She Strengthens

Six Weeks in Europe: A Budget Breakdown

After graduating from college, my roommate and I embarked on a six-week adventure across Europe. With a carefully planned budget, we aimed to visit 15 countries, from the Czech Republic to Ireland. Our journey was filled with highs and lows, but we learned valuable lessons about managing our expenses and making the most of our trip.

Accommodation: Finding the Right Balance

We prioritized convenience over luxury, opting for affordable hostels that were close to city centers. In Prague and Budapest, we found hostels for as low as $14 per night, including free breakfast. However, in popular cities like Paris and London, prices soared to $50 per night. We realized that visiting these cities during peak season was a costly mistake and would have been better off traveling during the off-season.

Food: Savoring Local Flavors

We planned our meals according to the local cuisine, indulging in French staples like crepes and Camembert in France, and Greek delights like souvlaki and grilled eggplant in Mykonos. We supplemented our splurges with grocery store finds and street food, ensuring we stayed within budget. Our strategy allowed us to enjoy the local flavors without breaking the bank.

Nightlife: A Low-Key Approach

As we traveled as a duo, nightlife wasn’t a top priority. We limited our nights out, opting instead for occasional drinks and socializing with friends we met along the way. This approach helped us avoid unnecessary expenses and focus on more meaningful experiences.

Transportation: Booking Ahead

We scored affordable flights by booking in advance, including our initial flight to Europe with Aeroflot. However, I learned the hard way that booking a return flight at the last minute can be costly. We also booked our trains in advance, opting for budget-friendly options that didn’t require additional fees.

Tourist Attractions: Free and Affordable Options

We made the most of free museums, student tickets, and outdoor attractions like Roman ruins, monuments, and beaches. We even stumbled upon a free ride on the London Eye! By being mindful of our spending, we were able to enjoy the sights without overspending.

Souvenirs: Keeping it Simple

We avoided buying souvenirs, opting instead for postcards from each city. This not only saved us money but also helped us stay within our luggage weight limits.

Traveling with a Partner: Give-and-Take

Traveling with a friend requires compromise. We made sure to accommodate each other’s interests, whether it was attending a Taylor Swift concert or taking a tour of the calanques in Marseille. This give-and-take approach enriched our experience and created lasting memories.

Lessons Learned

Six weeks in Europe wasn’t cheap, but we were determined to make the most of our trip. By strategizing our expenses and prioritizing our spending, we were able to stay within budget and even save $1,500 upon our return. Looking back, I realize that there were areas where I could have cut back further, but overall, I’m proud of our frugal yet fulfilling adventure.