Top Five Little Ways To Save Money In Europe

When it comes to planning a cheaper trip, a lot of attention is given to the more prominent costs: airfare, trains, and hotels. But let's say that you've found a way to make all those costs fit into your budget and you're Europe-bound. How will you make the most of your money when you arrive? To help you, I've got five little suggestions for saving money in Europe.

1. Carry A Reusable Water Bottle. Whether it's a Sigg, a Nalgene bottle, or simply a reused bottle from the store, refilling your water bottle can save you a lot of cash. When you're out in the city, the most convenient places to buy a bottle of water will cost you the most. To keep your bottle filled, either fill your from the tap or buy a multi-pack of water from the grocery store. We do this in many cities in Italy and have paid 90 euro cents for a 1.5 liter bottle at Billa, while a half-liter bottle in a smaller store would run 2+ euros.
2. Eat Like A Local. Instead of being forced to eat a full meal every time you need nourishment, follow the locals to the market and pick up something to carry with you on your adventure. Whether it's fresh cherries from the outdoor market or bread from the bakery, having a tasty snack will help you keep up your energy AND prevent you from making rash (and potentially expensive) eating decisions.
3. Eat On The Street. Pizza from a tiny stall in Venice. Kebab in Berlin. Street food is absolutely one of the cheapest and most delicious ways to eat in the city. Do a little research ahead of time and find out what kinds of cheap eats you can get and take advantage of them when hunger strikes. I've done this all over Europe and have yet to be disappointed.
4. Skip The Cab, Ride The Bus. Cabs to and from the airport, or train station, are one of the biggest "little" costs you can encounter on your trip. Depending on how much luggage you have, and the state of transit where you are visiting, it's worth your while to consider taking mass transit when heading into the city. For example, I always take the ATVO direct bus to and from the airport in Venice. The cost is 5 euros each way, which is much less than a cab ride.
5. Be Choosy With Souvenirs. Aunt Thelma doesn't need that Eiffel Tower keychain. If you must, send her a postcard instead. Don't buy junky souvenirs, save your money for something worth bringing back home. I personally like to only bring things that pass the "Would I eat/wear/use it?" test.

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More ways to be cheap when traveling.