Protect Your Trip »

8 Tricks to Cheap Student Travel

As the days grow longer and the weather warmer, a tremor of excitement passes through college campuses: Summer vacation is on its way. Soon, students will be swapping books for plane tickets and getting ready to explore outside the classroom. However, as all you parents know, a summertime getaway can cost a pretty penny.

With help from Clem Bason, president of the Hotwire Group , U.S. News Travel has come up with some clever ways for students to go big on a small budget.

Students may think they're free of homework for the next few months, but the key to staying on budget is diligent research. Before reaching the booking stage, students should have a general idea of how much they can expect to pay for flights and hotel rooms. That way, they'll be able to recognize a great deal when they see one. Many tools, like Hotwire's Trip Watcher , help travelers save money by tracking travel trends and notifying users of price changes. Students should also sign up for travel deal newsletters like those circulated by Travel-Ticker and Travelzoo . According to Bason, these deal sites "distribute exclusives and flash-sale opportunities directly to your inbox, making it easy for the on-the-go student to save big." Just make sure to check your email regularly, since these deals tend to go quickly. Students can also nab discounts on the fly by following deal-oriented companies on Twitter or Facebook.

There are thousands of websites out there touting the lowest rates around, but only a few cater specifically to students. STA Travel and Student Universe are renowned for delivering fantastic experiences for very little coin. Both sites offer package deals and discounts on all aspects of travel—from airfare to tours—exclusively to students who can verify their university enrollment. These resources are also jam-packed with money-saving tips and advice from fellow student globe-trotters.

Students with looser travel plans are more likely to score lower rates on airfare and hotels than those with plans set in stone. Rather than choosing a specific destination right off the bat, Bason suggests that students focus on the type of vacation they want, like a beach getaway or a city trip. And by not committing to specific dates at the initial research stage, students open themselves up to a wider selection of travel deals. "Even a day or two's worth of shifting on your departure or arrival dates can make a big difference on price," he says.

Airfare has skyrocketed over the past few years, and it doesn't show any signs of dropping (at least not in time for summer). For students who prefer to fly, discount airlines, such as Southwest and Europe's RyanAir, offer cheap airline tickets, but note that they can nickel-and-dime you with additional fees. Travelers sticking to a strict budget should also consider bus and train travel. Bus companies—like Megabus, Boltbus, RedCoach, and Lux Bus America—provide inexpensive and efficient service to many major cities throughout the United States. Train travel is also picking up speed among students and other frugal travelers. This mode of transit is a common (and affordable) way to get around popular regions, such as Europe, Asia, and even here in the States. In fact, "Traveling by train from point A to B is one of the quickest and safest ways to see the United States, especially if you are looking to travel across several states," explains Sarah Munley, director of sales and marketing for the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad .

Discounts for student travelers abound in almost every country, with thousands of museums, parks, and historical sites offering reduced admission rates for the young and learning. But as those who pay attention to Trick 1 will learn, student-oriented travel sites are also a great resource for deals on guided tours, hostels, and eateries. Also, the purchase of an International Student Identity Card will help students nab discounts even without the help of the Internet. International Student IDs are widely recognized in 120 countries throughout the world, granting holders access to a wide variety of discounts at hotels, restaurants, tours, and individual attractions. Any full-time student age 12 or older can obtain an International Student ID. Meanwhile, the International Youth Travel Card —which offers similar perks—is available to anyone under age 26, student or not.

Parents, you can now frame your support for the buddy system in a new light: It's a cheaper way to travel. Aside from splitting the cost of a hotel room, students who bring friends along for the ride can save big by booking group travel. Travel sites, like STATravel.com and StudentUniverse.com, offer massive discounts on flights, hotels, and tours to students traveling in a group of 10 to 12 or more. Using the handy planning tools found on these sites, students can get a general idea of how much the entire trip is going to cost, which facilitates better budgeting.

Hotel stays can eat up a large chunk of a travel budget, but the advantage that students generally have over seasoned travelers is their ability to sleep just about anywhere. If that's the case, opting for a shared hostel room is a great way to conserve cash and meet fellow explorers. Despite the seedy reputation that hostels carry with older, better-funded travelers, hostels are generally clean and safe (but it's always a good idea to check the reviews on sites like TripAdvisor , Hostels.com , or HostelWorld before booking.) If staying in a hostel doesn't sound appealing, couch-surfing is another way to go. International websites such as CouchSurfing and AirBnB connect budget-minded travelers with locals who are willing to lend their spare bedrooms (and couches) to passers-through. These gracious hosts can also act as a great resource for information about the destination.

According to Bason, some student-oriented travel sites (including STATravel.com) offer scholarships to fund trips. But this isn't the only way to pad otherwise lacking funds. Applying to one of these programs could add a few hundred or several thousand dollars to the budget, but students will have to prove that their trip has educational merit. Other organizations—including the Smithsonian Institution , the Student Youth Travel Association , and National Geographic —also provide financial support to poor, ambitious voyagers-to-be.

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The 6 best kauai helicopter tours.

Holly Johnson and Marisa Méndez March 25, 2024

how to travel for cheap as a college student

The Best Diaper Bag Backpacks

Amanda Norcross March 21, 2024

how to travel for cheap as a college student

The 13 Best Los Angeles Tours

Kyle McCarthy and Marisa Méndez March 21, 2024

how to travel for cheap as a college student

The Best Washington, D.C. Tours

Kim Foley MacKinnon March 20, 2024

how to travel for cheap as a college student

The Top Amusement Parks in the U.S.

Holly Johnson and Sharael Kolberg March 19, 2024

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Spookiest Savannah Ghost Tours

Gwen Pratesi March 19, 2024

how to travel for cheap as a college student

The Best Vegas Shows

Rachael Hood March 19, 2024

how to travel for cheap as a college student

The Best Gettysburg Tours of 2024

Amanda Norcross March 18, 2024

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Alaska Cruise Cost

Gwen Pratesi March 15, 2024

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Spooky Charleston Ghost Tours

Holly Johnson March 15, 2024

how to travel for cheap as a college student

4 ways I save money on travel as a college student: Award travel on a budget

Ryan Patterson

They say cash is king — but that's only if you have cash to spend. For most college students, extra dollars are hard to come by, so to put it simply, my travel budget is quite small.

You could just call it budget travel to the extreme, but I prefer to call it the life of a college student. I rarely get the best redemptions but that doesn't mean I don't try (nor does it mean I stay at hostels ). Instead, it means that I avoid spending cash at all costs.

Here are some of my favorite tricks to keep your cash spending to the absolute minimum.

Avoid fuel surcharges

The arch nemesis of a college student, fuel surcharges are a relevant issue to all award travel enthusiasts.

They can often accompany award tickets, tacking on hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in addition to miles redeemed. I will avoid paying surcharges at all costs.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

In many cases, this has led to paying more miles instead of surcharges. This happened recently while planning the flights home from a weekend trip to Santorini, Greece, in the spring.

On the dates I wanted to fly, there was very little availability from Athens to New York City, leaving me with two realistic options if I wanted to fly in business class. The first was with Air-France-KLM Flying Blue :

how to travel for cheap as a college student

and the second was with Avianca LifeMiles :

how to travel for cheap as a college student

While I would have loved to spend the morning in Athens, I just couldn't justify 6,500 miles for a $270 difference in price. It also meant that I had to take three flights instead of just two, but for three weeks' worth of groceries, I couldn't find a way to justify the cost.

Avoiding surcharges is tough for even the most seasoned award travelers — sometimes it's impossible. There is, however, a list of airlines that generally don't impose fuel charges on any awards, including flights on their own planes and those operated by partners.

Other frequent flyer programs pass on some surcharges for some airlines, while some waive the full charges for all flights. Here's a short list of my go-to frequent flyer programs to avoid hefty charges, and a few that you might want to avoid:

No fuel surcharges on award tickets

  • Air Canada Aeroplan.
  • Avianca LifeMiles.
  • Free Spirit.
  • JetBlue TrueBlue.
  • Southwest Rapid Rewards.
  • United MileagePlus.

Some fuel surcharges on award tickets

  • Air France-KLM Flying Blue.
  • Alaska Mileage Plan.
  • American AAdvantage.
  • ANA Mileage Club.
  • British Airways Executive Club.
  • Delta SkyMiles.
  • Singapore KrisFlyer.
  • Virgin Atlantic Flying Club.

This is not a comprehensive list — just some of the frequent flyer programs I check first when booking a trip. Bookmark this list and refer to it when facing multiple award flight options.

Related: Fly business class to Europe with no fuel surcharges

Fly into a downtown airport

This one is probably less talked about than other budget travel hacks but can save you quite a bit of cash if you are willing to do some research. Some cities have smaller airports that are located closer to the city. This may require more miles, or even an extra layover, but can save you time and ground transportation costs.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

When thinking of regional airports close to cities, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) comes to mind first. While you could take the Silver Line (or a $50-plus Uber) to Dulles International Airport (IAD), you might prefer to fly out of Reagan, paying $2.50 for a Metro ride that takes well less than an hour.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Washington is not the only city with an airport close to the metropolitan center. Here is a short list of cities with regional airports that may offer cheaper alternatives than bigger international airports:

Sometimes, saving time in traffic from large airports — especially in places like London and New York, where traffic can be abysmal — makes flying into a smaller airport worth the extra connection.

Related: 10 US airports with great public transportation options

Book through credit card travel portals

Every frequent flyer has gone through it at some point: No matter how much searching you do, there are simply no award flights available for the route you need to fly.

You might often run into this problem when booking last-minute trips or when booking positioning flights for longer trips. Thankfully, credit card travel portals let you book these flights with points, even if it's not the best deal.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

For example, shelling out 30,000 points through Amex Travel for a positioning flight that costs $300 is painful. But again, that's three weeks of groceries that I am saving by dishing out those 30,000 points.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

This is also a good way to save on hotels. When making plans for next year, I stumbled upon the beautiful Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island. I knew right away that there was no way that I could afford a price tag near $1,000 per night.

However, I have a hefty amount of American Express Membership Rewards points at my disposal from business expenses; I realized I could book three nights for roughly 85,000 points per night.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Both of these redemptions give me half of TPG's valuation of Amex Membership Rewards at 2 cents apiece. But in the case of the Four Seasons, I get to enjoy three nights in luxury without spending my entire travel budget for the year.

While it is not even close to a good redemption, it's the sacrifice I make being a college student. I rarely get the best use out of my points, and that is perfectly fine by me.

Related: Battle of the credit card travel portals: What's the best for booking flights?

Make sure my hotel offers breakfast

There are several ways to save on breakfast at hotel chains. Some chains offer free breakfast through status and others offer all guests complimentary breakfast. If you're looking for a good resource, TPG has covered all the ways to get free breakfast at hotels .

how to travel for cheap as a college student

As a top-tier Marriott Bonvoy Ambassador Elite member, I receive complimentary breakfast at nearly every Marriott brand except Ritz-Carlton.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

As a college swimmer, I can inhale a $30 airport breakfast and still be hungry. Doing some quick math, I have stayed 78 nights at Marriott properties this year. If I were to place a conservative estimate, $15 per meal x 78 nights = $1,170 in savings. That's about a third of my travel budget each year that I save just on complimentary breakfasts.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

This often means I don't get the best redemption at a hotel. When traveling for my photography business, I often choose a less "flashy" option that includes breakfast to save on out-of-pocket expenses, even if I get hotel reimbursement.

Related: How to get some of the world's most expensive hotel buffet breakfasts for free

Bottom line

Being a college student means I will rarely get the best redemptions when booking award travel, and that is perfectly OK by me. That doesn't mean I don't do my best to maximize points, it just means I do everything I can to avoid spending money.

Even if you're not a budget traveler, there are still many ways you can reduce your out-of-pocket cash expenses when redeeming your miles. Whether it's flying out of an alternate airport or eating free breakfast, cutting these little expenses can lead to big savings over time.

  • Campus Life

Logo

Are you tight on cash but itching to have your own version of a fancy European ski trip or tropical adventure after seeing your classmates’ vacations on Instagram? 

You’re in luck! There are plenty of cheap travel destinations perfect for college students looking for a fun and reasonably-priced vacation. 🌍 

Catch some waves on spring break or spend a weekend exploring another city as you visit 28 of the best travel spots for college students on a budget . 💸

1. New Orleans, Louisiana 🎭 

2. daytona beach, florida 🏄, 3. andalucia, spain 👑, 4. myrtle beach, south carolina ⛵, 5. porto, portugal 🌉, 6. savannah, georgia 🍸, 7. denver, colorado 🍺, 8. belgrade, serbia 🚍 , 9. new york, new york 🗽, 10. philadelphia, pennsylvania 🌭, 11. placencia, belize 🐆, 12. zagreb, croatia 🎨, 13. portland, oregon 🌹, 14. cancun, mexico 💃, 15. phoenix, arizona 🏜️, 16. boston, massachusetts ⚾, 17. raleigh, north carolina 🌳 , 18. albuquerque, new mexico 🌮, 19. austin, texas 🎸, 20. san juan, puerto rico 🤿, 21. kraków, poland 🥨, 22. prague, czech republic 🧑‍🎨, 23. punta cana, dominican republic 🏞️, 24. budapest, hungary 🏰, 25. panama city, panama 🛳️, 26. athens, greece 🏛️, 27. bucharest, romania 👢, 28. negril, jamaica 🏖️, 1. plan a budget-friendly itinerary, 2. book cheaper local accommodations, 3. maximize your student discounts, 4. learn how the public transportation system works , 5. arrange your visit during the off-season , 6. book flights with the best value, cheap travel destinations for college students: frequently asked questions.

Experience a vibrant culture sans the jet lag by visiting New Orleans — the home of Mardi Gras, fried chicken and gumbo, and jazz. 

It’s a one-of-a-kind destination that pairs a bustling nightlife with strong booze, good music, and a little touch of creepy with voodoo. It’s no surprise why this city’s a popular destination for college students. 🎆

A college student wearing a Mardi Gras mask during her cheap travel to New Orleans

Munch on New Orleans’ signature beignets for less than $5 and jam to live music at the French Quarter where you’ll find a series of nightclubs, historical buildings, and soul food diners. 😋

There’s no need to bust your budget on pricey hotels when you can stay in cheaper accommodations in the Central Business District or the Marigny neighborhood (which are still close to the best attractions). 🏨

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, music lovers, and history buffs 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $85

When looking for a wallet-friendly trip, hearing the words “free attraction” will instantly make you giddy. 😀 Daytona Beach has plenty of these around, making it one of the cheapest travel destinations for college students. 

You don’t need to spend a dime at the “ World’s Most Famous Beach ” or the North Peninsula State Recreation Area to swim in the ocean, play beach volleyball, or just soak up the sun (don’t forget your sunblock!). ☀️

Male college student holding a surfboard during his budget vacation at Daytona Beach, Florida

Cap off your day at the beach by watching the sunset with a glass or three of happy hour drinks (we’re talking one-dollar whiskeys and two-dollar tequilas😉) from the bars lining the beachfront.

👍 Best for: Beach bums, party animals, spring breakers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $76

While Andalucia isn’t the fairytale kingdom from the hit film Enchanted, it’s still a magical place to visit (and one of the most affordable regions in Spain!). ✨

The Andalucian capital of Seville makes you feel like a royal with its architectural wonders, like the Plaza de España and the 15th-century Palace of the Marquises of La Algaba (and they’re all free). 🫅

Female college student backpacking on her budget vacation in Seville, Andalucia in Spain

Seville is tourist-friendly since you can explore the city by foot or by bike , especially the hip district of Macarena (an area littered with vintage shops and student-priced tapas bars) near the Santa Cruz historic quarter. 🚶

Note: American citizens traveling for up to 90 days don’t need a tourist visa to Spain (and selected European countries) because it’s a signatory to the Schengen Agreement . 

Without needing to spend for a visa, keep an eye out for discounted flight fares during low peak seasons to get the best bang for your buck on this overseas trip. ✈️

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, history buffs, artsy students  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $43

Worn out after a college hell week? Escape to the popular Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, which is a paradise that fits every tourist’s budget. 🍹

Plan a picnic spread by the seaside with grub from affordable supermarkets like Aldi and the Walmart Neighborhood Market instead of giving tourist trap restaurants the time of day.

Five college friends walking and laughing during their summer vacation at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Looking for free entertainment? The Barefoot Landing has live music on selected days, and the Great American Summer Nights event offers live shows and fireworks at Broadway at the Beach. 🎆

👍 Best for: Beach bums, novelty seekers, spring breakers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $61

Compared to tourist hotspots like Barcelona or Paris, you can find cheaper round-trip flights in Porto that leave you with leftover pocket money. 😊

Hit up the affordable riverside neighborhood of Ribeira (which is also a UNESCO heritage site) located in this city’s old town, munching on fresh sardinhas assadas or grilled sardines served by cheap bars and watching the sunset while sipping this city’s world-famous port wine. 🍷

A smiling female college student poses for a photo during sunset at the Dom Luís I Bridge in Porto, Portugal

After a day’s activities at the Ribeira, head over to the enchanting library called the Livraria Lello and purchase a book as a souvenir (or pay the $5.50 admission fee instead).

Tired from touring around? Check-in at affordable hostels and guesthouses for around $35 a night. 😴

TIP: Get a Porto Card from the airport or tourist offices for discounts or free entrance to Porto’s attractions and commercial stores. If you plan to travel as the locals do, add a travel card for unlimited access to public transportation. 

Don’t forget to snap a photo of yourself with the famous blue-and-white tiled chapel called Capela das Almas in the Rua de Santa Catarina (and maybe sneak in some shopping) to complete your trip.

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, artsy students, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $47

Is relaxing in a laidback city with Southern hospitality your perfect getaway? Sounds like you can use some time in Savannah, Georgia. ✈️

Book dormitory-styled rooms at the local inns for around $25 to $30 a night with your friends, then slurp down happy hour oysters at Common for less than a dollar each or sip on three-dollar rosé glasses with a view at the Top Deck . 👯

A group of college friends holding beer while taking a selfie around Savannah, Georgia

Carrying alcoholic drinks around is possible in the Historic District because of its open-container policy . Cheers to drinking responsibly, right? 🍻

After filling your tummies, freely stroll through scenic spaces made famous by movies . You can step into the Forrest Gump bench scene at Chippewa Square or visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist at Lafayette Square, found in the 2019 version of Lady & The Tramp. 🎬

👍 Best for: History buffs, party animals, novelty seekers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $53

Soothe your study-induced stress by hiking and drinking (but not at the same time, okay? 😅) in Denver without busting your student budget. 

Nature lovers can take the scenic route along the 40-mile paved Cherry Creek Trail or stroll along Denver’s Botanic Gardens during Free Days , like Earth Day on April 22.

Four college friends relaxing outdoors with craft beers at Denver, Colorado

Parched from your outdoor activities? Quench your thirst with the local craft ales on the Denver Beer Trail, with around 100 taprooms to choose from . 🍺 

This city has plenty on offer for art lovers, too! Catch some of the limited free admission tickets at the Denver Art Museum or stop by the RiNo , the hub for creatives and a go-to place for a hip nightlife scene. 🎨

👍 Best for: Outdoorsy types, novelty seekers, artsy students 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $71

We’re out here proving that Europe shouldn’t be feared by tight-pocketed students. From historic palaces to modern entertainment hubs, Belgrade is one of the most accessible and affordable go-to travel spots . 👍

You may have to spend around $870 for roundtrip airfare, but your stay in the city is easier on the wallet with $4 authentic Serbian fast food, less-than-a-dollar bus fares, and $20-a-night accommodations . 

A female college student checking a European city's public transportation map

Are you a sucker for street art, concept stores, and hole-in-the-wall coffee shops? Take your pick of attractions while wandering around the trendy neighborhoods of Dorćol and Vračar , which are around 30 minutes away from each other by bus. 🚌

TIP : To save on transportation, pay for bus, tram, and trolley rides using an electronic card purchased from city kiosks or stores with a “Bus Plus” sticker. 

Despite the modern culture taking over, you can still see traces of the age-old city in places like the Belgrade Fortress (which was built in 279 BC), the old citadel, and Kalemegdan Park — all with free access 24/7 .

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, history buffs, artsy students  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $14

The bustling Big Apple may be known as a city with high price tags, but it’s also got diverse attractions for every budget if you know where to look. 👀

Trade your hours spent studying indoors for a good ol’ stroll around Central Park or join free walking tours to Soho, Little Italy, and Chinatown , giving you a glimpse of NYC’s melting pot of cultures. 

Note: While these tours are advertised as “free,” it’s customary to tip the guide. 😄

A female college student walking along the streets of New York during winter

Art and architecture buffs will have a field day inside the Guggenheim Museum (which has Pay-What-You-Wish Saturdays) and the Museum of Modern Art (free admission for students of selected schools ). 🖼️

Lastly, don’t forget to drop by Times Square for cheap pizza slices and street performances . 

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, artsy students, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $87

A vacation in Philadelphia — the historic heart of the American Revolution — can feel like a front-row seat to our nation’s history.

Head toward the Liberty Bell at the Independence National Historical Park and the Independence Hall where the 1776 Declaration of Independence was signed. 📃 Admission is free but may require a dollar fee for ticket reservations. 

Four college friends eating burgers from a Philadelphia's farmer's market

Walk around 17th to 18th-century American buildings and colonial alleys (all for free) at Elfreth’s Alley , a national historic landmark. 

Make sure to stop by for some famous Philly cheesesteak at Pat’s King of Steaks or grab student-budget-friendly meals from the food trucks in the hundred-year-old Reading Terminal Market . 🌭

👍 Best for: History buffs, foodies, novelty seekers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $65

College stress will be miles away as soon as you’re nestled within this beautiful coastal village in Belize. 🌅

Who has time to worry about grades when snorkeling in clear waters and walking barefoot along the sands is freely accessible in Maya Beach or Seine Bight ? 🏖️

Male college student breathing in the beach air in Placencia

A two-for-one attraction can be found in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary , where you can hike and spot jaguars for around $5.

Let your hair down and fill your stomach with affordable authentic food from local eateries like Carmen’s and taprooms like Barefoot Bar (which has a Traveller’s Tuesday Happy Hour!). 🥳

👍 Best for: Beach bums, outdoorsy types, spring breakers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $32

The Croatian capital of Zagreb is bursting with old-world and avant-garde attractions, making this a fun but cheap travel destination for college students on a shoestring budget. However, keep in mind that a visa application will be an added expense . 

