Choosing travel destinations is easy, but when it comes to budgeting, this can be really overwhelming for most of us. Here are some key ways to save money while travelling, and make the most out of your journey!
1. Look for free tours!
If you want to learn about the city and explore its sights, get a free walking tour! You can easily find such tours in most of the major cities in Europe. You can ask the local people, go to a local tourist office, or just do a search “free walking tour in…” in Google and you will definitely find one! Do note that a tip is expected by the end of this type of tour, though it's up to you how much you're willing to give.
2. Book attraction tickets in advance
It is very important to research and book popular attraction tickets in advance, for the simple reason that online booking often offers various discounts whether for specific dates, groups, students, or for different offers such as 2 for 1 etc. Always take some time in advance to do this research! Some attractions even have free entrance on specific days. For example:
Paris: Free museum entry on the first Sunday of each month: The Louvre, Musée Rodin, Musée Picasso, Musée d'Orsay and others.
Always free: National museums (such as the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay, etc.) are free for all persons under 26 from the European Union: proof of identity is required (passport or EU identity card).
Always free: National museums (such as the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay, etc.) are free for all persons under 26 from the European Union: proof of identity is required (passport or EU identity card).
Brussels: The first Wednesday or Wednesday afternoon of the month, museums are free to visit. Visit brusselsmuseum.be for more information.
London: Most of the museums that you can visit are FREE!
3. Use your European Youth Card
The European Youth Card can provide you many benefits, such as discounts on museum tickets, transport tickets, food and beverages and much more! Find your card in the Discover EU Travel App, and explore the instant discounts here!
4. Use the benefits of your Interrail Pass
During the validity of your Pass, you can make use of the Pass Benefits. You can get discounts on fun activities, city tours, hostels and public transport, among many other things.
You can search for the benefits per country on this page.
You can search for the benefits per country on this page.
5. Find cheap accommodation
Choosing to stay in hostels is one way of getting good value for money! Airbnb is also a great choice for budget travellers, as you can take advantage of the price range feature and choose whether to rent a couch, a room or a flat. What’s more, you get a discount if you are a first time user, or anytime you invite a friend to join the Airbnb community! You can also try Couch-surfing, where your stay with the host is free and you meet some nice locals!
6. Find out the cheapest way of transport
You can save even more money by choosing the cheapest way of transport. Of course, walking is the best one as it costs nothing, and you can properly experience the local atmosphere. However, when this is not an appropriate option, the best way is to look at the discounted bus and train tickets offered. For example, you can get a daily or weekly ticket, which could turn out cheaper than buying single tickets. Another option that you could look at is whether there are discounts for travelling during non-peak hours, which is the case in many big cities. Have a look whether there are bikes or electric bikes available for rent, which is also a quick and easy way to get around.
7. Choose cheap destinations
Choose to visit cheap destinations, such as the countries in Eastern Europe or Portugal! They offer a great mix of culture, history and landscape, and you can have a great experience without spending a fortune!