zach_xt

First off, I'm a newbie. Never been to Europe before, never had to plan a trip before, and so on...
I've read a lot of great info on here - everyone is so helpful and courteous! Now all I can hope is that a few of you will take pity on me.

I have decided that I need to quit my job and see Europe before I settle into a career. I just graduated college, and realized that this is my best opportunity to do so, and I need to take it. I plan on working through the summer to earn some extra dough, then quit, and head off around October. I will be going with my girlfriend. We have spent some time attempting to plan this all out. After figuring funds, we are looking at somewhere near 25 days abroad. We would like to stay longer, but I can't assume that I will make the extra money to do so. That brings me to my first question:

-We are unsure as to when and how we should buy our airfare. I would hate to buy now only to earn enough money to stay longer, and be forced to leave by a certain date. The prices seem to be climbing by about $15 a week. Will prices continue to climb, or will we be safe waiting a couple months?

-We honestly expected hostels to be cheap, but some are more than hotels! Also, I figured October would be a bit cheaper as it isn't peak season, but it isn't. We would prefer private rooms but aren't against dorming part of the time. It's crazy that some dorms are $30+. What gives? Would it make more sense to not book and just wing it that time of year? I would like the freedom.

-I am a minimalist at heart. I first thought I was going to have to lug a huge backpack around, but I think I might be able to get by on a much smaller one. Anyone else in the same boat as me? I only like to take the bare necessities - just enough to get me by. I really don't want to take a huge pack and a daypack. I'm thinking a midsize pack and nothing else.


Thanks to anyone and everyone who took the time to help me out! I am open to any and all suggestions or insights. Thanks again!