Marvel at 17th-century buildings in the oldest part of Zagreb: Gornji Grad (Upper Town). Then, grab an affordable sandwich with pršut at Pingvin while strolling along the busy Donji Grad (Lower Town). 🥪

A female college student walking around the cobblestone streets of Zagreb, Croatia looking for budget street food

On the lookout for something out-of-the-ordinary? Visit the quirkily-themed Museum of Broken Relationships displaying discarded items from ended relationships. 💔 It’s open every day, and you can enter for around $6 using your student ID. 

In the summer, the culturally curious can soak up street festivals involving artists and performers scattered around the city. Otherwise, a stroll down the art-splattered alleys of Branimirova Ulica will do just fine. 🚶

👍 Best for: History buffs, artsy students, novelty seekers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $28  

Beautiful scenery? Check. Bike-friendly? Check. Iconic food carts? Check. Stressed college students can come for a breather in Portland. 🍃

So, what can you expect in the “ City of Roses ?” You can stop and (literally) smell the roses for free at the International Rose Test Garden , then bask in nature at the Hoyt Arboretum . 🌹

Two college tourists bike in a Portland green park

Next, stuff yourself silly at the numerous food carts around the city, where even vegan meals come at student-friendly prices. Drop by The Saturday Market in Chinatown for some artisanal crafts shopping and take Instagram-worth snaps at the Alberta Arts District . 📸

👍 Best for: Outdoorsy types, foodies, novelty seekers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $57

Get ready for a sand -sational vacation in Cancun, Mexico! After being buried in schoolwork, you might just find the relaxing break you need in this tropical fun zone. 

Sunbathe at the free-to-access public beach Playa Delfines during the day and party all night in the Hotel Zone’s (Zona Hotelera) nightclubs, such as La Vaquita .🪩

Note: While American citizens don’t need a visa to fly to Mexico for leisure purposes, they may need a valid Mexico Tourist Card called Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM). Check out the instructions from the US Government and Mexico for updates.

Two female college tourists partying during spring break at a beach in Cancun, Mexico

Grab souvenirs to remember your trip from the Mercado 28 flea market, where you’ll find locally-made handicrafts, like a Mexican or Mayan-style hammock, for just a few pesos. 

Save on your accommodations by choosing to stay in budget hostels at El Centro (downtown Cancun), which have the added benefit of being close to the beaches and attractions. 🏨 

👍 Best for: Spring breakers, beach bums, party animals 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $40

This desert city is more than just the gateway to the Grand Canyon; in Phoenix, Arizona, you’ll find everything from A to Z. 😉

Time to get acquainted with stunning desert flora at the Desert Botanical Garden for free every second Tuesday of the month . As it is one of Phoenix’s top tourist spots, make sure to reserve your tickets in advance. 

Hiking on Camelback Mountain or Piestewa Peak to enjoy the views is also a great way to spend your day. ⛰️

A female college student posing for a picture inside the Grand Canyon in Phoenix, Arizona

If the heat becomes unbearable, cool down at the Phoenix Art Museum and be inspired by haute couture exhibitions, Latin American art, or Old Master paintings. You can pay whatever you like on Wednesdays. Otherwise, bring your student ID for sweet discounts . 💸

TIP: Plan your trip to Arizona on the first Friday of the month because this is when the streets of Roosevelt Row and Historic Grand Avenue districts come alive with art, food, and music. 

👍 Best for: Outdoorsy types, artsy students , novelty seekers  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $68

Buried in schoolwork and daydreaming about the day you can take a break? Boston might be the place to go, and you don’t need to be an avid Red Sox fan to know that this budget vacation is a home run!

Multiple Boston attractions in the Freedom Trail can help you unearth the city’s and America’s histories without spending a fortune through a free walking tour . 🚶

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Along the way, look for the red-bricked buildings and cobblestoned road of Acorn Street to provide the best backgrounds for Instagram. 🧱 Then, you can visit the Institute of Contemporary Art for free every Thursday from 5 pm to 9 pm. 😄

Hungry after all that touring? Find locally sourced food (and specialty souvenirs) at the Boston Public Market . 

👍 Best for: History buffs, artsy students, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $80

Dubbed the “Smithsonian of the South,” Raleigh in North Carolina is abundant not only in museums but also in pleasant city amenities and attractions.

You can wander for free at North Carolina’s Museum of Art , Museum of History , and the Museum of Natural Sciences . 🦕 Prefer something outdoors? Wander into the floral wonderland of the JC Raulston Arboretum at absolutely no cost. 

how to travel for cheap as a college student

The City of Oaks is also great for walking or biking around. 🚴 If you’re looking to get off the beaten track, hike or bike at the Capital Area Greenway Trail System . 

After all that sightseeing, grab a bite at the Morgan Street Food Hall and other local haunts like Sup Dogs that offer delicious food at student-budget-friendly prices. 😋

👍 Best for: Museum-goers, art lovers, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $66

Did watching Breaking Bad change your life? It’s about time that Albuquerque should be at the top of your list of places to visit. It’s also one of the cheapest travel destinations for college students!

More than just the filming locations for the iconic TV show, this New Mexican city is rich with cultural gems. Visit the Old Town to munch on enchiladas, buy locally-made trinkets, or watch the latest free events at the plaza , like flamenco and salsa dances. 💃

A couple of college students looking for Albuquerque attractions to take a photo of during their summer vacation

Check out the Albuquerque Museum (which is free on Sundays and the first Wednesday of the month) to learn about how this multicultural city was influenced by Native Americans and Latinos, among many other cultural groups. 🖼️

👍 Best for: History buffs, foodies, outdoor enthusiasts 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $46

As the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin hits all the right notes to become one of the top cheap travel destinations for college students. 🎵

Pub crawlers and music fans alike will love walking down Sixth Street (Austin’s entertainment district) that’s bursting with live entertainment venues boasting cheap drinks. 🎶

Three college students play guitar and sing on the top deck of a bar in Austin, Texas

In the morning, get some fresh air at Austin’s famous Zilker Park and head over to Lady Bird Lake to enjoy an afternoon of kayaking or canoeing (equipment rentals are priced from $15 to $25 per hour).  

All this exploring will definitely make you hungry, so stop by for some affordable chow at The Picnic , a food truck trailer park . 🚚

👍 Best for: Music lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $55

San Juan might just make American college students feel like they’re on a European vacation with its Spanish architecture, but there’s no passport required as Puerto Rico is considered a US territory. 🌎 Travel back in time at El Morro , a fortress completed in the 1700s used to protect this city. You need to pay a small admission fee of $10 per head, but certain holidays let you in for free.

A male college student on summer break poses for his San Juan vacation photos

Instagram-worthy photos are within reach in the Old San Juan historic district with its cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses. 📸 You can also find cocktails for around $10 at La Factoria , a hidden gem of a bar located in the same district. 

And, what’s a trip to tropical San Juan without hitting its free-to-enter seasides? Sunbathe on the Condado beach and go snorkeling at Escambron. 🤿

👍 Best for: Spring breakers, history buffs, party animals  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $70

You don’t need to shell out big bucks to take in the beautiful architecture and UNESCO world heritage sites when you have a crack at visiting Kraków, Poland.

First order of business: saunter into the Old Town and the Rynek Główny (Main Square) , where you can enter Cloth Hall to buy handicraft souvenirs or visit the 13th-century St. Mary’s Basilica. ⛪

Two happy male college students ordering cheap beers at a bar in Krakow, Poland

The bustling nightlife doesn’t disappoint since any of the pubs in Kazimierz (a former Jewish quarter transformed into a trendy neighborhood) offer cheap beers and Polish vodka. Then, doze off after a night out in decent accommodations for around $25 . 😴

Find yourself full for less than $10 with authentic Polish street food like obwarzanek (a cross between a bagel and a pretzel) or a zapiekanka (an open-faced sandwich made using a baguette). 🤑

👍 Best for: History buffs, novelty seekers, party animals 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $19

From beautiful buildings to hearty meals, Prague is a city that you will definitely love to czech out. 😉

Getting to walk around Prague’s Old Town and across the iconic Charles Bridge while munching on a trdelnik (chimney cake) sold on the streets is possible on a roundtrip flight worth around $850. 💸 Consider checking out cheaper airfares to score better deals . 

A female college traveler on the lookout for art installations along Prague's streets

Keep your eyes peeled up, down, and around for quirky street art installations like David Černý’s The Hanging Man near Bethlehem Chapel and the Piss installation fronting the Franz Kafka museum . 

If you’re starting to feel peckish after a day of exploring, visit any jídelna serving classic canteen-style Czech meals and feel full for around (or less than) the price of a burger-and-fries meal back home. 😋

Prague is also known for its party scene, and you can go bar-hopping at Wenceslas Square , one of this city’s main cultural and business centers.  

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, artsy students, party animals 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $38  

After a grueling semester, kick back and relax on the pristine beaches of Punta Cana without inflated expenses for a Caribbean getaway.

You won’t need to spend a dime to take a dip in the calm waters of the famous Bávaro Beach or Macao Beach or simply relax by the shore and admire the view. 😎

A female college traveler posing on a Punta Cana public beach

Adventurers on a budget can take advantage of affordable hiking trails to view spots usually hidden from tourists , like the Loma Linda mountain. ⛰️ The trail begins at Rancho Terranova where you pay around $5 to trek the private property toward the mountain or nearby waterfalls. 

Unwind with a happy hour Cuba libre (rum and coke) in a beachside pub and join dancers swaying to the beat of merengue music for a vacation to remember. 🕺

👍 Best for: Beach bums, spring breakers, outdoorsy types 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $43

With piles of schoolwork upon more schoolwork, you must be Hungary for an adventure. And guess what? You’ll find just what you need in the budget-friendly city of Budapest, with roundtrip flight prices going as low as $477. 😲

Get a breathtaking overview of the city from the terrace of the Fisherman’s Bastion to begin your trip. 🏰

Just a 15-minute walk away lies Buda Castle , the former royal palace which was transformed into the National Gallery and Budapest History Museum. Best of all, you can roam around these two popular attractions for free ! 🤩

A female college student on vacation poses for a photo in front of a palace

Quench your thirst while meeting the locals at the city’s famed Ruin Bars (an old Jewish quarter with abandoned buildings), where you can find cheaply-priced booze.

Resting up for another day of adventure in Budapest on a budget is also possible, thanks to low-cost hostels going for $10 to $25 a night. 😴 

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, party animals, history buffs  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $28

Tropic like it’s hot in Panama City, but don’t confuse this destination with Panama City Beach in Florida because this one’s in Central America. 🕶️

It’s recommended that tourists warm up by exploring Casco Antiguo , a former Spanish colonial plaza with everything from bars to museums . 🏛️

Three female college students having a picnic on Panama's Parque Omar

Parque Omar is another free-to-enter attraction that’s worth the trip. The large green park offers a wide range of activities, like having a picnic, swimming in the clean public pool, or joining a dance class. 💃

Wondering how you can explore the rest of the city without busting your wallet? The answer: ride the Metrobus for a trip that costs less than a dollar.

TIP: Remember to buy a Metrocard from the Albrook bus station or a supermarket to use before riding the MetroBus because they don’t accept cash. 

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, outdoorsy types, history buffs 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $26

Whether you grew up obsessed with Disney’s Hercules or the live-action film 300 , visiting Athens can have you greek – ing out. 🤓

Planning your trip during academic breaks opens a lot of doors, like a free close-up of ancient Greek artifacts at the Acropolis or museums showcasing Greek folk music instruments available on selected days from March to May.  

A female college student visiting the Acropolis as part of her cheap travel destinations

After traveling back in time, you can explore modern-day Greece via the Psiri street art, discover hidden city gems guided by locals on a free walking tour , or wander along the narrow streets of Plaka and score some souvenirs. 🖼️

👍 Best for: History buffs, novelty seekers, outdoorsy types 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $46

Sometimes, college can be overwhelming and you just want to get away from it all. While everyone’s escaping to the Caribbean, why don’t you take time off in Bucharest? 😀

Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready when you pass by historical landmarks like the Palace of Parliament (one of the largest administrative buildings in the world) and the postcard-worthy Calea Victoriei area in the city center during sunset. 🌇

A couple of college students walking along the cobblestone alleys of Bucharest in Romania

Cheaply priced admission fees and student discounts can be expected when you visit the National History Museum and the Suţu Palace to learn more about Romania’s significant events. 

All that walking is bound to make you hungry, so grab a bite of cheap street eats like covrigi (pretzels) . Then, explore some more when you walk around the streets of Lipscani, the city’s charming Old Town filled with cafes, pubs, street performers, galleries, and boutiques.🚶

👍 Best for: History buffs, novelty seekers, party animals 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $45

Yearning for a Caribbean getaway? This tropical Jamaican paradise deserves a place on your travel wishlist!

Soak up some sun along Seven Mile Beach, a paradise of white sand and emerald sea . 🤩 The best part? It’s free to the public, with guards patrolling to ensure visitor safety and enough space for everyone. 

A male college student strolling along a Jamaican public beach in Negril

Thrillseekers can find just what they’re looking for at cliff-jumping hotspots like Rick’s Cafe , which also has a good view of the sunset. 

Of course, what’s a trip to Jamaica without enjoying some reggae music? Jam at the Jungle Night Club or sit back and relax to classical reggae during live music nights at The Roots Café . 🎶

👍 Best for: Spring breakers, beach bums, music lovers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $45

6 Tips for Affordable Traveling for College Students

Cheap flights are a good reason to plan a college trip, but having a blast while staying within your budget is what makes it memorable. These six tips are bound to give you the #BestVacationEver. 

A female college student taking pictures of her cheap travel destination's attractions

Research your itinerary to know your estimated expenses at least six months before your trip so you’ll know how much to spend on your flight, food, accommodation, travel insurance, and tours. 💸

Start by checking and making your student budget and figuring out how long it will take to save up for your trip. If your current savings need a boost, consider doing side hustles . 

Note: Don’t forget to set aside some cash for emergencies , like flight cancellations or losing your passport. 😲

READ MORE: 15 Best Summer Jobs for College Students (With Killer Perks!)

Popular hotels tend to be near the action, but they also come with a hefty price tag. The good thing is that there are tons of cheaper options available. 🏨

You can stay in hostels which can be great for groups traveling on a shoestring budget, or meet some residents by checking into homey inns run by locals or via Couchsurfing .

If you want a place all to yourself, find an Airbnb or stay with a friend who lives in the area . 😄

This requires one thing you must always have with you: your student ID . Use this to score free or discounted museum admissions, flights , and public transportation fares. 🪪

READ MORE: Sweet Discounts for College Students You Might Not Know About

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Hailing taxis or booking Ubers in a foreign city can be intimidating and expensive. You have two options to get from point A to B as cheaply as possible: take advantage of public transportation or find a walkable or bike-friendly city . 🚶

If you go with the first option, you can check out tourist guides online or YouTube videos about the city’s public transportation, fares, and routes. 

Expect cities or beaches to be crowded and overpriced during peak season. It’s important to anticipate which months are too popular so that you can find a better alternative because no one wants to swim at the beaches of Puerto Rico if you’re packed like sardines. 

Since this can differ among locations, research will be your wallet’s best friend here. ✅

Consider the Goldilocks window — or the period when the best rates are found — to secure the cheapest airfares. 

Here’s how it’s done: book one to three months ahead for domestic flights and two to eight months ahead for international flights . ✈️

Do this by checking for available dates on budget airlines then make the deal sweeter by setting alerts on days when ticket prices are at their lowest (typically on Tuesdays and Wednesdays) .  

Use flight comparison sites like Kayak or Expedia as references to book directly on the airline which has the lowest price or the better deal. 🤑

Even if college students don’t always have the luxury of time and money, who’s to say it’s impossible to travel? 

With this list of 28 cheap travel destinations for college students, you’re ready to discover new places without breaking the bank. Bon voyage! ⛵

Where is the cheapest place to travel out of the US?

Cheap travel destinations that US college students can consider are Mexico, Central American countries like Panama, Puerto Rico, Belize, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, or Eastern European countries like Serbia, Croatia, Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Romania because the US dollar can go a long way when converted to their local currency.

How can a college student travel on a budget?

1. Plan a budget-friendly itinerary 2. Book cheaper local accommodations 3. Maximize your student discounts 4. Learn how the public transportation system works  5. Arrange your visit during the off-season 6. Book flights with the best value

What factors should you consider to keep travel costs to a minimum?

If you don’t want to stretch your college student travel budget, traveling to places that are geographically near, are walkable or bike-friendly, and have an excellent public transportation system is the way to go.

How much does the average college student spend on travel?

The average daily travel expense for college students going on domestic trips is $144, while traveling internationally averages $271 per day. However, this can vary based on many factors, like your accommodation type, the time of year, and chosen activities. 

What is the best place to visit during spring break?

The best places to visit during spring break are:

1. Daytona Beach, Florida 2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 3. Placencia, Belize 4. Cancun, Mexico 5. San Juan, Puerto Rico 6. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic 7. Negril, Jamaica

What are cheap travel destinations in Europe?

These are the cheap European travel destinations for college students on a budget:

1. Andalucia, Spain  2. Porto, Portugal 3. Belgrade, Serbia 4. Zagreb, Croatia 5. Krakow, Poland 6. Prague, Czech Republic 7. Budapest, Hungary 8. Athens, Greece 9. Bucharest, Romania

Other Readers Loved:

Colleges in the us with the weirdest (sometimes funny) names, 27 of the weirdest college team names in the us, 31 states with free community college to save you money.

The College Post is part of Globe Post Media, a US digital news organization publishing the world’s best targeted news sites.

Latest Posts

13 best college traditions in the us to ignite school spirit, 12 best books for college students: 2024 must-reads, these 10 us colleges offer awesome work-study programs, most popular, 73 top side hustles for college students to make fast cash in 2024, these are the cheapest colleges in the us, fast access.

© Globe Post Media | All rights reserved

o

  • New Zealand

logo

45 Best Places to Travel for College Students

Due to the global pandemic, travel looks different right now depending on where you're going from/to. Please check for travel restrictions and adhere to all local guidelines before planning a trip to any destination you may read about on this site.  Please note: this post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something by clicking the links, I will get a small compensation, at no extra cost to you.

Sharing is caring!

Welcome to college! Freedom! Time to discover the highs and lows of being on your own for the first time — that means figuring out how to save money , navigate your college campus , study with less structure, and cook your own meals. College is also one of the best times to explore the world internationally and locally since you can make your own decisions ( ooh ahh ). So whether you’re studying abroad or exploring via these 9 other ways to travel in college , these are the best places to travel for college students in the USA and internationally!

And let me tell you, I’ve traveled throughout my undergraduate and graduate college careers and these really are the best places for college students to travel. They have a great mix of adventure and relaxation because we both know how tolling finals are and best of all they are all cheap destinations for student sized budgets!

best places to visit for college students in the USA and international destinations that you can visit for cheap, budget travel destinations, student travel destinations

Student Travel Destinations in the USA

1. Portland, Oregon

Recommended by me! Alanna from Periodic Adventures (this site)

If you dream of a cozy, rainy getaway where you can curl up with a book that you’ve been putting off reading, while drinking some amazing local coffee, Portland, Oregon is for you! While it’s not necessarily the cheapest at first glance, it can definitely be visited on a budget as there are lots of free or cheap things to do in Portland.

Don’t miss Powell’s Bookstore , where the main location (1005 W Burnside St) has over one million books, and coffee cafes galore!

Multnomah Falls is an epic waterfall that cascades down beautifully. There are numerous hiking trails nearby as well.

OMSI is the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and should definitely be on your list of to-do’s in Portland. This science site has many interactive exhibits for all ages that cover topics like chemistry, physics, astronomy, natural history, biology, paleontology, and more! Tickets only cost $12 for adults.

Lastly, don’t miss the incredible food in Portland, an experience that’s on our West Boast bucket list ! Try the famous Voodoo Donuts (or for a local preferred donut shop try Blue Star Donuts). Coffee shops are also popular. Try Never Coffee, Coava Coffee Roasters, or Good Coffee.

You can expect to spend $80 a day in Portland, but can easily cut down on costs by sharing accommodation , cooking your own meals, and taking public transportation serviced by TriMet.

yellow tree in the fore ground with a turquoise bridge in the center focus of the shot with pine tree covered mountains behind with fog and clouds

2. Los Angeles, California

I truly believe Los Angeles is one of the best cities in the USA to visit, whether you’re in college or not (I might be biased since I’m from Los Angeles… but still ). I highly recommend putting LA on your radar as there is a lot to do, see, and eat. Plus Los Angeles can be very affordable , believe it or not.

For a one day visit to Los Angeles , I recommend visiting highlights of Downtown including Grand Central Market where you can pick and choose from a bunch of vendors for the ultimate meal. Within walking distance you can also easily visit Olvera Street , an original Mexican cobblestone street from 1930 with food, vendors, and historic exhibits, and Chinatown , another culturally historic area with authentic food, shopping, and beautiful architecture. And nearby is also Angel’s Flight railway, the iconic Bradbury building , and the Last Bookstore where you can take some epic Instagram photos !

If you can visit Los Angeles for a long weekend or even spring break, this 5 day Los Angeles itinerary covers everything!

You can expect to spend $60 a day, if you stay in budget accommodation and cook some of your meals.

posing at the Last Bookstore with the book window in Los Angeles

3. Las Vegas, Nevada

America’s sin city is one of the best party spots for college students, even if you’re under 21! There is so much to do in Vegas that you’ll easily be entertained even without access to bars or clubs.

First, lounge at the pools for a little R&R. Every hotel has a pretty incredible pool so you can’t go wrong. Try the Virgin Hotels just where they have 3 pools, a spa, and a beach club!

Don’t miss the spectacular shows in Las Vegas. There are a number of cirque du soleil shows , like Ka at the MGM Grand, O at the Bellagio, and even the Beatles LOVE show at the Mirage. Alternatively, check out the many magic shows . My favorite is Mac King, which is a comedy magic show at the Harrah’s. Tickets might seem expensive, but there are ways to save in Vegas that can reduce the cost significantly!

