How to Travel Europe on a Budget: A Practical Guide from Montbell

One of the best travel hacks in Europe is packing light. Budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet often offer flights for under €20 - but if you check in a bag, the cost can double or triple. Long-distance buses like FlixBus are also a cheap and scenic way to get around, but again, bringing a suitcase can mean extra fees.

That’s why travelling with carry-on only is key. You’ll save money, breeze through airports, and avoid the risk of your luggage getting lost during tight connections. The Montbell Rera 25 or 30 Pack are the perfect carry-on companion - they are compact, lightweight, and have just enough room for a few months on the road. Pair it with the Montbell Mesh Cases to stay organised and maximise your space.

Staying in hostels is one of the easiest ways to travel Europe on a budget. Apps like Hostelworld make it easy to find affordable options, usually in the best locations. But hostels are more than just cheap beds - they’re great places to meet people, join walking tours or pub crawls, and get local recommendations that guidebooks can’t give you.

Since you'll often be sharing a room, bring a compact dial cord lock to keep your gear safe in lockers or drawers. And don’t forget a quick-dry towel - most hostels don’t provide them, and having your own means you’re ready for showers, swims, or spontaneous day trips.

Europe is full of free and budget-friendly activities. One of the best ways to get to know a city is through a walking tour - they're usually tip-based and run daily in most major cities. Doing one on your first day is a great way to get your bearings and pick up local tips.

Other low-cost options include visiting museums on free-entry days, exploring neighbourhood markets, or simply people-watching in the town square. A small travel pouch or bum bag helps you keep your essentials close while you're out and about, and a clip-on water bottle is perfect for long days of exploring without stopping for overpriced drinks.

Destinations like Switzerland, Norway, or Denmark are known for high prices, but that doesn’t mean you have to avoid them. The trick is to eat smart. Visit local supermarkets and markets for fresh ingredients, and cook a few simple meals like pasta or wraps at your hostel. It’s a small change that can save you a lot.

Packing a lightweight puffer jacket (or at least a light shell jacket like the Montbell Rain Hiker) is also a smart move - the weather in the mountains or coastal areas can shift quickly, even in summer. Look for one that’s compact enough to fit in your daypack, but still warm and water-resistant for hiking or sudden rain.

If you really want your dollar to stretch, head to some of Europe’s underrated gems. Countries like Albania, Montenegro, Turkey, and parts of the Balkans and Baltics offer stunning scenery, rich culture, and far fewer tourists than Western Europe - all at a much lower cost.

Accommodation, transport, and food are often half the price (or less) of more popular destinations. You’ll also get a more authentic experience and the chance to explore spots that aren’t swarming with crowds.

That said, when you’re going off the beaten path, it’s always worth packing a small first aid kit or basic safety essentials - especially if you’re heading into nature or more rural areas where pharmacies and services might not be close by.