First time backpacking, tight budget, help?

Like many here, I could write a book-length punch list of travel tips (most of which would be true.)

I have not used it myself, but I understand couchsurfing.com is the ultimate way to save money on travel.

I travel by car with my family and our favorite tricks to save money are
- emphasize free things like beaches and hiking
- go to a supermarket in the morning, buy bread and cheese (or coffee and a donut) for breakfast and a salad for lunch. Keep the salad in my day pack.
- buy or download the lonely planet guides. They are not 100% perfect but if you travel around and set your itinerary according to advertisements etc. you'll spend a lot more.

These have nothing to do with money, but
- as Nov Dec come around you'l find it is far more space efficient and comfortable to wear a winter hat and multiple layers of somewhat thin clothing. Do not travel with a large fluffy parka unless 100% necessary.
- anytime you check into a hostel etc. get a name card. If you couchsurf WRITE DOWN the address and phone number.
- these days, nobody remembers phone numbers. Everything is in electronic address books. Always keep, (non-electronically, and not in your wallet), at least one emergency phone number (Mom's?) even if you have to tattoo it to your butt.

Traveling is great. enjoy your journey.

Couchsurfing will save you a bundle, plus you often get a host in the know to show you around. Check websites for car shares too, splitting petrol money is usually a bit cheaper than bus or train tickets. Both these options are better if you are travelling with a partner as there's always the security worries, however small they are in reality.

Read "Europe Through the Back Door". for first timers.

But old Rick can make a gadget freak of you.

One thing us old timers have nagging at us is;
What we pack on every trip, but never used.

lol

Check out www.helpx.net, which has work exchange (volunteer for free room and board) listings all over the world. Helpx has been invaluable to me for budget traveling. Most placements ask for about 20 hours a week, which gives you plenty of time to explore on your off time. It's a great way to stretch your money as far as possible and experience local cultures in a way you never would as a tourist.

For cheap travel in Europe (especially the UK) use Megabus!!

One thing us old timers have nagging at us is;

What we pack on every trip, but never used.

LOL
I carried my father's jeweled watch around for 2 years in case i was ever invited to a formal occasion. Only ting I did with it was report it stolen.

Save your breath guys, the OP is not responding.

Join a hostel association for cheap dorm type accommodation.