Does Travel Freedom = Financial Freedom?
Before you take the plunge and purchase a pass, consider if point-to-point tickets are a more affordable option. Tickets for regional trains and trains in southern and eastern Europe are often incredibly cheap. For example, a second class ticket between Milan and Venice can be purchased online before your trip for only $28, and would likely be even cheaper if bought in Italy. Make sure you also account for extra fees you will have to pay after purchasing a Eurail pass, such as reservation fees and supplement fares for highspeed or overnight trains. These fees can add up fast, making a Eurail pass considerably more expensive. Then again, a rail pass does give you a certain freedom that can make you feel almost weightless – that incredible feeling that Europe is your oyster. If you decide to buy a pass, remember to buy in advance! Rail passes are only available outside of Europe.
