Should I use a VPN to find cheaper flights?

There is little evidence that VPNs consistently lower prices for individual users in Europe. It is more effective to use 'Incognito' or 'Private' mode in your browser to prevent dynamic pricing based on your search history.

Is it cheaper to fly or take the train?

For distances under 400km, the train is often better once you factor in the time and money spent getting to/from distant budget airports. For longer cross-continental hauls, flying is almost always cheaper.

Booking Cheap Flights for Backpacking Across Europe

Book regional budget flights 4 to 6 weeks in advance using comparison tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights, and prioritize secondary airports to slash ticket prices. Always travel with a carry-on only to avoid the hefty baggage fees that turn a 30-euro flight into a 100-euro ordeal.

Use aggregate search tools correctly. Set your departure and arrival as 'Everywhere' or entire countries rather than specific city airports. Use Google Flights to track prices by toggling the 'Track Prices' switch; it will email you when the price drops for your specific route.
Understand the budget airline model. Budget carriers like Ryanair, Wizz Air, and EasyJet make their money on extras. Assume the advertised price is for a seat and a small personal item only. If you need overhead cabin luggage or checked bags, pay for them online during booking; paying at the airport gate can cost three times as much.
Choose your airport wisely. Large carriers fly into main hubs (like CDG in Paris), but budget airlines often use smaller, secondary airports (like BVA for Paris). Always factor in the cost and time of the bus or train required to get from these remote airports to the city center—sometimes a cheap flight is more expensive once you account for a 20-euro shuttle bus.
Book on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Mid-week flights are consistently cheaper than Friday or Sunday departures. Use the 'Date Grid' or 'Price Calendar' view on booking sites to see the 30-day price trend at a glance.

Should I use a VPN to find cheaper flights?: There is little evidence that VPNs consistently lower prices for individual users in Europe. It is more effective to use 'Incognito' or 'Private' mode in your browser to prevent dynamic pricing based on your search history.
Is it cheaper to fly or take the train?: For distances under 400km, the train is often better once you factor in the time and money spent getting to/from distant budget airports. For longer cross-continental hauls, flying is almost always cheaper.