The idea of going on an adventure in Europe is one that many people look forward to but the process of planning for the trip can be rather overwhelming. Just think about getting a flight ticket to a certain place or how to move in a city that is unknown to you. Fear not, intrepid traveler! Here are seven smart tricks to use the next time you’re planning a European vacation so that it goes smoothly and stress-free.
1. Master the Art of Packing Light
I believe that one of the most common mistakes that people make while travelling is overloading themselves with luggage. Dragging around a large wheeled suitcase can be very unpleasant very fast and can turn a dream vacation into a nightmare. Instead, embrace the minimalist approach:
- To avoid overstyling, avoid wearing too many clothes and stick to a capsule wardrobe of items that can be interchanged.
- Wash your clothes, then roll them instead of folding them so that you save on space and avoid wrinkling.
- Pack some packing cubes to ensure that your things are well sorted and also take less space.
- Pack clothes that are thick (jackets and boots) during travel because they can be worn during the journey to save on luggage space.
Bear in mind most cities in Europe have Laundromat services in case you want to wash your clothes in between your tour. This way you will be able to cover more ground and have fewer issues when carrying your luggage through buses, trains, or even when walking through the city, especially when it has narrow streets.
Travel Tip: Bring along a little bottle of fabric softener. You can revive your garments and get rid of unpleasant scents without washing them!
2. Plan Your Airport Parking in Advance
Finding last-minute airport parking is the single most stressful thing that can ruin your vacation. If you want to save yourself the trouble, reserve your parking spot in advance. Parking offers may be found at a wide range of prices on sites like Ezybook, making it easy to find the best one for any budget. Get your trip off to a peaceful and structured start by reserving your parking spot in advance.
Did You Know?
There are other benefits that some airport parking services provide, such as car washing and check-ups while you are away. You should make sure that these services are offered when you are booking the spot!
3. Choose the Right Airline for Your Needs
Not all airlines provide the same level of service while flying within Europe. Finding a carrier that fits your needs and fits your budget should be your top priority. As an example, Eurowings has a vast route network throughout Europe and beyond, and it has been named one of the top German airlines. They have over 100 locations in more than 50 countries, so they can meet the demands of any traveler, be it for business, a city break, or a beach vacation.
Fun Fact: On the Scottish islands of Westray and Papa Westray lies the world’s shortest commercial flight. The flight, which is offered by Loganair, only lasts for two minutes!
4. Embrace Public Transportation
Once you are at your preferred destination, do not hire taxis or rent cars. Public transport is well developed and widely used in European countries and their large cities. Besides being cheaper, it also allows you to have an insight into the locals’ daily lives. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Check on the availability of transport passes in your destination cities. Most of them have packages that span for several days and this can be cheaper for you in the long run.
- Get apps that give real-time information on local transportation and those that are useful in planning for the routes to take.
- It is advisable to take overnight trains, especially where the distances are considerable, since they will save you time and money on accommodation.
Travel Hack: Instead than being dependent on the distance travelled, validated tickets for public transport in several European cities are time-based. This allows you to use a single ticket for several forms of transport within a certain time period.
5. Learn Key Phrases in the Local Language
Although most people in Europe speak English, especially in places that are popular for tourism, it is always good to try to learn some of the basic phrases in the local language. Not only will it assist you in avoiding awkward situations in even the simplest of interactions but people here do appreciate the effort. Focus on learning:
- Greetings and pleasantries
- Numbers (for understanding prices)
- How to ask for directions
- Basic food and drink terms
Consider installing a language program like Duolingo or Babbel to practice before and during your trip. Even if you don’t acquire fluency, your attempts will undoubtedly be welcomed with appreciation and might even lead to more authentic local experiences.
Cultural Tip: Even if you don’t purchase anything, it is courteous to greet storekeepers in several European countries when you visit and exit a store.
6. Leverage Technology for Seamless Travel
Your smartphone may be the most useful travel companion you have in this digital era. Using technology to your advantage can make the following things go more smoothly:
- Carry a currency conversion application that will assist you to know local prices within a short time.
- Save maps of your destinations so that you can use your phone’s GPS without having to use data.
- Carry a spare battery pack for your electronic devices so that you are not left stranded when the battery power runs out during a day of travel.
- For cheap data connection while travelling, consider taking a travel SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device.
Tech Tip: In your preparation for your trip, scan your passport, visa and travel insurance and store them in a cloud storage as high-resolution copies. It can be very helpful, especially if you misplaced the hard copies.
7. Consider Alternative Accommodation Options
Even though hotels are popular, there are plenty of other options that can save you money and give you more memorable stays. Think about:
- Apartment rentals, which I believe give a more local experience and the availability of preparing meals on your own.
- Camps for those who look for cheap accommodation or for people who want to socialise with other tourists.
- Home swapping or house sitting, where you get to live like a local.
You might even think about taking a coach vacation if you want to see more than one place. Numerous locations in Scotland, the North of England, and Yorkshire serve as departure points for the many coach vacations offered by companies such as Caledonian Travel. Without having to worry about organising each part of your trip separately, this can be a great way to see several European destinations.
Accommodation Hack: Request recommendations from your vacation rental host for must-see attractions in the area. Not many guidebooks know about the greatest hidden jewels as they do.
Your Adventure Awaits
These were seven travel hacks that will help you have a stress-free European trip when followed to the letter. Just always bear in mind that the secret to happy travels is to be flexible and always have a good attitude. If things do not work according to the set plan, do not be stressed by this; they usually turn out to be the most interesting moments.
Whether you want to imagine yourself walking along the banks of the Seine in Paris, visiting the historical sites in Rome, or having a sunbath on the sandy beach of any island in Greece, Europe contains something for everybody. Using these tips, you will not have to worry so much about the details, but rather, the actual experience and memories that you will make. Therefore, bring your luggage, order your tickets and prepare for the European trip of your dreams!
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