One really great way to save money in Europe is to take advantage of the alternative methods of travel once you’re on the Continent. Often, I will purchase a round trip ticket to Dublin, London or Brussels and then transfer to another (cheaper) flight to my final destination or go via train or coach. Europe has a plethora of inexpensive travel options that can save you money and serve as a great way to see the Continent. I’ve explore a few of these during my travels and in typical Libra fashion, I’m happy to share the pros and cons of each with you.

Budget Airlines

Before reading on, you should really watch this video to get an idea of what it’s like travelling on budget airlines in Europe. I’m pretty sure this video was about RyanAir, but I can’t be sure.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPyl2tOaKxM

Budget airlines are a great way to get around Europe if you’re trying to stretch your dollars. But as the video suggests, be wary of a flight advertised for 50p and always read the fine print. You may only have to pay 30 euro for the airfare, but make sure that you aren’t going to get screwed at the airport when you have to pay travaller taxes or be surprised that the airline is going to make you check (and therefore pay for) your “this would totally pass as carry on in the States” 65L backpack. Always check in online and print your ticket at your hostel or at an internet cafe; I once had to pay 15£ when I forgot to print my boarding pass at my hostel, which would’ve only cost me about 10p for the paper otherwise. Keep in mind that with these airlines, nothing is included.

Pros: Inexpensive, fast (you can fly from Dublin to Istanbul in just over four hours nonstop)

Cons: Lots of hidden fees, may be more expensive depending on your baggage, not scenic

Train

Let’s be honest. Everyone and their mother have wanted to travel across Europe by train. This method screams old world charm and is probably the most cost-efficient method of transport for those of you who don’t like to travel light. It’s also a great way to save money on accommodations if you take an overnight train to your next destination. There are plenty of options as far as carriers are concerned, and under-26ers get a special youth discount (up to 50% off the original ticket price).

Pros: Inexpensive, no baggage fees, “the scenic route”

Cons: Slower than a plane, you may have to transfer depending on your origin and final destination

Coach

Coaches are the European equivalent of Greyhound or Megabus. They get you from point A to point B in the absolute cheapest fashion. I took advantage of coaches when I was studying abroad in London because there were so many places nearby and I didn’t want to shell out an extra £15-20 just to go to Brighton. It’s best for light travellers, as there isn’t a way to guarantee that someone won’t take the bag you stow under the bus along the way.

Pros: Dirt cheap (I could get from London to Brighton for about £10), great for short trips

Cons: No amenities, slower than a plane or train, have to stop at the little towns between your origin and destination.

I hope you’ll keep these in mind when you’re enjoying your journey in Europe. I’m always happy to answer any questions you may have about these travel methods. Just leave your questions in my ask box  and I’ll get back to you ASAP.

Happy Travels!