In addition to shows, Las Vegas hosts lots of concerts, exhibitions, and events throughout the year that are over the top in the best way.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to venture outside of the Strip for other fun activities like visiting Red Rock Canyon and the Seven Magic Mountains art exhibit.

Budget $60-70 per day, assuming you stay at a hotel on the Strip and assuming you share lodging with friends.

Las Vegas picture

Recommended by me! Alanna from Periodic Adventures

International destinations are so appealing as a college student (and just in general), but there are incredible natural wonders at home in the USA. Arizona is full of them and makes for a great travel destination for some epic weekend getaways that will easily fit into your student schedule.

First, visit Page in Northern Arizona to see Horseshoe Bend , a natural curve in the Colorado River that lies deep in a canyon, which is an extension of the Grand Canyon. If you are looking to see the Grand Canyon, but don’t want to pay the National Park entry fee of $30, Horseshoe Bend is a good free alternative!

Also in Page is Antelope Canyon , a slot canyon with beautiful sweeping curved red rocks. Antelope Canyon lies on the Navajo Reservation so tours are required and generally cost $70 per person. While not the cheapest thing to do in Arizona, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so if you can do it, then do it!

Moving South, Flagstaff, Arizona is a college town with snowy mountains in the winter, stunning fall foliage in autumn , and lovely parks in the summer. Hike Humphrey’s Peak, visit Buffalo Park for stargazing, or learn about the discovery of Pluto (which happened from Flagstaff) at Lowell Observatory.

Next, Sedona has lots of incredible hiking and spas, which make it a great destination for adventurers who also need a little relaxation. Visit Devil’s Bridge, Cathedral Rock, and Slide Rock State Park.

Last but not least, Montezuma’s Castle and Well isn’t entirely a natural wonder since they feature Native American crafted cliff dwellings. But they are a sight to see!

Arizona is very affordable, so spending only $50 a day is doable, especially if you opt for camping instead of staying in a fancy resort.

orange red rocks in a slot canyon in Page Arizona with sweeping curves and seemingly smooth surfaces, sunlight coming in from above at the back of the canyon, view from inside the canyon

5. South Padre Island, Texas

Recommended by Ellie from Ellie’s Travel Tips

Located 2 miles off the southern tip of Texas, South Padre Island welcomes thousands of college students every year. With pristine beaches, fun resorts, and exciting attractions, South Padre Island is known as one of the most  affordable spring break spots in Texas .

South Padre Island is home to over 30 miles of sandy beaches along the warm, blue waters on the Gulf of Mexico. Hop in your favorite swimsuit and grab a towel to relax along the sandy beaches after a long and tough semester. Another great spot to relax is along the Laguna Madre Nature Trail . This boardwalk path, located on the bayside of the island, is a great place to spot the local wildlife on a peaceful stroll.

If you prefer to get on the water, rent a paddleboard to explore South Padre’s canals and Laguna Madre . Others may enjoy a scenic horseback ride along the beach—a great morning activity to start your day.

At night, head to one of the area’s popular bars like Louie’s Backyard and Wanna Wanna Beach Bar to let loose and have fun. You will find countless college students at these bars just looking to party and have a good time.

The average cost of a trip to South Padre Island for a solo traveler is around $120 per day. However, if you are traveling with your friends or family, this cost will significantly decrease with shared accommodations and group rates.

seagulls flying above a beach in Texas with a clear blue sky

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

Recommended by Jori from  The Tejana Abroad

New Orleans is a great destination for anyone, but especially college students. The city is young and lively, with endless events and great nightlife.

NOLA is filled with history, which you can see by simply walking around the French Quarter. There are many museums, such as the WWII Museum , Jazz Museum , or Museum of Art , and if you have a car or take a tour, you can also visit some old Southern Plantation Homes .

New Orleans is known for its Mardi Gras festival in the spring, where the streets are filled with people in masks and constant parades. Halloween is also an adventure in the city, as the gothic architecture provides a great backdrop for spooky activities. And of course, don’t skip the unforgettable experience of bar hopping on Bourbon Street .

Since New Orleans is home to a few universities, the town has a very friendly, young and outgoing population. The city also has one of the best hostels in the US: Auberge NOLA Hostel, which organizes all kinds of events and bar crawls for younger people. New Orleans is great for students because there’s so much to do , it’s easy to get around, and the nightlife is amazing.

New Orleans accommodation costs around $150 for a hotel room or $20 for a bed in a hostel . Food prices average at $15 per meal, and transportation costs are minimal if you stay in the downtown area (French Quarter).

French Quarter architecture in New Orleans decorated for Mardi Gras with a partly cloudy, but sunny sky

7. Panama City Beach, Florida

Recommended by Dan from Layer Culture

If you’re a college student in the US and looking for the best places to visit then Panama City Beach (PCB) in Florida is a must! Are you the type of person the likes wet and wild adventures? Here you can experience some of the best spring break parties there are. With 27 miles of white sand and beaches dedicated to beach parties , what are you waiting for? There are areas where you can chill and relax, but also things like live concerts , celebrity appearances , and free giveaways to contend with.

It can get super crowded on the beach so try not to carry anything too valuable with you, a travel neck wallet or the equivalent is recommended if you want to avoid losing anything precious.

Still, the closer to the beach you are the better. You can expect to pay around $150 per night for a family room which you can share with friends. Many restaurants and party bars, such as Harpoon Harry’s are located right on the beachfront. There you can connect yourself with one of their famous seafood buckets.

Spending $100 per day is a breeze in PCB when eating in restaurants and buying drinks in the bars. However, there is a Walmart in town so you can save money by carrying drinks to the beach. Most of the hotels are equipped with kitchens so  you should be able to rustle up a few meals during your stay, which will help you save a considerable amount of money. All in all, Panama City Beach is a must-visit place if you are a student looking to get the most of your vacations.

florida beach crowded with college age students and young people all in bathing suits partying, with white sand and partly cloudy skies

8. Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta, Georgia is an underrated city with lots of activities, amazing restaurants, fun events, and vibrant nightlife if you want it! When in Georgia , make sure you try classic Southern food at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, Buttermilk Kitchen, or the Flying Biscuit. Staples to sample are grits, biscuits, fried okra, BBQ, fried chicken, mac & cheese, fried green tomatoes, black eyed peas, or collard greens.

Ponce City Market or Krog Street Market have multiple restaurants and vendors in one place so you can take your pick. I recommend these if you only have one day in Atlanta , to save time traveling from one destination to the next.

For activities, some of the best things to do are the Georgia Aquarium , the largest in the world, the Atlanta Botanical Gardens , which feature huge topiary sculptures themed like Alice in Wonderland currently, and MLK Jr. Historic Park to learn about Atlanta’s rich history.

An iconic stay is the Marriot Marquis in downtown Atlanta , which has been featured in numerous movies. It costs $110 on average per night, so this is a good option if you’re splitting costs by sharing the room. If not, there are plenty of Airbnb’s in Atlanta that can be as cheap as $30/night for a private room in a shared house or apartment.

Typical food costs $12 on average and drinks are about the same. Hit up happy hours and cook some of your own meals to reduce this cost.

If you wanted to hit two places on this list, you could easily take a bus between Washington DC and Atlanta for only $60!

piedmont park view, atlanta skyline view, midtown, what to do in atlanta in one day, free things to do in atlanta

9. Savannah, Georgia

Recommended by Brittany from Travel by Brit

Savannah, Georgia, is the perfect place for college students to travel during a long weekend. There are tons of  budget-friendly things to do , and the entire city is walkable, so you won’t need to rent a car or spend any money on public transportation.

Another unique attribute of Savannah that makes the city perfect for college students is the open container policy —you can purchase a drink at one of Savannah’s excellent restaurants or bars and take it with you as you explore the city!

During a three-day weekend in Savannah, you can expect to spend $500 on accommodations , $50 on activities, and $200 on food and drinks during a long weekend in Savannah—so roughly $750 for a long weekend, plus transportation costs.

While you’re in Savannah, you can’t miss the chance to go on a spooky ghost tour or stroll through Forsyth Park (one of Savannah’s 22 historic squares!). City Market is fun to walk around, and you can stop at the Georgia Tasting Room for a $3 wine tasting. You can also take a day trip to Tybee Island for some relaxing time at the beach.

Enjoy brunch at the Collins Quarter or a liege-style waffle from Mirabelle Savannah! And don’t forget to stop by Huey’s to order some warm, delicious beignets.

Finally, the DeSoto Savannah is the perfect place to stay. It’s located just a short walking distance from everything in the city (and for the rooftop pool!). 

dirt road shaded by large spanish moss covered oak trees at Wormsloe Historic Site in Savannah Georgia

>> Read more: 100 Epic Things to Do in Georgia

10. asheville, north carolina.

Recommended by Julia from The Cure for Curiosity

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is the perfect destination for college students. Not only is it a college town itself – home to UNC Asheville, but it also offers plenty of adventures at a low cost. Whether you are spending one  perfect weekend in Asheville  or have all summer to get to know the area, your first visit will not be your last.

Spend your days driving the famous Blue Ridge Parkway (free) or hiking to stunning natural wonders (mostly free). There are plenty of trails ranging from beginner to long distance, like the Appalachian Trail . Some of the more popular hiking destinations are Craggy Gardens, Chimney Rock ($17), and Dupont State Forest. You’ll also find dozens of picturesque waterfalls , like Looking Glass Falls, Catawba Falls, and Triple Falls, scattered throughout the area.

After exhausting yourself in the mountains, head back into the city to spend your afternoons and evenings exploring the art galleries and murals in the River Arts District (free) and then trying all the craft beer you can stomach.

With over 30 breweries in Asheville and 48 in the greater Asheville area, you will not go thirsty! Don’t miss the ever-popular Burial Beer Co., which offers delicious beer with a well themed taproom, or The Funkatorium by Wicked Weed for sour and funky beers. Whatever your favorite style of beer, you’re sure to find it in Asheville.

green pine trees in the foregound with lots of layered green mountains in the background in Asheville North Carolina with a partly cloudy sky in midday

Related read → How to spend a 48 hours in Asheville, North Carolina

11. Wilmington, North Carolina

Recommended by MacKenzie from Rainbow Travel Life

Wilmington, NC may seem like an odd choice for college student travel – college students want to go to a college town? Absolutely! Wilmington has everything a student might want, including outdoor adventures, nightlife, inexpensive activities, plus the ultimate attraction to a stressed college student: beach access .

There are three wonderful beaches all within 20 minutes of Wilmington: Wrightsville , Carolina , and Kure . Kure Beach is the most cost-effective choice because parking is free! While in Kure Beach, you can also go on a few nature walks; Basin Trail leads to an observation deck overlooking the area. Kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing are all popular activities too.

Another one of the many things to do in Wilmington, NC for college students is downtown. During happy hours, there are tons of specials and plenty of bars and restaurants open late into the evening. No matter what time you head downtown (parking starts at $1/hour), make sure to walk the Riverwalk . It’s a 1.75-mile boardwalk along the Cape Fear River with shops, restaurants, art galleries, and a bit of history. Prices will of course vary based on what you find in the shops! Student tip : pop into Island’s for some extremely cheap but satisfying food.

Cost wise, Wilmington is probably the best location for students within driving distance. Avoiding a flight and rental car (as cars are imperative for getting around), saves a lot. For accommodation , budget hotels are typically $50-60; however, camping at Carolina Beach State Park is the cheapest option at $20-30/night.

beautiful rocky beach with a small covered seating area at the end of rocky barrier on the beach, during sunset with a pastel peach colored sky

12. Madison, Wisconsin

Recommended by Elisa from Flitter Fever

Mostly thanks to Playboy who named the University of Wisconsin #1 US Party School several times, Madison, Wisconsin has the reputation of a party city for college students. That’s convincing to study there for a while, right?

Since about a quarter of Madison’s inhabitants are students, who keep the city alive, there is always something fun going on.

There are two annual student parties that attract tens of thousands of young people to party in Madison. The Halloween Party on State Street , and the Mifflin Street Block Party , usually held on the last Saturday of April. Try a local Spotted Cow, a specialty unfiltered brew.

Besides the great party and music scene, the Badgers’ games always attract a young, infectiously enthusiastic crowd. The hub for college students is the University of Wisconsin (UW), an internationally renowned state school that welcomes many international students for a study abroad experience in Madison . There are lots of amazing people to meet and socialize with.

State Street Brats and the Ratskeller are popular student-friendly bars where you can get food, like a brat basket for only $3.50. These places pretty much sum up Madison; friendly people, bratwurst, and micro-brewed beer. Don’t miss Stock Exchange Night , with cocktails as cheap as $1.25.

If you can’t find a UW student that will allow you to crash their couch, Airbnb rooms cost $80 per night on average with shared bathroom. The most inexpensive motel starts at $37 per night.

view of a capitol building in Madison Wisconsin with beautiful architecture and white building; sunny skies with wispy clouds

13. Washington DC

Recommended by by Claire from ClairePins Travel

Washington DC is a surprisingly affordable destination for first-time travelers and students on a budget who are interested in art, culture and history!

There is no other city in America that is home to as many free, high quality attractions as Washington DC. All of the monuments, memorials, government buildings and branches of the Smithsonian museum (which includes several galleries) are free of charge and typically also offer free tours. The most challenging part of your visit might be choosing where to go first!

Washington DC is home to several universities and has a large student population. If you want to experience the local nightlife, try the Adams Morgan neighbourhood , Dupont Circle , or the Georgetown area, which is popular with local college students.

Keep an eye out for the many street art murals around the city if you want to get some unique photos from your visit.

You can get around the city using the affordable, reliable Metro System , which also connects to the airport, and many of the main sights are within easy walking distance. The city is also well connected by rail and bus service to other major cities in the USA, if you are looking to avoid an expensive flight.

You can visit Washington DC for $75-200 per day by staying in a hostel dorm for a solo traveler  or sharing a budget hotel room if you have a travel partner, and choosing grocery store and café food, using metro tickets and walking for transportation, and taking advantage of free museums and attractions.

colorful umbrellas hanging from a glass ceiling in an indoor mall in Washington DC

14. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Recommended by Derek and Mike from Robe Trotting

One of the most fun cities in America is the east coast gem of Philadelphia. It offers historical attractions, some of the nation’s best museums, and a delicious food scene . On top of all that, the nightlife and affordability make it the perfect place for college students to visit.

The best areas to stay for nightlife are the Gayborhood/Midtown and Old City neighborhoods. It’s also easy to find an affordable   Philadelphia Airbnb to stay in these areas and have the best of the city at your doorstep. Depending on the season, group houses can be about $50 per person at a nightly rate.

Bars like Drinker’s and Lucy’s Hat Shop are popular for students as well as the bars in University City. There’s a cheap drink special that you can get anywhere in the city of Philadelphia. It’s called the “citywide” and it’s a can of Pabst Blueribbon and a shot of Jim Beam whisky. The original venue to serve it was Bob & Barbara’s, a hip dive bar with live jazz and drag performances and it quickly spread across the city.

Philadelphia is also full of must-eat foods like the popular cheesesteak and local favorites tomato pie and soft pretzels. One of the best places to try local food flavors is Reading Terminal Market . It’s an open-air market with rows of food stalls and a seating area for dining.

The city is also home to some of the country’s most treasured historical attractions and many are free to visit. The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are both free to visit including a guided tour of Independence Hall that can be booked online. Other museums in the city offer student discounts for entry, so there will be plenty to do while in the city.

Beautiful buildings in Philadelphia on a sunny day with one white building centered with a street leading to it, trees on the right, and an old church with more beautiful historic architecture on the left

15. Boston, Massachusetts

Recommended by Nicole from Go Far Grow Close

Boston would be a great destination for your college spring break. It is a beautiful walking city – all of the cool restaurants, historic sites, and shopping areas are near each other and one of the best ways to enjoy them is to walk to them . However, if you don’t like walking, Boston has an excellent transit system , both within the city and between the suburbs. This means that not only can you easily access different parts of Boston, but if you need cheaper accommodation, you can stay outside of the city, and take one of the trains in. The trains run regularly and are inexpensive.

An example of inexpensive accommodation outside of Boston but along one of the train lines is The Lodge at Brandeis University.

A great activity in Boston to consider is a food tour – like the Boston Secret Food Tour . You explore Boston all the while eating lots of delicious food. At first blush, the tour itself might seem expensive. However, if you take the tour early afternoon, you could skip lunch before and dinner afterwards.

As for one of the best evening activities, check out the Improv Asylum in Little Italy . There are multiple showtimes and seat prices at some very budget friendly. Afterwards, walk a couple stores down to Mike’s Pastry where you can try one of the best cannolis in the city. Bring cash and prepare to wait in line.

With the food tour, this day would likely cost you $180 ( accommodation based upon a sole occupant with food included). However, if you exclude the food tour, it would likely be closer to $100.

Collection of buildings of varying style and age in downtown Boston with skyscrapers in the background, an old historic building in the center with a tower (Faneuil Hall) and glass buildings on the sides

Related read >> Where to visit in the US in summer (Boston is on the list!)

16. New York City, New York

Recommended by Carolin from Happy When Abroad

New York City , the city that never sleeps, is the ideal place for a student getaway. Even though it is a big, loud, and popular place, New York City is not necessarily expensive. In fact, there are plenty of budget-friendly hostels ($40 – $50 / night average), restaurants, and attractions for college students.

Since the city is so incredibly diverse, you can freely decide how you would like to spend your time there. Whether you prefer to experience wild party nights, go on big shopping and sightseeing tours, or relax in the park, New York City has it all. No matter how you want to plan your stay, make sure to not miss out on some of the  must-see attractions in New York City . These include walking across the Brooklyn Bridge , enjoying the view from Top of the Rock , taking photos at Times Square , and visiting the Flatiron Building .

Completely free attractions for students include a ride on the Staten Island Ferry , an entrance to the Museum of Modern Art , a relaxing afternoon in Central Park , or a tour in the New York Public Library . Besides walking, the fastest and cheapest way to get around in the metropolis is the metro ($33 ​​for a 7-day-ticket). Are you ready to explore the impressive and inspiring city with the world-famous skyline, yellow taxis, and film locations? Let’s go!

New York City Brooklyn Bridge with yellow taxi driving across and NYC skyline in the background

17. Acadia National Park, Maine

Recommended by James Ian from Parks Collecting

Acadia National Park is a great place to travel for college students looking for an outdoor adventure. There are plenty of cheap campsites in and around the park, a free shuttle bus throughout the park, and the park is right next to Bar Harbor , where there are restaurants and bars for those looking for more comfort and social activity.

Most of the main activities are free or cheap.  The park has incredible hikes , including two of the most adventurous hikes in the country. The Beehive and the Precipice trails require climbing up iron ladders on sheer rock faces and walking along narrow ledges, so they are not great for those with a fear of heights, but perfect for college students looking for an adventure.

There are also miles of former carriage roads that are great for cycling . Bring your own bike or rent one cheaply in Bar Harbor. The shuttle buses have bike racks.

The park is surrounded by islands and you can take a ferry out to the Cranberry Islands for $32 round trip, where you can visit remote fishing villages and walk along the rocky shoreline. For a splurge, this is one of the cheapest places in the country to eat fresh lobster . There are lobster shacks right by the water’s edge that serve fresh lobster on no-frills picnic tables in the sunshine.

A campsite typically costs between $30 and $55 per night. You can get a pizza in a restaurant for about $10. Self-catering is cheaper, of course. With the park shuttle, transportation is basically free. So, Acadia National Park is a great option for college students on a budget looking for an active outdoors vacation.

large boulder sitting atop a rocky surface and leaning over but not in danger of falling; green trees cover hills in the background with a lake; Acadia National Park

International Places to Travel for Students

The Americas

Recommended by Julien from Cultures Traveled

What do you think of when you close your eyes and dream of traveling to Mexico? Perhaps you envision lounging on a white sand beach with glistening turquoise water. Or maybe you wish to discover the food and artisans of Oaxaca City ? Or is it possible that you aspire to explore all the ancient  Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan  while also uncovering cenotes along the way?

At nearly three times the size of Texas, some say Mexico has it all . Landscapes include beaches, mountains, active volcanos, deserts, and canyons with lots of cultural explorations in between. You could spend weeks in Mexico and barely scratch the surface. But its affordability and proximity to the United States mean you won’t go broke doing so.

Traveling around Mexico by bus or plane is relatively inexpensive and safe. The ADO buses are incredibly comfortable with plush seats, bathrooms onboard, an extremely cold air conditioner, and movies playing for entertainment. You can expect to pay about $20 for a seven-hour ride from Mexico City to Oaxaca, or about $10 for shorter travel within the Yucatan Peninsula .

Accommodations in Mexico can also be very affordable with lots of shared hostel rooms under $15 and many under $10 in large cities. And perhaps the best bang for your buck will be the food. You can eat tacos for 50¢ each or a meal in a modest restaurant for about $5.

Whether you are in need of a few days soaking up the sun at the beach after exams or you’re anxious to continue learning about ancient cultures, Mexico is a great destination for college students looking for an affordable travel experience.

beautiful turquoise beaches of Mexico

19. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Recommended by Chris from Punta Cana Travel Blog

Punta Cana is a perfect destination for college students, especially for those who require some sun, Caribbean vibes, and exciting excursions. Of course, you won’t miss out on the party either, especially when choosing popular entertainment all-inclusive resorts such as RIU República, Be Live Collection Punta Cana or Royalton CHIC (choose one of the first two if you are traveling on a budget), but there are also a lot of other amazing things-to-do in Punta Cana , even if you don’t like to party. How about joining a catamaran cruise to one of the most paradisical islands in the Caribbean (Isla Saona), exploring the highest waterfall in the Dominican Republic (Salto de la Jalda) or having fun while cruising with some dune buggies through the countryside?

If you are traveling on a budget , you can also head on inexpensive hiking trips, explore the fantastic beaches for free or join the locals on a round of Domino. If you want to explore the nightlife, drinks are also cheap in the Dominican Republic, so be prepared for some of your best Cuba Libres you have had in your life.

