If you are planning a European car road trip and looking for budget-friendly accommodations along the way, there are several options you can consider. From camping grounds to hostels and budget hotels, Europe offers a variety of affordable lodging choices for travelers on a budget.
Camping Grounds
Camping can be a cost-effective way to stay overnight during your European road trip. Many countries in Europe have well-developed camping grounds that offer basic amenities at a fraction of the cost of traditional accommodations. Some budget-friendly camping options along a European car road trip route include:
- Camping Municipal: These are government-run campsites in France that are often located in scenic areas and offer affordable rates.
- CampingCard ACSI: This discount card allows you to stay at participating campsites across Europe at a reduced rate during the low season.
- Wild camping: In some countries, such as Norway and Sweden, it is legal to camp for free on public land, known as "allemansrätten" or "everyman’s right."
Hostels
Hostels are another budget-friendly accommodation option that is popular among young travelers and backpackers. Most hostels offer dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities, making them a great choice for those looking to save money on lodging. Some affordable hostel options along a European road trip route include:
- Hostelworld: This website allows you to search for hostels in various European cities and book rooms at discounted rates.
- Generator Hostels: With locations in major European cities like London, Paris, and Barcelona, Generator Hostels offer modern amenities at affordable prices.
- YHA (Youth Hostel Association): YHA hostels can be found throughout Europe and provide budget-friendly accommodation options for travelers of all ages.
Budget Hotels
If you prefer a bit more privacy and comfort than camping or hostels, budget hotels are a good compromise between affordability and convenience. Many budget hotels across Europe offer clean and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices. Some budget hotel options along a European car road trip route include:
- Premier Inn: This UK-based hotel chain offers affordable rooms in convenient locations across the country.
- Ibis Budget: With locations in major European cities, Ibis Budget hotels provide simple yet modern accommodations at budget-friendly rates.
- EasyHotel: Known for its no-frills approach to accommodation, EasyHotel offers compact rooms at competitive prices in cities like Amsterdam and Berlin.
Airbnb
For a more personalized and local experience, consider booking accommodations through Airbnb. This popular platform allows you to rent out private rooms, apartments, or even entire homes from local hosts at competitive prices. Some budget-friendly Airbnb options along a European road trip route include:
- Stay in a local’s home: By staying with a local host, you can get insider tips on the best places to eat, shop, and explore in their city.
- Filter by price: Use Airbnb’s filters to search for accommodations within your budget range, making it easier to find affordable options.
- Long-term discounts: Some hosts offer discounts for longer stays, so consider booking a few nights in one place to take advantage of these savings.
Tips for Saving Money on Accommodations
In addition to choosing budget-friendly accommodations, there are several other ways you can save money on lodging during your European car road trip:
- Book in advance: By planning ahead and booking your accommodations in advance, you can often secure lower rates.
- Stay outside of city centers: Accommodations in central locations tend to be more expensive, so consider staying in the outskirts of a city to save money.
- Look for deals and discounts: Many websites and apps offer discounts on accommodations, so be sure to shop around for the best deals.
- Consider alternative accommodations: In addition to traditional hotels and hostels, consider staying in guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, or even monasteries for a unique and budget-friendly experience.
By considering these budget-friendly options and tips for saving money on accommodations, you can make your European car road trip more affordable without sacrificing comfort or convenience.