Traveling abroad is often seen as a luxury, but British TikTok star and content creator Callum Ryan has shown that it can sometimes be cheaper than buying everyday items at home. In a viral stunt, Callum flew from the UK to Spain and back, purchasing a bottle of olive oil for just £2.19—less than half the price of the same bottle at his local Tesco store in Milton Keynes, which cost £7.38. His return flight, which totaled £4.09, left him with enough change to make the trip not only cost-effective but also absurdly humorous. This eye-catching example highlights just how affordable international travel can be, especially when comparing it to the prices of everyday luxuries like lunch or dinner at a restaurant.
One of the most surprising aspects of Callum’s discovery is that it’s not just Spain offering these kinds of deals. Flights from the UK to destinations across Europe are often so cheap that they rival the cost of a single meal or even a coffee. For instance, a flight from London to Milan, Italy, can be booked for just £14.97—cheaper than a £16.55 meal from Pret a Manger. Milan, a city steeped in history and culture, offers plenty to explore, from the iconic Duomo cathedral to the polished boulevards and hidden gardens. Visitors can also experience the Milanese tradition of “aperitivo,” where beautiful cocktails come with complimentary bar snacks, all while soaking in the chic atmosphere of places like Bar Basso. With such affordable flights, a weekend in Milan feels less like a splurge and more like a steal.
Similarly, a trip from Manchester to Nantes, France, can be secured for £14.99, which is significantly cheaper than ordering a pizza from Domino’s for £21.99. Nantes, a city known for its artistic vibe and industrial heritage, offers unique attractions like Les Machines de l’île, a theme park featuring a massive mechanical elephant. Visitors can also indulge in local delicacies like oysters and zander fish, making it a quirky yet affordable destination for a quick getaway. These deals not only highlight the affordability of travel but also encourage people to explore lesser-known cities that are just as captivating as their more famous counterparts.
For those looking to venture further east, a flight from London to Poznan, Poland, is available for £15.99—less than a £19.30 meal at Wagamama. Poznan, with its medieval market squares, elegant buildings, and the stunning Golden Chapel, is an ideal destination for a springtime city break. The city’s rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife make it a gem that’s still relatively untouched by mass tourism. From admiring Chopin’s piano at the Museum of Musical Instruments to sampling the city’s famous bison grass vodka, Poznan offers a blend of tradition and modernity that feels both authentic and accessible.
Geneva, Switzerland, is another destination that’s more affordable than one might think. A flight from London Southend to Geneva costs just £14.99, which is cheaper than a £16.85 meal at Pizza Express. The city, surrounded by Lake Geneva, boasts beautiful botanic gardens, flea markets, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for sipping Swiss wine or enjoying a sauna by the lake. These kinds of deals make it possible to experience the charm of a city like Geneva without breaking the bank, proving that even destinations known for being pricey can be explored on a budget.
Finally, for those who prefer staying closer to the British Isles, a trip from Birmingham to Dublin can be booked for just £15—cheaper than a £19.99 meal from KFC. Dublin, with its rich literary history and iconic landmarks like the Ha’penny Bridge, offers a wealth of cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the James Joyce Tower, enjoy a Guinness, or sample the city’s famous boxty dishes. Whether it’s for history, food, or simply the atmosphere, Dublin remains a popular and affordable destination for British travelers. These examples show that with a little bit of research, anyone can find a weekend getaway that’s not only cheaper than a takeout meal but also packed with memorable experiences.