In general, a vacation in Punta Cana is not meant to be expensive. The cheapest all-inclusive resorts are already starting at $60 per person per night with all food and drinks (incl. booze!) included, and excursions can be priced as low as $40 per person. And if you want to experience Punta Cana even cheaper, just skip on excursions and enjoy some of the free stuff to do in Punta Cana.

off roading vehicle on a muddy road that follows a beautiful turquoise water beach with palm trees in the distance; in Punta Cana Dominican Republic

Recommended by Becky from Becksplore Travel

Panama is a great place for any college student, as it is super diverse and you can find anything from beautiful beaches to the big city life to the most stunning nature and wildlife. The locals are incredibly friendly and Panama is also one of the safest countries in Latin America.

Panama is rather small so you can easily travel across the country and see a lot in just a short amount of time. One place that should be included in any  Panama itinerary  is Panama City. Panama City isn’t only home to the famous Panama canal, but also an incredible city with great nightlife and a beautiful old town.  

Other places that you just have to visit are Boquete and Bocas del Toro. Boquete is surrounded by beautiful nature and popular things to do are going on a coffee tour or hiking up to the volcano Barú . Whereas, in Bocas del Toro you can spend your time scuba diving, surfing, taking boat tours or just hanging out by the surrounding beaches.

It certainly isn’t the cheapest country in Latin America but still affordable for college students as hostel accommodation is super cheap, usually around $10 a night. However, tours can be a little pricey at times. So if you are planning on going on some tours, sometimes taking a shuttle bus instead of public transportation and go out for some drinks every now and then, it might sum up to around $60 a day.

Panama City from above with a sunset purple sky and ocean to the left, skyscrapers to the right, road running between ocean/beach and skyscrapers

21. Colombia

Recommended by Emily from Wander-lush

Visiting South America has long been a rite of passage for college students – and as one of the most accessible destinations on the continent, Colombia understandably draws many young visitors. Extremely affordable and easy to get around using public transport, it’s a dream budget-travel destination with something for every preference (literally) – from the bustling cities of Bogota and Medellin, to the northern coastline and lush interior.

If hiking is your scene, don’t miss the Lost City Trek , which is often dubbed the best hike in South America. A bean-to-cup tour of the Coffee Triangle will give you a new appreciation for your daily cup of joe. Here’s where you’ll also find gorgeous colourful  pueblos  such as  Jerico in Antioquia region . Horse riding, paragliding and white water sports – and on the coast, snorkelling and diving – are all available.

Colombia’s cities are packed with history and culture. Join a salsa class before hitting the clubs to show off your skills. Other popular hands-on activities include cooking classes and language immersion courses , so you can come back from Colombia with a few new life skills – including how to make the best  empanadas  – under your belt!

The hostel scene is well-developed in Colombia, and things like food, alcohol and transport are very affordable as well. It’s recommended to budget around $50 per person per day – but you can cut that down considerably by travelling with friends and splitting some costs.

beautiful yellow and white houses on a steep street in Columbia with green mountains in the background

22. Ecuador

Recommended by Deb from The Visa Project

Ecuador is a traveler’s paradise, no matter which kind of travel you are into. Said to be one of the most ecologically diverse countries, it is packed with volcanos, beaches, quaint little towns, the amazon and a lot more.

Feeling adventurous? Then head to Baños to hike to its waterfalls, do some mountain biking or water sports, and then relax in the hot springs. Or go to Tena , to indulge in jungle excursions in the Amazon. And if hiking to a volcano is your idea of adventure, Cotopaxi National Park is a must.

Want a beach vacation? Salinas , called the Miami of Ecuador is a popular choice. Or just take the bus on the coastal route from Salinas until Esmeraldas, and explore all the small beach towns and villages on the way. Stop at Montañita for sure to experience crazy parties and nightlife.

If you are a college student and on a budget, Ecuador can be an amazing place to start out, considering how cheap it is. A basic lunchtime meal would cost $3 or more. A night’s stay in a decent hostel would cost upwards of $7. And long-distance buses typically cost from $1–2 per hour.

On top of that, if you are coming from the United States, you can simply spend in US Dollars since that is the currency of Ecuador . As simple as that.

And make sure to check about the entry requirements and  visas for Ecuador   before you travel.

incredible green mountains with a tree in the fore ground and snowy mountain in the background behind the green mountains, on a partly cloudy day

Recommended by Megs from Packing Up the Pieces

Peru is the ultimate adventurous destination for college students on a budget.

The Imperial City of Cusco is a great place to base and offers plenty of authentic experiences without a large price tag. Within the city limits, find tons of Inca ruins that have no entrance fees and see little to no tourists. There are also tons of hiking trails and lush parks that are free to explore.

Grab the best and local food from the neighborhood markets, many which are serving up a daily two course menu for under $1.50. There are a wide range of bars close to the Plaza de Armas , but save money and drink with the locals and grab a 2 liter of chicha , Peru’s favorite fermented corn beverage for less than half the price.

Adventure seekers should plan for at least one epic multi-day trek, but there are so many, it’s hard to choose. While most tourists take the Inca trail to Machu Picchu , there are many alternative routes, and almost all of them can be done for cheap and without a guide, like the 9 day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek . There’s also the world-class Ausangate , or Lares treks , both worth the climb. In the nearby Sacred Valley , there are wonderful day hikes with free Inca sites like  Saywa, Inti Punku, and Perolniyoc.

With shared hostels as low as $5 a night, market meals for $1.50, regional buses for under $2, and city buses for under 50¢, it’s feasible to spend under $25 USD a day, making Peru the perfect budget destination.

jagged rocky mountain with a little snow on stop and blue lake at the base, photo taken from rocky cliffside, partly cloudy sunny day with blue sky

24. Bolivia

Recommended by Carley Rojas Avila of Home to Havana

Known as the Salar de Uyuni, the Salt Flats in Bolivia are both an unforgettable travel experience and one perfect for college travel. Known popularly as the “world’s largest mirror” for reflecting the sky when flooded in the rainy season, the Salt Flats are a popular visit for college students studying abroad in South America looking for a more budget friendly adventure than Machu Picchu. Though the Salt Flats may be popular with photographers and on many travelers bucket lists, it is surprisingly inexpensive to visit.

The best way to visit the Salt Flats is by taking a 3-day or 4-day jeep tour through southwest Bolivia, along the famous Lagunas Route . This route includes visits to high-elevation volcanos, hot springs, and bright red and green lagoons home to numerous flamingos. This is an incredible off-the-grid experience to share with an adventurous group of friends. The  best Salar de Uyuni tour itinerary  starts from Tupiza in south Bolivia and finishes at the Salt Flats for a fantastic culmination of the trip.

These popular multi-day jeep trips are quite affordable, often working out to a cost of around just $50 per day, inclusive of all expenses. Traveling around the rest of Bolivia, backpackers and budget travelers can easily get by on around $30 a day or less, while enjoying this diverse country – think major cities, the Amazon rainforest, and incredible mountain vistas wherever you look.

salt flats of Bolivia with cacti in the fore ground and a mountain in the background on a sunny day

25. Ireland

Recommended by Pam from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

One of the best destinations to visit as a college student is the Emerald Island – Ireland. Rolling hills of green, breathtaking cliffs , and friendly locals welcome visitors. From historical castles to gorgeous nature, college students will delight in the variety of  things to do in Ireland . 

From kissing the Blarney Stone to exploring Fairy Forts , Ireland is truly a unique destination. Travelers will relish in the historical castles looming over the countryside. After a full day of exploring, head to a local pub to unwind. Drinking beer is not a requirement, but enjoying local food – like colcannon and shrimp – is! Great conversation over delicious food is what Ireland is known for!

While the official language of Ireland is Irish, most of the population also speaks English. It makes it easier to get around and talk with locals to find hidden gems. A budget friendly way to travel around the country is renting a car. You can drive from coast to coast in a few hours, but honestly taking your time is a better option. With proper planning, a trip around Ireland can cost around $75 per day.

Ireland’s rich personality makes it one of the best destinations for college students.

Guinness Store house in Dublin, Ireland, Two Guinness glasses clinking

26. Portugal

Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Portugal is a fantastic country to visit for anyone looking for a laid back lifestyle, beautiful scenery and fun nightlife. As one of the more affordable countries in Europe, this is a great place for students on a budget who want to experience without spending too much.

Portugal is not a large country and it’s the perfect place for a road trip . Camping is very popular and probably the most affordable way of exploring the area. Even larger cities like Porto or Lisbon are actually not as expensive as you might expect them to be. And of course, the nightlife is fantastic. Whether you are having drinks in Lisbon’s Bairro Alto , partying the night away with university students in Porto or dancing on the beach in the Algarve , there is something for everyone.

You could easily spend less than $300 per week in Portugal if you are smart about saving. You could find a campsite for around $18 per night for two people and if you cook for yourself and avoid eating out you won’t be spending much on food either. Since alcohol taxes in Portugal are quite low, even a few drinks in a bar won’t break the bank.

You’ll fall in love with this incredible country and find yourself wanting to come back as soon as possible.

orange trolley car in Portugal on the tracks, view from inside a window in a nearby building looking out at the trolley car

27. Andalucia, Spain

Recommended by Linn from Andalucia Hiking

Andalucia is the perfect destination for college students. There are many adventure activities to be had all over the region.

Start with Sierra Nevada and a Mulhacen hiking adventure that can be done in a day or several days to cross the highest peak of the entire Iberian Peninsula off your bucket list.

Go on a road trip to see the best white villages, like the hillside village, Frigiliana , with astounding coastal views, Antequera , which just happens to be next to the most unique karst landscape in Europe, El Torcal , which invites for another exceptional day out in nature.

Explore the dramatic white village of Arcos de la Frontera or the village of love, Vejer de la Frontera . Wander in the melting pot of Andalusian culture in its capital city, Seville . Learn how to salsa and have tapas and drinks with the locals.

The sand blown coast of Cadiz is just the place to go to save money. This is where you can party with the locals in Los Caños de Meca or go windsurfing in Tarifa .

There are endless things to do in Andalucia and it doesn’t have to cost an arm to do so. Budget $70 per day, but there are great hostels in the cities where you can save money, meet other travelers, and cook your dinner at home. You can get by pretty cheap by traveling by bus or train too and tapas are cheap. You can easily get a beer for $2 at local places. The most expensive area in Andalucia is Costa del Sol, so try focus on Seville and Cadiz if you need to save money.

view from under an archway out and up looking at the birds flying in the sky with Spanish architecture and details on the archway in Andalusia region of Spain

28. Paris, France

Recommended by Elisa from World in Paris

Paris is an excellent destination for college students. The French capital is a lively and cultural city with many cool things to do for people of all ages! To get the most out of the city, we recommend spending a minimum of  4 days in Paris .

Many people believe that Paris is an expensive city. This is true only if visitors decide to stay in Paris’s most central areas and eat and drink close to the main attractions.

On the other hand, Paris has many cool things to do for free and many beautiful parks and picturesque neighborhoods to hang around without spending anything. Besides, there are many advantages for students under 25 , from significant discounts to free entrance, especially for students from the EU countries.

College students will appreciate the nightlife in Paris. There are many cool areas in Paris to hang around at night, being Canal Saint-Martin , La Villette , or Belleville some of the favorites, places where a beer can cost half of the price or less than in the fancy bars around the Champs Elysées.

Another fun thing to do in Paris at night is the apéro-dinatoires – evening drinks that turn into casual dinners with patés, cheese, and cold cuts.

Finally, for those who want to see something other than the French capital, there are transportation discounts for students for a day trip out of the city to places like Versailles, Normandy, or Lille. A good daily budget is $90 per day, but this cost can be reduced significantly by staying in Paris’ extensive hostel system, cooking your own meals, or even having inexpensive sandwiches for some meals from cafés.

View of the Eiffel Tower from the middle of a distant street busy with European cars with restaurants on the right and left of the streets

29. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Recommended by Sam from Sam Sees World

There are so many amazing places in Europe to visit for college students but few are as amazing as Amsterdam. A city known for its vibrant nightlife, stunning canals, and young atmosphere, Amsterdam is the perfect travel destination for college students of all kinds. Whether you like partying, history, culture, or learning about new traditions, Amsterdam has something for you.

Many college students are drawn to Amsterdam for the nightlife. There are over 1,100 bars and clubs in Amsterdam, which is enough to keep you very busy. The best areas to visit for bars and clubs are Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein , here you will find rows of bars and clubs making the options endless. Spending a night out in Amsterdam promises an amazing time, even if drinking and partying isn’t your speed. Visitors can also enjoy the canals by night , go on evening cruises, and check out live music , and more.

Luckily for college students flights to Amsterdam can be really cheap. You can easily find flights from other cities in Europe for 40 euros and from New York for $300 round trip! Plus, there are plenty of hostels around Amsterdam that offer low-cost accommodations in a fun and exciting atmosphere.

Amsterdam at twilight with buildings lit up along the river and beautiful lights reflected on a cloudy evening

30. Berlin, Germany

Recommended by Matt from Wheatless Wanderlust

Berlin is one of the most affordable capital cities in Western Europe, which makes it a perfect destination for traveling college students. It has a diverse range of things to do and see, ranging from free to relatively inexpensive, and a food and drink scene full of cheap-yet-delicious eats like döner kebab and currywurst.

Plus, it is widely regarded as one of the best nightlife scenes in Europe, with clubs pumping out dance music well into the early (and not-so-early) hours of the morning.

Some of the best things to do in Berlin, like walking through the Brandenburg Gate , climbing to the top of the dome of the Reichstag , and admiring the vibrant street art of the Eastside Gallery , are all free.

Things that aren’t free, like the awe-inspiring Pergamon Museum and the other museums on Museum Island , offer hefty discounts for students .

One of the best parts about Berlin, particularly in the summertime, is the green spaces. And there are no open container laws in Berlin, which means you can enjoy a picnic in the park complete with a bottle of wine or some local beer. Head to the Tiergarten or Tempelhofer Feld, the former airport that has been transformed into the biggest park in Berlin.

If you’re wondering  where to stay in Berlin  on a budget, the answer is Fredrichschain , which is also where you’ll find the best nightlife in the city. There, you’ll find a range of affordable hotels and hostels , and you’ll be within walking distance of both the Eastside Gallery and the coolest neighborhood in Berlin – Kreuzberg.

You can easily live in Berlin on $50 a day by either staying in a hostel dorm room or splitting a private room with a friend, taking advantage of all the great free attractions in the city, and eating breakfast at your accommodation.

Berlin Wall presidents kissing with a woman walking in front

31. Munich, Germany

Recommended by Devin of Deventuretime.com

Munich is a great destination for college students as it’s a budget-friendly city, easy to travel around, and has plenty of exciting things to do. It is a city that is frequented by many backpackers, so there are plenty of hostel accommodations throughout the city that are perfect for making new friends!

Munich is known for its incredible beer gardens and beer halls throughout the city. Not to mention, the famous Oktoberfest beer celebration ! One of the most famous taverns in the world, Hofbräuhaus , is located within the city. Here, you sit along tables and order giant steins of beer to enjoy with friends. Beer in the city is quite cheap, with full liter steins costing around $13.

Aside from beer halls, the city is full of fascinating history and beautiful architecture. Marienplatz is a beautiful square to visit, lined with shops and stunning gothic buildings. It is home to Rathaus-Glockenspiel , which is an interesting, automated show built into the side of New Town Hall. It attracts many locals and tourists daily to enjoy the show!

When traveling to Munich, you can budget daily for as low as $60. To keep costs low, opt to stay in a hostel , buy food from markets, and buy beer from shops. Costs rise as you shop, eat at restaurants, or stay at more glamourous accommodations.

view of Munich city square from above with tower and European charming city buildings with scattered trees

32. Prague, Czech Republic

Recommended by Charu from Travel With CG

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a beautiful destination to visit in Europe. Home to medieval buildings, charming castles, and gothic cathedrals; it is a fascinating yet affordable place to travel internationally. With a picturesque Old Town full of colorful buildings and orange topped roofs, Prague is also an ideal city to explore on foot.

If you like going on walking tours , please note that multiple free ones start from the city’s astronomical clock every day. You can either walk the cobbled streets of Prague from your accommodation to reach there or hop on a tram and get yourself an inexpensive ride. A 3-day tram pass for students visiting Prague only costs 310 CZK ($15) and can be bought from nearly every tram stop or online.

The nightlife in Prague is enjoyable too. Whether you like multiple story clubs that play different music, beer gardens , or vibrant cocktail bars ; it is that one city in central Europe that you will find has got it all. Live music is big there as well, so you might even come across artists playing at famous touristic sights such as the John Lennon Wall when visiting.

Like any other big city, Prague is also home to a variety of budget accommodations . Apartments with multiple rooms, for instance, can even be found for as low as $25 per person per night.

drone view of Prague city in Czech Republic with red brown topped roofs and bridge with people on it, on a cloudy day

33. Budapest, Hungary

Recommended by Cecily from Groovy Mashed Potatoes

Budapest is an Eastern European city with an energetic nightlife and culture. The historic spa capital is inexpensive compared to other European cities and a great way to discover Europe’s fascinating history and impressive architecture. There are many fun things to add to your  Budapest itinerary , from relaxing in thermal baths to partying in ruin bars with your friends.

During the daytime, unwind from your studies in one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths. Szechenyi Baths is the largest thermal bath in Budapest and has a stunning neo-Baroque architecture. Weekday entrance fees are cheaper than weekend prices. Budget 3,500 HUF (~ $12 USD) for the weekday or 3,900 HUF (~ $13.50 USD) for the weekend.

Just before sunset, walk to the top of Castle Hill to admire views of the Danube River and the city’s most prominent buildings, such as the Hungarian Parliament building .

Budapest has one of the best party scenes in Europe. Have a unique night out in their eclectic and bohemian ruin bars , known to have cheap drinks and a lively atmosphere. Szimpla Kert was the first ever ruin bar, built in an abandoned factory in 2002.

It’s easy and inexpensive to get around with the city’s excellent transportation system . A one-way fare costs 350 HUF (~ $1.19 USD). There are many places to stay in Budapest , so budget $28 USD per day for accommodation , plus $20 USD per day for food and $20 USD per day for activities/alcohol.

Budapest view of the city and parliament building from across the river from a high vantage point

34. Slovenia

Recommended by Simona from Slovenians Travel

Slovenia is a small country in the heart of Europe. It is still quite undiscovered and compared to its neighbors and still affordable. With a short coastline, beautiful mountains and lakes, and charming medieval cities it offers a great variety for different tastes.

Public transport works well and is cheap (choose between bus or train), accommodation can be found almost everywhere, and the prices range from $30, camping and hostels are even cheaper.

Slovenia has a wide variety of food as it has influences from the Italian, Austrian, Mediterranean and Hungarian cuisine. During the week many restaurants offer set lunch menus for $10-18 for a 3-course meal, and mains are about the same price. There are fast food stalls and food markets, where a kebab is around $3-5, burek (Balkan meat or cottage cheese pastry) is from $2, burgers from $5. Vegetarians and vegans also won’t be hungry. 😉

You should definitely visit Lake Bled , the most famous sight in the country. Unfortunately, everything is much more expensive there, so maybe think about a day trip from Ljubljana . Ljubljana, the capital, is a good base as it offers a lot of accommodation, restaurants, bars and clubs. For a little more off the beaten track and a bit cheaper city, choose Maribor , the second biggest city in Slovenia. Both are university cities, so many young party people live there and like to have a good time in all the bars and clubs.

You can get a big beer for about $3-4, cocktails from $7, not to forget the prices in supermarkets, where a big beer is around $1 and a bottle of wine from $4. The prices are a bit higher on the coast – Piran, Portorož, Izola and Koper are the biggest cities on the coast, Piran surely the most charming.

Slovenia is still an affordable destination, which offers so much on such a small area. That’s why it’s perfect for budget travelers.

small island in the middle of a lake with a small castle like building on it with surrounding pine covered hills and mountains in the distance with partly cloudy sky

35. Rome, Italy

Recommended by Claudia from Strictly Rome

With all its art, history, and culture, Rome is bound to be a fantastic destination for college students who can join one of the many short and long term university and college programs offered in the Eternal City. The city is intense but undeniably charming and beautiful and a great place to get acquainted with the Italian lifestyle. There are any great places to visit, delicious food, and incredible nightlife (especially in Trastevere).

Among the places to visit there is the Colosseum and the nearby Arch of Constantine , Roman Forum and Palatine Hill . A combined ticket for the 3 sites is $20. St. Peter’s Basilica is another must see – it’s free, and with a small fee you can access the Dome. The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel require pre-bookings, but they are a must see for art students.

If you are looking for free places to visit, a walk around the historic center will take you to the beautiful Altare della Patria in Piazza Venezia; Largo di Torre Argentina , a nearby archeological site home to a cat sanctuary; the Spanish Steps , Fontana di Trevi , the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona .

One important thing to know before visiting Rome is that the city is not cheap. The best budget hostels are in Esquilino – for nicer places look around St. John in the Lateran Church, which is safe and very central. Trattorie and street food are your best budget options for food. Calculate a daily budget of at least $65 USD per day.

Ornate fountain in Rome Italy with sculptures of men and other figures in white marble with a huge building directly behind; Trevi Fountain

36. Ios Island, Greece

Recommended by Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

From the end of June until late August, Ios becomes a giant party for college students from around the globe. Daytimes are spent on the beach and nights spent dancing, against a backdrop of one of the most beautiful Greek islands . Ios is a seven-hour ferry journey from Athens , but the big draw is that it is cheap and friendly.

There are several great beaches including Koumbara  and Manganari , which can be reached by bus or boat. Milopotas beach is the main draw. This beach is long, sandy and one of the best in Greece. Sunbathers share the beach with coffee shops and restaurants where they can meet loads of people and there are water sports too. Scuba diving and windsurfing are popular and jet skis and banana boats are fun.

There are rooms to rent, but these need to be booked well in advance and there are several campsites including Far Out , with a 24-hour bar, two swimming pools, and volleyball. Ios is a fantastic place to forge new friendships with people of all nationalities.

A one-way ferry ticket from Athens to Ios can cost between $30-43 depending on the ferry company. While accommodation can be anything from $30-36 euros per night for a double room or a bit cheaper on the camping. Food in a taverna can be from $13 upwards depending on what you order but there are many street food options available like souvlaki . Drinks can be bought either from the kiosk and enjoyed at the beach or you can take advantage of the happy hours if you are on a budget.

