Europe is a dream destination for many international students, including those from Bangladesh. From the rich history of cities like Rome and Paris to the scenic beauty of the Swiss Alps and the vibrant culture of Barcelona, Europe offers a wealth of experiences that can make your student life unforgettable. However, traveling in Europe can often seem expensive. The good news is, with some planning and smart strategies, you can explore Europe on a student budget. This guide will walk you through some practical tips and provide cost-saving strategies to help you travel across Europe affordably.
1. Plan and Book in Advance for Cheaper Flights
One of the most significant expenses when traveling to Europe is the cost of flights. For Bangladeshi students, a round-trip flight to Europe can range between BDT 50,000 to BDT 100,000, depending on the time of booking and the airline. However, with careful planning, you can significantly reduce your travel costs.
Tips for Budget Flights:
- Book Early: Airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air are known for offering low-cost flights within Europe. Booking flights at least 2-3 months in advance can help you find discounts.
- Use Flight Comparison Websites: Platforms like Skyscanner and Google Flights allow you to compare flight prices and find the cheapest deals.
- Fly on Off-Peak Days: Flights on weekdays (especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays) are often cheaper compared to weekends. Flying during the off-peak season (usually in spring or fall) also helps in saving money.
Example:
A one-way flight from London to Barcelona can cost as little as €20 when booked in advance with low-cost airlines.
2. Use Budget Accommodation Options
Accommodation can often take up a large portion of your travel budget. However, Europe offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodation options that can help you keep costs low.
Budget Accommodation Options:
- Hostels: Hostels are the go-to option for many students. Not only are they affordable (typically ranging from €15 to €30 per night), but they also offer the chance to meet other students and travelers.
- Airbnb: For a more private experience, Airbnb is another affordable option. Renting a shared apartment or room can cost between €30 to €70 per night, depending on the city.
- Couchsurfing: This is a great free accommodation option, where you can stay with locals who offer their couches or spare rooms for free. It’s an excellent way to save money and meet people from different cultures.
- University Dormitories: Many universities offer student dormitories or exchange programs that can be cheaper than private rentals, especially during summer breaks.
Example:
In cities like Berlin or Prague, a budget hostel can cost around €15 per night. This is significantly cheaper than a hotel, where the prices often start at €50 or higher.
3. Take Advantage of Student Discounts
Europe is known for its excellent student discount programs, and as a Bangladeshi student, you can benefit from various deals and offers that can make your travel cheaper.
Student Discounts to Look Out For:
- Eurail Pass: The Eurail Global Pass offers unlimited train travel across Europe. Prices for a 1-month pass for students start from around €200. This can be a cost-effective way to travel if you plan on visiting multiple countries.
- ISIC Card: The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) gives students discounts on transport, museums, accommodation, and even restaurants. The ISIC card costs around €15 but can save you up to 50% on various services.
- Local Travel Cards: Many European cities, including Paris, London, and Berlin, offer student travel cards that allow unlimited use of public transport for a discounted price. A monthly transport pass in cities like Barcelona or Lisbon can cost around €40–€50 for students.
Example:
With a Eurail Pass, you can travel from Amsterdam to Paris for as little as €50, compared to buying individual train tickets, which could cost upwards of €100.
4. Eat Like a Local
Food can quickly add up while traveling, especially in cities where dining out can be expensive. However, with a few simple strategies, you can save a lot of money without sacrificing your experience of European cuisine.
Budget Food Tips:
- Eat Street Food: Many European cities, such as Berlin, Budapest, and Barcelona, offer delicious street food options like doner kebabs, falafel, and crepes for as little as €3–€5.
- Cook Your Own Meals: Staying in hostels or Airbnbs with kitchen facilities can allow you to cook your own meals, which will save you a significant amount. Shopping at local markets like Mercato Centrale in Florence or Borough Market in London can help you find affordable, fresh ingredients.
- Supermarkets and Takeaway: Many European supermarkets, such as Aldi and Lidl, offer great deals on ready-to-eat meals, sandwiches, and snacks that can cost around €3–€5.
Example:
In Berlin, you can enjoy a hearty meal at a local kebab shop for just €3, or buy groceries to cook for the week for around €15.
5. Explore by Bus or Train
Traveling by bus or train is one of the most economical ways to move between cities in Europe. While flying might seem convenient, buses and trains often offer much cheaper alternatives.
Cheap Bus and Train Travel:
- Buses: Bus services such as FlixBus and Eurolines offer routes across Europe at incredibly low prices. For example, a bus ticket from Berlin to Prague can cost as little as €10 if booked early.
- Trains: Trains in countries like Germany, France, and Italy offer discounted fares for students. Intercity trains can be significantly cheaper if you book tickets in advance through services like Deutsche Bahn (DB) or SNCF.
Example:
A bus from Budapest to Vienna can cost as little as €7 if you book in advance, whereas the same trip by train might cost around €25.
6. Free and Cheap Attractions
One of the best things about traveling in Europe is that many cities offer free or very affordable attractions that are perfect for students on a budget.
Examples of Free Attractions:
- Museums and Galleries: Many European cities offer free entry to museums or free days during the week. For instance, London’s National Gallery and the Tate Modern are both free, and Berlin’s Museum Island offers reduced fees on specific days.
- Parks and Gardens: Most European cities have beautiful parks and green spaces, like Hyde Park in London or Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in Paris, which are free to visit.
- Walking Tours: Many cities, including Barcelona, Berlin, and Prague, offer free walking tours where you can pay what you feel is appropriate at the end of the tour.
Example:
In London, you can visit iconic landmarks such as the British Museum and the Tate Modern without spending a penny. Similarly, the Prague Castle offers stunning views and free entry to its grounds.
7. Travel in the Off-Peak Season
If you want to save money on accommodation and flights, consider traveling during the off-peak seasons (typically in March-April or October-November). During these months, travel costs are lower, and popular tourist attractions are less crowded, giving you a chance to enjoy Europe at its best without breaking your budget.
Conclusion
Traveling across Europe on a student budget is not only possible but also highly rewarding if you follow these practical tips. By booking flights early, choosing budget accommodations, taking advantage of student discounts, eating locally, and exploring by train or bus, you can experience Europe without overspending. Whether you’re exploring the canals of Amsterdam or the streets of Paris, Europe is waiting for you to explore—affordably.
With the right planning and resourcefulness, your European adventure will be one to remember without the financial strain.
