As college students, most of us have had plenty of time to dream up our perfect post-graduation backpacking trip across Europe. What doesn’t always go into consideration while lost in our daydreams is the cost of this potentially life-changing trip. Here are some great ways to not only save up money to make your dreams into reality, but also to budget and use your money wisely while traveling.
Save And Plan Ahead Of Time
I know that budgeting has always been difficult for many collegiates and me, but I realize now that there’s no better way to budget than to plan ahead. First, you must make a plan of where you want to travel and what you want to see. Once your eyes are on the prize, you have to start saving and become cautious about spending. Keep a photograph of the number one place you want to visit in your wallet, and when you think about what that money could do for you when traveling, you will definitely think twice about your purchase. Keeping your eye on the prize can help you stay focused on saving for your big trip.
Once you choose a destination, it is important to search for plane tickets at least a month before you leave. The earlier you buy your ticket, the cheaper it will be. Pack lightly because baggage can be an unexpected expense on some airlines, train or busses in Europe.
Do research to see what the weather will typically be like, and leave your crazily enormous wardrobe at home. Leaving a big bulk of your closet at home will leave you plenty of room for shopping in every city. What could be a better souvenir than some new fashion?
Use Public Transportation And Get Creative
In many cities in Europe, public transportation can get you just about anywhere for cheap. Trains are inexpensive, leave at all hours of the day and go cross-country. Plane tickets can also be found at decent prices if you are flexible about your destination and timing. Many airline websites offer daily deals, so bend your agenda and be spontaneous. You never know what you might find when you choose to take a last minute red-eye to Austria. Having a flexible schedule helps you not only save money, but get a more authentic European experience. Some of the best places you will find while traveling will be the hole-in-the-wall that you stumbled upon while wandering the streets.
Avoid Fancy Hotels
There are many affordable places to sleep in Europe. The obvious: hostels. Not only are they an inexpensive place to rest your head, but they’re also a great place to meet people from all over the world. Put all luxuries aside and step outside your comfort zone. Hostels are full of other young people just like you wanting to make traveling buddies. Many hostels even offer an exchange program where you work a few hours a day on basic household chores in exchange for a place to crash.
There is also a new revelation called: couch-surfing. In the past few years, this idea has turned into an affordable way to travel the world. People across the world offer up a couch, spare bed, comfy chair, etc. to those traveling so they can show you their way of life, their culture and the place they call home. Other basic sleeping arrangements include Bed & Breakfasts, campgrounds and even agritourism farm stays. All are inexpensive, authentic and will make for some awesome memories.
There is never a better time than now to pack up your belongings and travel the world. A Euro-trip can be affordable and possible with smart spending. Traveling authentically will help you create incredible memories and friendships worldwide. Take public transit, stay with other tourists, and don’t stick to one single game plan. Make sure you live as the locals do.