The perfect time to book your 2019 European getaway is right now (no, seriously)
If you’re constantly dreaming of your next European adventure, then you know how important it is to score the best discount by booking early.
And according to Skyscanner, that moment is right around the corner if you’re planning to travel in 2019.
Recent Skyscanner data has revealed that Aussies can save up to 44% on flights to Europe for Summer 2019 by booking before October 31.
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London still remains the top European destination for Aussie travellers, with Moscow and Zagreb the most recent additions to the favourites list.
But while there’s no denying the importance of scoring the cheapest flights, many Aussies forget to factor in added costs, like food, accommodation and transportation to their travel budget.
For instance, the average airfare to Paris is $1,654 and was recorded as one of the cheapest European flights. However, with an estimated daily spend of $362, the trip then totals to $4,193 - more expensive than the same trip to Amsterdam, Munich and Milan, despite more expensive flights to these cities.
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Cheap flights often come with long layovers as well, which Mozo data found could add up to an extra $239 to your trip!
“Booking your flights is one of the most exciting parts of planning your holiday, so it’s no surprise that Aussies are forgetting to consider other major costs before jetting off,” said Mozo Director, Kirsty Lamont.
“These days, it’s so important to make sure all your bases are covered before you pack your bags. Otherwise, you could end up spending more than you bargained for.”
When it came to getting the best bang for your buck, Skyscanner’s data found that Athens and Rome were the best value European cities for Aussie travellers, with the average daily cost of $227 and $254, respectively.
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The cheapest and most expensive places to pick up a Big Mac
For many Aussies coffee, alcohol and fast food are recognised as travel essentials. And depending on where you go, your cheeky maccas run could cost you a bundle.
For example, Paris was the most expensive place in Europe to get a cup of coffee at $5.31 AUD, while a cup of Joe in Rome will set you back a meer $1.94. Draught beer was also the most expensive to pick up in Paris at $6.50, but less than half the price in Barcelona at $3.00.
If you’re after a bottle of red, you’ll have to fork out $19.56 in Dublin and only $8.15 in Rome.
And if you’ve got your heart set on a Big Mac, a maccas meal in Paris costs $13.04 while in Athens you’ll pay $9.78.
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Need to pick up some new plastic that’ll keep up with your European spending? Then make your way over to our travel money hub! It compares a range of travel debit and credit cards, plus prepaid travel cards.