How to Travel Europe on a Budget

One of the best vacations you can plan is a trip to Europe. The countries throughout Europe are rich in culture, offer amazing food, have friendly people and provide fantastic adventures. But, if there's one thing every traveler knows, it's that Europe isn't a cheap destination. Still, that doesn’t mean Europe is out of reach for budget-conscious travelers. You can travel to Europe on a budget; you just have to know the right tips and tricks to keep costs down. Keep reading to learn all the ways you can have the European vacation of your dreams while on a budget. 

Save Money on Destinations

Europe comprises 44 countries. It's unlikely you'll be able to see all these destinations in one trip, so you’ll need to select just a handful for your trip. Where you choose to go can significantly impact the overall expenses of your holiday. For example, Switzerland and Iceland can be costly countries to visit. You can expect a sit-down dinner at a restaurant in Switzerland to cost $100 USD for a single entree and a cocktail. 

On the other hand, countries such as Hungary and Croatia are much more affordable. According to Budget Your Trip about $100 per day while traveling in Hungary, typically covers the cost of hotels, local transportation and meals. 

As you plan your itinerary, consider traveling to the more affordable countries in Europe. They're just as fun and exciting as the expensive ones but won't hurt your wallet quite as much. 

Save Money on Travel

You'll take several modes of transportation while going on a European holiday. Here are some tips for saving on travel:

Airplanes

At the very least, you'll have to buy two plane tickets — one to get you overseas and one to get you home. However, you may need to purchase more if you're traveling to multiple countries. To save money on plane tickets, consider doing the following:

• Monitor flights before booking. Set up alerts for your flights, and monitor them for several months to ensure you get the best price. Generally, long-haul international flights are cheapest when booked 6 to 8 months in advance of your trip. 

• Consider long layovers. Often, a flight is cheaper if it comes with a long layover. Consider booking these flights and fitting in an extra adventure on your trip. An 8-24 hour layover somewhere can be an opportunity to explore a new country! 

• Use a travel credit card. If you're planning a trip for a year from now, consider signing up for a travel credit card. These cards often come with a sign-up welcome bonus. If you book all your hotels in advance, you may earn enough points to receive a discount on your flights.

• Travel in the off-season. Consider booking your vacation during the off-season to take advantage of cheaper flights and hotels.

• Be flexible with dates and times. As you search for flights, you may realize that you can save yourself hundreds by simply adjusting your dates or times slightly.

• Don't default to flights. Europe is incredibly connected and can be easy to navigate. Don't assume flying from country to country is the most affordable option. Depending on your destination, a train might be a cheaper — and more fun — way to travel. 

Car Rentals

If you're planning to rent a car on your holiday, remember these tips:

• Book in advance. Car rentals are often cheaper when booked in advance rather than at the last minute. 

• Pay upfront. Many car rental companies offer a discount if you pay upfront. 

• Do your research. Don't just book a car rental with the first company you find. Conduct thorough research, and compare rates across multiple vendors. 

• Record the condition of the car. You don't want to get stuck paying for car damage that isn't your fault. Always record the condition of the vehicle's interior and exterior when you pick it up and drop it off. 

• Consider a manual transmission (stick shift). Europeans primarily drive vehicles with manual transmissions. If you know how to drive a stick shift, it's generally the more affordable option. 

Local Transportation

Once you arrive at your destination, try to limit the number of Ubers and taxis you take, as the costs for these can add up quickly. Instead, walk as much as possible. Doing this allows you to take in the scenery and explore the area. You can also try local transportation, such as buses and trains, to save money. 

Also Read: Croatia Travel Insurance & Assistance Services

Save Money on Hotels

One of the biggest line items in your vacation budget is lodging. You can save money on hotels by traveling during the off-season, staying in budget-friendly hotels or opting for a hostel. If you're young, a hostel can be an excellent option for mingling with other travelers.

However, a word of caution: always do your research. A hotel may offer lower rates because it's located in a less desirable neighborhood. You don't want to spend your trip feeling uncomfortable or worried.

Lastly, in some countries, vacation rentals may be a more affordable option than hotels. 

Save Money on Food

One of the best aspects of traveling is trying new cuisines. You certainly don't want to skip this pleasure, but dining out for every single meal can quickly add up, too. Here are some tips for saving on your food expenses when traveling:

• Try street vendors. They make delicious food for a quarter of the price. 

• Have some meals, such as lunches, at your hotel. If you choose to stay at a vacation rental, your accommodations may have a kitchen that allows you to cook your meals. Otherwise, you can pick up some groceries and make a snack platter for lunch. 

• Book accommodations with breakfast included. That way, breakfast is always free. 

• Skip the alcohol if it's pricey. A few drinks can quickly double or triple your bill. 

Save Money on Things to Do

The countries in Europe are all beautiful and offer a wealth of things to do and see. You can make your itinerary of activities more affordable by incorporating free and cheap events in the schedule. Try doing the following:

• Spend at least one day just walking and exploring the area you're in, which is free to do. 

• Book activities in advance to secure a discounted rate.

• Be your own tour guide. Do the research beforehand, and build a tour, so you don't have to hire someone. 

A Strong Budget Means Peace of Mind

You won't be able to fully unwind and enjoy your European vacation if you're constantly worried about money. Making smart financial decisions before and during your trip means you can stop thinking about costs and simply enjoy the experience. 

Another concern you need to address before you go is travel protection. You're investing a significant amount of time and money in planning this trip. Give yourself the gift of peace of mind with Generali Travel Insurance with Assistance Services. Choose the plan that works for you, and get coverage for things such as trip cancellations, trip interruption, baggage delay or loss and medical emergencies. This is one area where splurging is certainly worth it. 

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Note: Trip Cancellation for Any Reason coverage is not available to residents of New York and other eligibility requirements apply.