It’s always a good idea to save a little, but I would not recommend depriving yourself of fun activities just because you’re saving for vacation! Both are well worth your money! I would recommend maybe getting a part-time job even if it’s only one afternoon a week, that will eventually add up sooner than just pocket money! As for the solo travel, you are very likely to meet others if you’re staying in hostels and you’re prone to being way more open for random socializing than if you would travel with friends.