Cheap Flights to Europe

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image of push pins in map with string connecting locations wit string with text overlay: Secrets of Cheap flights to Europe

Psst! Here are my secrets for cheap flights to Europe.

If you live anywhere in Europe, you may already know how ridiculously cheap flights within Europe can be. But I’ve seen folks miss out on great deals because they limit their airline choices to the big airlines.  For North American folks, once you get yourself to a major European city, you can save so much money by transferring to a budget airline if you are not at your final destination. Or maybe you would rather fly to several major cities rather than take the train, bus, or ferry.  Budget airlines are the way to go to get cheap flights to Europe. Find out about my favorite search engines to plan air (and ground) transportation, and you’ll be all set to hit the tarmac with money to spend when you get there.

 Ryan Air and Easy Jet.

It’s true, no matter where I start searching, I ALWAYS comparison-shop with low-fare airlines like Ryan Air and Easy Jet. These are 2 of my favorite for the UK and Europe budget airlines. I’ve used them both & have had nothing but good experiences. If you live in the US, these are similar to Southwest Airlines or JetBlue. Fiddle around at the different websites making sure you use the “low fare calendar” or “fare finder” style options.  Then, compare what you find on the budget airline site with Kayak.com or Skyscanner.net.

If you are new to the whole cheap flights to Europe game, then make sure you read up on what to expect from the airline you choose.  Most are carry-on luggage friendly (confirm your dimensions, sometimes they vary), and there are usually no in-flight meals except for purchase. Also, you can take more than carry-on luggage, but it gets a bit pricey!

Norwegian Airlines

These guys are somewhat new on the budget airlines scene, and they are making some noise. Not only do they fly within the UK and Europe, but they also fly FROM 12 US airports.  Their fare calendar is super easy to use too!  Just put in your destination, budget, and travel dates and it will point you toward your dream destination(s).  If you plan early, you might snag a long-haul trip for under $200 each way! Click here to find out their latest offers!

Click Here For The Latest Planning Info For Family Vacations in Europe

Iceland Air

Ohh! Another favorite of mine! I don’t know that I would consider them a budget airline, but it is certainly reasonably priced with 33 US airports flying to their hub in Reykjavik.  From there, you can fly to 56 European destinations.  I like Iceland Air for 2 big reasons for my family.  There are loads of other reasons too, but this is what sold me.

  1. You see, I can fly from my hometown of Portland, OR to the UK/Europe with only 1 plane change.  With the longest part of the flight at the beginning of the trip. This makes it great for getting kids settled in (and hopefully sleeping a few hours). Remember, fewer transfers = fewer missed flights.
  2. They have stop-over options.  Yes! You can stop over for up to 7 nights in Iceland without increasing the price of your tickets! We just had friends take advantage of this after visiting us in Scotland. What a way to celebrate an anniversary!

Oh! One Last Thing About Cheap Flights To Europe!

Oh! This should save help some time (and money!). Set up alerts at sites like Kayak and Skyscanner, as well as a few of your favorite budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet.  You’ll have to create an account, but that’s free, so not a big deal. When I get a price reduction alert, I hop on over to cross-check all my favorite budget airlines and see if they are dropping their price too. I’m looking for a low-fare leader!  Then, when vacation time has been approved, it’s time to commit to the airfare and buy the tickets from the site offering the best price. Easy Peasy!

Alright, so you’ve picked your destination city; you have a good handle on airfare.  You may have even bought your tickets from a budget airline.  Are you getting excited? Sounds like you’re ready to get going on an itinerary. I’ll cover that next time.  

Not Done Dreaming Yet?

I’m a Travel Junkie, so I’m curating all the best tips and itineraries for you on Pinterest.  Stop by and enjoy daydreaming with me!!  

I’d love to hear from you in the comments about your travel planning dreams!  What’s your favorite budget airline?  

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8 thoughts on “Cheap Flights to Europe”

  1. Your site just made my day! We are home school family of 4 just planning on a 5 month trip to Europe in 2018-2019. Didn’t think Iceland could ever be done but now seeing your site & the flight info I think we may just add that as our start destination. Now to find budget places to stay in Iceland. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with all of us!

    • Denise, YOU just made my day! I’m so glad I’ve inspired you! Take a look around, I’ve got loads of information to help you plan your trip (and incorporate teachable moments along the way) – city guides, a travel planning mini course and of course my weekly emails and Facebook group. I’ve even put together a few wanderlust gift guides. All to help you shop for those special occasions (or to give subtle hints to others). If you have any specific questions, I’m happy to help, just send me an email or catch up with me on Facebook. Stay Captivated!

    • How exciting, Terri! Icelandair is one of my favorite airlines. Enjoy your time in the UK. While you are planning, if you have any questions I’m happy to try & help.

    • Don’t quit your day dream, Grace. There was a time in my life where all those dreams were pushed to the back burner. Some I even forgot I had. Eventually I started dreaming again, and now there are days when I feel like I’m livin’ the dream in the best possible ways. Keep hold of the dream, write it down, talk about it and plans will rise to the top. Don’t let the twists and turns of life hold you back. Stay captivated!

  4. I will have to keep this post around for when I do travel to Europe! That’s where my husband’s family is from so I need to take the kids to visit! Thanks on the money saving tips on which airline to book!

    • Betty, I’m so glad you will find it useful! You might enjoy some of my other posts on packing, train travel & my growing selection of city guides. Happy Planning & Stay Captivated! Shannan

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