Studying abroad is often considered a rewarding, once-in-a-lifetime experience that gives students access to the world in a way that’s different than they’ve seen before. It’s even easier to travel to new countries if studying in a place like Europe, where transportation is highly accessible. However, travel can get expensive quickly, so it’s beneficial to cut costs and stress in whatever ways possible. Here are five tips that have helped me when traveling while studying abroad:
Use a travel company for study abroad students
There are many travel companies that assist Americans in touring various European countries, with some even geared toward students studying abroad. Companies like Bus2Alps help students reduce the cost of travel. They include features like transportation, hostel bookings and tours in their prices. Many of the tour guides also have experience studying abroad or are native Europeans that can help you navigate to must-see sights. Using a company like this one helps to alleviate travel stress and overspending.
Social media as a tour guide
Travel vloggers can also make planning your travel itinerary even more simple. Even on a tight schedule, using apps like TikTok can help find the top five hidden gems in a city. After that, you can use a navigation app like Google Maps to create a route by adding multiple destinations into the search bar. The vloggers give their honest reviews of sights that are, or are not, worth seeing, as well as the best picture opportunities for Instagram.
Find student discounts for sightseeing
Many sights and tours will have student rates when booking online or in person. If student discounts are not on the website, you can try giving the company a call to see if they are able to provide a rate. The company may also give a group discount if you’re traveling with friends. You can also check if there are non-peak time rates that may be discounted, as well.
Have proper luggage
Luggage can make or break a trip, literally. Having a proper large roller bag is essential for checked baggage, large items and liquids. Meanwhile, an expandable backpack can help pack more in a carry-on, as well as leave your arms open for pulling a roller or carrying a duffel bag. Luggage should be durable and have proper pockets for chargers and other small, but necessary items. It’s also beneficial to leave room for souvenirs and other purchases to make returning home an ease. Nothing is more unconventional than having to buy extra luggage for those new items. Packing cubes also help to separate items, such as smaller toiletries, undergarments and makeup to keep from digging through luggage for a single item.
Don’t forget that Grocery store snacks are *chef’s kiss*
Most gas stations and vending machines tend to hike up snack prices or don’t have a great selection. Being hungry on a long trip can also get quite uncomfortable. Going to the grocery store before leaving for a trip will allow you to have tasty snacks for the best price. Plus, this may give you the opportunity to try a new snack common to the area you’re in that might not be found in America.
Studying abroad can be an exciting once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it can also burn a hole in your wallet and add extra stress. These were just a few tips that have helped me save money and not stress out when traveling.
Want to see more HCFSU? Be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube and Pinterest!