Since it's come up a few times in the past couple weeks about getting to Europe being expensive, I've decided to start this thread were we can update on flights, miles and anything else that will get you across the pond on a budget.

I'll start first.

If you're looking for flight May to July 2016 you should be looking at Norwegian right now as they are running some amazing specials that get you over dirt cheap. Norwegian has a great fleet of planes. I flew them twice during my trip in 2014.

Norwegian Cheap Flights from FT. Lauderdale

Another quick travel tip. If you fly miles a lot (like I do) make sure when booking your miles flights you DO NOT touch down in the UK or you will be hit with their UK Gas Tax so it ends up being about $375 on each miles ticket. Say you fly into Dusseldorf like I did this year it will cost you same number of miles but only $5.60 in taxes.

Even with cheap flights on airlines try to avoid the UK because they will always be higher.

People forget once you're over there it's really pretty cheap on airline flights. You could fly into a place like Oslo and then hop a $65 ticket to Berlin for example.

great info!

They dont advertise this but some airlines offer free booze on transatlantic flights. I had at least 5 Woodford Reserves on both my flights to and from Europe this summer. The downside: sitting in the middle of the cabin and having to pester the big African lady so you can use the bathroom again.

Another great way to save money on flights is by using AirFareWatchdog.

Just set up an alert for the route you want to take an they will send you daily emails with the lowest flights. It's a good way to not worry about looking everyday or without getting your IP number tracked so you don't see the lowest fares.

Airfare Watchdog

quote:

Originally posted by ucforange They dont advertise this but some airlines offer free booze on transatlantic flights. I had at least 5 Woodford Reserves on both my flights to and from Europe this summer. The downside: sitting in the middle of the cabin and having to pester the big African lady so you can use the bathroom again.

Fly European airlines for complimentary (read: all you can drink) booze.

I had been so used to flying American that when I took my first eurotrip flying British Airways, I was confused when the flight attendant didn't ask for a credit card. I (obviously) proceeded to get absolutely smashed over the Atlantic without napping. Not a great feeling a few hours later but still a fun memory.

When I crossed the pond flying American, no free booze. I also flew United once and at least they offered a complimentary wine with dinner but on the way back.. Nope!

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quote:

Originally posted by bdr222 Fly European airlines for complimentary (read: all you can drink) booze. I had been so used to flying American that when I took my first eurotrip flying British Airways, I was confused when the flight attendant didn't ask for a credit card. I (obviously) proceeded to get absolutely smashed over the Atlantic without napping. Not a great feeling a few hours later but still a fun memory. When I crossed the pond flying American, no free booze. I also flew United once and at least they offered a complimentary wine with dinner but on the way back.. Nope!

I actually flew Delta. It was actually a good experience with them, I was surprised.

Also depending what CC you have, you can gain access to the lounges and all that. A great way to kill layovers or delays. Check with your credit card company. Honestly, sometimes it's worth it to buy a day pass since everything is free in the lounges. Day passes run about $50

wait theres no unlimited booze on oversees flights with us airlines??? i always fly german and get hammered each time.

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Originally posted by PatMcGroin wait theres no unlimited booze on oversees flights with us airlines??? i always fly german and get hammered each time.

I couldn't tell you! I've only flown international brands overseas

quote:

Originally posted by ucforange They dont advertise this but some airlines offer free booze on transatlantic flights. I had at least 5 Woodford Reserves on both my flights to and from Europe this summer. The downside: sitting in the middle of the cabin and having to pester the big African lady so you can use the bathroom again.

years ago when i went to amsterdam KLM offered free mini wine bottles. best airline ive ever used. loved them.

quote:

Originally posted by PatMcGroin wait theres no unlimited booze on oversees flights with us airlines??? i always fly german and get hammered each time.

Certain ones, like Delta (see above) offer free booze.

I can't wait until my southeast Asia trip, whenever that may be. I hear those airlines really go all out with creature comforts.