5 Mistakes People Make When Booking European Trips

Few things rival the magic of a trip to Europe. The romantic train journeys through rolling countryside, buttery croissants that crumble at first bite and those bucket-list cities that exceed every expectation are all to live for. But behind every picture-perfect postcard moment are a few common travel mistakes that can turn dream trips into disasters.

We’ve seen it all from people splurging on overpriced flights to booking hotels just for a view of the Eiffel Tower (hello, regret). If you’re looking for stress-free travel, these travel tips will help you plan your European trip with more ease, less stress and a lot fewer regrets.

(1) Booking Flights Without Watching Currency Trends
One of the easiest ways to overspend on a trip is to book flights when the exchange rate is unfavourable. For travellers booking from countries like Nigeria, this mistake can cost hundreds of dollars.

If you’re wondering how to book cheap flights for Europe, monitor currency trends first. Before booking that ticket to Paris or Milan, monitor exchange rates for a week or two. Tools like Google Flights can help you set alerts so you buy when the rates are friendlier. If you earn in foreign currency, consider using international cards like Grey, which often offer better FX rates than local banks.

(2) Staying in Major Cities Just to Feel “Central”
Sure, staying five minutes from the Colosseum sounds iconic, until you realise you’re paying €300 a night for a shoe-box with no A/C. Many travellers make this mistake, thinking it’s the most convenient choice but it can ruin your budget travel in Europe.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Europe without overspending, stay in smaller neighbourhoods or nearby towns that are well-connected by clean, fast public transport. Think Stratford in London or Trastevere in Rome. You’ll save money, experience local charm and avoid tourist traps.

(3) Overplanning Every Single Hour
There’s a special kind of chaos that comes from cramming 17 activities into three days. You’ll be tired, irritable and wondering why you even left home in the first place.

Pick one or two “anchor plans” per day, like a museum tour or a cooking class, then leave the rest of the day open for spontaneous moments. Stumble into a wine bar. Follow the sound of street jazz. Let the city surprise you. If you’re not sure where to start, our custom travel itinerary can help map out the kind of day that fits your pace.

(4) Ignoring Seasonal Closures and Local Holidays
It’s August. You’ve landed in London. The sun is out, but your favourite shops and museums are… closed?

Always check for local holidays, strikes or seasonal shutdowns before you book. Many cities, especially in Europe, have unique rhythms, summer closures, religious holidays and national events that can impact your plans.

(5) Budgeting for Flights & Hotels Only
Flights? Booked. Hotels? Reserved. But what about museum tickets, local transport, cheeky gelato stops or the vintage coat calling your name in Florence?

Plan a flexible daily spending estimate. This should include metro cards, at least one daily indulgence (because you deserve it) and some wiggle room for unexpected finds. This travel budgeting tip can save you from running out of money halfway through the trip.

Travel Smarter, Not Harder

Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, knowing how to plan a European trip the right way makes all the difference. At LYBL, we don’t just help you travel; we help you enjoy a truly stress-free travel experience.

From custom travel itineraries to location-specific travel guides and neighbourhood breakdowns, we are committed to helping you travel with confidence and explore with ease.