Originally Posted by Jaymcb

I'm a university student and I've got a four month summer break from May 1st to August 31st. I'm thinking about touring through Europe in credit card fashion, but without the implied cashflow. I'd like to carry nothing more than a Sili-tarp, a change of synthetic clothing and rainwear, minimal toiletries, and a toolkit. Hopefully I can get by without panniers —*I'm thinking a seat post bag and a handlebar bag. I'm planning on making camp with the tarp for the most part, using the odd hostel where tarp-ing would be unfeasible, and accepting hospitality that people I meet along the way may offer. Ideally I'd like to use a carbon-frame road bike, like a Trek Madone 4 or a similarly priced alternative.

I'm looking for feedback, warnings, or any tips or tricks that you guys or girls can give me about this idea I'm musing on.

Thanks