Peaks of the Balkans Guide: KNOW BEFORE YOU GO (Routes, Permits, Costs)

If you’re planning to hike the Peaks of the Balkans, this is everything I wish I knew before starting. In this final video, I break down the full logistics of the trail—from when to go and how to plan your route, to permits, transport, accommodation, and real costs. I also cover what surprised me along the way, the biggest challenges I faced, and the key lessons I’m taking forward into future long-distance hikes. This is not just a planning guide—it’s a practical, honest look at what it’s actually like to hike the Peaks of the Balkans as an independent traveler. #peaksofthebalkans #backpacking #balkans #thruhiking Links for Items Discussed: Fastest Known Time GPX: https://fastestknowntime.com/route/pe... Permits: https://zbulo.org/border-crossing-per... Bus tickets online: https://busticket4.me/EN/1121-1184-13... Hostel & Luggage Storage: https://www.booking.com/hotel/me/host... Outdoor Research Rain Jacket: https://amzn.to/4h3CjlN Outdoor Research Rain Pants: https://amzn.to/4iDJOQZ Ankor 20,000 Battery Pack: https://amzn.to/3AExGys Katadyn BeFree 1L Water Filter: https://amzn.to/3YSmKFE    • Peaks of the Balkans      • Peaks of the Balkans – Episode 1: Plav to ...      • Peaks of the Balkans – Episode 2: Çerem to...      • Peaks of the Balkans Guide: KNOW BEFORE YO...   You Can Find Other Adventures Here: Bikepacking the US & Canada:    • USA Canada Bikepacking Adventure   Backpacking Tips:    • Backpacking Tips   Backpacking:    • Backpacking   Please feel free to leave any questions you have in the comments or let me know if you have anything to add! Ways to Support Me: Subscribe here:    / @hikebikeandlovelife   Buy me a beer: https://buymeacoffee.com/hikebikeandl... My Favorite Backpacking and Bikepacking Gear: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls... Some Essentials: Western Mountaineering Ultralight 20 Degree Down Sleeping Bag: https://amzn.to/3OpaWFT Picaridin bug repellant: https://amzn.to/3CDEtcq Garmin Inreach Mini: https://amzn.to/3ZrXyXX Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer: https://amzn.to/3Oik7rN Katadyn BeFree 1L Water Filter: https://amzn.to/3YSmKFE Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:34 When to do This Route 00:01:23 Planning the Route 00:02:21 Trail Markings 00:02:43 Permits 00:03:43 Where to Start 00:04:00 Getting There 00:04:59 Where I Stayed 00:05:06 Luggage Storage 00:05:32 Amenities 00:08:22 Accommodation 00:09:23 Transport 00:10:06 Highlights 00:14:14 Challenges 00:18:37 Lessons Learned 00:19:06 Essential Gear Items 00:21:01 Cost Breakdown Disclaimer: In compliance with FTC guidelines: Links on this site may include affiliate links to Amazon and its affiliate sites on which the owner of this website will make a referral commission. #backpacking #backpackingvlog #solofemaletraveler #over40 #womenover40