1. Trying to Visit 10 Countries in 10 Days
The race isn’t real, and your feet will file a complaint.

During my first Eurotrip, I was so excited that I crammed 5 countries in just 12 days. I told myself, “It’s Europe! Everything’s close!” True, but proximity doesn’t equal peace of mind. By Day 5, I was already exhausted, dragging myself (and my overpacked suitcase) through train stations, barely remembering what city I was in.

From Budapest, I took an overnight train to Krakow, stayed one night, then hopped on a bus to Prague. Sounds adventurous, but all I remember was sleeping upright and confusing my zloty with koruna. My biggest regret? Not giving myself time to just be in the cities.

Tip:
Stick to 2–3 countries max in a two-week trip. Choose quality over quantity. And don’t underestimate the joy of a slow morning in a local café.

2. Booking Too Many Tours and Skipping Free Ones
I once paid €40 for a walking tour… then joined a free one that was 10x better.

In Helsinki, I joined a free walking tour on my first morning. It gave me not just historical nuggets, but also tips on where locals eat, how the Finnish use saunas (very differently from how we imagine it!), and even a shortcut to the best cinnamon buns in town.

In Tallinn, Estonia, I went with Est Adventures’ "Tallinn in a Nutshell" walking tour. It was a game-changer! Had I not joined it, I would've never found out about the hidden viewing platform that gave me the best photo of my trip- no crowds, just cobblestone charm.
Tip:
Make free walking tours your first activity in every city. You’ll feel grounded and informed without breaking the bank. Save the paid tours for things truly special to you.

3. Ignoring Off-Peak Perks

Not every moment in Europe needs to be during summer or Christmas.
My winter trip to Finland and Estonia in February taught me that off-season doesn't mean off-limits. Sure, it was cold but there were no lines, no overpriced hotels, and snow-covered streets that looked straight out of a movie.

I had a magical sauna experience in Helsinki, where I was the only tourist in the room. Locals even showed me how to do the ice plunge properly. Would that have happened in July with 200 tourists in line? Unlikely.

Tip:
Travel during shoulder seasons- like March, May, or October. You’ll get better prices, fewer crowds, and a more authentic feel of the place.

4. Not Researching Transport Options in Advance

Spoiler: Not all European trains are cheap and romantic.
I once assumed train rides across Europe were always scenic and affordable. Until I paid €89 for a one-way ticket from Munich to Zurich, booked the day before. My wallet wept.

But when I traveled from Barcelona to Seville, I booked an early bird Renfe ticket two months ahead for just €25. Same train, different price. Lesson? Planning pays... literally.
Tip:
Use apps like Trainline or Omio to compare bus, train, and budget airline prices. Sometimes, a €15 Flixbus with WiFi and a toilet is better than a €60 train.

5. Overpacking... Then Shopping More
I once brought 4 pairs of shoes and still bought another one in Italy.
Let’s just say Venice wasn’t kind to my suitcase wheels. I overpacked thinking I’d need outfit changes for every photo op. But honestly? No one cares if you repeat clothes. They care if you look like you’re about to collapse in a narrow alley with cobblestones mocking your every step.

When I traveled with just a carry-on to Portugal, I was freer, faster, and more focused on the experience—not on finding elevators in every station.

Finally, just remember to pack light and leave space for local finds.

Remember: every European trip includes a souvenir shirt, magnet, or scarf you didn’t plan to buy but will.

Travel is meant to be joyful... not stressful or survival-mode. I’ve made these mistakes so you don’t have to. A well-paced, flexible, and thoughtful Eurotrip always wins over a rushed, checklist-filled one.

So take your time, talk to locals, walk aimlessly… and maybe skip that third pair of boots.

Because Europe isn’t going anywhere. But your energy? That one needs saving.

Our Travel Highlights (And Budget-Friendly Tips)

🛍 Ladies Market “Budol” Alert
Yes, I was budoled into buying a Labubu keychain for 100 HKD by a very persistent saleslady. My kids found it hilarious. If you’re heading to markets, set a budget and practice saying “No, thank you.” But also, don’t be too hard on yourself if you give in to a cute souvenir.

🍜 Noodle Heaven
We skipped fancy restaurants and focused on local noodle shops and food courts. They’re everywhere, affordable, and delicious. My kids couldn’t get enough of wonton noodles, beef brisket soup, and stocking milk tea. Expect to spend around 40 to 60 HKD per meal.

🚋 Tram Rides Over Taxis
We didn't buy an Octopus card. Instead, we used Visa debit and credit cards to tap on MTRs and trams. This saved us from loading cards and made it easier to track spending. Also, tram rides in Hong Kong are charming and cost only 3 HKD --> a budget-friendly way to explore the city.

👣 Walking Tour with Heart
We joined a walking tour in Central with a local guide named Summer. Her stories about her grandparents and growing up in the city made the experience so much more meaningful. Free or low-cost walking tours are a great way to learn about a place beyond the surface.

🏨 Macau Hotel Hopping for the Views
Instead of booking an overnight stay, we explored luxury hotels like The Venetian and Sands just to admire the interiors, grab some snacks, and take photos. Hotel hopping is free, air-conditioned, and feels like a mini adventure.

How We Kept It Budget-Friendly
Here are some more ways we saved:
✔ Book flights during seat sales
✔ Stay in family rooms and split the cost
✔ Bring snacks or cup noodles from home
✔ Skip taxis and ride the tram or hotel shuttles
✔ Use credit or debit cards for transport (no need to buy a card)
✔ Eat like locals --> food courts are your best friend
✔ Schedule Macau as a day trip to avoid extra hotel nights
✔ Skip souvenir shops in tourist spots --> try smaller stores in Mong Kok
✔ Check free attractions like Victoria Harbour, Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, and Avenue of Stars