As a student myself, I know the struggle of wanting to travel without spending a fortune. But fear not! Here, I’ve got tips and tricks to help you see the world without breaking the bank. Join me as we discover affordable destinations, budget-friendly places to stay, tasty yet cheap eats, and hidden gems that won’t drain your savings. I will also show you some affordable destinations that you and your friends can travel to during breaks from university. So, grab your backpack, and passport, and let’s start this budget-friendly journey!
Off-Peak Travel
One of the best ways to save money on travel is by avoiding peak seasons. Flights and accommodations tend to be significantly cheaper during off-peak times. Consider travelling during months when tourist crowds are thinner, and prices are more affordable. These include the months between June to October. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also enjoy a more authentic and less crowded travel experience.
Be Flexible with Your Itinerary
Flexibility is key when you’re travelling on a budget. Be open to exploring destinations that may not be on your original bucket list but offer affordable options for accommodations, food, and activities. Countries such as Mexico, Thailand plus many more. Additionally, be flexible with your travel dates and consider using flight comparison websites or apps to find the best deals on flights. An app that I love to use when I’m travelling is KAYAK. This allows you to compare different flight prices and find deals that work for you as well as finding an affordable hotel. Here is a list of cheap places you can travel to as a student.
Budget Accommodations
Everyone loves to stay at a fancy hotel when abroad but as a student that may be out of your budget. Start to embrace the sharing economy by choosing budget accommodations such as guesthouses or vacation rentals. Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com offer so many affordable options that cater specifically to budget-conscious travellers. Furthermore, staying at guesthouses is a fantastic way to meet fellow travellers from around the world and exchange travel tips and stories.
Travel Light and Pack Smart
Packing light not only saves you money on baggage fees but also makes your travels more convenient and flexible. I love making sure that I have everything and more when I’m travelling however it’s best to stick to the essentials and invest in versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. This could be plain jeans or tops. Try to avoid clothes that may stand out as you most likely would not want to wear that again. Consider packing a reusable water bottle and snacks to avoid overpriced convenience store purchases while exploring your destination.
Take Advantage of Student Discounts
As a student, you’re entitled to a variety of discounts and perks that can make travel more affordable. Always carry your student ID card and don’t hesitate to inquire about student discounts at museums, attractions, transportation services, and restaurants. Some city cities around the world may offer discounted or even free admission to students, so be sure to take advantage of these opportunities wherever you go. Great apps that I have to get discounts for holidays and so much more are Unidays and Student Beans. I have had these apps for a very long time, and they have drastically helped with discounts on different purchases.
Travelling in Groups
Consider going on group trips as you will find it way more fun to explore new places with friends by your side. You can share so many experiences and support each other when things get tricky. Plus, being in a group makes it safer as going to different countries could be dangerous if you don’t know the area too well. It’s also usually cheaper to travel together since you can split costs for things like hotels and transportation. Our Travel Club is a great way for you to do that at student-friendly prices. You will get to learn about different cultures and traditions together, which is a cool way to expand your horizons and make awesome memories with your friends!
Here are some upcoming trips you can purchase:
Explore Budget-Friendly Destinations
Not all destinations are created equal when it comes to affordability. Research and explore destinations that offer excellent value for money, such as Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, or Central America. These regions boast stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and delicious cuisine at a fraction of the cost of more popular tourist destinations. Here is a 2024 list where you can see what countries have the best value for money whilst travelling.
Different Transportation
While flying may be the fastest way to reach your destination, it’s often not the most budget-friendly option. Consider alternative modes of transportation such as buses, trains, or even ridesharing services like Lyft for shorter distances. Not only are these options cheaper, but they also offer a unique opportunity to see the landscape and interact with locals along the way.
Eat Like a Local
Sampling local cuisine is an essential part of any travel experience, but dining out can quickly eat into your budget. Visit street food stalls or local markets to enjoy delicious meals at a fraction of the cost of tourist restaurants. Additionally, consider cooking your meals occasionally if you have access to a kitchen, which can save you even more money.
Travelling on a student budget is all about creativity, flexibility, and embracing the adventure of exploring the world. By following these tips and tricks, you can go on incredible journeys without breaking the bank. Remember, the best experiences often come from stepping outside your comfort zone and immersing yourself in the cultures and landscapes that our world has to offer. So, pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
Have you also read these articles?
One year later – I travelled, I studied, I conquered
The A to Z guide on travelling in Europe (on a student budget)