How to Travel [in Europe] on the Cheap [Part Two]

Well, Hello there! 


Glad you decided to pop in! As promised, I have part two of this post for you today.

So. You want to know even more ways to travel ridiculously cheap while you're in Europe? You've come to the right place. 

1. Couch-surfing. You guys. I honestly cannot believe I forgot to mention this in my last post! Thanks to Megan and Erin, though, I remembered it for this post.
If you don't know what couch-surfing is, it's basically sleeping on someone's couch in your travel destination. You may be really hesitant to try this, thinking things like, is it safe? I don't blame you - I was the same way until... I found this site. It's an excellent resource for anyone interested in either surfing or hosting. You can do quite a bit of research on the hosts, message them back and forth getting to know them, arrange a meeting before you sleep in their home, etc. etc.
Bonus: Many hosts have room for more than one traveler, so this is an option whether you are alone or with friends. Plus, you could make some new friends. 

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2. If you do eat out, do it the smart way. Bakeries will be your best friend. Seriously - you can get pre-made sandwiches for a couple of euros. Another good idea (this one thanks to Megan again) - go where the locals go. Most of the time, these will be the less expensive, more authentic places. Turkish food is always a tasty, cheap, and filling option as well.

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3. Mitfahrgelegenheit - or hitching rides with other people. This, like the couch-surfing thing, might have you a bit worried, but, like the couch-surfing thing, it's actually a pretty reliable thing. Most of the time, you can catch rides to major cities, and you just chip in for gas. It's a pretty nifty deal - just make sure you go through sources like this one - I feel like it's the safe way to go.

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4. Avoid tourist traps/souvenir shops. This may seem like a no-brainer if you're trying to save money, but I feel like I should mention it anyway. Not only do souvenirs take up space in your luggage (possibly adding extra costs), but they are likely to break in transport, and are usually over-priced. Instead, take tons of pictures, and if you really want to buy something for the folks back home, stick to things that are small and inexpensive, like postcards, shot glasses, and playing cards. 

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5. Pack and Travel light. Not only does this make it easier to drag your crap around, but it helps you to avoid those things like excess baggage fees, and those can be a beeee-yatch, especially if you're traveling with a budget airline. 

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So, how do you guys save money while traveling? 

PS: I have one feature ad, three medium, and two small ads left for June. Snatch em up while you can! 

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