Backpacking Across Europe Money Saving Tips

Does backpacking across Europe sound like heaven? There are many ways you can backpack through Europe cheaply and still see everything you want. I know it sounds too good to be true but trust me it can be done. If you follow my money saving tips for backpacking through Europe below you'll have all the more cash to spend on seeing the things you want as well as eating in the restaurants you want. Remember of course all the souvenirs you'll have to bring home for friends and family! If you plan it out before you go you may also be able to arrange some of the money saving items before you set off on your travels.

One way you can save yourself some cash is to use the regional trains in each European country. In many countires, such as Italy or Scotland, you get can from destination to destination by taking direct trains. The regional train is one option which stops at each small town and is used by the locals to get to shopping malls and enter the cities. If you don't mind the extra journey time you can save up to 50% of the cost of your ticket.

To save money on a daily basis, stay at a hostel that is close to public transportation. This rules out having to use taxis which can be expensive as the public transport is so close you can visit the tourist attractions on offer.

Try to stay in a hostel which offers a free breakfast. Buying meals in Europe can be very expensive and this will save you from buying one meal per day.

If you are between the ages of 12 and 25, and a student or teacher you can use an International Student Identity Card (ISIC Card) ISIC cards are accepted at many major attractions and the discounts will save you a bundle. ISIC cards can be bought in North America and can even give you discounts on train and bus passes in Europe.

For flights the longer leave you leave it the better as last minute bargains can be found. It usually works out more expensive if you buy your tickets in advance when flying from North America to Europe. Leave the flight booking to a week before you go and always fly to the cheapest destination on your itinerary. You need to be brave and hold out but it can save you a lot of money. Last minute flights can save you a fortune I'm talking hundreds of dollars here folks it's probably the biggest area where you can save money so listen up!

When you are in Europe, make sure to always make your purchases in the currency of the country you are in. Some countries will charge you more if try to use another currency such as American Dollars this will lose you money. This is because the exchange rate charged by merchants can be drastically worse than the actual exchange rate. Local banks will exchange currency for you with a better rate.

Always remember to buy your backpacker travel insurance before you go!