Eating and shopping on a budget

Fill up your bottle
You’ll save yourself a good amount of money if you fill your bottle up with water from a tap, rather than buying bottled water. You’ll also be helping the environment! Tap water in most European countries is suitable for drinking, but make sure you double check with a local resident first. Download the free Refill app (or its equivalent in certain European countries) to find safe, clean drinking water stations on the go.

Have a picnic
Buy food from a local supermarket or grocery store and enjoy a picnic in the local park. This way, you can enjoy local delicacies at great prices, often while admiring your surroundings!

Eat away from tourist areas
Try to avoid dining in restaurants located in the main tourist areas of cities. These are always more expensive and cater to tourists, so don't get caught in tourist traps. Instead, head off the well-travelled path and follow the locals to their favourite restaurants. These will be cheaper and of a far better quality, too. Talk to your local hosts and fellow travelers for recommendations!

Souvenir hunting with the locals
Avoid the busy tourist hot spots for shopping, as you’ll pay over the odds compared to purchasing the same items in local shopping areas. Why don't you head to the local market?