Book One-way Flights Rather than Return
Many travellers book return flights without checking the cost of booking two, one-way flights. However, you can often save time and money if you keep your options open. For example, if you are planning to travel Italy, it may be cheaper to fly into Milan, and fly out of Rome.
Buy Food from Grocery Stores
Of course, while travelling you should experience local restaurants and dishes. Yet, you do not need to eat out every day and night. Especially if you are in major cities such as Paris, London, or Amsterdam, you can save a lot of money if you buy your food from the grocery store.
Don’t Wait for Better Weather
Airlines, train companies and hostels are all aware of the most popular times of the year to travel. By travelling during the off-season, you can save money on transportation and accommodation. During these times, most destinations are not overrun with tourists, which will allow you to do more, as well connect more with the culture.
Save Your Shopping for Cheaper Cities/Countries
If you are looking to do a lot of shopping in Europe, but are also keeping a budget, steer clear of shopping in large cities and expensive countries. For example, rather than shopping in Oslo, Zurich, London or Paris, do your shopping in smaller cities or cheaper countries like Spain, Portugal, Croatia or Poland.
Try Couch Surfing
Although in North America many travellers may not be open to this option, in Europe Couch Surfing is much more popular and reputable. It is a great way to save money and meet locals.
Travel With a Group
If you are staying in a small hotel, rather than getting a hotel room on your own; you could split the cost between four people. Also, if you are travelling with a group you may want to rent a car, which will save a lot of money on transportation.
Travel By Bus
Especially in expensive countries, make the choice to travel by bus. For example, when I was living in Manchester, a return bus ticket to London was 8 GBP ($16 CAD) while a return train ticket was 50-60 GBP ($100-120 CAD). Yes, the bus takes longer, but it is tough to turn down that price.
Happy travels,
-Riley
