Studying in the UK offers more than just academic growth—it’s also a chance to explore Europe. Yet for many students, the idea of travel feels out of reach due to tuition, rent, and everyday expenses. With rising living costs and limited budgets, short European getaways can seem like an unattainable luxury. However, there are many ways to make these trips possible without compromising your academic goals or financial stability. Cheap transport options, hostel accommodations, student discounts, and budget airline deals can help slash travel costs dramatically. Many cities also offer free cultural events, walking tours, and discounted museum entries for students. By planning early, using flexible travel dates, and choosing less touristy destinations, you can uncover some of Europe’s hidden gems on a shoestring budget. Whether it’s a long weekend in Lisbon or a few days exploring Kraków, your experience abroad can be enhanced by these affordable adventures. In this guide on how to plan cheap trips to Europe while studying in the UK, we share practical, proven strategies to help you travel smart, stay within budget, and create memories that last a lifetime. By the end, you'll know how to:
Find the cheapest travel routes
Book budget-friendly accommodation
Stretch your food and activity budget
Apply for student travel grants
Use smart apps and tools for discounts
The Student Budget Dilemma
International students in the UK spend an average of £900–£1400 per month on living costs. According to a recent ONS report, inflation and transport prices are key pressure points. High rent and travel costs can leave students unable to enjoy short breaks, especially abroad. But with early planning and some student-specific tools, exploring Europe is absolutely within reach.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Cheap Europe Trips
1. Plan Your Travel Early
Use tools like Skyscanner and Google Flights to compare low-cost routes
Be flexible with your dates and times; mid-week flights are cheapest
Book 6–8 weeks in advance for the best prices
Consider bus travel using FlixBus for ultra-low fares across Europe
2. Railcards and Travel Passes
Get a 16–25 Railcard to save 1/3 on UK train travel
Use the Eurail Youth Pass for unlimited train travel in 33 European countries
3. Book Budget Accommodation
Stay in shared hostels or university dorms during the off-season
Use Hostelworld for verified reviews and student-friendly rates
Look for places with a kitchen to cook and cut food costs
4. Eat Like a Local
Shop at local supermarkets and cook in shared kitchens
Find free breakfast hostels or street food markets
Avoid eating in tourist hotspots; use Google Maps to find budget eateries nearby
5. Explore for Free
Join GuruWalk for free walking tours in most European cities
Check local government sites for free museum days or cultural festivals
Carry your ISIC card for student discounts at attractions and transit
6. Apply for Travel Grants
Check if you're eligible for the UK Turing Scheme
Apply for Student Finance Travel Grants if studying abroad as part of your UK course
7. Use Budget-Friendly Apps
Rome2Rio: Compares buses, trains, flights (rome2rio.com)
Hopper: Predicts flight prices and alerts you when to book (hopper.com)
Splitwise: Tracks group spending for easier cost-sharing on trips
Sample Budget: 4 Days in Prague
Final Tips to Stretch Your Budget
Travel with friends to split costs on food and lodging
Fly with hand luggage only to avoid extra baggage fees
Book attractions online in advance for discounts
Stay outside city centres but near public transport
Always carry your student ID for transport and museum discounts
Conclusion
With the right planning, your UK study years can include unforgettable and affordable European adventures. From low-cost flights and free walking tours to student grants and budgeting apps, there are plenty of ways to explore Europe on a student budget. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a multi-country journey, early booking and smart choices make all the difference. Ready to optimise your UK student life? Book a free consultation with StudentTenant.com to find accommodation near key transport hubs so you can travel more easily, save more, and explore further.