Travelling in Europe is a dream for many, but it can quickly become expensive if you're not careful. However, with the right preparation before your trip, you can explore this beautiful continent and all it has to offer, without breaking the bank. Here’s the ultimate guide on how to travel in Europe on a budget.
1. Plan and Book in Advance
One of the best ways to save money is to plan ahead. Flights, trains and accommodations are often cheaper when booked months in advance. Use budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet, who travel to a whole host of destinations across Europe for quite cheap and compare prices on Skyscanner or Google Flights to get the best deals. Make use of airline sales also by signing up to their newsletters, etc. for sale alerts. Make use of sites such as Pinterest to find lots of travel inspiration before your European adventure. Getting tips from other travellers through blog posts, etc. can help you to save money and find some amazing hidden gems to visit on your travels, that you otherwise may not have known about. Preparation is key when travelling to Europe on a budget.
2. Travel Off-Peak
Avoid travelling to Europe in peak seasons (summer and major holidays) when prices skyrocket. For example, visiting Ireland during March and the St. Patrick's Day celebrations is going to be a lot more expensive than travelling in September, etc. (there'll also be a lot less people at the tourist sites too!). Instead, travel during the quieter seasons (spring and autumn) for better deals on transportation, accommodation and attractions. You’ll also enjoy fewer crowds and more authentic experiences.
3. Go for Budget Accommodation
Hotels can be expensive, but there are plenty of budget-friendly alternatives available for travellers, without compromising on comfort:
• Hostels: Many hostels now offer private rooms, if dorms aren’t your style.
• Airbnb: A great for groups or longer stays, or for those who are looking for unique properties to stay in.
• Couchsurfing: Stay with locals for free and experience authentic hospitality.
• House Sitting: Websites like TrustedHousesitters let you stay in someone’s home in exchange for pet sitting and with 230k+ members, you're sure to find a pet sitting opportunity that suits your travel plans and lets you meet and mind a furry friend too.
4. Use Public Transportation or Hire a Care
Instead of taxis, take advantage of Europe’s excellent public transport system:
• Eurail Pass: If you plan on visiting multiple countries or interrailing, a rail pass can save you money.
• Budget Buses: Companies like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar offer cheap intercity travel.
• City Transport Cards: Many cities, such as London for example, have travel passes that include unlimited bus, tram, or metro rides. Using these can really help you to save money, while exploring to your hearts content!
If there are places that you really want to visit, such as the beautiful coastline of Spain, hiring a car is the best way to travel cheaply, while not missing any of the beautiful sights. Here's a complete guide to driving in Spain to help you on your travels.
5. Eat Like a Local
Food can be a major expense when travelling, but you can eat well without overspending:
• Street Food and Markets: Many European cities have vibrant food markets with delicious and affordable options that will allow you to experience authentic cuisine from the country you're visiting.
• Supermarkets and Picnics: Buy groceries from budget supermarkets such as Aldi and Lidl (who are readily available across Europe) and prepare simple meals to enjoy on your travels.
• Lunch Specials: Many restaurants offer discounted lunch menus that are much cheaper than dinner prices.
6. Enjoy Free Attractions
Europe is rich in culture and history, and thankfully many attractions are free or low-cost:
• Free Tours in Europe: Available in most cities, free tours are a great way of experiencing cities across Europe, visiting their attractions and learning some facts and history, all for free! This is a great option for those travelling on a budget, making places like Barcelona (and others), very affordable.
• Museums and Galleries: Many museums and galleries have free entry days or discounts for students and seniors. Make sure to check their individual websites and/or social media for offers or discounts available during your time of travel.
• Parks and Historical Sites: Enjoy stunning architecture, beautiful landscape and famous landmarks across Europe without spending a dime. For example, the Eiffel Tower in Paris is free to look at (just pay to go up it) and the area it's situated in is a beautiful place to visit, especially in springtime. There are also lots of Instagrammable places in London and across Europe that are free to visit and make for some beautiful photo opportunities for your trips.
7. Travel Light
Budget airlines charge extra for checked luggage, so pack light and stick to a carry-on. Choose versatile clothing and use packing cubes to maximise space. Only pack what you need.
8. Use Travel Discount Cards
Many countries offer tourist discount cards for major attractions, public transport and dining. Examples include the London Pass, Paris Museum Pass, and Berlin Welcome Card and these are all great for helping you to stay of budget when visiting major European cities.
9. Work or Volunteer Abroad
If you want to extend your trip to Europe, consider programmes such as:
• Workaway and WWOOF: Exchange work for free accommodation and meals, allowing you to travel on a budget and enjoy unique experiences.
• Teaching English: Some countries offer short-term teaching opportunities, which allow you to travel, share your skills and meet with local people.
• Seasonal Jobs: From hostel work to fruit picking, short-term jobs can help fund your travels and allow you to meet other like-minded travellers and locals.
10. Stay Flexible
Being open to last-minute deals, alternative routes and unexpected opportunities can lead to significant savings when travelling in Europe. Use apps like Hopper and Skyscanner's 'Everywhere' feature to find the cheapest travel options and avail of some great offers. Which, all in turn, can lead to the most amazing and unique of travel experiences in Europe!
Traveling to Europe on a budget is completely doable with a little planning and flexibility. By making smart choices on accommodation, transportation, food and sightseeing experiences, you can enjoy an unforgettable travel adventure in Europe, without breaking the bank.
