Introduction

Traveling is a dream for many, and I was no exception. After months of planning and saving, I finally took the plunge and embarked on a 3-month journey across Europe. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allowed me to immerse myself in different cultures, witness breathtaking landscapes, and create unforgettable memories.

But as exciting as it was, I knew that traveling for such an extended period would come with its fair share of expenses. I wanted to document and share my personal experience to shed some light on the real cost of long-term travel. In this article, I will provide a comprehensive breakdown of how much it actually cost me to travel for 3 months in Europe.

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, it’s important to note that everyone’s travel expenses will vary based on several factors such as travel style, destinations, accommodation choices, and personal preferences. The costs mentioned in this article are specific to my trip and should be used as a rough guide rather than an exact estimate for your own travels.

It’s also worth mentioning that I did my best to budget and make cost-effective choices without compromising on experiencing the essence of each place. I believe that travel should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their budget, and I hope that this breakdown will provide insights and inspiration for your own travel plans.

So, without further ado, let’s get down to the numbers and explore how much it actually cost me to travel for 3 months in Europe.

 

Pre-Trip Expenses

Before setting off on my European adventure, there were several pre-trip expenses that needed to be taken care of. These expenses included visa application fees, travel gear, vaccinations, and travel insurance.

First and foremost, I had to consider the cost of obtaining a Schengen visa, which allowed me to travel freely within most European countries. The visa application fee amounted to approximately $80. Additionally, I had to gather all the necessary documents and go through the process of submitting my application.

Next, I needed to invest in some essential travel gear. This included a durable backpack, a lightweight and versatile travel towel, a sturdy pair of walking shoes, a comfortable travel pillow, and a reliable universal adapter. The total cost of these items came to around $200.

Another important aspect of my pre-trip expenses was getting vaccinated. Depending on your travel destination, you may need to get specific vaccinations to protect yourself from diseases prevalent in certain regions. In my case, I needed vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus. The cost of these vaccinations amounted to approximately $300.

Lastly, I made sure to prioritize travel insurance to provide financial security and peace of mind during my journey. Travel insurance covered emergencies, medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost baggage. The cost of a comprehensive travel insurance plan for the 3-month trip totaled around $300.

All in all, my pre-trip expenses added up to around $880. While these costs can seem substantial, they are essential investments to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

 

Transportation Costs

Transportation was one of the major expenses during my 3-month trip in Europe. Getting from one destination to another involved various modes of transportation, including flights, trains, buses, and local transportation within cities.

Flights accounted for the largest portion of my transportation costs. To secure the best deals, I booked my flights well in advance and compared prices across multiple airlines. The cost of round-trip flights from my home country to Europe amounted to approximately $1200. Within Europe, I also took a few budget airlines for shorter distances. The cost of these intra-Europe flights totaled around $600.

In addition to flights, I relied heavily on trains to explore different countries and cities. Europe has an extensive and efficient train network, making it convenient to travel between destinations. I purchased a Eurail pass, which allowed unlimited train travel within a specified period. The cost of the Eurail pass for 3 months was approximately $800.

For shorter distances or when train travel wasn’t practical, I opted for buses. Bus tickets were generally more affordable and offered scenic routes. The total cost of bus transportation during the 3-month trip came to around $200.

Within cities, I utilized public transportation systems such as metro or tram systems to navigate and explore. The cost of local transportation varied from one city to another, averaging around $5-10 per day.

All in all, my transportation costs for the 3-month trip amounted to approximately $2800. While it may seem like a significant sum, it’s important to consider that transportation expenses can vary depending on the distance traveled, destinations, and the means of transportation chosen.

 

Accommodation Expenses

During my 3-month trip in Europe, finding suitable and affordable accommodation was a top priority. I wanted to strike a balance between comfort, location, and cost-effectiveness. I explored various accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals.

Hostels became my preferred choice for accommodation due to their affordability and social atmosphere. I stayed in shared dormitories with bunk beds, which offered a chance to meet fellow travelers and exchange stories. The cost of hostels varied depending on the location and time of year, averaging around $20-30 per night. Over the course of 3 months, my total hostel expenses were approximately $1000.

In certain destinations, especially smaller towns or rural areas, hostels were limited, and I opted for hotels instead. Although hotels generally cost more than hostels, I found some budget-friendly options that offered comfortable accommodations. The average cost of hotel stays was around $50-70 per night, and my total hotel expenses were about $700.

