How to Get a (Nearly) Free Vacation to Europe Just by Paying Your Rent
Everyone deserves a break from the daily grind, but not everyone can afford the luxury of an international European vacation. However, what if we told you that you could essentially get a European getaway for nearly free just by paying your rent? That’s right! Here’s a guide on how to score that well-deserved vacation across the Atlantic while staying on budget.
Step 1: Find a short-term sublet tenant for your apartment
One of the biggest expenses of traveling is the cost of housing, especially in prime locations like Europe. However, by subletting your apartment for the duration of your vacation, you can offset that cost significantly. Not only will you be saving on rent, but you’ll also be making money from the sublet tenant’s payments, which can cover your entire trip’s cost if planned correctly.
Step 2: Research affordable European destinations
Once you’ve secured your accommodation for your European trip, it is time to research where to go. While popular destinations like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona are tempting, they can get quite expensive, particularly during peak travel seasons. Thus, consider off the beaten path locations like Budapest, Prague, or Krakow, which have just as much to offer in sights and culture, but at a fraction of the cost.
Step 3: Book ahead of time to score the best deals
Booking flight tickets, hotel stays, tours, and events ahead of time can result in significant savings. Airlines tend to offer promotional fares for advance bookings, while hotels provide a 10% to 20% discount for booking directly on their websites. You can also compare prices of tour packages, and events available online through trusted websites and pick the best deals.
Step 4: Opt for free tours and events
Every European city offers plenty of free walking tours, free museum visits, and free concerts. With a bit of research, one can easily find out the free events and activities happening while you’re there. This will not only allow you to experience the town’s attractions but add to the overall cultural immersion and experience of the trip.
Step 5: Travel smart
It’s crucial to be mindful of expenses, especially on a budget trip. So travel like a local- take a bus or a train instead of a cab if possible. Eat and drink at local cafes and restaurants rather than fancy eateries. A pint in a touristy location could cost around $10, whereas the same could be as low as $2 in a less touristy spot. Use Google Maps to plan the travel options and grab the best deal while on the go.
Conclusion
With a little bit of planning, creativity, and a few useful tips, one can take that long overdue Euro trip without exhausting their bank account. By finding a short-term tenant for your apartment and picking affordable, off the beaten path locations, one can considerably reduce the costs. Booking flights and accommodations ahead, scouting out free tours and events, and traveling smart can make the entire trip teeth-grindingly affordable, if not free!