If you have long said goodbye to your college days, Ios is still a gorgeous island to visit during the spring and autumn when it is peaceful by comparison!

Greek island with blue capped white buildings, palm trees, on hillsides with ocean in the background at sunset

Middle East

Recommended by Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad

Iran is definitely one of the most underrated travel destinations for college students, especially for those who enjoy history and culture. Filled with gorgeous architecture, calming nature, and delicious food, Iran is an amazing place to relax in after a busy semester. Contrary to popular belief, Iran is also incredibly safe and the locals are very friendly (yes, even to Americans!). Many travelers deem this destination safer than Europe.

Two weeks is the ideal amount of time to see Iran’s most beautiful places . Start your journey in Shiraz , home to the famous Pink Mosque which will take your breath away. Not far from Shiraz lies Persepolis , an incredible UNESCO site where you can learn about the history of the Achaemenid Empire. Next, move on to Yazd , a stunning desert city home to the spectacular Sar Yazd Castle .

No trip to Iran would be complete without spending a few days in Isfahan , where you can see two of the most magnificent mosques in the country: Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque and Shah Mosque . While you’re there, make sure to eat at the nearby Naghshe Jahan Restaurant . Don’t leave Iran without stopping by Kashan , one of the friendliest cities in the country!

Iran is a great budget destination; you can stay in very decent hostels for $7-20 a night. You’ll typically spend about $6.50 on meals per day, and each VIP bus ticket to get you between cities is around $6. It’s worth noting that it’s incredibly easy to get around Iran on your own, and the buses are super comfortable too!

woman draped in a large sheer covering sitting and looking away from the camera; inside a rainbow colored mosque with intricate stained glass, pillars, and ceiling

38. Istanbul, Turkey

Recommended by Roxanne from Faraway Worlds

At the crossroads of Asia and Europe, Istanbul is the perfect city for college students who want a glimpse of the wider world. A large, vibrant city, Istanbul offers a peek into other cultures and ways of life. While it can be a bit overwhelming at times, Istanbul is also exotic and exciting, and, with a well-developed tourist industry , it’s relatively accessible to Westerners.

Istanbul is also an affordable city. It’s easy to get around with public transport and, if you watch your budget, you should be able to get by on around $30 a day. This should cover a dorm bed, groceries, beer, and entrance fees for tourist attractions. If you want to eat out, there’s a wide range of delicious and affordable food on the streets of Istanbul from donor kebabs and mussels, to freshly-squeezed juices and stretchy ice cream.

If you’re wondering  where to stay in Istanbul , Taksim or Galata are good options for students. Both are conveniently located, with cafes, bars and street food close by. These areas are also renowned for their nightlife , and you’ll see a good mix of locals and tourists out and about late into the night. During the day, you can wander through the ancient streets, see the big-ticket tourist attractions like the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sofia , and relax in one of the city’s beautiful parks.

Blue Mosque in Istanbul Turkey with large minarets and archways with blue accents and details in the architecture and tilework, view from below

Recommended by Sasha Naslin from The Alternative Travel Guide  

Egypt is the ideal destination for history and adventure lovers. Only in the hot deserts of Egypt, can you visit 40-centuries old monuments, the guardians of the history of mankind.

The Pyramid of Cheops is one of the world wonders that has survived to this day. Apart from the Chinese Wall, this is the largest structure ever erected by man. The Egyptian pyramids are a miracle that you should definitely see once in life if you have the opportunity.

In addition, Egypt is suitable for student travelers who love diving, snorkeling, and other adventurous activities. The Red Sea is one of the most ecologically clean seas in the world! The crystal clear water allows you to admire the indescribably beautiful coral reefs and the Red Sea fauna, diverse in colors, shapes, and sizes. You can see all this beauty already a few meters from the shore, but if you use fins and a mask, you will discover the fabulously beautiful underwater world.

And another important factor for students, Egypt is a fairly cheap country. A week in Hurghada in an all-inclusive hotel costs $200-300, depending on the season and the hotel’s level. In Cairo, you can pay for a hotel as little as $ 15 per night.

woman with brunette hair wearing a tank top and white hat looking away from the camera at egyptian street with palm trees, ancient statues on the right, and Cairo building in the distance

40. Don Det, Laos

Recommended by Samantha from International Detours 

One of the best places to travel for college students is  Don Det, Laos . While all of Laos is beautiful, Don Det is a small river island that just exudes relaxation . 

It’s cheap, can be explored by bicycle , and is a fantastic place to meet other travelers. This backpacking hub is filled with bungalows that sit right over the edge of the Mekong River , and there’s really not much better than being able to watch an epic sunrise right outside your door. And Don Det’s sunsets are truly extraordinary.

The island is also filled with delicious cafes and bars, making it an ideal place to meet other young people as there’s always something to do both during the day and after dark.

The affordability of Don Det is what really makes it a winning spot for those on a budget: for food, drinks, bicycle rental and miscellaneous extras, you can easily spend $20 per day or less. If you split costs, this value will decrease.

With zero cars, little noise besides the crowing of roosters, and no light pollution, Don Det is the absolute perfect hippie haven to truly forget about college and the world. And despite being as amazing as it is, the island is far less popular than some other spots in Southeast Asia, meaning you won’t get that overtouristed feel either.

young man biking on a dirt path surrounded by grassy land with a few trees dispersed and partly cloudy sky; man is wearing bright blue T-shirt

41. Thailand

Recommended by Luke from Wild About BC

Thailand has long been a favorite destination for new travelers looking to dip their toes into the wonderful world of international travel. It is the ideal destination for college students to visit as it is so easy to plan a trip here . One of the reasons Thailand first became so popular is that it is stunningly beautiful. There are endless islands to visit, all full of amazing beaches.

There are plenty of beautiful places out there but Thailand is such an easy pick for numerous reasons. It’s great for planning a trip on a budget as food, accommodation and transport are all very cheap here. You can expect to pay around $10 per night here for a decent hostel with air conditioning and meals are just a couple of dollars each and the food is delicious.

As Thailand has been popular for a while it also means that there is lots of infrastructure to help you easily get around. There are plenty of transport companies and tour operators making planning your trip much easier. Booking busses, boats and tours online is easy and there is a wealth of information out there to help you plan.

The local people are used to having tourists here and English is widely spoken which also helps if you get stuck and need to ask for help. Thailand is also renowned for the vibrant nightlife. If you are looking to party and blow off some steam then there are few places better. Cities like Bangkok have their own party districts or you can go to Koh Phangan to enjoy the world-famous full moon party on the beach.

This is an awesome place to visit and the beauty, budget friendliness, infrastructure and nightlife all combine to make it an epic trip for college students.

Halong Bay in Thailand with randomly dispersed islands and many small boats, view from atop a hillside

42. Vietnam

Recommended by Trisha from Try Wandering More

Vietnam is a fantastic place to visit as a college student because it has a bit of everything – natural beauty, quaint towns, unique culture, interesting history, delicious cuisine, and eccentric nightlife. The most inviting aspect is that it is inexpensive, so you can have an incredible time without burning a hole in your pocket.

This country has so much to offer that it is a struggle to choose among the  best places to visit in Vietnam . At least 10-14 days are required to get a good flavour of the country, though a fast-paced trip through the main places can be managed in a week.

Vietnam’s Capital city of Hanoi is an ideal city to begin exploring. Further, it would be best to travel along the country’s length ending in the south at Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon) , Vietnam’s most modern city.

Popular places to see include the picturesque Ha Long Bay near Hanoi, the quaint town of Hoi An near Da Nang, and the fascinating Mekong Delta near Saigon.

Expect to be delighted by mouth-watering food and drinks with steaming bowls of Pho, local beers like Bia Hoi, and Vietnamese Coffee.

Vietnam is a backpacker’s paradise with per day costs being about $5-$10 for accommodation, $8 for local food, $2 for beer, $5 for transportation and $3 for attractions. So, about $20-30 a day is enough to get by if traveling cheaply or about $40 per day for a super comfortable trip. If traveling in a group, consider staying at hotels and motels , as opposed to only hostels, as these can come out to be inexpensive too when divided per person.

A night market in Vietnam, one of the best places to get food for budget travelers and students on a buget; red lanterns hang and stalls are well lit up

43. Philippines

Recommended by Sharon from Dive Into Philippines

One of the best places to travel for college students is definitely the Philippines. One of the great budget travel destinations in the world, the Philippines can feel very adventurous while being a relatively easy place to travel. Many people speak English , it’s fun to get around and there are gorgeous beaches seemingly everywhere.

One of the big plusses of the Philippines is that you can easily find yourself at a beach where you can feel like you have escaped the world. Or if partying is more your holiday style, there are plenty of places you can do that.

A great place to start your trip is in Cebu City , the Philippines’ second largest city and home to its second busiest airport. On this island, there are many great beaches and you can choose backpacker favorite Moalboal , swim with whale sharks at Oslob or get away from it all in many places. Close by is Bohol Island where you can also experience great beaches and diving on Panglao , visit the Chocolate Hills , meet a cute tarsier, or go jungle trekking. It’s a great spot and you can take it as easy or active as you like.

A huge benefit of traveling the Philippines is how cheap it can be – it’s possible to travel here on $20 a day. You don’t have to spend much more to feel like you are doing it in style too. Food, transport, accommodation is all cheap. In fact, booking ahead on domestic budget airline can even make travelling from one side of the country to the other quite affordable.

The Philippines really is the ultimate destination for college students where you want peace and quiet, partying or adventure.

Philippines beach view from the boardwalk pier, turquoise choppy water with orange snad and buildings and lots of trees in the distance.

44. East Java, Indonesia

Recommended by Kaylini from The Curated Travelist 

If you’re in search of adventure, then look no further than East Java in Indonesia. For college students seeking refuge from city life and in need of fresh air, scenic landscapes and cultural enrichment, this can be found in abundance in this region. Apart from it being a great escape, it’s equally prudent on the pocket. With the currency of Indonesia being significantly weaker than that of the dollar, you’ll get plenty of value for money here.

Your East Java itinerary will begin in the city of Yogyakarta . Embrace your zen when visiting Borobudur the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Take a train from Yogyakarta to Surabaya for the bucket list worthy experience of visiting the active volcano of Mount Bromo . The Bromo volcano at sunrise is a truly breathtaking moment and summiting to the crater rim and peering into a volcano is few most can boast of.

Just a short drive away you’ll find the magnificent Tumpak Sewu Waterfall , a giant panoramic curtain of showers. Heading further East of Java you’ll find the mystical Kawah Ijen crater . Mount Ijen is another active volcano, however, this volcano has the largest acidic crater lake in the world and allows you to experience the phenomenon of blue-flamed fire! This phenomenon can only be seen in several places around the globe and truly something not to be missed.

Will bucket list items like these, one would think you’d be paying an arm and a leg. However, with transport costs less than $20 using buses and trains and accommodation at hostels costing $10, it’s very budget-friendly. Plus, local cuisines are an absolute steal at $2-3. This adventure destination is life-changing for most and definitely worth adding to your bucket list!

volcano with other mountains surrounding in the background with fog and clouds, view from above in East Java, Indonesia

45. Bali, Indonesia

Recommended by Margherita from The Crowded Planet

Bali is definitely a great destination for those traveling for the first time, making it perfect for college students heading out of the US for the first time. The Island of Gods has so much to offer, that even diverse groups of friends will all have something to do.

To give you an idea, Bali offers lots of adventurous activities like volcano hiking, walks and bike rides around rice terraces, surf lessons, and scuba diving courses. At the same time, it’s easy to plan spiritual or cultural experiences like yoga, meditation, cooking classes, and temple visits with local guides. It’s very easy to arrange activities – Bali has been a tourist destination for many decades, and it’s well set up with local travel agencies allowing you to book activities even with short notice.

Let’s not forget nightlife – in places like Canggu and Seminyak you’ll find plenty of beach clubs where you can relax by the pool during the day, and party at night!

Speaking about costs, Bali is also a budget-friendly destination. The main expense will probably be the flight – accommodation is affordable, with some dorm beds going for less that $10, and eating out is also really cheap, especially if you go for street food! The easiest and cheapest way to get around is hiring a motorbike for about $5 a day, but make sure your travel insurance covers motorbike accidents. Alternatively, you can opt for hiring a driver for a day for a price of about $30 to be shared between 4 people.

famous gate in Bali with red flowers in the foreground and a bird flying against a sunny, yet cloudy sky

For more student travel tips, read these posts:

How to save money in college for traveling

10 ways to travel as a student

How to explore your own backyard (when you can’t go on a big trip)

woman handing off a freshly picked Ruby red apple with leaves still on the stem to her boyfriend's hand

Save to Pinterest!

45 incredible places to visit in College in the US and international destinations; student travel tips and cheap college student travel destinations; travel guides; travel hacks; budget travel ideas

My Travel Essentials

  • Travel Insurance  – Going on an international trip? Don’t forget travel and medical insurance with SafetyWing .
  • Travel Card  – If you’re new to travel hacking, fear not! My favorite card for beginners gives you $750 in rewards when you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus lounge access, 10x points on hotel bookings, and free TSA pre-check!
  • Get Your Guide  – Check out Get Your Guide for a one-stop-shop for booking travel activities.
  • Booking.com  – This is my favorite hotel search aggregator, specifically for reading reviews. On Booking.com , the reviews can be searched for keywords like WiFi, breakfast, pool, amenities, etc.! So helpful!
  • Anti-pickpocket bag – Worried about having your valuables swiped? PacSafe makes the best travel bags with zippers and straps that lock and with mesh steel enforced fabric.
  • Merino Wool  – Where are my chronic over-packers? Merino wool is the material you’ve been looking for. It’s naturally anti-microbial, so you can rewear it…so, less clothes to pack! I’m a fan of WoolX Merino .
  • Give the Gift of Travel  – This is the perfect gift for travelers in your life! Tinggly allows you to gift experiences around the world, perfect for birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries.
  • Staycation Idea  – Check out Resort Pass , which gives you day passes to resorts so you can use their pool, spa, and fitness center, a great staycation idea!

sunset white sands national park

previous post

man stargazing with a telescope looking at the starry sky with galaxy clouds and nebulae in the background, man is silhoutted.

Alanna Koritzke

Recent PhD graduate and hyper-planner of Periodic Adventures, my goal is to share travel inspiration, budget tips, detailed guides, and fun travel stories!

Related Posts

Cleveland sign on the waterfront

How to Spend a Delightful Day Trip to Cleveland, Ohio

Namesake cactus at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in Arizona

Best 35 Attractions and Places to Visit Near Tucson, Arizona in 2024

Bronze statue of Walt Disney waving and holding hands with Mickey Mouse with Sleeping Beauty's Castle behind outlined in their silhouette

Disneyland Park vs California Adventure: Pros, Cons, and Everything in Between

how to travel for cheap as a college student

I think that most of the countries in Eastern Europe are great for students because they’re relatively cheap. I travelled to Poland while at university and came back home with half of my budget!

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Agreed! I haven’t been to any yet, but they all seem very budget-friendly perfect for college students!

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Elena Pappalardo

Although I’m no longer a college student, I definitely want to hit up some of these places when I can! Great round-up.

Thanks Elena! They definitely are great for any budget traveler.

Pingback: The Best Dublin Vegan Guide: Restaurants, Sights, & More 2023 - Veggies Abroad

Post a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Walk a While with Me

How to Travel as a Student (Even If You’re Broke!)

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no extra cost to you. Please refer to my Disclosure Policy for more information.

Table of Contents

How to Travel as a Student (Even If You're Broke!)

College. A time of limited funds, cheap food, and stressful all-nighters. While school is a time for education, I find that one of the best ways to learn is by traveling. And, believe it or not, there are many ways you can travel as a student , even if you don’t come from a filthy rich family (as many people presume) .

I won’t say I wasn’t privileged in my ability to travel as a student. I was able to live at home throughout my university degree (even though my 1.5 hour commute killed me) , which did save me a lot of money. But I also worked hard and saved money for years to afford my travels, and I want to share some of my tips (and more) with you today.

Without further ado, let’s begin!

The Best Tips and Tricks to Travel as a Student - Two Students laying on the grass with backpacks and a map

My Experience as a Traveling College Student

Before I provide you with all the best tips and tricks on how to travel as a student, I first want to share my own experiences.

Now, to preface this, I worked a lot in high school. And I barely spent any of my income. While I wasn’t intentionally saving up to travel, I had no interest in buying anything, so all the money I had made from my part-time jobs was simply building up in my bank account.

My Experience Traveling as a Student - A picture of a sign on the Camino de Santiago Norte, in northern Spain

So, after my first year of college, I decided to take the leap with my high school savings, and spent a month backpacking Europe on my own . It was my first solo travel experience, and it was beyond incredible. I walked a portion of the Camino de Santiago, relaxed on the Algarvian beaches of Portugal , toured several cities in Spain including Seville and Barcelona , and went to an Eddie Vedder concert in Berlin.

However, I maintained a strict budget to keep my backpacking cost low. I rarely ate out, never drank alcohol, spent most of my time walking everywhere , and booked the cheapest hostels.

Later that summer, I embarked on another trip, taking a small vacation to Oahu with a couple of friends. While Hawaii has a reputation of being expensive, we also traveled as cheaply as possible , staying in hostels, not drinking (we weren’t even of legal age in the US yet), and sticking with free activities like hiking .

The view of the Pacific Ocean and Oahu from Kokohead, one of the best hikes in Oahu - one of my trips from traveling in college

Nevertheless, it was amazing.

I traveled two more times during my university degree (other than the occasional weekend getaway from Vancouver ): I spent one reading break (a one-week vacation in February) visiting a friend in Montreal. For that trip, I was able to keep costs low by crashing on her couch and walking around Montreal .

Viewpoint of Koh Phi Phi in Thailand, surrounded by lush jungles and blue ocean - one of the cheapest Asian destinations

I also spent over a year saving for another spectacular solo backpacking trip, this time around Asia . With stops in Vietnam , Cambodia , Thailand , Japan , and even a few days in Hawaii, I loved every minute of it.

Overall, I have never regretted the sacrifices I have made for travel. And, if you’re planning on traveling as a college student as well, I hope you feel the same way!

The Exquisite Architecture of the Catedral of Seville

Want to learn more about my travel itineraries ? Click here for my 5-week Southeast Asia travel itinerary ! Or click here to see how I spent 5 weeks in Europe !

The Different Ways You Can Travel as a Student

Now, onto the reason why you clicked on this article. What are the best ways to travel as a student?

Study Abroad

Now, the most obvious answer to this question is to study abroad! While I personally never did a semester abroad, I wish I had.

A woman studying with a notebook and laptop on a study abroad program - An example of college student travel

Studying abroad, whether for a semester or a year, is an amazing way to visit new places and travel as a college student, while simultaneously working towards your degree. With most universities offering study abroad programs, doing a study abroad is also very accessible.

That’s not to say studying abroad is cheap. The costs can add up, with flights, visas, and accommodations bearing a heavy price tag. However, depending on where you currently live and where you’re planning to study abroad, you may end up paying an equal amount of money to travel, or even less.

The colorful buildings and trees in a city in Ukraine, perfect as a cheap study abroad destination to travel as a student

Overall, my advice for those who wish to study abroad is to plan ahead (especially in regards to your courses!), choose your destination wisely, start saving money early, look into several college student travel programs, and research financial aid and scholarships!

Semester at Sea

Similar to doing a study abroad, you can also sign up for the Semester at Sea program . Accredited through Colorado State University, doing a Semester at Sea is like doing a semester abroad, but more unique, as you live aboard a ship sailing to multiple destinations (across multiple continents).

View of the deep blue ocean, the corner of a ship, and distant land on the ship on the Semester at Sea - providing endless school trips

As incredible as this experience sounds, it isn’t cheap. The Semester at Sea cost is around $27,000 to $33,000 USD for room, tuition, health insurance, and food. Adding in the costs of flights, visas, textbooks, vaccinations, and more, and you’ll probably pay around $36,000 to $41,000 USD for a semester. Ouch.

So, while there are several scholarships offered, doing a Semester at Sea may be one of the programs only available for the wealthy traveling college students. But hey, if you know of a way to do it without amassing a large pile of debt, let me know!

Volunteer Abroad

Another way you can travel as a student is by volunteering abroad. While there are many programs out there, quite a few of them are corrupt (especially in regards to volunteering in developing countries). So, I recommend researching the programs well before applying.

Nevertheless, there are three big organizations perfect for volunteering abroad: WWOOF , Workaway , and Worldpackers .

First, one of the biggest volunteer abroad programs is WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms), where you work on a farm in exchange for room and board.

Red apples in a big box on a farm on a sunny day, perfect for volunteering abroad as a traveling college student

There are some great advantages with using WWOOF, as they offer opportunities to volunteer all around the world. Additionally, as a WWOOFer, you are given the opportunity to form in-depth connections with locals, providing you with a more educational experience, perfect for college student travel.

However, there are some cons to using WWOOF. For instance, as each WWOOF organization is separate and independent from one another, you have to pay separate sign-up fees for each country.

Additionally, some WWOOF farmers do exploit you for free labor (I personally considered signing up for WWOOF Japan , but read concerning reviews in regards to this phenomenon). My recommendation is to research the WWOOF volunteer opportunities well, and to choose a farmer with stellar reviews!

Two hands covered in gardening gloves holding weeds - something you may do volunteering abroad with WWOOF, perfect for shoestring travel

Overall, WWOOF is a great option for those keen on traveling the world on a budget.

Another trustworthy organization to consider is Workaway .

An international program, Workaway connects you with a host who offers room and board in exchange for work, whether it be working on a farm, hostel, construction, English lessons, etc. With an easy-to-navigate website and tons of volunteer opportunities, Workaway is definitely worth checking out!

Worldpackers

Finally, the last organization I’m going to recommend for volunteering abroad is Worldpackers .

3 empty bunk beds in a hostel, an idea of one of the places to work on Worldpackers

A trustworthy platform connecting you with hosts around the world, you once again exchange your labor and skills for accommodation. With opportunities to teach English, work on a farm, do general labor, become a nanny, and volunteer in a hostel, Worldpackers is one of the best places to find hosts.

