Interrailing across Europe is a dream trip for many, offering the freedom to explore multiple countries and experience diverse cultures in one journey. However, this adventure can quickly become expensive if not carefully planned. If you’re keen to maximise your interrailing experience without breaking the bank, follow these 10 tips for interrailing on a budget to make the most of your Interrail trip!
1. Look out for Interrail pass discounts
One of the biggest expenses on your interrail trip is the pass itself. The good news is that you can cut down this cost by booking your pass well in advance. Interrail often runs discounts out of season, allowing you to save up to 10-15% off the regular price.
Keep an eye on special promotions and sales, especially during the off-season or just before major holiday periods. Signing up for newsletters from Interrail Planner can ensure you don’t miss these deals.
2. Opt for Regional Trains to Avoid Seat Reservations
While Interrailing gives you access to both high-speed and regional trains, it’s often better for your wallet to prioritise regional or local trains. Many high-speed trains, such as those in France, Spain, or Italy, require mandatory seat reservations, which can add unexpected costs to your trip. These reservations typically cost between €10 to €30, which can quickly eat into your budget if you take several of these trains.
On the other hand, regional trains rarely require seat reservations and are included in the Interrail pass without extra fees. While they might take longer, regional trains offer a great opportunity to see more of the countryside, stop at smaller towns, and experience local life. Plus, avoiding these extra reservation fees will help stretch your travel budget further.
3. Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodation
Accommodation can be one of the largest ongoing costs during your interrail trip. Luckily, there are several ways to find affordable (or even free!) places to stay:
- Hostels: Europe is packed with budget hostels, many of which are geared towards young travellers and backpackers. Sites like Hostelworld and Booking.com can help you find affordable places to stay. Opting for dormitory-style rooms can save you even more money.
- Couchsurfing: For those looking for a more local and immersive experience, Couchsurfing connects travellers with hosts who offer a free place to stay. Not only will you save on accommodation, but you’ll also meet locals who can give you insider tips.
- Camping: If you’re travelling in the summer or through nature-rich countries like Switzerland or Austria, camping is a fantastic budget option. Many campsites are equipped with showers and basic facilities, making it an affordable alternative to hotels.
4. Cook Your Own Meals or Eat Street Food
Eating out in Europe can quickly become expensive, especially in major cities like Paris, Rome, or Vienna – so it’s not really feasible to eat out regularly when interrailing on a budget. One of the best ways to save money is by preparing your own meals. Many hostels and budget accommodations come with shared kitchens where you can cook.
If cooking isn’t feasible, look for affordable street food options. Cities like Berlin, Barcelona, and Budapest have a vibrant street food scene, offering delicious meals at a fraction of the cost of a sit-down restaurant.
Markets are another great way to eat well on a budget. Not only can you sample local specialties, but you’ll also find fresh, affordable produce, perfect for creating your own picnic meals.
5. Use City Discount Cards and Free Attractions
Many major European cities offer tourist cards that provide free or discounted access to top attractions, public transport, and sometimes even restaurants. These cards can be a great investment if you plan on visiting multiple paid attractions during your stay.
However, don’t overlook the free sights and experiences each city has to offer. Many cities are brimming with historical landmarks, beautiful parks, and free museums. In London, for example, many major museums such as the British Museum and the National Gallery are free to enter. Likewise, cities like Paris and Berlin offer free walking tours where you only need to tip your guide.
6. Pack Smart to Avoid Extra Costs
When you’re on a budget, every penny counts – and that includes avoiding unnecessary costs like paying for luggage storage or checking in additional bags on budget airlines.
Packing light is key. Aim for a backpack or a carry-on-sized suitcase that meets airline – if you’re getting a plane to get to your first destination – and train size regulations. Not only will this save you from paying extra baggage fees, but it’ll also make it easier to move between destinations quickly and effortlessly. Check out our Interrail packing list for those interrailing on a budget.
Invest in versatile clothing items that you can mix and match, and consider bringing a water bottle to avoid buying plastic bottles at every stop.
7. Take Advantage of Night Trains
Night trains can be a game-changer when interrailing on a budget. By taking overnight trains between destinations, you save on a night’s accommodation while still making progress on your journey. Many night trains offer budget-friendly options such as couchettes (bunk beds) or regular seats.
While night trains can involve extra reservation fees, they often work out cheaper when you consider the cost of a night in a hotel or hostel. Plus, waking up in a new city is a magical experience that adds to the sense of adventure!
8. Look for Free Walking Tours and Cultural Experiences
Walking tours are an excellent way to get to know a city, and many European cities offer free or donation-based tours. These tours are usually led by enthusiastic locals or fellow travellers who can show you both popular tourist spots and hidden gems. They’ll also give you great recommendations for activities to do after your tour ends.
Apart from walking tours, many cities host free cultural events, festivals, and open-air concerts, particularly during the summer months. Check the local tourism website or ask at your hostel for a calendar of events.
9. Use Public Transport or Walk Instead of Taxis
Although taxis and ride-sharing services are convenient, they can eat up your budget fast. Most European cities have excellent public transport networks, and an Interrail Pass often covers local trains and buses, or you can purchase a multi-day transport pass.
For shorter distances, walking is an even better option. Europe is known for its pedestrian-friendly cities, and walking can be one of the best ways to discover hidden corners, cosy cafes, and beautiful architecture.
10. Plan Your Route Efficiently
Interrailing offers so much flexibility that it can be tempting to hop between cities constantly. However, frequent travel can lead to higher costs in terms of both reservations and accommodation. To save money, plan your route with some efficiency in mind.
Consider spending more time in each destination to cut down on travel costs. Travelling longer distances also tends to be more expensive, so opting for regions with shorter distances between cities, like Benelux or the Balkans, can save you money. Another cost-saving strategy is to visit less tourist-heavy destinations where the cost of living tends to be lower – Eastern European countries such as Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic offer incredible experiences at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe.
Bonus tip: Invest in Interrail Planner Premium
Interrail Planner Premium offers a Trip Cost Estimate tool to help you track the cost of your trip as you plan it. You also get access to Hostel Data so you can view hostels within the planning tool to see how much accommodation costs in each destination you choose. Plus, there are several discounts available for a range of hostels all over Europe. Check it out here.
Final Thoughts
Interrailing on a budget across Europe is entirely possible with some careful planning and a bit of creativity. By following these ten tips, you’ll not only save money but also have a more enriching, local experience of Europe. After all, interrailing is as much about the journey as the destination!
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