After blissful adolescent years, characterized by an unwavering belief in my own immortality, the past two years of college have gone by so quickly that I can no longer deny that I am getting older. Granted, I am only nineteen years old, and have many happy years ahead of me to experience all of the things on my bucket list. However, real-world constraints of work, family and monthly expenses are guaranteed to only become more demanding as college draws to an end. With this harsh reality in my mind, I resolved that this summer would finally be the time for me to embark on the European adventure that I have been planning since I was eight years old. As my date of departure approaches, I have prepared this guide to help you plan your very own trip-of-a-lifetime:

Chapter 1: Hold Open Auditions

The most important part of your trip is undoubtedly your chosen travel companion. It is imperative to choose a partner who will pick up your slack – AKA someone who is the yin to your yang, the cheese to your macaroni, the Budapest to your Dubrovnik. For example, if you’re the go-with-the-flow, spontaneous traveler, it’s probably a good idea to choose a more detail-oriented and organized compadre.

Chapter 2: Gather a List of Preferred Destinations

Now, the real fun begins. Now is the time for you and your travel buddy to crack open that dusty atlas and begin brainstorming the places you’d like to visit. There is no right answer here, simply pick anyplace that strikes your fancy and work from there. If you list seems a little (or a lot) long, you’re doing it right.

Chapter 3: Hit the Books

Now it’s time to take that long sightseeing list of yours and narrow it down. After you determine the length of your trip, it is inevitable that a few destinations will have to be saved for the next one. At this stage, it is important to gather as much information as you can about your desired destinations. Refer to books, the web, and any worldly friends you may have about which destinations are best for you. While it is always important to heed the advice of friends and family who have taken their own adventures, your itinerary should be a clear reflection of you and your buddy above all else. Trust your gut and be sure to include a few roads that are less traveled by.

Chapter 4: Book it or Bag it

Beginning at least 3 months prior to your date of departure, start to nail down to logistics. If you’re flying, buy plane tickets first. Then, determine what needs to be booked ahead of time and what can be left open to spontaneity. A lot of cross-country trains offer discounts for early booking, a perk that is too often overlooked by last-minute planners. Also, if you plan on staying in hostels or the homier aribnb’s, booking in advance will give you a better chance of snagging those diamond in the rough accommodations. Seek modest crashpads, always choosing location over luxury. Besides, most of your time will be spent enjoying the outside world in the destinations hand-picked by you and your travel buddy.

Chapter 5: Packing Light

One backpack – that’s all you need. Limiting the amount of stuff you bring with you will decrease the risk of losing your baggage, lighten your load, and give you more freedom to change your plans if necessary. Pack only the necessities and plan on doing laundry rather than packing for your extended stay. Above all, make sure that you bring comfortable walking shoes, as they will become victim to cobblestone streets and train stations galore.

Chapter 6: Hit the Road

Finally, time to grab that passport and say your goodbyes. The time for adventure is now, and the wait finally ended. Make sure to arrive to the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow for hiccups and to get settled in. Never leave home without a camera, a good book, headphones, and cold hard cash when jet-setting. Then, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.