How I Traveled to Europe Under $1200

Traveling can be a luxury but you can definitely go abroad without spending out of your means. There are plenty of sites that share low flight fares and Groupon is a great source for package deals. Last September I traveled to Eastern Europe, visiting Budapest, Prague and Vienna and I only spent less than $1200 for the entire trip. Here’s my breakdown.

Flight: $30

I swear! I only paid $30 for the entire flight. I received a $1000 voucher from Delta Airlines due to an overbook flight. I took the offer and had to stay one evening in Atlanta, but it was worth it.

Lodging: $705.84

I spent 14 days in three different countries and decided the cheapest option would be to stay at Airbnb. I rented a room in each location and most were less than $80 a night. I also made sure every place I stayed offered breakfast so I eliminated purchasing one meal a day.

For 4 nights in Budapest - $284.94

1 night in Budapest - $75.00

4 nights in Prague - $202.95

4 nights in Vienna 142.95

Transportation: $411

To travel to each country, I opt to take trains to each destination. I also splurged and purchased first class seats for each train ride, but you can definitely purchase economy seating to keep your spending as low as possible.

For a 6 hour train from Budapest to Prague - $176

4 hour train ride from Prague to Vienna - $142

2 ½ hour ride from Vienna to Budapest - $93

Overall I spent $1146.79

Another way I cut cost of spending, I used public transportation instead of using taxis or shuttle buses. Most were $2 round trip, and many locals are happy to help you get around or your hosts at the Airbnb.

How are some ways you’ve been able to cut costs for traveling?  

See the World On A Budget

Photo Courtesy: Pexels 

Traveling has always been a part of my life. Fortunately, my family has made an effort to travel (most of the time) to a new place every year together and has been our tradition since I was a little kid. As I have grown older, I have taken the time to travel without my family to see different places I’ve always wanted to see. The most common question I receive is “how can you afford it?” Yes, traveling can sometimes be very expensive and seen to many as a luxury but it doesn’t have to be that way. I am a budgetista when it comes to travel and love to find the cheapest way see a new city. I reached out to travel agent, Rebecca Mitchell, to give Pierre into My Life’s readers some tips to be able to be a global trotter on a budget.

Flexibility Is Hot

“Be willing to travel during the less busy months.  September and May are great for this because the weather is pretty similar to the summer months, but you'll find better deals.  Also, be willing to travel Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.  The savings on both airfare and lodging can be significant.”

 Alternative Lodging Ideas

“Luxury can wait, unless you intend to just stay and enjoy the amenities at your hotel, you don't need to stay in luxurious comfort. Try an Airbnb or a nice hotel that has free breakfast. You can visit those luxurious hotels and Snap and Instagram from the lobby or bar.  No one will ever know.”

Snack on the Go

“Snack like you're in kindergarten - instead of going out for each meal, snack as you tour around.  You'll get to sample more of the local culture this way and save money.”

Seek out a Professional Planner

“Use a travel agent - sure, you can research and do everything yourself, but why not have someone with experience take care of those details for you?  Travel agents are paid by the travel partners they represent, so it does not cost you any more to use a travel agent than it would if you book it yourself.  Plus, you'll have an expert in your corner from the planning stages through your trip.”

Use Your ‘Rents As An Excuse To Travel

“Get someone else to pay for it - no, really.  Multigenerational travel is the hottest trend in travel right now.  Encourage your parents to take that big trip they've been talking about.  They fulfill their desire for family time and you'll get a free trip, win/win.”

Rebecca Mitchell is a Travel Agent with FTM Travel and is always looking for her next adventure.  She specializes in Disney Destinations, but she can help you with any destination around the world and would love to turn your vacation dreams into your dream vacation.  You can get in touch with her via Facebook.