You start with big dreams of volunteering in Costa Rica, island-hopping in Southeast Asia, or working abroad in Europe. But three open search tabs later, a single one-way flight costs as much as two weeks of hostel accommodation.
For years, my budget travel strategy was simple: spend hours comparing budget airlines, taking 3-layover flights, and sleeping on airport terminal floors.
That was until I started using eDreams Prime.
What is eDreams Prime (and Why Backpackers Care)
eDreams Prime is a travel subscription program from eDreams, one of the world’s largest online travel platforms.
Unlike regular flight search engines that charge extra fees at checkout, eDreams Prime gives members exclusive discounted rates on 100% of flight routes, hotels, and car rentals.
The best part for nomads? It isn’t tied to a single airline alliance. It searches across low-cost carriers and major international airlines alike, finding smart route combinations and applying member discounts on top.
3 Reasons This is a Backpacking Game-Changer
1. Group Travel Discounts (Up to 9 People)
Traveling with a group from your hostel, a volunteer team, or your best friends? You don't all need separate memberships. One eDreams Prime account covers up to 9 travelers on the same booking! You get to be the hero who locks in lower rates for the entire squad.
2. Huge Bundle Savings (Flights + Accommodation)
Need a base camp when you land in a new country? Booking a "Dynamic Package" (combining your flight and accommodation in one go) on eDreams Prime unlocks compound discounts that beat booking hostels or hotels separately.
3. Total Flexibility on the Road
Plans change when you’re exploring the world. eDreams Prime includes 24/7 dedicated customer service through their app, so if your plans shift, you’re not stuck in automated phone loops.
The Real Talk on Subscription Cost
Let’s keep it 100% transparent: eDreams Prime is a paid annual subscription that automatically renews.
Is it worth it for backpackers? Here’s the math: You can test out Prime during checkout on your very first booking. Because the discount applies instantly, booking a single international flight or a multi-stop itinerary usually saves you more money on day one than the annual membership fee costs.
If you're taking more than one or two flights this year, it literally pays for itself. (And if you ever want to stop, you can manage or cancel auto-renewal anytime in your account settings).
Ready for Your Next Adventure?
Stop letting overpriced airfare dictate where you can go. Whether you’re planning a 6-month backpacking trip or booking a spontaneous getaway with friends, search your route on eDreams and see how much Prime saves you.