Tips for affordable holidays in Europe

Europe has a wealth of sights just waiting to be discovered, but making your money stretch as far as you’d like can be tough. Tourist destinations have honed the art of parting visitors from their cash, but with some preparation and a few basic guidelines you can make your money go a lot further than you’d think, making a European break possible even on the tightest budget.

Accommodation will be one of your largest expenses, and camping is a great way to bring the cost down. You lose out on some of the luxuries, true, but you can find outstandingly scenic pitches for as little as €10 a night, putting almost any hotel to shame for scenic beauty.

You’ll need to supply your own tent and sleeping bags, but once these are bought they will last for many years if properly cared for. It’s worth thinking carefully about the areas you are likely to visit, both now and in the future, and buying equipment appropriate to these destinations. It’s no use taking thick arctic sleeping bags to Spain in the middle of summer, for example. Seek some advice from a knowledgeable individual, as getting the right equipment will make your stay far more enjoyable.

Camping outside designated sites is illegal, but it can bring the costs down even further. It’s well worth thoroughly checking the laws in the area you are travelling before considering this, however.

Aside from accommodation travel will be your largest expense. Always be sure to check for deals, as far in advance as you can. Early bookings can be cheap but, failing that, last minute cancellations can open up excellent fares. If you’re willing to be flexible with your destination grabbing a spontaneous last minute deal can save a lot of money.

Similarly certain days are cheaper than others when travelling  Avoiding the weekends is nearly always a good idea, if possible. Some flexibility and research regarding the exact dates of travel could save a lot of money. Remember too that air travel is not your only option. The Eurostar and Ferries offer alternatives that can be cheaper than flying.

Once you’ve arrived locally sourced food can be a great way to save money, and again research will pay off. You may be able to find a local farm or supplier who will deal with you directly, but failing that shops and markets in the local area will often offer reasonable prices. Cooking yourself will be cheaper than eating out, as long as you’re smart about it. Plan your meals in advance, and try to cook recipes that use locally available produce. Remember, when trying to save money it’s best to do your research up front.

Finally, for families with children you might want to try one of the many Thompson al Fresco parks. With a large number dotted all over Europe, and plenty of activities to keep the children entertained, they are a perfect place to get away from it all.