Traveling on a budget is hard. There are so many things that you just have to have. How do you choose what to spend your money on? After a year of traveling throughout Europe, there were a few traveling hacks I strictly lived by to save money. It is possible to travel and to be a splurging tourist without running out of money. Here are 7 ways to save money and enjoy your trip to Europe.
1. Bring A Small Carry-On Suitcase
http://www.theweek.co.uk/63950/hand-luggage-size-rules-what-can-you-carry-on-a-plane
It is expensive to check those big bags and hard to carry around a heavy backpack while going from airport to airport. In Europe, it is easy, fast, free, and most common to travel with just a carry-on suitcase. Surprisingly, you can fit a lot of clothes in a little suitcase! (Tip: Roll your clothes so they take up less room.)
2. Use Good Planning Websites
Planning a trip is incredibly stressful. It is hard to coordinate everything and to find the best prices. Thankfully, there are many websites that help make planning easier. While looking at flights, use sights such asSkyScanner or Google Flights to compare prices, dates, and times across multiple airlines to get the best deal. If you need to book a train, use GoEuro. And when looking for a place to stay, utilize AirBnB for the best prices and locations. Airbnb's are usually the same price, and much nicer, than hostels.
3. Take The Early Flight
https://thejigsawpuzzles.com/Aviation/Airplane-at-Sunrise-jigsaw-puzzle
Yes, those 7 am flights can be hard to wake up for. However, they are always the cheapest...by a lot. In the end, cheap morning flights are worth it because you will have the entire day after the plane ride to enjoy your destination and you will save a good amount of money.
4. Don't Be Afraid To Use Public Transportation
https://www.london.gov.uk/transport/rail-and-underground/improving-tube
Public transportation in Europe is efficient, easy, and inexpensive. There are multiple trains, metros, and buses in every city that can take you anywhere in just a few minutes, even to the airport. Public transportation is safe and clean as well. Taxis are just too expensive sometimes, and public transportation is a great alternative. Also, it is possible to take a bus or train instead of a plane for a fraction of the price. If it is close, just walk! This way you can see more of the city and get your exercise in.
5. Have A Good Credit Card
Exchange rates and ATM fees add up ridiculously fast. All of a sudden, you are getting charged $15 just to use an ATM, and that's on top of the exchange rate. While traveling in Europe, make sure that your credit card does not have additional exchange rate fees or ATM fees. Make sure to notify your bank that you are traveling so that you will be able to use your card abroad.
6. Skip The Tours
Tour groups are usually pretty expensive and can be a little boring. Be your own tour guide! Go where you want to go to see what you want to see. Travel off the beaten path and see something new! However, most tour groups and museums offer student discounts; take advantage of that!
7. Plan Ahead
https://fr.dreamstime.com/photo-stock-carte-de-planification-de-voyage-de-voyage-image59552773
Don't wait until the last minute to book your trip! Plan ahead of time. Start with the flights, then where to stay, what to do, and all the details. Prices are lower the further ahead you book it. Don't wait! The cheapest time to travel around Europe is during the colder months (November-March).
Happy and safe travels!
