· Alcohol - Buy booze at supermarkets and drink outside (beaches, main squares and gardens - as long as it's legal!)

· Triples and quads - Spread lodging costs among a few trustworthy fellow travellers.

· Free events - Enjoy free concerts and cultural events - ask at tourist offices and check around town for fliers and posters.

· Free days - Take advantage of many museums' free days.

· Markets - Buy food at open-air markets and supermarkets.

· Overnight trains - Take overnight trains on long trips to cut hotel costs.

· Phonecard - Use a phonecard to make calls within Europe. If dialling home, you may save money by using your own phone firm. Try eKno

· Discounts - If you're a full-time student, get an International Student Identity Card for lower prices.

· Towns and villages - Don't spend all your time in big cities. Prices tend to be lower in towns and villages.