For a change of pace and added flexibility, I also booked vacation rentals through platforms like Airbnb. These rentals provided a homely atmosphere, allowing me to have a private space and access to amenities like a kitchen. The cost of vacation rentals varied depending on the size, location, and duration of the stay. On average, I spent around $80-100 per night for vacation rentals, resulting in a total expense of approximately $1200.

In some cases, I had the opportunity to stay with friends or utilize couchsurfing platforms, which allowed me to save on accommodation expenses entirely. These options provided not only a place to stay but also a chance to connect with locals and gain a deeper understanding of the culture and lifestyle.

All in all, my accommodation expenses for the 3-month trip totaled around $2900. It’s important to note that accommodation costs can vary significantly depending on the destination, time of year, and personal preferences. It’s always a good idea to research and compare different options to find the best fit for your budget and travel style.

 

Food and Drink Costs

Exploring the culinary delights of each destination was an integral part of my travel experience in Europe. However, it was essential to balance my desire for unique dining experiences with budget-friendly options. Here’s a breakdown of my food and drink costs during the 3-month trip.

I started each day with a hearty breakfast, which often consisted of pastries or bread with coffee or tea. This cost between $5-10, depending on the location. For lunch, I would typically grab a quick bite from local cafes or street food vendors, spending around $10-15 per meal. Dinner was a chance to indulge in local cuisine at restaurants, where I would spend an average of $20-30 per meal.

In order to save on food expenses, I made it a point to visit local markets and grocery stores to buy snacks and ingredients for simple meals. This allowed me to save money and explore the local ingredients, especially when I had access to a kitchen in vacation rentals. On average, I spent about $10-15 per day on groceries.

Drinks, such as coffee, tea, or alcoholic beverages, were an additional expense. I treated myself to local specialties like espresso in Italy and beer in Germany. The cost of drinks varied depending on the location and type of establishment. On average, I spent around $5-10 per day on drinks.

One of the benefits of traveling in Europe is the abundance of affordable street food options. Whether it was grabbing a slice of pizza in Italy or a crepe in France, street food provided affordable yet delicious meal options. On average, I would spend around $5-10 per street food meal.

All in all, my food and drink expenses for the 3-month trip totaled approximately $2000. It’s important to note that these costs can vary depending on personal preferences, dining choices, and the countries visited. By balancing local dining experiences with budget-friendly options, I was able to enjoy a diverse culinary journey without breaking the bank.

 

Sightseeing and Activities Costs

Exploring the rich history, cultural landmarks, and natural attractions of each destination was a highlight of my 3-month trip in Europe. However, admission fees, tours, and activities can quickly add up. Here’s a breakdown of my sightseeing and activities costs during the trip.

One of the first things I did in each city was to invest in a city sightseeing pass or tourist card. These cards provided discounted or free admission to popular attractions and included unlimited access to public transportation. The cost of these passes varied depending on the city and duration, but on average, I spent around $100-150 for each city pass.

Some must-visit attractions required individual admission fees. For iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, or the Louvre, I had to purchase tickets in advance. These admission fees ranged from $10-30 per attraction, depending on the location and popularity. In total, I spent around $500 on individual attraction fees.

To immerse myself in the local culture and history, I also joined guided tours and cultural experiences. Whether it was a walking tour through a historic neighborhood, a food tasting tour, or a bike tour through the countryside, these activities allowed me to gain deeper insights into the destination. The cost of tours and experiences varied depending on the duration and inclusions, typically ranging from $20-50 per activity. I spent approximately $500 on guided tours and experiences.

Nature lovers can also partake in outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, or exploring national parks. These activities often required equipment rentals or entrance fees. I allocated around $300 for outdoor activities, including rentals and entrance fees.

In addition to planned activities, I also set aside a budget for spontaneous experiences or local festivals that I came across during my travels. This allowed me to fully embrace the vibrant atmosphere and unique events happening around me.

All in all, my sightseeing and activities costs for the 3-month trip totaled approximately $1500. It’s important to note that these costs can vary depending on the destination, the number of attractions visited, and personal preferences. By prioritizing my must-see attractions and balancing them with free or low-cost activities, I was able to make the most of my travel budget while still enjoying enriching experiences in each destination.

 

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is an essential aspect of any trip, providing valuable coverage and peace of mind in case of unforeseen circumstances. During my 3-month journey in Europe, I made sure to invest in comprehensive travel insurance to protect myself against potential risks and emergencies.

