See and do more on your European vacation with these six budget-friendly travel tips that you will want to consider when travelling.
By redtag.caJuly 26, 2018 Posted in:DestinationsEuropeTravel Tips
Europe is home to incredible cities that consistently top traveller's bucket lists, like London, Paris, Rome, and Barcelona. Exploring the continent's best tourist destinations is a cultural dream, but travelling around Europe can be hard on your wallet. Even if you're low on funds, you shouldn't settle for a vacation that is low on fun. Use these six tips to save money on European travel without making sacrifices.
Book Early
Planning a last-minute trip to Europe is a romantic notion, but it's not always the most budget-friendly idea. Booking your vacation well in advance will not only give you peace of mind but also save you money. You'll have a wider selection of flights and accommodations to choose from, making it much easier to plan and book a European vacation in your price range.
In general, we recommend booking about 5 months prior to departure.
If your vacation is looming and you haven't finalized your plans, check for last-minute travel deals on Last-minute Europe flights, hotels, and vacation packages you can still find great deals if you’re flexible with your travel plans to make it work.
Travel Off-Season
Though Europe is a year-round travel destination, tourist activity is generally highest in the summer months. By travelling during the off-peak season instead of during the summer, you'll not only avoid the crowds, but you'll also save significantly on flights and hotels. If you’re booking a Europe Vacation Package try out our Lowest Price Calendar to see a month's worth of flight and hotel deals at once, then compare rates to find the best deal.
Consider Other Airports
Even if you've already decided where in Europe you'll be vacationing, it can still be beneficial to shop around for flights to nearby cities. Many countries in Europe are connected by convenient and budget-friendly systems of buses and trains. Flying into a cheaper airport then taking public transportation to your final destination adds a little time to your trip, but the money you'll save could be worth it. Plus, you'll be free to enjoy the scenery while you travel. Before booking your flights to Europe, always search for nearby airports to see if you can find a better deal.
Prioritize
When travelling to Europe on a budget, it's important to customize your trip based on your personal priorities and what you’re looking to get our of your trip. If you're most excited to try the local cuisine, tailor your budget to allow for a few fancy dinners at trendy restaurants. If learning experiences and are your top priority, keep food and transportation expenses low and splurge on admission to all the city's most popular art galleries, museums and tourist attractions. You may not be able to check off every item on your Europe bucket list right away, but by focusing on the ones that are most meaningful, your trip will be infinitely more satisfying.
Be Selective with Location
As you compare Europe hotel rates, you'll want to consider more than just the price. Booking a hotel in a great location may be a little pricier upfront, but can save you money in the long run. Once you've set your travel priorities, look for hotels that are close to the must-see tourist spots on your list so you can walk instead of spending more on transportation and even wasting precious time travelling instead of enjoying more of what the city has to offer. If you're a go-with-the-flow type of traveller, book a hotel in a central location close to public transportation so you can easily reach any area of the city. Always check and compare hotel reviews on redtag.ca to see what real travellers thought of the hotel and the surrounding area.
Explore Free Options
You don't need to spend a lot of money to have a great experience in Europe. Once you've arrived at your destination, stop by the closest tourist information booth to learn about any free festivals and events occurring during your stay. You may even receive valuable coupons for restaurants or museum admissions.
You should also reserve a block of time in your trip itinerary for some open exploration of the city you're visiting. If the weather's nice during your stay, pack a picnic lunch and spend an afternoon people watching in a public park, or take a walk through the streets and sightsee. These activities are not only budget-friendly, they also allow you to experience the city like a local instead of as a tourist.
No matter which country you decide to visit, a Europe vacation is sure to be a memorable experience. But European travel can be expensive, especially if you're visiting a top tourist destination. Saving money on major travel expenses will instantly give your budget a little breathing room, so book flights and hotels early and travel off-season if possible. When planning your trip itinerary, focus on your personal travel goals and fun and free activities that you can find. Using these tips, you're sure to have a great time in Europe without going over budget.
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