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?  

Budgetistas: Designer Handbags for Less

Okay, budgetistas, now let’s get in to formation!

Am I the only one who loves expensive things but my bank account won't let me be great? I am also a firm believer of seasonal handbags, a bag for every season. Currently in the Midwest it still feels like summertime despite it being nearly November, but it’s still Autumn.  Even if you love yourself some designer handbags, you can get some gorgeous ones for under $300.

Here are some discounted handbags to add to your autumn wardrobe.

Cole Haan | Renson II Small Woven Leather Tote Bag $189.97 

Vivienne Westwood | Derby Satchel $299.97 

Betsy Johnson | Printed Satchel $49.97 

Kate Spade New York | Emerson Place Lenia $179.00 

Milly | Astor Mini Leather Saddle Crossbody $159 

Alice + Olivia | Present Box Small Leather Crossbody $219

French Connection | Alana Smooth Shoulder Tote Bag $85.00 

Henri Bendel | West 57th Backpack $289.00

Rebecca Minkoff | Julian Convertible Mini Leather Backpack $195 

Sunset & Spring | Double Pocket Faux Fur Backpack $80 

Kate Spade | Watson Lane Hartley Leopard Print $198 

Happy handbag shopping!