The Charming Architecture of the New Orleans French Quarter, perfect for your New Orleans itinerary

Thinking of traveling within the US ? I recommend visiting New Orleans! If you want to learn more, read my 3-day New Orleans itinerary .

Work Abroad

While volunteering abroad is a great way to travel the world on a budget, you can also take it one step further, and actively make money while traveling! There are a many different ways to work abroad , each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

These options include:

Working Holiday Visa

First, you can get a working holiday visa. With the ability to spend up to one year working and living abroad, getting the visa is the perfect way to spend a gap year, or your summer vacation!

With many countries offering working holiday visas, from Australia, Canada , the UK, Denmark, France , Hong Kong, Japan , New Zealand, Argentina, and more, your travel options are truly endless.

If you’re looking for a more specific job position, consider becoming an au pair! The perfect role for those who love children, an au pair is someone from overseas who takes care of a host’s children and a few household chores, in exchange for room, board, and some extra cash.

An Au Pair taking care of a child on a railing by a beach, one of the best ways to travel as a student

While this job isn’t for everyone (especially me… I’m not great with kids) , becoming an au pair can be a great way to travel, learn about the lives of locals, and make a bit of money.

Couchsurfing

Now, if you’re not keen on studying, volunteering, or working abroad, there are still ways to travel as a student. For one, you can try Couchsurfing .

While I’ve personally never couchsurfed, Couchsurfing.com is a massive platform that essentially offers free accommodations for budget backpackers around the world. Simply put, the site is filled with friendly people, offering travelers a place to stay in their homes.

A living room with a patio, wooden walls, couch, laptop, and dining table - one of the nicer accommodations on Couchsurfing

But Couchsurfing offers a lot more than just a free bed. It offers cultural exchanges, allowing you to immerse yourself into the lives of local people. It allows you to make new friends, form new connections, and learn insider tips on the destinations you’re visiting.

Overall, I definitely recommend looking into Couchsurfing if you want to save money on accommodation, and love meeting new people. But, to stay safe, I recommend only choosing hosts with stellar reviews.

Pet/House-Sitting

Another way to receive free accommodations (while simultaneously spending quality time with adorable animals) is by house-sitting!

My mini-poodle mix and kitten, two pets you may take care of when house/pet-sitting on a student trip

Perfect for long-term travel (say, a summer vacation), house-sitting is when you watch over someone’s house (and pets) in exchange for free accommodation.

In my opinion, house-sitting is the best way to travel as a student. With the ability to explore one area in-depth, live like a local, save lots of money on accommodation, and cuddle with an adorable animal, what more can you ask for?

I use (and definitely recommend) TrustedHousesitters .

Viewpoint of Seattle, Washington, USA

Thinking of traveling within the US ? I recommend exploring Washington State! If you want to learn more, check out my article on the best day trips from Seattle .

How to Save Money for Travel

While I’ve listed all the ways you can travel as a student, from couchsurfing, house-sitting, and studying, working, and volunteering abroad, that still leaves the cost of traveling. No matter what, taking that vacation is still expensive, with the costs of flights, visas, vaccinations, and souvenirs adding up.

Several small, wooden souvenir keychains at a shop in Tokyo, Japan - a small backpacking cost

So, if you’re wondering how to travel the world on a budget , keep reading for my best travel tips!

Buy Your Airplane Tickets at the Optimal Time

While this may not be possible, I highly recommend buying your tickets early, but not too early. Before you get too irritated, let me elaborate.

While there is some debate on the best time to buy airplane tickets, the general consensus is this: for domestic flights (within the US ), it’s best to purchase 76 days before departure. However, this number does fluctuate per season (for instance, it’s usually best to book a summer vacation 99 days in advance).

In regards to international flights, the best time to purchase fluctuates per destination, but in general, I recommend buying tickets at least 3 months in advance.

View from the airplane window, of the plane wing and fluffy clouds on an overcast day

Some additional tips for booking flights is to search for flights on incognito mode. Additionally, be flexible with the day you depart (as this can greatly impact the cost). And, while some say it’s best to book on a Tuesday, I find that this isn’t always true. I recommend checking the prices of the flights daily to find the best bargain.

Select Your Destinations Carefully

While this may seem obvious, I have to say it: some destinations are way more expensive than others.

By choosing your destinations wisely, you can save heaps of money on travel. And while you may be bummed you can’t go on that skiing trip in Switzerland or take that luxury vacation to Dubai, you’ll be shocked at how beautiful some of the cheapest backpacking destinations are.

The ruins and mountains of Machu Picchu, Peru surrounded by clouds - One of the best destinations for budget backpackers!

My recommendations for the most inexpensive and best places to travel as a college student are the following:

  • Southeast Asia : With some of the cheapest Asian destinations, I especially recommend visiting Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam , Laos, Thailand , and Cambodia (especially the Angkor Wat ruins in Siem Reap !).
  • Eastern Europe : If you’re wondering how to travel on a budget in Europe, I recommend visiting locations like the Ukraine, Bulgaria, and Romania.
  • Central America : Filled with beautiful locations, I definitely recommend checking out Mexico, Guatemala, and Nicaragua.
  • South America : Overall, it’s very easy to travel South America on a budget, especially if you visit countries like Bolivia, Columbia, Ecuador , Chile, and Peru.

Create Free Stopovers

The best way to travel to multiple destinations at no extra cost is to create free stopovers.

I personally did this on my flight from Japan to Canada . Once I noticed that the cheapest flight included a layover in Honolulu, I decided to extend that stopover (at no extra cost) to three days, and spent that time hiking the North Shore !

Picture of a viewpoint from one of the best hikes in Oahu - the blue ocean extending to the horizon, and a small neighborhood before the beach - where I went to travel as a college student

So, if you notice your flight has a layover, try extending it, and spend that time exploring a new destination. It’s one of the best hacks for traveling in college!

How to Save Money While You Travel as a Student

Finally, let’s talk about how you can travel on a budget, so you can stretch your limited funds as far as possible. While I have already written an article on how to travel without breaking the bank , here’s a summary of my best budget travel tips:

  • Use Student Discounts : One of the biggest perks of traveling as a student are the student discounts. From museums, art galleries, attractions, and more, always make sure to check for student discounts!
  • Find Cheap or Free Activities : One of the reasons why I love hiking and walking around new cities is because they’re free. By opting for the free or cheap activities, you can save a lot of money by the end of your trip. (And hey, if you’re a beginner hiker looking for some tips, click here for my article on the 15 essential beginner hiking tips! ).
  • Avoid Eating Out : While it’s okay to splurge on some delicious local food every once in a while, constantly eating out can really add up. By buying your own groceries and cooking your own food, you can save a lot of money in the long run!
  • Skip the Drinks : Even more expensive than constantly going to restaurants are opting for the alcoholic drinks. Once again, it’s totally fine to splurge every once in a while, but if you really want to stretch your dollar, it’s best to skip them when you can.

Several wine glasses and plate set-ups at a nice restaurant

  • Use Public Transportation (or better yet, walk !)
  • Book Overnight Transportation : A way to combine transportation and accommodation, booking an overnight train, bus, or airplane can help you save some money (perhaps at the expense of your comfort).

While travel may seem like an impossibility while you’re still in school, there are so many ways to find cheap vacations for college students! All in all, I hope this article inspired and helped you figure out new ways to travel.

Thanks for reading the article! If you have any questions, feel free to comment down below, and if you want to see more travel and hike-related content, make sure to check out my other articles.

Mia

Photos by Mia and Pixabay.

All the Ways You Can Travel as a Student - Even If You're Broke!

Planning a trip to Vancouver, and wondering what to do for free? Click here for the best Vancouver hikes , and here for the best hikes near Vancouver ! Or if you want to see within the city, click here for the ultimate (free) walking tour around Vancouver !

About to embark on a trip? Here are some helpful articles to make your trip as awesome and stress-free as possible:

  • How to Travel Without Breaking the Bank
  • 15 Things to Do Before a Trip

And here are some additional helpful links:

  • Click here for my walking tours
  • Click here for my hiking guides
  • Click here for more resources

Like this post? Share it!

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Mia is the founder of Walk a While with Me, a travel blog dedicated to sharing the best self-guided walking tours, travel itineraries, and hikes for destinations around the world. A keen traveler, she has visited more than 20 countries in the past six years. She is excited for you to follow along on her adventures!

One Comment

Good guide to travel for students! thanks

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

  • EN - English
  • PT - Portuguese
  • ES - Spanish
  • How it works
  • Become a Host
  • Download the app

Top Destinations

  • United States
  • United Kingdom

What type of experience are you looking for?

  • Non-Profit School
  • Permaculture project
  • Eco Village
  • Holistic Center
  • Guest House
  • How Worldpackers works

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Learn from the most experienced travelers of the community

Traveling with worldpackers, planning and budgeting for travel, make a living while traveling as a lifestyle, travel with worldpackers.

  • Using Worldpackers
  • Work exchange
  • Social impact
  • Plan your trip
  • Women traveling
  • Budget travel
  • Solo travel
  • Language learning
  • Travel tips
  • Get inspired
  • Digital nomads
  • Travel jobs
  • Personal development
  • Responsible travel
  • Connect with nature

Top destinations

  • South America
  • Central America
  • North America
  • More destinations
  • WP Life WP Life
  • Exclusive discounts Discounts

8 ways to travel more while in college

The college years are often an ideal time for travel — you are young, and you are not yet tied down to a job or family obligations. Here are 8 creative tips to travel more as a college student on a shoestring budget.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Dec 13, 2023

tips to travel more as a college student

Most college students are on tight budgets. The costs of tuition, fees, books, and room and board just seem to eat up most of the money they have, even with grants and loans.

Given this, travel seems almost out of the question. Who can afford transportation and lodging costs on top of all of the other expenses?

And yet, the college years are often an ideal time for travel — you are young, and you are not yet tied down to a job or family obligations. Additionally, you are much more willing to put up with inconveniences and less-than-high-end transport and accommodation.

The good news is that there are affordable ways to travel. First of all, there are many breathtaking but still budget-friendly destinations that students can afford.

However, if you want to get a bit creative and think "outside the box", we suggest using one of the following tips.

8 tips to travel more as a college student

1. take a summer job with a vacationing family in need of child care, 2. travel to foreign countries during their off-seasons, 3. jobs on cruise ships, 4. jobs at resorts, 5. saving and budgeting for end-of semester jaunts, 6. get a side gig for extra money, 7. travel cheap with a purpose, 8. going the traditional route.

Many families look for college students to come along with them on vacations, to entertain and care for their young kids. While this has traditionally been a job for females, more and more males are now getting in on this gig. 

This is by far the cheapest way to see new places because all of your travel and lodging expenses are paid for. Furthermore, you'll earn some spending money, and most families give their "nannies" some free time during the trips.

If you work this right, you might actually get a summer trip or two throughout your four years of college. A pretty great deal, actually!

Peak tourist seasons in Europe are late spring, summer, and a bit in the early fall. Going in the winter means great savings on airfares and hotels. Although you'll experience colder temperatures, the places you visit will also be far less crowded with tourists. 

Youth hostels stay open year-round and will save you even more!

Find travel inspiration with The best ideas for a gap year abroad .

Once this COVID-19 mess is finally over, cruise lines will get back to business as usual. Summer is their peak season, and while this summer may be a blowout, many lines are already booking cruises for 2021.

Most cruise lines use employment agencies to fill their openings, and if you are not afraid of some unskilled labor-intensive jobs, you might just fit the bill — housekeeping, bussing and washing dishes, deck and pool cleaning, etc. 

Prepare for very long workdays, but you will have some time when the ship docks at various places along its way!

Working at a resort is a great way to explore more of your own country on a budget. If you want to land a job at a resort, you'll have to be aggressive in your job search because these are very popular summer jobs for college students. 

If you can land a resort job in a different part of the country during each of your summer breaks, you can easily earn some spending for side trips on your days off.

One major life skill that you need to begin to develop in college is budgeting. It will serve you well throughout your life. And getting control of your money and your money mindset can make travel actually happen. 

If you really want to travel, then you need to be willing to do the hard budgeting work to make it happen. This means far fewer pizza and beer nights with friends; it means cooking your own meals and shopping at discount stores or resale shops; it means riding a bicycle and using public transportation instead of driving a car.

We can usually find the money to do the things we are really motivated to do, so examine your level of motivation and start to become a real scrooge. When semester break comes along, you just may have the money for that trip.

What salable skill or talent do you have? Can you repair computers? Are you a great writer? Can you tutor a certain subject? And, if not, how about cleaning dorm rooms or doing laundry? 

The reason gigs are better than a typical part-time job is two-fold. You can generally set your own hours of work, and you get paid in cash (my apologies to the IRS) — no taxes and social security payments coming out a paycheck. Stash that cash and enjoy a trip every so often.

For ways to make money while traveling, check out this blog !

If you have an interest in improving the world, there are a lot of international organizations looking for volunteers in underdeveloped nations. Consider taking a year off and becoming a volunteer. 

The benefits of volunteering are huge. First, you are serving a cause that is close to your heart; second, you are experiencing other cultures; third, it's a great way to include (and leverage) travel on your resume .

If you're looking to make a difference in the lives of others around the world, you can bet that Worldpackers has got you covered! Worldpackers supports educational, social, and environmental work in foreign countries. What better way to immerse yourself in a new culture than to live like a local while helping a good cause? 

Worldpackers exchange programs  offer a wide array of volunteer activities that you can exchange for accommodation and meals. You can browse through the list of experiences by country, host type, skills needed, length of stay, and trip style to find a volunteer program that suits your skills best.

With work exchange , social impact , and eco-programs available in over 100 countries, it may be difficult to select just one!

Your experience as a volunteer will be far different from that of a tourist, but the rewards will be great, as you will more immersed in local culture. 

There are student exchange programs and even internships, of course. But be mindful that, while these will give you amazing experiences, they can end up being very competitive and costly — even with partial grants. 

If you choose to go this route, do lots of research on all of the available programs before you sign on the dotted line!

How to travel the world while in college

In the end..

Life becomes busy and full of responsibility once college ends. There's no other time in your life that you will be this young, this free and flexible, and this willing to take some risk.

Don't let the opportunity to travel pass you by — use these eight tips and get out there!

Join the community.

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Daniela McVicker

Daniela McVicker is a freelance writer, blogger, and contributor to TopWritersReview. She graduated from Durham University and has an MA in psychological science. Her passion is traveling and finding ways to enrich students’ learning experiences.

Be part of the Worldpackers Community

Already have an account, are you a host, leave your comment here.

Write here your questions and greetings to the author

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Apr 27, 2021

how to travel for cheap as a college student

May 26, 2021

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Jul 12, 2021

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Jul 27, 2021

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Dec 24, 2021

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Sep 11, 2021

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Oct 17, 2021

HOW TO CONTACT YOU.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Nov 16, 2021

Interesting and quite real. 💯

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Dec 18, 2021

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Mar 11, 2022

Mar 16, 2022

Apr 01, 2023

Hello. I'm a host of volunteers from Tanzania.

Apr 18, 2023

1. Join a Program: Several university-related programs are out there to facilitate student travel experiences while in college. Look into programs like the Gilman Scholarship, faculty-led trips, and international student tours. 2. Get Local: Instead of flying to a new location, consider focusing on exploring your environment and nearby cities. See if there are any student discounts or deals that you can take advantage of. 3. Take Breaks: As a student, you can break up your studies with weekend trips or extended vacations. That way, you can get a change of scenery and learn more about the world without missing any classes. 4. Carpool: If you’re going on a road trip, pool your resources with other students and split the cost of gas, food, and other expenses. 5. Work While You Travel: Instead of returning to your home campus for summer breaks and holidays, take advantage of internships and other short-term job opportunities that allow you to travel and make money in the process. 6. Couchsurf or House Sit: Sites like couchsurfing.com and housesitters.com are great ways to find a place to stay while traveling without having to pay for accommodation. 7. Take Advantage of Student Travel Deals: Airlines, hotels, and some vacation packages often offer discounts for students. Keep an eye out for any available promotions and take advantage of them. 8. Consider Lower-Cost Accommodation: AirBnb, Couchsurfing, hostels, and campgrounds can all be great budget-friendly options for accommodations while you’re traveling.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Jul 10, 2023

Very nice I would like to volunteer

More about this topic

how to travel for cheap as a college student

7 amazing gap year ideas with Worldpackers

how to travel for cheap as a college student

How to take a gap year and gain career experience while having the time of your life

how to travel for cheap as a college student

What is a gap year? What are the best things to do during a gap year?

how to travel for cheap as a college student

How do Worldpackers trips work?

As a member, you can contact as many hosts and travel safely as many times as you want.

Choose your plan to travel with Worldpackers as many times as you like.

Complete your profile, watch the video lessons in the Academy, and earn certificates to stand out to hosts.

Apply to as many positions as you like, and get in contact with our verified hosts.

If a host thinks you’re a good fit for their position, they’ll pre-approve you.

Get your documents and tickets ready for your volunteer trip.

Confirm your trip to enjoy all of the safety of Worldpackers.

Have a transformative experience and make a positive impact on the world.

If anything doesn’t go as planned with a host, count on the WP Safeguard and our highly responsive support team!

After volunteering, you and your host exchange reviews.

With positive reviews, you’ll stand out to hosts and get even more benefits.

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

The 15 Best Websites for Cheap, Discount Student Flights [2024]

Katie Seemann's image

Katie Seemann

Senior Content Contributor and News Editor

333 Published Articles 37 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 28 U.S. States Visited: 29

Keri Stooksbury's image

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

29 Published Articles 3048 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

The 15 Best Websites for Cheap, Discount Student Flights [2024]

Pros and Cons of StudentUniverse

Pros and cons of cheapoair student fares, pros and cons of onetravel, pros and cons of smartfares, 5. cathay pacific student discounts, 6. emirates student discounts, 7. etihad student discounts, 8. klm student discounts, 9. lufthansa generation fly, 10. qatar student club, 11. singapore airlines student discounts, 12. srilankan airlines student special, 13. turkish airlines student discounts, 14. united airlines discounts for 18-22-year-olds, 15. virgin atlantic student discounts, price comparisons, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Knowing the best website to use when booking a flight can save you a bundle of money. And if you are a student, you might be inclined to seek out websites that offer special deals to young travelers.

With so many options, it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to find the best prices, so we set out to make the ultimate list of where to find the best student discounts on flights to save you time when it comes to booking a trip.

1. StudentUniverse

StudentUniverse offers flights, hotels, and tours to students.

You have to become a member to access exclusive discounts, but thankfully, it’s a free membership. However, if you don’t want to join as a member, you can still complete a booking as a guest. Many student deals require a membership and are only valid for students ages 16 to 34.

Student Universe flight search results

Regardless of your student status, you’ll be able to access special promo codes that are occasionally offered right on the site.

You can also set up an alert on StudentUniverse that will track the prices for your selected itinerary and email you when there’s a price change.

Unfortunately, StudentUniverse sometimes charges fees, so be sure to check the details of your price to see if you’re actually saving money or not.

  • Plentiful promo codes are available right on the website
  • Booking fees
  • Many deals require you to be a student between the ages of 16 to 34

Bottom Line: StudentUniverse offers discounted flights to students. Keep an eye out for promo codes to save some extra money.

2. CheapOair 

Did you know that CheapOair has a special section dedicated to student travel? To access the student section of the website, select More in the top menu bar, then select Student Travel .

CheapOair Student section

CheapOair’s sorting and filtering features are good but you’ll want to keep an eye out for extra fees . In addition to a service fee of up to $35 on most flights (business class and first class ticket fees can be as high as $150) you may also run into “post-ticketing fees” that include things like cancellation and change fees.

Hot Tip: If you have to cancel your flight, CheapOair will charge a fee in addition to any airline fee you may be charged. You can avoid this fee if you purchase a “support package.”

  • Available promo codes include discounts on the cost of a flight or service fees
  • Service fees of up to $35 on most economy tickets and up to $150 on other types of tickets, including multi-city, business, or cities with high fraud rates
  • Cancellation fees will be charged unless you purchase a support package

Hot Tip: For more information, check out our detailed guide to CheapOair .

3. OneTravel

OneTravel is a fairly typical online travel agency offering flights, hotels, and vacation packages.

Students will be interested in the  student deals section of the website. You can access it by clicking on More > Travel by Theme > Student Travel .

OneTravel

Unfortunately, we didn’t find any extra student discounts or deals when searching for flights through the student section of the website.

While OneTravel has good search capabilities with nice sorting and filtering options, there wasn’t much that made it unique. You also could run into additional fees. OneTravel can charge a service fee of up to $35 on most economy flights, although the fee can be higher on some flights. Plus, you’ll pay additional fees if you need to change or cancel your flight.

To see if you’ll save money in spite of these fees, scroll down to our price comparisons section.

OneTravel also offers its own credit card . Students might be tempted to apply to earn points on their purchases, but there are better options out there .

If you have some established credit , consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card , which is a solid option that will work well for most people. If you’re looking for more of a first-time rewards card , consider the Chase Freedom Unlimited ® . This card earns 1.5% cash-back on all purchases and occasionally offers an additional cash-back amount as part of a welcome offer, so you could earn even more cash-back.

Either of these cards will offer benefits above and beyond what the OneTravel card can offer.

Hot Tip: If you are looking for a credit card geared specifically toward students, check out our guide to the best student credit cards .

  • No requirements for using the student section of the website
  • Promo codes offered
  • Booking fees ranging from $35 to $150 per ticket
  • Student section doesn’t really offer discounts above and beyond the rest of the website

4. SmartFares

SmartFares is a little-known online travel agency that claims to have special student fares — but in reality, they appear to be the same as those offered on the non-student section of the website with the exception of an occasional coupon code.

SmartFares

However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t save money. If you’ve got the time and patience to pick up the phone, you can call in to access lower fares .

Additionally, there are lots of extra fees that could get tacked on to your fare that you should keep an eye out for. SmartFares charges for a flexible ticket, for seat selection, and for post-purchase customer service. Plus, there are service fees on most flights of up to $30, although some tickets can have fees as high as $100.

  • Free cancellation within 24 hours
  • There are service fees on every ticket ranging from $30 to $100
  • There are additional fees for seat selection fees and post-purchase customer service

Airline-Specific Student Discounts

Many specific airlines offer student perks and discounts. Many of these programs have specific requirements and may require proof of student status, so please check with the individual program for details.

