Hacks For Traveling Around Europe On A Backpacker's Budget
Want to go on a Euro trip but afraid you don't have the funds? The simplest method is to change the way you travel. Don't expect to stay in the Four Seasons. Sleep on someone's couch, hitchhike, and housesit: you'll save money and have more of an adventure. Here are 20 tips for traveling around Europe on a budget.
1. Use FlixBus
The bus service FlixBus is one of the best ways to travel between countries in Europe. It's simple to use, the buses are comfortable, and it's extremely cheap. For example, you can get a ride from Paris to Amsterdam (an eight-hour journey) for less than $20.
2. Hitchhike
It might sound alarming to hitchhike, but in Europe, it's a lot more common and safe than in the US. There are plenty of well-known hitchhiking routes and drivers are accustomed to picking up travellers. It's a great way to make new connections and save money on transportation.
3. Couchsurf
Couchsurfing is an app commonly used in Europe where locals offer travelers to stay in their homes free of charge. It shouldn't be treated like a free hotel though: the whole idea is to get the amazing opportunity to explore the city with a local while connecting with your host.
4. Cook When Possible
Whenever possible, cook your meals.
Going to restaurants every day is bound to get costly. Try to save it for special eating experiences instead of just feeding yourself.
5. Try A Work Exchange
Apps like Workaway offer work-abroad opportunities that provide free meals and lodging. It's a great way to learn a new trade, live abroad, and get a taste of life as a local.
6. Walk When Possible
Whenever you can, avoid paying for transport. Walking is a great way to learn a new place and get some exercise.
7. Use Public Transportation
When your destination is too far to walk, use public transportation instead of taxis. European transportation systems are very organized, clean, comfortable, and cheap.
8. Look For Free Walking Tours
Don't pay companies for tours. Most hostels offer free walking tours. Just remember to tip the guide at the end.
Kat van der Linden on Unsplash
9. Stay At Hostels
If Couchsurfing isn't your thing, hostels are a solid alternative. Staying at hostels is a great way to meet fellow travelers and they're much cheaper than hotels.
10. Eat & Drink Like Locals
Try to avoid eating in the most touristy spots. For better and cheaper food and drinks, pay attention to wear the locals go. Look for places that are packed with locals or simply grab a bottle of wine and nice cheese from the épicerie and have a picnic in a park overlooking the Eiffel Tower.
11. Travel During The Off-Season
The off-season in Europe is from November to April.
Traveling during these months will save you money on flights, accommodation, and experiences. Alternatively, you can choose to travel during the "shoulder seasons" of spring or fall during which you can still find good prices but the weather is more likely to be pleasant.
12. Choose Affordable Destinations
When choosing destinations, think outside the box. Consider going to Eastern Europe like the Czech Republic or Hungary instead of France or Italy. There, you can find accommodation for less than $10 a night versus the $60 or more you'll spend on a hostel in Paris.
13. Fly With Budget Airlines
There are many budget airlines flying within Europe, and when we say budget, we mean it. You can sometimes get flights for less than $10 with carriers like Ryanair. Additionally, using flight search engines like Skyscanner will compare all the airlines for you and find the best price.
14. Look For Free Activities
Do a little research before spending money on things like museums and tours. Many places in Europe offer free admission on certain days and hostels often have free walking tours you can join.
15. Prioritize What You Spend Money On
Tourist experiences can add up so don't go to a museum just because everyone goes there. Save your money for the experiences that really matter to you.
16. Look For Discounts
Always keep your eyes open for discounts.
If you're a student, make sure to have your I.D. on you as many experiences in Europe are significantly cheaper for students.
17. Buy Train or Bus Passes
If you know you're going to be traveling primarily by train or bus, it's cheaper to buy a pass that gives you a bundle of journeys. Check out RailEurope, Seat61, or RailPass.
18. Consider House/Pet Sitting
Many websites like Trustedhousesitters allow you to stay in someone's house while they're away for free. It usually entails a little work, keeping the house clean and taking care of the plants and animals, but it's a wonderful way to score free lodging and get the opportunity to live like a local.
19. Take Overnight Journeys
When traveling between cities, consider making the journey overnight. Not only are transportation tickets usually cheaper, but you can sleep during the trip, saving you money on accommodation.
20. Pack Light
The lighter you pack, the more you'll be able to get around on foot. What's more, you'll spend less on baggage fees when using those budget airlines.
