These days, travelling seems to be every college kid’s dream. The popularity of studying abroad and backpacking has soared, but the financial obstacles of funding these trips has become astronomical. However, travelling abroad might not be as inaccessible as you think. Here are five ways to cut the cost of going abroad!
1) Don’t Feel Like Studying Abroad is Your Only Option
Studying abroad is an amazing and culturally enriching opportunity. It allows you to become in tune with a different culture in a truly immersive way. If you are able to study abroad, we highly recommend it. However, the cost of studying abroad has become extremely high. Don’t feel as though studying abroad is your only option! There are plenty of other ways to get out of the country – it’s more available than you think.
2) Travel Courses Are Your Friends
MCLA comes with the unique offering of travel courses, which allow you to take a class on a specific area of the world and then actually visit that area! It does come with an extra fee in order to cover travel costs and housing, but it allows students to have a very genuine cultural experience in a more feasible time span. If you’re looking for an educational spin to your trip that feels more like a vacation, this could be the option for you!
3) Don’t Be Afraid of Discount Airlines
If studying abroad or travel courses aren’t your cup of tea, fear not! Vacations are not as far out of reach as one might think. Discount airlines can sometimes get a bad name, but in reality, they’re a cheap and easy way to leave the country. Packing minimally can reduce costs even further because many airlines allow you a free carry on. If you don’t mind a layover, discount airlines can be the way to go! Plus, many of these airlines offer sales throughout the year which can help cut costs even further.
4) airbnb Makes Lodging Affordable
Like discount airlines, airbnb (for more information, visit www.airbnb.com) can sometimes get a bad reputation for safety. However, reading reviews of hosts, researching your options, and trusting your gut and making intelligent decisions will limit your risk dramatically. airbnb allows you to pick your lodging needs, and in most cities, is significantly cheaper than staying in a hostel or hotel. Never stay in a situation that makes you feel unsafe, but don’t cut airbnb out of your options due to unfortunate rumors!
5) Check Your Location For City Cards
City cards might seem like a large purchase, but will save you tons of money in the end! Many city cards give you unlimited access to public transportation, free access to cultural institutions like museums, and discounts to multiple restaurants and performing arts events. Along the same lines, many cultural institutions also offer free events periodically. Before you leave, do your research! You could save yourself a lot of money in the end.
Travelling abroad might seem like it’s out of reach, but anything is possible! These tips should help to cut costs significantly, making travelling much more affordable. At the end of the day, be smart and do your research and anything is possible!