Tips For Economy Student Travel In Europe

Economy usually tops the list of priorities when it comes to planning for student travel in Europe. Despite the fact that many students are strapped for cash, they still itch for adventure and a chance to soak up European history and culture. Make the most of every penny, pound and Euro with these low-budget travel tips for the most important elements of your European trip: accommodations, food and transportation.

Economy Accommodations

Dormitory style accommodations of hostels are probably the most popular go-to place to stay for students traveling abroad. However, that doesn't necessarily mean that hostels are the most economical. Keep an open mind about other options:

• Airbnb often offers a private place to stay at a price competitive with a hostel. 
• Homestay can get you a room as a guest in the home of locals. There are also opportunities to earn travel credits that could further sweeten the deal.
• Cheap hotels can be found in every country. Cheap doesn't necessarily mean unlivable or unsafe. Take the time to research cheap hotels available at your destination. You can often find a real treasure.
• 9flats is another accommodation revolution in Europe similar to Homestay. Guests, however, enjoy the perk of a host that can double as tour guide.

Dining & Eats

Street eats may be the cheapest option for your low-budget dining pleasure. If you are really looking for a true cultural experience, it is a must-do for that reason alone. Street vendors may not offer the healthiest fare, but they do feed their customers cheap. Travelers are feasting on authentic, local cuisine. But if you tire of hitting the curry cart on the corner, there are other ways to eat well without draining your pocketbook:

• Picnic - Stock up at the local market and dine picnic style as you tour. If you have access to refrigerated storage for your eats and snacks where you are staying, even better.
• Stay Dining - Depending on your accommodations, some of your meals may be part of the package. When reserving your spot, inquire about meals. It may be an option that might be free or slightly increase your accommodation rate. However, the increase often costs less than dining out.
• Cafeterias - Frequent self-serve restaurants not only for economy, but also to have more choices. To stretch a Euro further, look for cafeterias affiliated with local universities, churches, or other organizations. These cafeterias are subsidized which allows them to offer their fare at a lower price than traditional cafeterias.
• Bakeries - You will be delighted to discover that European bakeries often offer more than just biscuits and cakes. A delicious and healthy sandwich can usually be had for an affordable meal. 

Getting The Most Of Your $$ Getting Around

It's a given that most students envision a European adventure by rail through many different countries. But not so fast. You may be preparing to hear the suggestion of booking coach travel to save a bundle. It's true that rail passes and coach trips are extremely popular among students traveling on a tight budget. But stop and compare all the benefits of having your own car.

You see, there are hidden expenses attached to that rail pass or bus ticket, such as transportation cost from the station to your accommodations. In addition, passengers are more limited in things like dining choices and tour and sightseeing opportunities. A traveler is also restricted to a bus or train schedule. By using your own rental car, not only is a traveler completely independent with their comings and goings, but they have complete control over where they stop. You can pass up a more expensive diner for a cheaper roadside cafe. Rather than have to pay a fee as part of a group tour, you can go it alone. It may be more economical traipsing through ruins with your tour-guide book instead of having to tip a human guide at the end of a paid-for excursion.

If you have questions about budget travel to Europe, or are simply ready to roll independently and economically in a European car rental, please contact us. We can help you stretch your travel dollars further.