Two friends embarked on a remarkable adventure through Europe in a 2009 Vauxhall Corsa, managing to spend a mere £15 a day. Madeleine Jaye, 23, and her friend Ashla Prakash, 24, set out on this budget-friendly journey across eight countries in Europe for five weeks, utilising a clever £25 car hack to convert the back of Madeleine’s Corsa into a comfortable sleeping space. This ingenious setup included a double mattress, duvet, pillows, and room for their luggage, allowing them to save substantially on accommodation costs.
With a total fuel expenditure of £450 and the savvy move of securing free parking, Madeleine and Ashla saved over £4,000 in accommodation expenses. Their itinerary spanned Germany, Belgium, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, France, Italy, Slovenia, and Switzerland during the five-week adventure while sticking to a strict daily budget of £15. Madeleine expressed how this not only led to significant savings but also added a unique and exciting dimension to their journey.
The idea for this unconventional road trip stemmed from a conversation the duo had in Japan in 2023, where they met on a working visa. Daunted by the high costs of traditional accommodation options, Madeleine proposed the idea of utilising her car as a living space – a suggestion that was swiftly embraced by both friends. Madeleine’s grandfather, Keith Davies, 83, played a crucial role by crafting a bedframe from wood and customizing a memory foam mattress, a project that cost a mere £25.
Keith’s craftsmanship extended to creating a versatile design, including a bottom plank that could be converted into a table at the back of the car, further enhancing their makeshift living quarters. As they hit the road in July 2024 in Madeleine’s trusty silver Corsa, the friends divided their tasks, with Madeleine handling the driving and cooking duties, while Ashla took charge of setup and washing up. Their meals mainly consisted of dishes prepared on a Home Bargains gas cooker to optimise savings, occasionally treating themselves to Aperol or pizza.
Navigating their way through different countries, the duo strategically located safe spots to park overnight before continuing their journey, relying on a combination of a collapsible pink bucket for washing and public facilities. Madeleine highlighted the convenience and quality of public toilets across Europe, a small yet significant aspect that contributed to the overall comfort of their adventure. Despite facing challenges such as intense heat and pesky mosquitoes, the friends cherished the experience, particularly in scenic locations like Slovenia with its breathtaking landscapes.
Looking ahead, Madeleine is already planning her next adventure – the North Coast 500 in Scotland, once again utilising her reliable Corsa for overnight stays instead of booking traditional accommodations. This resourceful approach not only presents a sustainable and cost-effective way to travel but also encapsulates the essence of adventure and spontaneity. Madeleine emphasised that one does not necessarily require a large van for such expeditions; instead, creativity and adaptability with existing resources can lead to incredible journeys filled with unforgettable experiences.
As Madeleine reflects on their European road trip, she fondly recalls the stunning sights, unexpected discoveries, and the sheer joy of embarking on a unique and budget-conscious adventure with a trusted friend. Their journey serves as a testament to the spirit of exploration and the endless possibilities that await those willing to step outside their comfort zones and embrace the unknown.