Are you young, broke but still want to travel? Not to worry, we’ve got it covered. College is full of ramen noodles, student loans, and attempts to find free food on campus. People forget that college is full of beauty and time, not just studying for the semester. Plus, studying can become a more enjoyable experience with some free advice and extra help while studying. You don’t have to spend your weekends watching Netflix, but maybe you can have a new experience. Here are some ways to bust the myth that travel is only for the rich and famous.
How Do You Travel on a Student’s Budget?
Save Money
It’s not hard to see that students only have one bank account. It is your checking account. Although it takes very little effort to transfer money from a savings account to a checking account, it is enough for students to avoid all the hassles. It saves you money and doesn’t allow you to spend it on frivolous items. Laziness = more money saved
Check out Groupon
Yes, Groupon. You won’t get ripped off, contrary to what you may think in the “Escapes” section. While you may think the deals are too good to be true, many getaways are available out of season and can be purchased in bulk. This results in lower rates for us travel enthusiasts.
Travel with a Friend
While traveling alone is an experience we would love to have, we are on a budget. A hostel is a great option for solo travelers. However, most travel deals require double occupancy. You can pay extra for the same room and attractions if you wish. If you can’t afford the extra cost, find a friend.
Getting Lost in a Foreign Subway System
This is a warning: navigating another country’s subway system will 100% cause confusion, loss, and even mental breakdown. But that is part of the experience. You will feel good after taking the subway once or twice. It will get you where you need to go, for a fraction of the price of a cab or a service car.
Set a Realistic Budget for Your Daily Expenses and Stick to It
This is a must whether you are traveling or not. If you are traveling in Europe, budget 50 euros per day. Although this may seem low, it is feasible if you have already paid for your hotel, breakfast and transportation. Spend 60 euros one day and only 40 euros the next.
Forget the Bag Check
Not only is it difficult to carry heavy bags, but it can also result in additional costs per flight. Check in advance if you plan to bring multiple bags on your trip. You won’t have to buy unnecessary souvenirs if you only take a small bag.
Street Vendors
Street vendors are more common in tourist areas. Street vendors are a good option if your budget allows. When choosing a street vendor to shop, be sure to look for carts that have longer lines. This will give you a good deal and ensure that the food has not been sitting in the cart for too long.
Before You Leave on Your Trip, Buy Tickets to the Most Popular Attractions
While this may seem obvious to many, it’s important to remember that lines can be long for popular attractions. You can avoid the lines by purchasing tickets for the major attractions before your trip. You can also purchase time slot tickets at many attractions, which will help with crowd control. You should make sure to book your Eiffel Tower tickets in advance if you plan to visit Paris for more than two days.
Travel with Someone Who Shares Your Priorities
This is a crucial step in traveling on a budget. You can end up in a financial disaster if you don’t discuss your travel priorities with someone. It’s a good idea to talk about your spending habits and preferred modes of transportation (subway, etc.), as well as your safety concerns. This will help you avoid future headaches.
