IITian's 35-day Europe trip cost her less than an iPhone. Here's how she pulled it off

Travelling across Europe sounds glamorous, expensive, and often unattainable—but it doesn’t have to be. For Kanak Agrawal, an IIT graduate, exploring four European countries for over a month cost less than an iPhone. Her secret? Creativity, resourcefulness, and a willingness to step out of her comfort zone. Kanak’s journey shows that adventure isn’t about big budgets—it’s about smart planning, meeting people, and embracing experiences over itineraries.

In 2017, after quitting her job, Kanak set out on a solo Euro trip with a strict budget. Over 35 days, she explored the Netherlands, France, Prague, and Budapest, spending just INR 1 lakh—including airfare. But it wasn’t about pinching pennies; it was about discovering the culture, food, and people of each place in a meaningful way.

Volunteering
Kanak started by volunteering at an eco-village in the Netherlands, covering accommodation and meals for two weeks. “I did not want to be a ‘tourist’ checking places off a list,” she explained. Immersing herself in daily life, she got to experience the countryside near Amsterdam at no cost, while contributing to the community.

Couchsurfing
Next, she turned to couchsurfing, which allowed her to stay with locals in the Netherlands and Prague. She not only saved money but also met incredible people who showed her around and became friends for life.

Spontaneity and old friendships
Kanak’s trip was largely unplanned. After 20 days in the Netherlands, she spontaneously decided to visit a close friend in Paris. She quickly booked a bus, and her friend happily hosted her. "Even if you’re planning everything, it’s always a good idea to visit an old friend in a new country, " she said.


Cheaper destinations
She also strategically chose cheaper destinations. Prague and Budapest offered historical richness without the high European prices. Prague became a 4-day stop on her way from Paris to Budapest, allowing her to stretch her budget without compromising experiences.

Kanak emphasises that her journey was a lesson in courage and flexibility. She didn’t have a rigid itinerary or pre-booked plans—she started small, stayed consistent, and let life unfold naturally.