Travel insurance covered a wide range of scenarios, including trip cancellation or interruption, medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, lost or delayed baggage, and personal liability. These coverages were crucial, considering the uncertainties that can arise during long-term travel.

The cost of travel insurance varied depending on the duration of the trip and the level of coverage. For my 3-month trip, I opted for a comprehensive insurance plan that provided coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost baggage. The total cost of travel insurance for the duration of my trip was approximately $300.

Having travel insurance provided me with peace of mind and financial security throughout my journey. It gave me confidence in exploring each destination, knowing that I was protected in case of any unexpected events or emergencies.

It’s important to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions of the travel insurance policy, ensuring that it covers the specific needs and activities of your trip. Additionally, make sure to keep a copy of the insurance documentation easily accessible during your travels.

While travel insurance is an additional cost to consider when planning your trip, it is an investment in your safety and well-being. The protection and support it provides in the face of potential risks or emergencies far outweigh the cost.

Remember, accidents and unforeseen events can happen to anyone, regardless of how well-prepared or cautious you may be. Travel insurance offers the necessary coverage and assistance to help you navigate through challenging situations, ensuring a worry-free travel experience.

 

Miscellaneous Expenses

Aside from the major expenses like transportation, accommodation, food, and activities, there were miscellaneous expenses that popped up during my 3-month trip in Europe. These expenses encompassed a variety of items and services that added to the overall cost of my travels.

One of the common miscellaneous expenses was the cost of communication. As an international traveler, I needed to stay connected with family and friends back home. This involved purchasing local SIM cards or using international roaming services. On average, I spent around $50-100 on communication expenses throughout the trip.

Another area where miscellaneous expenses arose was in purchasing local souvenirs and gifts. I wanted to bring back mementos from each destination, whether it be small trinkets or traditional handicrafts. The amount spent on souvenir shopping varied depending on individual preferences and the number of items purchased. On average, I allocated around $200-300 for souvenirs.

In some cases, I encountered unexpected fees or charges. These included bank fees for withdrawing cash from foreign ATMs, baggage fees for flights, or entrance fees for certain attractions that were not included in the city passes. These fees varied in amount but totaled around $100-200 in miscellaneous costs.

During the trip, I also had to account for personal care and hygiene items such as toiletries, medication, and laundry services. These expenses were relatively small but necessary for maintaining a comfortable and clean travel experience. On average, I spent around $50-100 on personal care items throughout the 3-month journey.

It’s important to keep in mind that miscellaneous expenses can vary significantly depending on personal preferences and travel style. Some travelers may spend more on shopping or dining out, while others may have additional expenses such as visa fees or equipment rentals for specific activities.

All in all, my miscellaneous expenses for the 3-month trip totaled approximately $400-600. These additional costs were part of the overall travel experience and contributed to creating lasting memories and ensuring a comfortable journey.

When planning your own travels, it’s advisable to set aside a contingency budget for miscellaneous expenses. This will allow you to account for unexpected costs and enjoy your trip without being caught off guard by unexpected financial burdens.

 

Conclusion

Embarking on a 3-month journey across Europe was a dream come true for me. It allowed me to immerse myself in diverse cultures, explore historical landmarks, and create lasting memories. However, this incredible experience came with its fair share of costs.

After meticulously tracking my expenses, I can confidently share that the total cost of my 3-month trip in Europe amounted to approximately $8,180. This includes pre-trip expenses, transportation, accommodation, food and drink, sightseeing, travel insurance, and miscellaneous expenses.

It’s important to note that these figures are specific to my own travel style and personal choices. Your own travel expenses may differ based on various factors such as destinations, duration, accommodation preferences, and personal spending habits.

While the cost may seem substantial, it’s important to consider the value and experiences gained from such a journey. The opportunity to explore iconic landmarks, try new cuisines, connect with locals, and learn about different cultures is truly priceless.

Moreover, there are various ways to make your trip more budget-friendly, such as opting for affordable accommodations, using public transportation, and seeking out free or low-cost activities. It’s all about finding a balance between experiencing the essence of each destination and staying within your budget.

In conclusion, traveling for 3 months in Europe was an unforgettable adventure that required careful planning, budgeting, and prioritizing expenses. It allowed me to immerse myself in diverse cultures, indulge in new experiences, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

If you’re considering a similar journey, I encourage you to plan your trip wisely, research and compare prices, and make choices that align with your interests and budget. Remember, travel is an investment in yourself and the world, and with thoughtful planning, you can make your dream trip a reality without breaking the bank.