Sunday 22 September 2013

Traveling Europe on a budget is a rite of passage for many young American. The freedom symbolized by roaming from country to country with all your belongings on your back is unparalleled. Most young travelers have little money, and what they do have is beaten down by a poor exchange rate with the Euro. However, if you know what to do, you can live inexpensively and have a great time. Follow these steps to travel Europe on a budget.

Instructions

    1

    Decide when to go. Summer is peak season. It is the most expensive and most crowded time in Europe. Spring and fall are cheaper but can be cold and rainy at times. Winter is the least expensive season except in ski areas. You will encounter very few other tourists, but you will have to deal with snow in some places. Every season has its benefits. Choose which ones suits you best.

    2

    Plan ahead for cheap airfare. Shop around to find some great deals. Compare the Internet travel agencies, then call the airlines directly to see if they can beat the price. Be flexible with travel dates. Sometimes the day of the week can make a huge difference in airfare. Consider European-based airlines. Sometimes they offer amazing prices with free stopovers in their home countries. You could end up seeing Iceland, Luxembourg or the Netherlands for free.

    3

    Arrange your transportation before you go. The Eurail Pass is a perennial favorite. Choose your countries, class of service and length of pass. It must be purchased before arriving in Europe (see Resources below).

    4

    Pack light. Get a backpack with wheels that is the maximum size for an airline carry-on. Only take what fits in that bag. If you check bags and lug them around Europe, it will slow you down and cost you more. Take two changes of clothing and do laundry in a sink every night. If something wears out, buy a replacement in Europe.

    5

    Stay in low-cost accommodations. Get a good budget travel book like "Lonely Planet" or "Let's Go" (see Resources below). They list hostels and hotels for the budget traveler. Most are clean, safe and cheap. Also ask other travelers for recommendations. Word-of-mouth tends to be more accurate than book listings. Many budget accommodations don't accept reservations. If you are looking for a place to stay that night, be sure to search early in the day before they fill up.

    6

    Eat cheap. Sit-down restaurants will drain your budget quickly. Whenever possible, cook for yourself. Many hostels have cooking facilities and utensils. "Take away" food is also inexpensive and authentic. Your budget travel book will have recommendations of good and cheap places to eat.

    7

    Avoid expensive tourist traps. Museums and other tourist sites charge ridiculous fees to enter. Check to see if there are discounted or free days. If not, don't go there unless you must see something specific inside. All of Europe is a tourist site for Americans. Wander the streets or hang out in a town square. The best sites of Europe are free.

    8

    Take pictures as souvenirs. They are the best reminders of your travels in Europe and they don't cost you much. They also don't add weight to your bag. Compliment your photos with a journal of your memories. If you buy things you will either have to carry them or mail them home. Either way it will be expensive.

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