How To Explore The World On A Budget
Student life is a wild ride, but who says it can't include jet-setting adventures? While students’ pockets may not overflow with cash, we’ve got a couple of tricks up our sleeves to ensure you don’t miss out on the thrill of travel.
To fuel your wanderlust without breaking the bank, find smart ways to earn, save, and invest with Prograd. Simply fill out the 20-second form below to get started.
Booking A Trip On A Student Budget?
The key to globetrotting as a student is, ofc, budgeting.
Before you unleash your inner explorer, calculate your funds and work out what you have free to splash. Make a list of all your travel must-haves to help you crunch the numbers and cut out all unnecessary expenses.
A big part of your budgeting strategy will be looking for holidays within your price range. Think Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, or Central America. These hidden gems can offer adventure without the hefty price tag.
Next, think cheap when booking your accommodation. Ditch the fancy hotels and make budget hostels and even couch-surfing your new home. Not only can embracing communal accommodation keep costs low but you may meet some friends along the way.
Consider volunteering and work exchange opportunities. Not only will this offset accommodation costs but it can transform your travels into a meaningful journey.
Travel can be done on the cheap too. Cheap flights and transportation can be your ticket to wallet-friendly adventures. Search for affordable flights on Skyscanner and opt for budget airlines. Better still, if you can, consider public transportation such as trains or buses to really save those pennies.
For even cheaper transport, book off-peak travel to avoid the crowds and save big - win-win!
Finally, when sniffing out all the cheapest holiday rates, keep an eye out for student discounts. Student IDs and an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) can get you access to exclusive discounts on accommodation, transportation, and attractions worldwide.
Just make sure to jot everything down in a travel itinerary as you plan. Travel plans and itineraries can help get you organised and, if you stick to it, you can maximise the time and minimise the money spent on your epic journey.
Preparing For Your Student Trip?
First on your checklist - travel insurance. This can protect you against all those unfortunate mishaps. From lost luggage to unexpected medical bills, it's a small investment for peace of mind.
Load up your phone with travel apps and resources like TripAdvisor, Duolingo, and Currency Converter. Your phone is about to become your travel BFF.
Master the local currency exchange before you land. You may wanna get some local currency out before you embark and, once there, use local ATMs for the best rates.
Finally, in the days leading up to your adventure, it’s all about packing efficiently! Master the art of light packing by rolling your clothes up and embracing travel-sized everything. This’ll help you not to get weighed down with stuff, literally.
Budget Tips for Your Student Adventure?
Once you're on the road, say no to overpriced tourist meal traps. Opt for street food, markets, and other budget-friendly eateries. Or better yet, ask the locals where some nearby good cheap eats are - they’re your best bet for finding some hidden gems.
Make sure to also ask about any good (and cheap) local experiences. This will help you step off the beaten path and connect with some authentic culture instead. Plus, you may be able to avoid those overcrowded tourist crowds. Sounds ideal, right?
Speaking of local customs, no one wants to stick out like a sore thumb. Blend in by being at one with cultural etiquette and safety. Respect the customs, be aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts. Safety first, adventure second.
Conclusion
Travelling the world as a student doesn't have to mean jumping on the first dirt-cheap all-inclusive holiday you find. With these hacks, you can explore the globe as you wish without putting your bank account on life support.
In preparation for your epic adventure, Prograd is here to help. Match with nearby work opportunities by filling out the quick form below and get started today.
