Travelling abroad as a student is an exciting opportunity. Whether you’re planning to study, explore new cultures, or just enjoy an adventure, international travel offers so much. However, saving up for a trip can feel challenging, especially when you’re on a tight budget as a student. Fortunately, with some smart planning, you can make it happen without too much stress. Here, we’ll explore practical ways to save money for your travels and why you should consider student travel insurance while planning your international trip.
10 tips to save for your international travel as a student
Listed below are 10 practical ways to save up for your international travel when balancing finances as a student:
- Plan early and set a budget
The first step in saving money is creating a clear budget. Start by researching the country you want to visit and noting down all the costs, such as flights, visa fees, accommodation, and food. Don’t forget hidden costs like sightseeing and local transportation.
Set a savings goal once you know how much the trip will cost. Breaking it down into weekly or monthly targets can make it more manageable. Planning early also saves you time and makes the process less stressful.
2. Open a separate savings account
A great way to avoid accidentally spending your travel money is to open a separate savings account just for your trip. This will help you track your progress and keep the funds safe. Some banks even offer student accounts with no fees and better interest rates. You can also set up automatic transfers so that a small amount goes into your travel fund every month without you having to think about it.
3. Take advantage of student discounts
As a student, you have access to many discounts. There are websites that offer cheaper flights and accommodation deals for students. Always carry a student ID, such as the International Student Identity Card (ISIC), which is accepted globally and gives you discounts on attractions, transportation, and more.
4. Stay in budget accommodations
Accommodation can be one of the biggest travel expenses; however, there are plenty of cheaper options. Hostels are usually much more affordable than hotels and often provide student discounts. Moreover, staying in hostels is a great way to meet other travellers.
You could also consider renting through platforms that feature bed-and-breakfast type accommodation, staying with a local family in homestays, or even couch-surfing, which can sometimes be free.
5. Save on transportation costs
Transport costs can quickly add up when travelling, but there are ways to save. In many countries, students can get discounts on public transport. For example, passes like Eurail (for non-European residents) offer cheaper train travel between multiple countries in Europe.
For flights, try to book as early as possible to secure lower prices. Use price comparison websites like Google Flights to find the best deals and be flexible with your travel dates for better savings.
6. Consider working or volunteering abroad
One way to make your travel more affordable is to work or volunteer while abroad. Many part-time jobs or internships are available for students; some may offer free accommodation or meals. If you want to travel and make a difference, consider volunteering in exchange for housing and food. Websites like Workaway can connect you with hosts around the world.
7. Cook your own meals
Eating out regularly can be expensive, especially in touristy areas. A simple way to save money is to cook your own meals. If you’re staying in a hostel or B&B, they often have kitchens where you can prepare food. Visit local markets or grocery stores to buy fresh ingredients at a lower cost.
When you do want to eat out, look for local street food or student-friendly restaurants that offer cheaper meals.
8. Get travel insurance
No matter how much you want to save money, one thing you should never skip is investing in travel insurance. Travel insurance is there to protect you in case of emergencies like medical issues, lost luggage, or trip cancellations. Without it, you could end up spending a lot more if something goes wrong.
For students, there are special student travel insurance plans that offer comprehensive coverage. These policies can cover various eventualities like medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost belongings, study interruption, and document loss/theft.
When choosing insurance, compare different plans to find the best one for you and ensure it covers the country or countries you plan to visit.
9. Use bank accounts and cards with low fees
When travelling internationally, using your bank card can result in extra fees for currency conversion or withdrawals. To avoid this, look for student-friendly banking options that offer lower or no international fees. Some banks have special student accounts for travellers, or you can consider getting a prepaid travel card that lets you load different currencies and avoid extra charges.
10. Stay flexible with your travel plans
If you want to save even more, try to be flexible with your travel dates and destinations. Travelling during off-peak seasons can result in cheaper flights and accommodation. You can also keep an eye out for last-minute deals that might offer significant savings.
Also, if you’re open to exploring nearby countries or less touristy areas, you can often find great experiences at a much lower cost.
Conclusion
Saving money for international travel as a student is entirely possible with the right planning and approach. By creating a well-defined budget, making the most of student discounts, and being mindful of your expenses, you can make your travel dreams come true without breaking the bank. Don’t forget to invest in a comprehensive student travel insurance plan to protect yourself from unexpected trip-related costs. With careful saving and smart spending, you’ll be able to explore the world while staying within your budget. Safe travels!
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