Looking to take the family on a trip to Europe, but it seems out of reach? Here are our top tips for an adventure that will stay in the memory bank for a lifetime.
Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
One of the best ways to save money on travel is to avoid the peak tourist seasons. Traveling during the shoulder seasons—late Autumn (April to June) and early Spring (September to November)—can lead to significant savings on flights, accommodations, and attractions.
Not only will you find better deals, but you’ll also avoid the crowds, making your family holiday more enjoyable.
2. Book Flights in Advance
Locking in the flights to and from should be your priority spend. The accommodation, on the ground transport and activities can be added down the line in varying urgency. Airfares can be one of the largest expenses for family travel. To secure the best rates, book your flights well in advance—ideally ten to six months prior to your trip.
3. Choose Family-Friendly Accommodations
Hotel room bedding configurations can be tricky. Working with a Travel Agent who has tried and tested family examples of hotels can save you time and money. Have breakfast included where economically possible. Consider family-friendly accommodations like apartments or trusted home rentals. Don’t discount adding in a hostel to your itinerary if you’re travelling with teens, it is a great way to slowly expose them to backpacking culture for any future adventures and a great opportunity to meet some international travellers!
4. Take Advantage of Public Transport
Europe is known for its efficient public transport systems. Rather than renting a car, use trains, buses, or trams to get around. Consider purchasing family passes or travel cards that offer unlimited travel for a set number of days. This can be a cost-effective way to explore cities without the hassle of parking fees.
5. Plan Meals Wisely
Dining out can quickly add up, especially for a family. To save money: - Eat Breakfast at Home. Ensure you give yourself a meal budget before you travel and try to stick to this each day. Many restaurants in Europe offer lunch specials or “menu du jour” at a fraction of the dinner price. - Picnics: Visit local markets and grocery stores to buy fresh produce, bread, cheese, and meats for a picnic in a park.
6. Look for Free Attractions and Activities
Many European cities boast a wealth of free attractions and activities. Research ahead to find parks, museums with free admission days, walking tours, and local festivals. Some popular cities, like Paris and London, offer free admission to many museums and galleries.
7. Utilise City Passes
For families planning to visit multiple attractions, consider purchasing city passes or hop on, hop off bus passes. These passes often include entry to various museums, discounts on public transportation, and sometimes even guided tours. They can be a great way to save money if you plan to visit several paid attractions.
8. Travel Light
Avoid extra baggage fees by packing light. Many internal European Airlines have a 20kg checked in luggage limit. Even if your international baggage limit is higher, aim for 20kg so you don’t have to pay fees for additional baggage. It is much easier to carry too!
9. Engage with Locals
Sometimes the best recommendations come from locals. Ask locals for suggestions on affordable restaurants, hidden gems, and free activities. Engaging with locals can lead to unique experiences that are often less touristy and more memorable.
10. Use a Travel Expert
We plan European trips day in day out. We can assist in helping you with an itinerary that follows a cheaper logical route. Our staff can recommend accommodation gems that have had great reviews from our previous travellers and we can recommend activities and must do experiences to make your trip memorable. The best part is, we keep all your travel arrangements in one place and if something happens whilst you are travelling, you have us as back up at the end of an email!
A family holiday in Europe doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. With these saving tips, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the rich cultures, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisines that Europe has to offer—all while keeping your budget in check.
Happy travels!
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