Students flying Cathay Pacific can access fare discounts, extra baggage allowance, and free ticket changes by using the promo codes HKSTUDENT or HKSTUPLUS (expires March 31, 2023).

Students who fly Emirates can save up to 10% on fares booked by September 30, 2022, with the promo code STUDENT. Additional perks like extra baggage allowance and flexible options for flight changes are also available (expires March 31, 2023).

Students flying with Etihad can access discounts through January 31, 2023, with promo code STU10. Perks include a savings of 10% on economy tickets or 5% on business tickets, an additional checked bag allowance, and a free date change (expires January 31, 2023).

KLM offers discounted student tickets for students traveling to or from a university abroad. Benefits include 2 checked bags and a flexible ticket that can be changed up until the departure of the ticket’s first flight.

Generation Fly is an exclusive program for students through Lufthansa that guarantees the lowest prices on Lufthansa flights. Student fares are only available from the U.S., Mainland China, Hong Kong, India, Thailand, Singapore, and South Korea. A bonus of these student fares is that they include 1 free checked bag !

Students who join Qatar Student Club will have access to perks like discounted fares, extra baggage allowance, date change flexibility, complimentary Wi-Fi, a student companion pass, and a Privilege Club tier upgrade as a graduation gift.

Flyers who verify their student status in their KrisFlyer account will gain access to special student privileges , including discounted airfare, AN additional baggage allowance, and a fee waiver for your first booking change.

Students flying SriLankan Airlines can get 10% cash-back on the first ticket purchased and 15% cash-back on the second through fifth ticket purchased, plus extra baggage allowance on tickets purchased through March 31, 2023.

Students looking for discounts on Turkish Airlines should create a Miles&Smiles student account . Once your student status is approved you’ll have access to benefits like flight discounts, 1 free ticket change, lower bag fees, 25% more miles earned through 2022, and an extra 1,000 welcome bonus miles.

United Airlines offers discounted fares for 18-22-year-olds by selecting “Discounted travel (18-22)” during the booking process (expires December 31, 2023).

Students can access Virgin Atlantic discounts using StudentBeans . After creating an account, students are eligible for discounts of £40 to £70 per flight.

Since most students are just looking for cheap airfare, the price is really the most important thing. Let’s take a look at these sites to see how they stack up in terms of cost alone.

We’ve also priced out these itineraries on Kayak , a metasearch engine, to get a sense of how other websites that don’t cater to students might stack up.

Example #1: Roundtrip flight for 1 from New York to London

Example #2: Roundtrip flight for 1 from Chicago to Miami

In both examples, the prices found on Kayak were the lowest. While prices can vary so that won’t always be the case, students may want to look at some non-student-focused online travel agencies and websites to save money on flights .

With so many online travel agencies out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to look for the best prices on student flights. Unfortunately, there is no single right answer for every situation — it’s always smart to shop around for the best prices.

When looking for student discounts, start with websites that offer special student fares and coupon codes. You might be able to find a great deal that will get you traveling — even on a student budget!

If you also need to save some money on accommodations, check out these websites for student discounts on hostels and hotels .

Frequently Asked Questions

Do airlines offer student discounts on flights.

Most airlines don’t directly offer student discounts on flights anymore. Lufthansa is one exception — they offer student flights through Generation Fly. The requirements to book through Generation Fly include having an official email address from a higher education institution.

Do I have to be a student to book a student fare?

It depends on the website. Some sites like Generation Fly require you to be a student with a valid email address, while other sites like SmartFares and OneTravel don’t require you to be a student at all.

Can you use StudentUniverse if you aren't a student?

Yes, StudentUniverse offers their services to any travelers, although some deals are reserved for students only.

Does Southwest offer student discounts?

No, Southwest doesn’t offer student discounts on flights. However, the airline’s low fares, free checked bag policy, and fee-free changes will make it a great option for students. Southwest Airlines flights won’t show up on third party websites so you’ll need to go directly to southwest.com to find flights.

Was this page helpful?

About Katie Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Deluxe Travel Provided by UP Pulse

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

Upgraded Points Series: An Extensive Guide to Travel Resources

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

Get student discounts on KAYAK .

We get it, you’re on a tight budget. As in, instant ramen is one of your main food groups. But just because your bank account got blown on textbooks this year, doesn’t mean an epic trip is out of the question.

That’s why KAYAK partners with travel companies that offer discounts on flights specifically for college students and travelers under the age of 26. Kick off a flight search to see if a sweet discount is available for your trip.

frame-1283sponsors-1

How to find cheap flights for students on KAYAK .

Enter your origin, destination and select “students” instead of “adults” as your traveler option.

Sort by cheapest to see which partners offer the lowest price. If it’s one of our student providers, they’ll rise to the top.

Check out all the flights our partners offer and book the one that is best for you.

Search discounted flights for students now .

frame-1284

Sign up to never miss a deal.

Get travel inspiration – and deals – every week, straight to your inbox.

By signing up you agree to our privacy policy .

Find cheap flights to top destinations .

KAYAK searches for flight deals on hundreds of travel sites to help you find the cheapest options. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute flight or planning ahead, you can find flight deals on KAYAK.

Cheap students flights to Europe

Cheap students flights to London

Cheap students flights to Boston

Cheap students flights to San Francisco

Cheap students flights to Houston

Cheap students flights to Asia

Cheap students flights to Beijing

Cheap students flights to Chicago

Cheap students flights to Philadelphia

Cheap students flights to Atlanta

Cheap students flights to New York

Cheap students flights to India

Cheap students flights to Los Angeles

Cheap students flights to Dallas

Cheap students flights to Cancún

  • How we work
  • Hotel owners
  • Advertise with us
  • Airline fees
  • Low fare tips
  • Badges & Certificates
  • Terms & Conditions

California consumers have the right to opt out of the sale * of their personal information. For more information on how we securely process personal information, please see our Privacy Policy .

Do not sell my info ON

* The definition of "sale" under the California Consumer Privacy Act is applicable only to California consumers.

  • Work with me

Daisy Linden

A wife, a mother, a writer

  • How to travel as a college student: 10 ways to travel cheap
  • Inspiration

young woman taking selfie in milan

Usually, students try to avoid extra-expends. That’s right – not all of you have spare cash, while traveling might seem an unnecessary luxury. However, when you are so young and inspired, isn’t it the best time to see the world? Don’t you want to taste some exotic food and meet foreign people? How about learning about another culture from within? That’s exciting! And we bet you dream about all of this.

If you stay at home because traveling is too expensive for you, we have good news – it might be cheaper than you think. With travel hacks and knowledge, you will make your dream come true. Eating a croissant for breakfast in Paris or catching a few rays on Bali – both are more than possible. In this post, we will discuss cheap student traveling and some easy ways to save some cheddar while enjoying your unforgettable vacations abroad.

Do some research

Take your time and do some research first. If you want to go skiing in the snowy mountains, the Swiss Alps seem to be very appealing. However, there are more places where you can find amazing landscapes and ski areas, like Central America or Southeast Asia. Obviously, they are significantly cheaper than elite options like the Alps. Also, do some research to find out which time is the best for traveling. Both tickets and living are less expensive at the low season.

Volunteer in exchange for accommodation

Some hostels offer free beds (and, sometimes, even food) for volunteering. If you are ready to do some light cooking, gardening, and helping visitors, you can get a place in a hostel for as long as you want. There are organizations like Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms where you have a chance to do some farming in exchange for a houseroom.

Benefit from flights for students

Find traveling companies that offer low rates for students. As a rule, they provide low-cost tickets as well as a dwelling, and even excursions. If you decide to travel by plane, make sure to find out if they have student travel discounts.

Try ridesharing

Numerous services match riders and drivers who are traveling around the world. This is a great option to save money while you are on the road. As for the expenses, in most cases, you will travel in a car with other people and chip in together to pay the driver.

Don’t chuck your studies

If you are going abroad for a long time, sign up to continue studying. Colleges and universities usually have partnerships and programs in different countries. All you need is to make some efforts in search and click to read more information about these programs. Consider studying abroad as an option – who knows, maybe this is the best step to take.

Ask your friends and family about the contacts abroad

If you have already chosen the destination, ask your family and friends if they have someone they know there. Who knows, maybe, they have a free bed for you? If they don’t, perhaps, they know people who do. At least you will have someone to meet there during your stay.

Make a Facebook search

If you cannot find anyone who lives at the place you are traveling to, you may expand your search and check social media. Ask your friends if they have someone who lives there and they might ask their friends. Social media is an efficient connector!

Travel with a friend

Traveling with your buddy , you will save a lot of money, since you will have a chance to split the expenses for food and room. Traveling together is always cheaper and safer.

Don’t eat in cafeterias and restaurants too much

At least don’t eat there every day. Of course, you want to taste some Italian pizza or Chinese curry – it is totally worth it. Eat out for a couple of times a week and go to the supermarkets at all other times.

Use public transport only

During college travel, students usually feel excited and want to see everything fast. Trying to learn the metro map and understand which bus to take and where to get out might seem daunting. However, don’t be lazy and fight the temptation to ride taxis! Cabs will gobble your precious dollars up.

As you can see, there are many ways to make your trips easier and cheaper. Before you start packing your things, do research, and find the best destination. Travel during the low season – this will help you save money. All in all, Amsterdam or Rome are not less beautiful in winter! Also, make sure to choose traveling companies and airlines that provide discounts for students. Then ask your relatives and friends if they have someone they know in the city you have chosen – maybe they have some dwelling options. Don’t forget about volunteering in hostels as well! When you are already there, try to cut expenses for cafes and Uber. With these tips at hand, you will definitely visit a country of your dream without heavy expenditures!

Related Posts

Mom feeding baby, milk formula

Goat milk vs. cow milk formulas: a comprehensive comparison for new parents

assorted color bags shop

Immersive cultural experiences: discovering the soul of a destination

happy family enjoying lunch time together at restaurant

The best family-friendly restaurants on the East Coast

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

College Fashion

How to Travel As a College Student: 7 Ways to Travel Cheap in College

Here’s how to see the world while still paying for college.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you purchase through our links. Please read our full disclosure here .

How to travel as a college student - best ways to travel cheap in college

It can seem like everyone is traveling in their early twenties. After all, social media is full of photos of people standing in front of the Eiffel Tower or lying on the beach in Greece. But when you’re trying to pay for college, seeing the world can seem out of the question.

If you’re a wannabe world traveler who thinks that it’s too expensive to travel in college, don’t despair! Read on to discover how to travel as a college student without going into (more) debt.

Table of Contents

1. Go on a Trip with a Club

How to travel in college - go on a trip with a club. Photo of a Campsite with sun shining through trees.

Check with some clubs you’re interested in to see if they take any trips during breaks or on weekends. Often, these trips are payed for using funds from the club account, so they’re completely or almost free!

For example, last semester I went backpacking for a week with my school’s outdoor club. They provided us with food, supplies, and transportation from Wisconsin to Georgia, all completely free! This is a great way to travel cheap.

Depending on how big your school is and whether or not you’re a member of the club, getting a spot on club trips may be fairly competitive. However, it’s worth a try if you want a free way to get off campus and see a new place.

2. Organize a Road Trip

Friends in car.

If you or someone you know owns a car, you could get a group together and plan a road trip!

With a car full of people splitting costs, this can be a great way to travel inexpensively. Save money by eating some of your meals at grocery stores and staying at hostels or campgrounds.

(Also, be sure to see our guide for how to pack for a road trip for full tips!)

3. Stay with Friends

How to travel in college - pic of Friends laughing at the beach.

If friends are from out of town and are going home for a break or a weekend, ask if you can join them. This is one of our favorite ways to travel cheap, plus it’s great bonding time with your friends!

This way, your food and lodging will be free, and you’ll be able to see their city like a local. In exchange, don’t forget to help them out with chores and respect their schedule.

4. Go to a Conference

How to travel as a college student - go to a conference

If a department that you’re involved in is organizing a trip to a conference, sign up to attend! Not only will you get to see a new area, but you’ll also get to learn more about a subject that you’re interested in and network.

While most of your time will be spent attending the conference, you will probably have your evenings free to explore the city.

5. Join a Frequent Flyer Program

Ways to travel cheap - join a frequent flyer program. Traveler pulling a suitcase through airport.

If you go to school out of state, you probably fly a lot. It is likely worth it to set up a frequent flyer account to get some miles that could be saved up for a fun trip.

6. Plan Summer Internships with Location in Mind

Young woman sitting, looking at city skyline.

If you’re planning to get a job or internship over the summer, consider finding one in a city that you haven’t been to yet. You could even intern abroad.

Wondering where to stay? Try to find internships that provide free housing. Some internships will also give you a gas stipend or subway card to help you get around.

Spending a summer working in a new city gives you plenty of time to become familiar with a new place.

7. Study Abroad

How to travel in college: Study abroad. Student taking photos of historic building.

While obvious, don’t forget about studying abroad. This is the most popular tip for how to travel as a college student, because it’s actually affordable much of the time. Depending on your school, studying abroad can cost the same amount of money as a normal semester at college.

Additionally, there are plenty of scholarships for students studying abroad that you can apply for to cover extra costs like airfare.

What are your tips for how to travel as a college student?

Were these ideas helpful? How do you travel in college? What are your favorite ways to travel cheap in general? Let us know in the comments!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Many of the offers appearing on this site are from advertisers from which this website receives compensation for being listed here. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). These offers do not represent all available deposit, investment, loan or credit products.

12 Ways To Get Cheap Flights for College Students

Cynthia Measom

As a college student, you likely know you are eligible for a variety of discounts on things like entertainment, retail shopping, electronics and insurance. But you might not know that student discounts also extend to travel . The problem is, sometimes those discounts aren’t advertised.

With airfare starting to rise, it’s important to take advantage of every bit of savings you can when booking a flight. Rather than quickly searching online and taking what you can get, use these tips to get the best price available. From pulling out your student ID to searching for flights by day of the week, here are 12 ways to get cheap flights for college students.

Use Your Student ID

“Many airlines offer discounts to students,” said Fred Hoffman, founder and chief editor at The True Wilderness . “All you have to do is show your student ID when you book your flight or at the airport.”

Some airlines that offer student discounts include Delta, United and Virgin Atlantic.

Use StudentUniverse

“As a travel consultant, I encourage students to check out StudentUniverse for flight deals,” said Katrina Warren, CEO and lead consultant for Alexandrian Consulting . “This website is tailored to students who would like to travel during breaks. Some schools, like Stanford, have partnered with StudentUniverse and have a portal just for their students.”

Use Student Beans

“This is one of my favorite discount websites for students,” said Warren. “They offer discounts for a variety of online stores. They also have deals with airlines like Qatar Airways where students can receive up to 20% off. Students will also receive discounts when using Booking.com and eDreams.”

Use ScholarTrip

“Another student air travel site is ScholarTrip,” Warren said. “A unique benefit of this site is that they allow you to book your flights and pay them off monthly.”

Download the Hopper App

“For those students who prefer cell phone apps for flight deals, I encourage them to check out Hopper, which will allow you to track flights in addition to having a colorful way to see which days are cheaper,” said Warren. 

Search for Flights in Incognito Mode

“When you search for flights in your web browser, the prices you see might be tailored to your search history,” said Hoffman. “To avoid this, search for flights in incognito or private browsing mode. This way, the prices you see will be based on the average price for that route and not inflated due to your browsing history.”

Use Google Flight’s Explore Feature

“This tool has saved me thousands over the years,” said Katie Cafaro owner of Katie Caf Travel . “With the Explore function, you can see what any destination in the world costs to fly to from your point of departure.”

Cafaro added, “I remember I used Explore in 2019 when I was trying to fly from New York to Marrakech, Morocco. If I searched flights from New York to Marrakech they were all $1,000 or more, but using Google Flight’s Explore tool I was able to see that a flight from New York to Amsterdam was only $300. From Amsterdam, a flight to Marrakech was only $200! I was able to save over $300 by booking my flight in two separate legs with Google Flight’s Explore feature rather than booking as one flight with layovers.”

Fly During Shoulder Season

“Shoulder season is the period between the peak and off-peak travel times,” said Hoffman. “Flying during shoulder season can often lead to cheaper flights as there is less demand from travelers. For example, flying to Europe in the spring or fall can often be cheaper than flying during the summer.”

Consider the Day of Week When Booking a Flight

“Be flexible with your dates, if possible, to find a cheaper flight,” said Mark and Kristen Morgan, creators of Where Are Those Morgans . “For example, flying on a Saturday or Sunday will usually be much more expensive compared to flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Always check prices for different days before you book.”

Consider the Time of Day When Booking a Flight

“Another tip to save on flights is to book either the first or last flights of the day as they tend to be priced lower, according to the 2022 CheapAir.com Domestic Airfare Study,” said Jeff Klee, CEO of CheapAir.com . An added benefit of early morning flights is that they also tend to be on time more often.

Consider Booking Flights Earlier Rather Than Later

“The best day to buy flights fluctuates year over year,” Klee said. “This year, the best day to purchase a domestic flight for the best deal is approximately 76 days out from your travel date, per the 2022 CheapAir.com Domestic Airfare Study.”

Consider Budget Airlines

“Fly with budget airlines when possible,” said the Morgans. “But understand you must always read the fine print. These budget airlines make their money by charging extra for both a cabin bag and/or checked bag. Budget airlines work best for minimalistic travelers.”

More From GOBankingRates

  • The Single Best Thing To Buy at Aldi in March 2024
  • 10 Cars That Outlast the Average Vehicle
  • This is One of the Best Ways to Boost Your Retirement Savings in 2024
  • 6 Things You Should Never Do With Your Tax Refund (Do This Instead)

Share This Article:

  • How To Save Money Fast
  • How To Save $10,000 in 3 Months
  • How To Save $10,000 in a Year

Best Ways To Save Your Money

  • Best Ways To Save Money
  • Best Clever Ways To Save Money
  • Best Ideas To Save Money Each Month
  • Best Frugal Living Tips To Help You Save Money
  • Best Tips and Tricks for Saving Money
  • Best Money-Saving Challenges
  • Best Budgeting Apps

Related Content

6 Key Signs That Indicate You Can Afford Luxury Travel

6 Key Signs That Indicate You Can Afford Luxury Travel

March 22, 2024

5 Ways To Save Money Traveling to Europe in 2024 According to Locals

5 Ways To Save Money Traveling to Europe in 2024 According to Locals

5 Cheap Ways to Travel Around the US

5 Cheap Ways to Travel Around the US

9 Habits of Frugal People To Apply Every Time You Travel

9 Habits of Frugal People To Apply Every Time You Travel

5 Ways To Save on Cellphone Costs When Traveling Internationally

5 Ways To Save on Cellphone Costs When Traveling Internationally

If Your Debit Card Expires While You’re Traveling, Do These 7 Things

If Your Debit Card Expires While You're Traveling, Do These 7 Things

Major Airlines Are Raising Baggage Fees — 5 Tricks To Avoid Paying Them

Major Airlines Are Raising Baggage Fees -- 5 Tricks To Avoid Paying Them

4 Ways AI Travel Assistants Can Save You Money on Your Next Vacation

4 Ways AI Travel Assistants Can Save You Money on Your Next Vacation

Thinking of Going to Miami Beach for Spring Break? Why the City Has Spent $250,000 To Keep You Out

Thinking of Going to Miami Beach for Spring Break? Why the City Has Spent $250,000 To Keep You Out

Dave Ramsey: 9 Hidden Costs of Hotel Stays when Traveling

Dave Ramsey: 9 Hidden Costs of Hotel Stays when Traveling

March 15, 2024

Off-Season Cruising: The Secret to Saving Big on Your Next Voyage

Off-Season Cruising: The Secret to Saving Big on Your Next Voyage

Ways to Save on These 5 Vacation Splurges

Ways to Save on These 5 Vacation Splurges

The 7 Best New and Affordable Places To Travel in 2024

The 7 Best New and Affordable Places To Travel in 2024

Dave Ramsey: How To Save For a Vacation in 6 Easy Steps

Dave Ramsey: How To Save For a Vacation in 6 Easy Steps

March 14, 2024

5 Ways To Travel Cheap With ‘Destination Dupes’

5 Ways To Travel Cheap With 'Destination Dupes'

I Quit My Job To Travel in My 30s — 4 Money Mistakes To Beware of Before Doing the Same

I Quit My Job To Travel in My 30s -- 4 Money Mistakes To Beware of Before Doing the Same

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Sign Up For Our Free Newsletter!

Get advice on achieving your financial goals and stay up to date on the day's top financial stories.

By clicking the 'Subscribe Now' button, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy . You can click on the 'unsubscribe' link in the email at anytime.

Thank you for signing up!

how to travel for cheap as a college student

BEFORE YOU GO

See today's best banking offers.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Sending you timely financial stories that you can bank on.

Sign up for our daily newsletter for the latest financial news and trending topics.

For our full Privacy Policy, click here .

1pximage

Traveling as a Student [Guide + Infographic]

how to travel for cheap as a college student

As the famous saying goes, “the world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” This is the reason why numerous people decide to leave their homes and go on a voyage around the world. It’s about seeing new places, having exciting experiences, and learning more about ourselves and the world around us. Every destination is unique and exciting.

The picture lists some of the benefits of traveling while you are a student.

This article will:

  • Talk about 5 ways to travel abroad while studying at college.
  • Offer some practical tips for traveling on a budget.
  • Give valuable advice on travel etiquette.
  • ✅ Student Traveling: the Benefits
  • 💸 Saving Money for a Trip
  • ✈️ Traveling Abroad while Studying at College
  • 🎒 Practical Traveling Tips
  • 🛄 Travel Etiquette Infographic
  • 🌍 Student-Friendly Countries

✅ The Benefits of Traveling as a Student

When you’re a student, you want to have fun and make memories that last forever. One of the best ways to do it is to go on a trip.

Because traveling is a rewarding experience that can change your life.

