How to Travel Europe for Two Weeks for $2000 (or less!)
The most common reason I hear for not going to Europe is “it’s too expensive!” While everyone’s budget is different, and you can certainly spend a LOT of money in Europe, the trip of your dreams might not cost you as much as you think. I could, and did, write an entire post about each of the tips below, but here is a brief overview my top 5 tips for travelling Europe and coming back with memories, not debt.
Be flexible about when and where you go
One of the largest expenses in any trip to Europe is the transatlantic airfare. The worst thing you can do for your budget is declare that you absolutely must go to a specific city during a specific week or else all is lost. This is a sure-fire way to spend too much on a plane ticket. Luckily, with a little flexibility, Google Flights can help you go to Europe without blowing half your budget getting there.
Travel light
While your luggage allowance for the transatlantic flight might be fairly generous, most regional European airlines are not so forgiving. If you decide to shell out for the additional baggage fees on these airlines, it is only the first time you will pay a premium for carrying more luggage. European cities feel like a maliciously designed obstacle course when you’re carrying your luggage, and if you aren’t in the mood to spend your entire trip fighting with your giant suitcase, then you’re going to pay for it. For example, unless you want to spend all your gelato money on taxis (see my next point), you are going to be carrying your luggage on public transport and down all the beautiful, bumpy, cobblestone streets of Europe. If that doesn’t make you regret packing that seventh sweater, the narrow, winding staircases will (old buildings don’t always have elevators!). It is completely possible to pack for your trip in a carry-on sized suitcase and a normal backpack. Believe me, if I can do it, you can do it. I have never met anyone who came back from Europe saying, “Wow! I really wish I had packed more!”
Use public transportation
Many travelers think that it will be more convenient to rent a car than to use public transportation, but not only can a car prove more hindrance than convenience, it can also blow a giant hole in your budget. There are a lot of hidden costs with renting a car (extra fee for an automatic transmission, expensive fuel, tolls, parking fees, etc) that you cannot predict before your trip. Likewise, the historic centers of most cities have traffic limitations that will not allow you to park anywhere near the attractions you want to see, so you will end up having to park far away and take public transportation anyway. Besides, you aren’t going to Europe to live like an American. You are here for a unique cultural experience, and that includes traveling like they do, by public transit. When in Rome...don’t delay the Metropolitana, or you will get yelled at in Italian.
Cook for yourself
One of my favorite experiences in a new country is going to the grocery store. You’ll be able to find your tried and true staples (granola bars, bananas, bread, etc.), but you’ll also get an authentic picture of what the locals eat. If you’re in a non-English speaking country, pick something that looks interesting, even if you don’t know what it is. Is this toothpaste or paté? Not knowing is half the fun! And you may discover a new favorite food (I am in a long-distance relationship with ketchup flavored potato chips - We’ll be reunited one day). Not only does a trip to the grocery store give you a unique cultural experience, it also saves you $$. Pick up enough to make your own breakfast and snacks during your visit, and stop in during the day to grab lunch if you want to save even more. Most grocery stores will have a prepared meals section that will keep you full until dinner. Picnic in the Tuilleries Garden, anyone? Yes, please!
Stay in Hostels/AirBnB
This recommendation is as much for the experience as it is for the savings. I know we’ve all heard the hostel horror stories, and I’m not saying that never happens, but by using reviews, you can pick a safe, clean place to stay for less than half the price of a hotel. If you’re travelling alone, this is a great way to meet other travelers from all around the world, too!
If you still think hostels might be a bit too adventurous for you, consider an AirBnB. My goal is always to become a temporary local in every city that I visit, and staying in someone’s home helps me feel less like a tourist and more like a part of the community. You can find AirBnBs in the tourist sectors, but there are usually more affordable options in the residential neighborhoods (this is also where the grocery stores and authentic restaurants/cafes tend to be). Especially if you are splitting the cost with friends, an AirBnB is a great way to save money and soak up some culture, even while you sleep!
Ready to take the next step towards your European adventure? Check out my post 5 Places to Start Your Travel Planning to find out how!
What are your tried and true tips for saving money while you travel?