One of the best parts about studying abroad in Europe is being able to visit many amazing countries with only 1-3hr flights! Some of my trips have been the same length as traveling from San Francisco to Los Angeles, but this time I’m going to an entirely different country. Since I’ve been abroad I have been to 10 different countries. I have definitely gathered some good travel tips whether it comes to covid tests, luggage requirements, flights, and so much more. Therefore I am sharing my knowledge by giving you a few important tips to keep in mind as you travel across Europe!
1. Get a duffle bag or big backpack!
Most of the affordable airlines, including RyanAir, EasyJet, Vueling, and more, only include one carry-on bag with each standard economy ticket. Now, this doesn't mean a bag you can put up in the above cabins but typically one you must be able to fit under the seat in front of you… While you can bring on cabin bags, it is often at an additional cost. When you are traveling for short weekend trips this shouldn’t be the end of the world since you do not need 10 different outfits. However, a tip for getting around this issue is to buy a cheap duffle bag! I bought one at the beginning of my travels and it has proven effective in being able to carry the same amount of stuff as a small cabin-bag suitcase, but still being categorized as a “carry-on” that fits under most seats! Instead of having to pay for an extra cabin bag or squeeze my stuff into one backpack, I have successfully used my duffle bag to get around these constraints. (Transavia is a relatively cheap airline that includes both carry-on and cabin bags within their standard economy tickets)
2. Metro to the Airport!
Now, this was something I did not discover until halfway through my travels. However, Uber and Taxis should be avoided if possible, especially taxis. Often when going to and from the airport they overcharge users, especially foreigners who do not know better. I would say on average Ubers to and from Paris airports were $40-50 for Uber X and $70-80 for Uber XL. When splitting with friends or roommates the costs are not terrible. However, many cities have very cheap public transportation options that go directly to and from the airports. For example, in Paris, there are direct metro lines that go to both CDG and Orly airports and are only an additional 10-minute difference. While you can buy tickets for significantly cheaper fares, monthly MetroCards (which most students get abroad) include these trip costs, so it is somewhat free. Now, this isn’t only applicable to Paris, but there is a direct and easy-to-use metro line in Barcelona as well for only 5 euros each way! Before succumbing to expensive Uber and taxi costs I would definitely recommend looking into public transport options first. In fact, many hotels and hostels provide public transport directions from the airport (if not, just ask!).
3. Skyscanner and One-way Flights
Once you decide on a trip, it is important to book flights right away. There have been times when even waiting just one hour the flight price went up an additional $30. So booking early is key to avoiding unnecessary costs. Once you figure out where you want to go, the key to finding cheap flights is using Skyscanner. It is the key platform that presents you with the most affordable flight deals. It allows you to sort by price, duration of the flight, and best overall value. Another tip when searching for flights is to look for just one-way flights (to and from). Often, prices vary amongst travel agencies and within each agency. One company may have a cheap flight on the way there but not one on the way back. Therefore, taking another airline can be just as efficient and will save you money.
4. Covid Testing in Paris
While this rule may be going away, some of our flights required covid-testing beforehand. It can be difficult when in a foreign country to figure out where to get quick and affordable covid tests. For antigenic covid tests, most pharmacies which are all over Paris offer them for about 25 euros. It is a super easy process, where you just purchase the test at the counter, fill out an online form, and get your test done usually in a tent outside. You then receive the results in less than 15 minutes. It is very quick, cheap, and efficient. On the other hand, PCR tests can be more difficult to come by. However, many laboratories throughout Paris offer them for only 44 euros. There are a good number of laboratories in Paris, especially in crowded and populated areas. You do not need an appointment, only need to fill out forms and register online to get your results within 24hrs. Paris offers very cheap and quick ways to get your necessary covid tests and results. Make sure to check which one you need and within what time frame and plan accordingly. For antigenic, they are usually required to be taken within 24hrs of departure and for PCR they are usually required to be taken within 48hrs. Hopefully, this will be something you will not need to worry about, but it is good to know if so!
When going on new trips every weekend, it is important to minimize costs on flights and travel in order to spend more in the actual cities you are visiting! Here are just a few of the hacks I have learned in my time abroad.
As my time is coming to an end, I have been reflecting on my past semester and how amazing of an experience it has been. I truly hope everyone gets the chance to study abroad, so I am always a source of contact for any questions anyone may have in the future!
Until next time, Au Revoir!