Living the digital nomad dream life of traveling and working at the same time to afford my own journeys, I was often asked the most common question, “How do you pay for your trips?” I usually end up telling my stories to people either in the short version as ‘I am a travel writer for Trip 101’ or a long explanation about how cheap travelling can be. You just need to know how to smartly make use of the tools and tips to travel on low budget efficiently. There are already so many backpackers out there who travel on as low as 20 USD per day. Here are some of my golden tips for traveling Europe, and saving money in your pockets while on the road.
Save on accommodation
Traveling on a low budget usually means saying no to luxurious hotels and top quality bed and breakfasts. Though if you plan to lounge around those off-the-beaten-path destinations in the Balkan Peninsula, it is possible to crash a three-star hotel double-size bed for only around 20 to 30 USD. In more expensive regions like Western and Northern Europe, renting a room on AirBnb or a backpackers’ hostel is definitely another cheap option too. Last but not least, the most effective way to squeeze your accommodation budget is to stay with a local Couchsurfing host, find a free nomad house, or stay with friends of friends. Don’t be shy to ask your family and friends if they know someone who can host you. It is always more rewarding to share memories with a local during your trip.
Cut down on transportation costs
The second thing coming to your mind when travel planning, after the accommodation reservation, is usually transportation. What is the best way to get around the country or city to see all the places on your bucket list? One of my most favourite things about Europe is that most cities are small and walkable. Hence, book your hostel or hotel in the centre and you’re able to see many places on foot. Rent a bike in Holland to avoid paying for the expensive travel passes. Take a Flixbus in Germany when they offer amazing deals of 1 EUR (1.14 USD) or 5 EUR (5.71 USD). You can also fly cheap with Ryanair in multiple destinations around Europe.
Eat your food wisely
Another significant category on your travel expenses sheet is food. There are plenty of local cheap-eats around Europe you should try that are usually less than 6 USD, such as pizza in Italy, the French Lady sandwich in Portugal, waffles and fries in Belgium, Kroket in the Netherlands, and different kinds of wurst (sausages) in Germany. They can make quite a decent lunch for you before moving on to explore the next attraction. Many hostels with kitchens are located next to supermarkets and mini-markets so don’t be shy with your cooking skills! Before hiking trips or daily sightseeing tours, I cook my own lunch and bring it with me in a box.
Join free or cheap tours to save time
There are lots of companies organizing free walking tours in Europe, such as New Sandeands and Can You Handle It. Some hostels also organize private free walking tours for guests. Travellers in Sofia can enjoy free Bulgarian food by joining the Balkan Bites free food tour. Keep in mind that these tours are not completely free but rather tip based. It is normal to give the guide some pocket money at the end of the tour, so make sure to have some extra cash or coins in your wallet.
Cut off or reduce alcohol consumption
Traveling throughout Europe can be quite expensive if you are up for the nightlife. A fun night in the Western and Northern parts of Europe can cost you at least 20 USD per night for just a few beers, let alone the entrance fee to the club. Most locals drink at home first before going out, so ask them to let you join in. Do not let the hangover the next morning ruin your sightseeing plan. Know when to say NO! Remember that you can party anywhere, but may not have the chance go back to certain cities to see these places again.
Go to museums for free
For museum enthusiasts, keep track of your travel timeline. This is important as many museums in Europe allow free entrance on the first Sunday, Tuesday, or Wednesday of the month. Many museums in Italy are closed on Mondays, and on local museum days, most museums can be entered for free.
Join free events and festivals
There are usually free events on local Couchsurfing or Expat groups. These events could be regular weekly meet-ups in bars or cafes, walking tours, even photography shooting events, and international dinners. This is a great chance for you to meet up with the locals and travellers in the same area. There are also many free outdoor events in cultural festivals around Europe that you can attend, such as the annual Venice Carnival in Italy (February) and King’s Day in the Netherlands (April). The open-air cinema at the Bologna Film Festival is also something remarkable to go to for free. Another open-air event for celebrating New Year’s Eve is at Brandenburg Gate in Germany. There’s about about 1 million people, and it’s also a free and extreme experience you should definitely try.
Budget planning is a must!
Budget planning is not the most fun pastime while you’re traveling but it is a must, especially for experienced travelers who go for adventures and experiences rather than leisure trips. Have a budget per day, and follow your plan! If you by chance exceed the daily cost, think of it as a reward for yourself and cut something off your expenses on the next day. Know when to say no, especially to shopping. There are lots of tempting deals during seasonal sales, but think about your packing plan twice before purchasing an item.
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