if traveling through europe is high on your bucket list, don’t let limited funds stop you.
i traveled to 6 countries (& 8 cities) for $2,500. while this may sound like a lot, this total includes 13 airbnb nights, 3 hotel stays, 3 flights, 7 train tickets, 10 bus passes, countless subway tickets, an uber, 2-day bike usage, & all of my meals.
because i’m a broke b, i did my research & planned ahead. i learned quite a few money saving tips along the way:
- flights to europe are often cheaper if you fly out of toronto or chicago – the same $1,000 flight out of detroit only cost me $600 from chicago
- when traveling through europe, sometimes planes are cheaper than trains because budget airlines are everywhere. (caution: eurail passes may be a good option, but only if youre traveling long distances over an extended period of time)
- stay in airbnbs or hostels. they are inexpensive and often give you a local feel. if you can, travel with friends – you can split the cost of an airbnb. if you’re traveling alone, hostels are your best bet
- watch out for touristy areas. although they are nice to visit, restaurants are more expensive. there are often hidden gems outside of these areas if you look for them (google ‘off the beaten path restaurants’ or ‘eat like a local’ for cheaper eats)
- eat cheap on street food or cook your own. i allowed myself one nice meal every other day (or at least once in each country)
- public transportation is readily available (& inexpensive). i used busses and subways to get around
- get advice from locals. they know how to find the best deals
- bring a water bottle around! the water is very clean and available (& often found in cool fountains on the street)
- when converting currency, use a debit card or ATM. they have the best rates
- look up each countries tip policy. most places in europe dont expect you to tip (many include it as a service fee. but, if you do need to tip, 20% is definitely NOT expected)
i made a few mistakes (like a $40 uber for a 7 mile drive), but they were the result of last minute, unplanned decisions. so, if you plan, your trip doesnt have to be a once in a lifetime opportunity!
