Affordable Trips – How to Travel on a Small Budget

Did you know you can book a round‑trip flight across Europe for under £50 if you know the right tricks? Travel doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Below are real‑world steps you can use today to plan affordable trips without sacrificing fun.

Pick the Right Destination and Timing

The biggest money saver is choosing places where your money stretches further. In 2025, cities like Budapest, Porto and Kraków rank among the cheapest city breaks in Europe. Look for off‑peak months – March to May and September to November – when hotels drop prices by 30‑40%.

Use a simple spreadsheet: list destination, average flight cost, average nightly rate and total estimated spend. Seeing the numbers side by side helps you spot the best value.

Grab Cheap Flights and Smart Booking Hacks

The two cheapest days to fly are usually Tuesday and Wednesday. Set price alerts on flight search engines and book when the fare dips. If your dates are flexible, search for a whole month view – you’ll often find a day that’s up to £20 cheaper.

Don’t ignore nearby airports. Flying into a secondary airport, then taking a short train or bus, can shave off a lot of cash. For example, landing in Brussels South Charleroi instead of Brussels Central can save you up to £30.

Last‑minute deals aren’t just for spontaneous travelers. Some airlines release unsold seats a few days before departure at rock‑bottom rates. If you can be flexible, grab those seats and you’ll travel for a fraction of the usual price.

Accommodation is the next big expense. Hostels, budget hotels and short‑term rentals often beat big chains. Look for places that offer free breakfast or kitchen access – cooking a meal saves far more than a cheap hotel room.

Booking platforms that let you cancel for free give you the freedom to re‑search prices later. If a lower price pops up, cancel and re‑book without penalty.

Transportation within your destination can also be cheap. City travel cards, such as the London Oyster or Berlin WelcomeCard, give unlimited rides for a set fee. In many towns, walking or renting a bike costs nothing and lets you see hidden spots.

Don’t forget travel insurance. A basic policy that covers cancellations and emergencies can protect you from unexpected costs that would otherwise ruin a budget trip.

Finally, plan activities that are free or low‑cost. Museums often have free entry days, parks are always free, and local markets provide cheap meals and authentic experiences.

By combining cheap destinations, smart flight booking, budget accommodation and free activities, you can enjoy an affordable trip that feels like a luxury getaway. Start with one short city break this summer, apply the steps above, and you’ll be ready for bigger adventures without breaking the bank.