Best cost effective option for flexible travel (ferry / tunnel) to Europe

[GaryMo]

Hi All,

Just planning our first trip to Europe, jumping in two feet first as it's for the RWC and will be out there for upto to months (even if our team doesn't get pass the group stages )

I'm really not sure when will come back, I really want to keep it flexible, we may even come back and then go back out.

So tickets, what is the best cost effective option for flexibility?

Do I just buy a single ticket to go out and then a single for the return when we are ready (cost can fluctuate)?

Do open returns exist for ferry or the chunnel?

Thanks

 

[Reallyretired]

We always use the tunnel because of the dogs .We buy a single out and the return single a few days prior to leaving. It costs no more than a return and is often cheaper.
If we didn't have dogs, the Newhaven Dieppe ferry is the most economical as its the nearest to us and we get the crumbly discount.

 

[Jo662]

We use the tunnel,and always book a late crossing,usually 10.20 pm out,and an early return,usually 9.20 am. In May we paid £226 ,and had £90 worth of Tesco vouchers,as they were still at the three times value at time of booking, so cost £136 return.
If you are prepared to travel really early,or really late there are some good bargains to be had.

 

[Charlie57]

I like the Newhaven ferry but if I went over with Millie I think the Tunnel is easier although as an assistance dog she could probably be on board with me, driving from t'norf I would prefer the rest on a ferry but the Tunnel seems more convenient with doggie

 

[tonka]

If buying single tickets for travel, Check terms of any travel insurance (if you have it). Some specify a return trip to be booked !!
Caught me out in the past..

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[Imala615]

Irish ferries or DFDS one way for next week medium motorhome 2 people both less than £100 if you go early, flexible tickets obviously more expensive. tunnel for same day £253, (tunnel is ok if your booking months in advance.) you don't say what size van or if towing as both add to cost.

 

[Bodoge]

We always use the tunnel, although I've not crossed with MH,,,yet, probably used it more than 200 times and what I like is the ease and relative quietness. From the toll booths to unloading departure there is no need to leave your vehicle, whilst in the tunnel I always snatch a 30 minute kip. Apart from the Woolwich Ferry I haven't been on a ferry since the opening of the chunnel. I endorse what Jo662 says, pre book going out and two days before return, to get best fares book a couple of months ahead but that can be scuppered by unexpected hiccups, but tickets are reschedule-able and a valid for 1 year. Good luck on your trip.

 

[GaryMo]

We always use the tunnel because of the dogs .We buy a single out and the return single a few days prior to leaving. It costs no more than a return and is often cheaper.
If we didn't have dogs, the Newhaven Dieppe ferry is the most economical as its the nearest to us and we get the crumbly discount.

Thank you and every one for your replies. That seems pretty clear just book singles on tunnel. We don't have a dog for this trip but will have in the future.

Thanks