets / Christmas / New Year
• [10] Posts and blogs from travelers
• [11] Trip Reports
• [12] Trip Reports (continued)
• [13] Trip Reports (continued)
• [14] Trip Reports (continued)

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, park footer, contact info, mailing address:.

PO Box 129 Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

928-638-7888

Stay Connected

Pair these L.A. road trips with a hike and a lunch

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

In April 2020 — only a month or so into the COVID-19 pandemic — my wife and I were running out of things to do. The novelty of Zoom calls with friends was wearing off. We’d watched lots of movies and TV. We were itching to get out of our apartment, but with the virus still raging, we couldn’t risk being around other people. Then we had an idea: Why not go for a drive?

You are reading The Wild newsletter

Sign up to get expert tips on the best of Southern California's beaches, trails, parks, deserts, forests and mountains in your inbox every Thursday

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

For our first trip, we drove the length of Little Tujunga Canyon Road in the Angeles National Forest. After that, we were hooked. In the ensuing months, we crisscrossed the Santa Monica Mountains and made trips into Los Padres National Forest and beyond.

My wife bought me a California road atlas, and it became part of our scenic drive ritual: We’d consult its pages for inspiration, looking for two-lane roads and state highways that squiggled through mountain ranges or meandered through deserts. After returning home, I’d highlight our route. Four years after our first drive, the atlas is full of highlights documenting our travels — and there’s still a lifetime’s worth of backroads we haven’t covered yet.

No matter where we go, each drive gives me a deeper appreciation for the incredible range of landscapes in Southern California. And these journeys have led to many rewarding discoveries, from out-of-the-way diners to new trailheads for hiking and biking.

If you’re tired of visiting the same places, it’s time to hit the road. These two trips — all within a three-hour drive of the city — will get you started.

Los Padres National Forest and Carrizo Plain National Monument This route traverses winding mountain roads through Los Padres and spits you out near the southern entrance to Carrizo Plain — a vast preserve of native grassland and a hotspot for wildflowers (at least on some years ) and birdwatching . From Interstate 5, take Exit 205 and head west on Frazier Mountain Park Road. This two-lane road changes names several times as it ascends into the San Emigdio Mountains, passing forested slopes and epic canyon views along the way.

After about 42 miles, you’ll meet California 166. Take a right here and then a left on Soda Lake Road to enter Carrizo Plain National Monument. Drive northwest for 35 miles to the parking lot for the Soda Lake Trail, a short boardwalk that gets you up close to the park’s salt-crusted lake. If you plan ahead, you can also book a guided tour of Painted Rock, a sandstone outcrop with Native American rock art.

Hungry? Head back the way you came, take a right on California 166, and drive west 15 miles to the Cuyama Buckhorn , a renovated ’50s motel, restaurant and bar. The eatery’s Santa Maria-style tri-tip is superb, and if you grab a room, you can turn this scenic drive into a full weekend escape .

Volcan Mountain and Julian This route will take you to Julian , a mountain town famous for its apple orchards and delicious pies. From Interstate 15, take Exit 58 for California 79. Take a right on Pechanga Parkway and head south. The road becomes Pala Temecula Road and emerges into a wide canyon with mountains towering on either side. Take a left at Pala Mission Road and continue east on California 76, which hugs the San Luis Rey River before ascending more than 1,000 feet up a chaparral-covered ridgeline.

After some hairpin turns, the road levels off and skirts Lake Henshaw, a picturesque reservoir. Take a right on California 79, and after 10 miles, take a left on Wynola Road. Follow that road for about 3.5 miles, then take a left on Farmer Road to arrive at Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve. Stretch your legs on the Five Oaks Trail , a 1.2-mile path that ascends the western flank of Volcan Mountain and offers sweeping views of the orchards below.

With your appetite revved up, head south on Farmer Road into Julian and make a stop at the Julian Pie Co . Grab a well-deserved slice of apple pie and some apple cider and rest your feet at a picnic table while you chow down.

3 things to do

1. Race plankton in Manhattan Beach In celebration of Earth Day, the Roundhouse Aquarium will hold a day full of educational activities inside and outside its facilities. Highlights include dolphin spotting, a fish feeding, crafts, games, a “shark shack” and, yes, plankton racing. The festivities kick off at 10:30 a.m. Saturday and go until 4 p.m. The event is free, but be sure to register ahead of time at roundhouseaquarium.org .

2. Go gardening in San Pedro Give back to the land by planting native species, removing weeds, mulching and watering the White Point Nature Preserve’s garden with the folks at Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. You’ll also have the chance to enter a raffle and take a guided nature walk. As a bonus, refreshments will be provided by Starbucks to keep you cool and hydrated. The three-hour event begins at 9 a.m. Saturday. All volunteers under age 16 should be accompanied by an adult, and all volunteers under age 18 must have a parent or guardian sign a waiver at the event. Register at pvplc.com .

3. Stretch your legs on Venice Boulevard CicLAvia is back. And this time it’s shutting down a 5.75-mile stretch of Venice Boulevard that connects Palms, Mar Vista and Venice Beach for walkers, joggers, bikers, roller skaters, unicyclers, penny-farthings, pogo sticks — anything as long as it’s completely powered by humans. There will be three local hubs along the route where you’ll be able to partake in family-friendly activities, pump air into your bike’s tires, refill your water bottle and use the restroom. Be sure to reference CicLAvia’s digital map so you can scope out the local businesses you’d like to visit along the way. It all takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. For more information about the event and the area it covers, visit ciclavia.org .

The must-read

The Klamath River in Northern California has turned brown and muddy, but that’s a good thing. As Times writer Ian James reports , it’s a side effect of the largest dam removal project in history, which aims to restore the river to its natural state. Four dams are being removed along the Klamath, and the river is passing freely through tunnels in three of them, draining reservoirs and churning up an estimated 2.3 million tons of sediment that had settled along the bottom of those man-made lakes. Although the turbid water might look ugly, restoration advocates and tribal leaders see it as a sign of healing. The muck is passing out of the Klamath, and new life — everything from salmon heading upstream to native plant seedlings along the riverbanks — will soon take its place.

Happy adventuring,

Want to try birding but don’t have binoculars? Head to the Audubon Center in Ernest E. Debs Regional Park. The center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, and you can borrow a free pair of binoculars (as well as a birding guide, backpack and other gear) to help you spot the 140 species of birds that call the park home.

For more insider tips on Southern California’s beaches, trails and parks, check out past editions of The Wild . And to view this newsletter in your browser, click here .

Sign up for The Wild

We’ll help you find the best places to hike, bike and run, as well as the perfect silent spots for meditation and yoga.

Michael Charboneau is a freelance writer covering gear and the outdoors, and he’ll be writing The Wild newsletter for the next few months. He has written for a variety of publications, including Men’s Journal, Runner’s World and InsideHook, and he lives in West L.A. When he’s not writing, he can be found running, hiking and biking around Los Angeles and its mountains.

More From the Los Angeles Times

Travel & Experiences

This must be Topanga Canyon

April 19, 2024

You don’t ‘hike’ Fiery Furnace, Utah’s exclusive maze of slot canyons. You get lost in it

April 18, 2024

Will Disneyland get an Avatar land? It’s likely. Here’s what else may be in store

April 17, 2024

Company Town

‘The fairy dust fades away’: Why the people who play Disneyland’s costumed characters are unionizing