Exploring new places is important for education, and it benefits you in several ways:

  • It allows you to step outside your comfort zone. While the idea of visiting a different country is exciting, you may feel anxious about doing it. Traveling encourages you to explore. You learn a lot in unexpected and unfamiliar situations. It can be daunting at first, but things get easier as you figure out how to navigate new environments.
  • It widens your horizons. Traveling allows you to experience new things, meet interesting people, and explore beautiful places. All in all, it makes you more open-minded.
  • It helps you to become more self-reliant and confident. When you travel, you are challenged to do things on your own. Overcoming various obstacles along the way will help you gain experience, confidence, and independence.
  • It encourages you to learn new things. The more you see while traveling, the more you want to explore. Traveling enables you to learn more about various cultures, languages, and cuisines.
  • It improves your cultural sensitivity and compassion. Traveling makes you more perceptive of other people’s mentalities. It teaches you to shift perspectives and see where someone else is coming from.
  • It allows you to get immersed in another language. Living abroad is a great way to learn a new language. You are not only practicing your skills every day but also get immersed in the culture of that language.
  • It creates opportunities for networking and meeting new people. Visiting different countries allows you to make new friends or create valuable connections with people from across the globe.
  • It leads to better academic performance . Traveling is the best teacher. You get the first-hand experience, which is more valuable than theoretical knowledge. This can even improve your grades!
  • It enhances your communication and social skills. When you travel, you are likely to talk to the locals. You may want to make some new friends, or you may just ask for directions. All this allows you to improve your social skills and become more confident.
  • It leaves you with good stories to tell. More experience means more stories to share with other people.
  • It increases your creativity . Experiencing new things can spark interesting ideas and make you more imaginative.
  • It boosts your problem-solving skills. When you travel, you make numerous decisions along the way. It allows you to improve your critical thinking.
  • It inspires you. Exploring a new place can fill you with energy and enthusiasm to pursue your dreams or make a change.

💸 How to Start Traveling when You’re a Broke College Student

When you are a broke student, you may be thinking that traveling is something you can’t afford. That couldn’t be further from the truth! It just means you need to develop such skills as goal-planning and money-saving. Below is a short plan of what you can do.

The picture contains a list of tips on budget student traveling.

  • Choose a place you want to go to and make visiting it your long-term goal. This can motivate you as well as give you some time to prepare and think everything through.
  • Learn budgeting and money-saving skills. When you’re traveling as a student, it’s essential to keep track of the budget. Before visiting a foreign country, try to calculate how much money you will need for living expenses. Consider things such as transportation fees, accommodation, sightseeing, and food. If you don’t have enough money, start saving up!
  • avoid buying things you don’t really need;
  • use inexpensive, high-quality food products,
  • cook for yourself instead of eating out,
  • save your change,
  • use students discount,
  • reduce transportation costs.
  • Create a savings account that is separate from your main bank account. It will help you be smart and intentional with your money. You can also download a budgeting tool such as Budget Planner to keep track of your expenses.
  • Find extra ways to make money. Consider a part-time job or a suitable side-hustle. That way, you can get some extra cash and also gain some work experience.

✈️ 5 Ways to Travel Abroad while Studying at College

Sometimes you may think that there is no right time for a student to travel. The summer break is months away, and it’s even longer till you graduate.

Can’t wait to experience new places? There is a way out for you.

Below you’ll find 5 best options for students to experience other cultures while being enrolled in a college.

Just choose the one you like best.

The picture contains a list of tips on traveling abroad for college students.

  • Self-planned trips during college breaks. Traveling in the off-season is probably the easiest way to visit a country and learn about its culture. It will also help you change your environment and see things from a different perspective.
  • Short mission trips. Mission trips are focused on collaborating with local communities. Most of these trips are religious, and you may need time to prepare. You will learn about the ministry experience, practice spiritual discipline, and read the Scripture. If you find these things interesting, then this option may be suitable for you. Mission trips are usually managed by organizations such as Royal Servants, The World Race, etc.
  • gather the necessary legal documents;
  • get familiar with your responsibilities and the project;
  • research required and recommended vaccines for your destination;
  • pack only essential things.
  • It helps to network globally;
  • It allows you to live anywhere in the world;
  • It provides you with a chance to learn a new language;
  • It adds a unique point to your CV;
  • It helps you develop communication skills.
  • Summer jobs abroad. Taking up summer jobs can also be a great way to get some valuable experience in a foreign country. For instance, you can join a summer camp, teach English, or work as an au pair.

🎒 Practical Traveling Tips for Students

Now, you’re all set to start budgeting and saving money.

But what about the journey itself?

You probably want to know how to make the most of it while traveling on a budget. Well, you’re in luck: we’ve prepared some excellent tips for you on how to plan and prepare for the trip.

  • Plan your trip in advance. It’s best to make all the necessary reservations and prepare checklists of the things you want to take with you. Doing so will help you organize your trip and avoid problems and unnecessary expenses.
  • Have a dream destination list. In order to see as much as possible, you can make a list of every place you want to visit in your destination. Just think of the museums, galleries, streets, restaurants, and attractions you plan to see and write them down.
  • Study the culture of your destination beforehand. When you travel abroad, it’s a good idea to learn a little about the place’s culture and look up some essential words in the dictionary. You will know what to expect, how to behave, where to eat, and what places to visit.
  • Book your hotel or apartment in advance . Prices change with the season, and early reservations can save you a lot of money. Try not to waste your time and plan everything beforehand. It will allow you to learn more about student discounts, find cheaper accommodations, and discover more affordable transportation options.
  • Get the International Student Identification Card. As a student, you have many benefits. It will be extremely helpful if you learn how to use them. For instance, an ISIC card offers various benefits such as discounts on attractions, museums, and transportation.
  • Plan transportation. When you come to a foreign country, you have to navigate unfamiliar places.Consider every option you have: buses, trains, and alternative transport. It’s best to plan your routes in advance and create opportunities for yourself to get off the beaten path.
  • Make friends with the locals. Traveling is not only about visiting historical places, but it is also about meeting new people. By making friends with the locals , you can learn more about their culture and language. It’s an excellent opportunity to socialize and become more confident. So, always be friendly, and learn at least a couple of useful phrases in the local language.

🛄 Travel Etiquette [Infographic]

Knowing how to behave while traveling is an integral part of preparation. In some countries, things you consider appropriate are forbidden, and vice versa. This is travel etiquette – a set of codes and rules a person should follow while traveling. Knowing them will save you time and trouble, as well as enhance your experience. Below we’ve outlined some crucial dos and don’ts of international traveling.

The infographic describes international etiquette tips for students.

🌍 Bonus: Top Student-Friendly Countries

Countries such as France, Switzerland, and Norway can be pricy for most students to visit. If the flight there doesn’t break the bank, then accommodation, food, and tours surely will. Luckily, some countries are accessible, safe, and budget-friendly.

The picture lists five most student-friendly countries.

  • China. Beijing and Shanghai are two cities in China that are excellent for students. You can find affordable accommodations (around $10 a night) in both cities and enjoy some excellent food. Visiting historical and cultural sites is also not a problem. Day trips to popular destinations such as The Great Wall of China are affordable, and there are many ways to get there.
  • India. In India, you will find affordable accommodation and enjoy delicious, inexpensive meals. While flights to India can be expensive, you can easily find inclusive tours and flight deals. There are numerous historical places for you to visit, such as the Taj Mahal and the beaches of Goa. You may also consider experiencing cities like New Delhi and Mumbai.
  • The Netherlands. The majority of Western European countries are too expensive for most students to visit. The Netherlands, however, is budget-friendly. In Amsterdam , you can find various inexpensive activities and attractions, including museums, concerts, and clubs. Besides, accommodation is affordable.
  • Portugal. Lisbon is a city that is perfectly suited to college students. Why not check out its many historic places? You can also visit Algarve – a magnificent city with beaches, hiking trails, castles, and an ocean view.
  • Ecuador. Quito is another city that is ideal for students who travel. It has everything one needs: history, beautiful nature, and delicious food.

To sum up, traveling is an excellent way for students to learn more about the world, gain new experiences, and become more independent. We wish you the best of luck on your future trips!

🔗 References

  • For a More Creative Brain, Travel – The Atlantic
  • The Ultimate Guide to Traveling When You Have No Money
  • How to Travel for Free: 6 Ways to Vacation for Cheap | Time
  • Educational Benefits of Travel – Travel Tips – USA Today
  • 8 Pieces Of Travel Etiquette Every Tourist Should Know – Bustle
  • Travel etiquette: 6 cardinal sins of traveling – Times of India
  • Top 20 countries for international students – The Guardian
  • The 27 Cheapest Places To Travel This Summer – Forbes
  • Share via Facebook
  • Share via Twitter
  • Share via LinkedIn
  • Share via email

You might also like

Extracurricular Activities & Why You Need Them for College

Extracurricular Activities & Why You Need Them for College

Brain Hacks: How to Improve Memory & Learn Faster

Brain Hacks: How to Improve Memory & Learn Faster

Minimalism for Students: Adopting a New Lifestyle in 7 Steps

Minimalism for Students: Adopting a New Lifestyle in 7 Steps

how to travel for cheap as a college student

How to Travel Cheap in College

Kyley Warren

With social sites like Instagram and dozens of travel bloggers flooding the web with their experiences, college students are more eager to travel than ever before. But between textbook and tuition expenses, students are struggling to find the funds necessary to finance their dream trip. Fortunately, it’s actually easier to travel cheap than you may think. Thanks to scholarships and companies like Airbnb, there’s no better time to go abroad than during college years.

Here are 10 cheapest ways to travel in college.

Pssst! See coupons and discounts for travel on the Save Engine (below)!

1. Travel With EF

EF Ultimate Break is a travel company that offers trips abroad for people, ages 18-28. The great part about traveling with EF is that you don’t have to deal with all of the stresses that typically come with planning a vacation. Each of the company’s trips features a blanket price that includes airfare, hotel, transportation and excursion prices. Your entire itinerary is finalized before you even step on the plane.

With reasonable prices, EF is the perfect company to travel with.

2. Study Abroad

Studying abroad is truly the ideal way for college students to get their taste of international travel. And with so many diverse programs offered around the world, it’s impossible to not find one that best suits you. With study abroad, students get the opportunity to continue their education, while still being able to immerse themselves in a different culture.

Nowadays, educational opportunities like these often scare students off because of the hefty prices that come with studying abroad. Fortunately, sites like FastWeb , the Student & Youth Travel Association and even National Geographic offer scholarships for students looking for assistance in funding their international excursions.

When looking at different study abroad programs, it’s important to compare the things offered within each experience. Look for details on housing, food, tuition and extra excursion prices to ensure that you are involving yourself in a program that’s truly worth the money.

3. Volunteer Abroad

Volunteering abroad is the most rewarding way to travel. While volunteering abroad, you’ll have the opportunity to fully immerse yourself within a community. On top of the incredible relationships that you’ll build with locals of the area, you’ll also be a part of making a positive difference .

Organizations like the Peace Corps and Projects Abroad are constantly looking for world-changers who are eager to make a difference. By volunteering abroad, you will see the places that you are traveling and working, in a whole new light.

4. Book Cheap Flights

Though this is often easier said than done, it’s not impossible. College students around the world are turning to companies like Secret Flying to book roundtrip airfare at really low prices.

Aside from just booking through the right company, make sure you also research the best time of the year to travel. This differs with locations, but it will ultimately help to knock some costs off of your flight fare.

5. Prioritize Your Budget

As a college student, it’s easy to lose track of how and where you’re spending your money. Between books, school supplies, sporting events and trying to maintain a social life, students’ budgets are spread thin. If traveling is truly your passion, then commit to it. Discipline yourself to set aside a fair amount of money to use for your dream trip. Skip out on your morning coffee and late-night fast food runs, and prioritize where and how your money is being spent.

Dave Ramsay , a finance guru, offers a curriculum program that helps train college-aged students on how to manage their money. His program, Foundations in Personal Finance College Edition , is just one of many that will help you practice prioritizing your finances.

6. Memorize the Metro System

One of the most expensive parts of your trip will likely revolve around transportation. Getting around is never cheap, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the location. Although it may seem easier to just call an Uber or a Lyft, avoid this option at all costs. Fares for these can get pretty expensive, depending on where you’re visiting. Take advantage of the metro system within the area. Whether it’s a subway or a city bus, daily/week-long passes are typically more reasonably priced. They also offer you the opportunity to truly live like a local, no matter your destination.

7. Befriend Airbnb and Couchsurfing

Airbnb and Couchsurfing are millennials’ best friends when it comes to traveling cheap. These two companies have truly changed the spectrum of the travel industry. No other group is competing more heavily or more directly with hotel chains, than Airbnb. With so many people offering their services up on the site, users are getting full homes for cheaper than hotel rooms.

Couchsurfing is another great option, but it’s only for the adventure nomad. With this company, you aren’t just staying in someone’s home; you’re staying with someone in their home. This cozy spin on hostels allows travelers to build community with locals, instantly upon their arrival.

Although these are reliable options, make sure that you do your research and read reviews thoroughly. As important as it may be to save money, that doesn’t mean you should sacrifice safety or comfort. Make sure that you have made direct contact with the hosts prior to leaving.

8. Travel With Friends

Traveling with other people is the easiest, and often the most fun solution, to saving money. Plus, who doesn’t want to wander around the world with their best friends? By traveling with other people, you limit unnecessary expenses. Things like cab fares and hotel rates could be cut in half by simply taking a buddy along with you. And if you really want to save money, try splitting meals. It’s insane how much a good, quality meal can cost you — especially when you’re traveling abroad. This brings us to the next tip for saving money: buy groceries and avoid eating out.

9. Limit How Often You Eat Out

As important as it is to experience the culture, you shouldn’t break the bank doing so. Rather than eating out every night, head to the local market or grocery store and purchase some simple yet international food items. This allows you to get a taste of the culture without spending a ridiculous amount of money at a restaurant. And if they’re items that can easily be repackaged, like light snacks, you can take some back home.

If you do choose to stay at a hotel, rather than an Airbnb or hostel, take advantage of the food deals that they offer. Many hotels offer a free, continental breakfast. Even though it’s a simple tactic, it’s one less meal that you have to worry about or spend your money on.

10. Prioritize Your Travel Budget

Between tours, souvenirs and additional excursions, your trip costs will quickly start to add up. Before you leave, set a budget for your trip — this will help you to determine what you truly want to experience, and what you ultimately want to take away from your trip.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

FREE 6-month trial

Then, enjoy Amazon Prime at half the price – 50% off!

TUN AI – Your Education Assistant

TUN AI

I’m here to help you with scholarships, college search, online classes, financial aid, choosing majors, college admissions and study tips!

TUN Helps Students!

Resource content.

Resources for Students

School Search

Scholarships

Scholarship Search

Start a Scholarship

High School

Copyright, 2024 – TUN, Inc

Student Tools

Free Online Courses

Student Discounts

Back to School

Internships

GoAbroad

9 Secrets to Finding Very Cheap Student Flights

by Rachel Bicha November 8, 2021

facebook icon

  • Before You Go

Score a student discount on international flights! ☆ It’s every college student’s dilemma: you want to travel the world, but you’re living on a ramen noodle budget. Australia’s on your bucket list, but your bank account has barely enough money for you to travel home for the holidays. You’ve been dreaming of a graduation trip to Europe, but your part-time job is paying for all of your books and meal plans at the cafe. So what’s a broke adventurer to do? You’ve probably heard some tips, such as booking tickets on Tuesdays, booking late at night or only searching in incognito mode. While those hacks might help some of the time, they’re not foolproof either. Thankfully, there’s a few secrets to finding very cheap student flights—and all of them are things you can probably do right now. 

very cheap student flights

Hollaaa at these tips to snag student flight deals & discounts!

The first step: if you’re a student, you do not have to pay full price for flights! Get ready to get student discounts on flights, and even hotels and tours. Want to get cheap student flights to Europe or Asia? Start with a student travel agency, like StudentUniverse to find discount flights. Then, keep scrolling for even more tips for finding cheap student flights. 

How to book cheap student flights

1. book your tickets with a student agency. .

This is step one. You already get student discounts on food, movies, skiing and more. Why not get student discounts on travel too? StudentUniverse works directly with airlines to get exclusive discounts for college students, usually up to 30% off your flight. Even better? Student travel agencies are resources for all kinds of travel—hotels and tours, too. Plus, StudentUniverse always has sales and extra discounts around the times of year when you need flights: back to school, study abroad, spring break and more. 

2. Start looking early.

Sometimes the early bird really does get the worm—especially when it comes to cheap student international flights. Start looking for your flights at least a few months in advance, if possible. Even if you’re not ready to book yet, you can start getting an idea of the cost of your fares. That way, when you see a good deal, you’ll know and you’ll be ready to book it. When you start looking early, you can also take advantage of promo codes and sales. StudentUniverse has sales and promo codes every month, so keep your eyes peeled for one that fits your flight.

3. Use the flexible search feature. 

If you have some flexibility with your travel dates—say, with a spring break trip or during summer break—definitely use the flexible search feature to find cheap international flight tickets for students. Toggle on the “Flexible” search instead of “Exact” and your search results will include a chart showing prices for nearby dates. Sometimes you can save hundreds of dollars by leaving or returning a few days earlier or later. 

very cheap student flights

Are you an aisle or a window seat kinda traveler?

4. Watch for sales. 

Most airlines have sales year-round, which means that if you start searching early, you should be able to snag a sale to book your tickets. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are great times to watch for sales, as well as around major holidays. You can also start following your favorite airlines and travel companies to get notified of current and upcoming sales—signing up for emails will get all the sales delivered right to you, making it extra-easy to book cheap student flights. And be sure to follow on social media too—sometimes there are flash sales or giveaways shared on social channels that aren’t announced elsewhere. 

5. Consider booking two one-way trips instead of a single round-trip. 

This is not universally true, but it’s sometimes the case that two one-way flights are cheaper than a single round-trip flight, especially if you’re booking a multi-city ticket (i.e. returning from a different airport than you flew into). When you’re trying to find cheap tickets, it’s definitely worth a try! If you’re hitting up more than one city on your itinerary, you’ll save yourself money in the long-run by not having to make your way back to the original city you flew into. 

6. Use airline miles. 

Even if you don’t fly often enough to earn a free flight, joining frequent flier programs with your favorite airlines will add up over time—especially if you’re flying any long-haul international flights. It takes awhile to accrue enough miles, but this strategy can help you book very cheap student flights over time. Many airlines let you use points for other travel-related expenses, like upgrading your seat or buying snacks or Wi-Fi on the plane. Keep in mind that even when you book through a student travel service, like StudentUniverse, you can still add your frequent flier number to the reservation and earn points. 

very cheap student flights

Cheesy pictures with your new friends are *definitely* allowed once you're abroad.

7. Take advantage of shoulder season. 

What is shoulder season, you ask? Shoulder season is the period of time right in between peak season and off-peak season, and it varies by destination. For example, in Europe, peak season tends to be summer, since many people are free for traveling and weather is ideal. Winter is off-season. That makes spring and fall shoulder season. The best parts of shoulder season: weather is usually mild (not too hot or too cold), there’s less tourists and tickets will be cheaper. In the South Pacific, like Australia and New Zealand, November and December are shoulder season, meaning this is the perfect place to go for an end-of-the-semester or pre-holiday trip.

8. Take a red-eye flight. 

Getting a cheap flight isn’t just about when you travel, it’s also about when you literally travel—that is, when your flight leaves. Early morning or red-eye (overnight) flights are usually the cheapest, because they’re considered “less-ideal” travel times. As a result, they’re usually cheaper. Other perks? Early morning flights are less likely to get delayed. Red-eye flights give you extra time in your destination (since you’ll fly when you would have been snoozing anyways) and will also save you the cost of a hotel room. Double-win.

9. Watch prices, not destinations. 

It’s easy to have your heart set on a dream destination—New Zealand, Paris or Bali, maybe. But you’re more likely to find cheap college student flights if you’re flexible on your destination. If you want to head to New Zealand for the adventure, consider Costa Rica, another huge adventure hotspot. Finding flights to Paris expensive? There’s several airports in Paris—see if you can find a good deal into another airport. Or fly into London and take the train to Paris from there. The key is being flexible and being willing to think outside of the box when it comes to what your final trip will look like. 

A few more tips to find cheap college student flights, broken down by destination

very cheap student flights

One way to make your flight extra-expensive?! Missing it!

Already know where you’re going? Check out our tips for finding very cheap student flights around the world. 

Cheap student flights to Europe

  • When is the best time to book flights to Europe? If you’re looking to head to Europe in the summer, try to buy your tickets by March, as fares usually tend to rise in late March/early April. Other good times to head to Europe? Winter break. It’s off-season for Europe, so prices tend to be cheaper. 
  • Consider flying a discount airline to secure cheap student flights to Europe. If you don’t have much luggage and don’t need a lot of frills, discount airlines can sometimes have amazing deals. At the same time, don’t count out larger airlines—they can run bigger sales, so you can often score a cheap flight to Europe during a sale period, too. Bottom line: be flexible with your airline, and be sure to check several so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. 
  • Try flying into a different airport or city, then take a train or a budget flight to your final destination. It’s often cheaper to fly into popular cities in Europe that have more flights and routes—cities like London, Paris, Barcelona and Rome.

Cheap student flights to Australia

  • When is the best time to book cheap student flights to Australia? 3-6 months in advance tends to be a good rule if you’re coming from the US. Keep in mind that seasons are reverse in Australia than in the US or Europe, so winter is peak travel for “summer” trips to Australia (and often more expensive). If you’re studying abroad in the Land Down Under, see if you can fly in a bit early. It’ll give you time to get adjusted and save you money, since it’s usually cheaper to fly in right before peak season starts. 
  • Flights to Australia are usually much cheaper from the West Coast than the East Coast. If you have a cheap way to get to a major west coast airport, like LAX or SFO, you can often score a super-cheap flight to the South Pacific directly from there.  

Cheap student flights to Asia

  • When it comes to Asia, the earlier the better. If you’re traveling in the summer or over winter break, book your tickets at least 2-3 months in advance—and start looking before then, even if you’re not quite sure about your travel dates yet. If you can, try traveling during off-season to score a cheaper flight. 
  • Watch for a sale. When you’re looking for cheap student flights to Asia, a sale can save you literally hundreds of dollars. If you have Chinese social media accounts, like WeChat or Weibo, follow StudentUniverse for weekly fare alerts and deals. Or sign up for emails with your favorite airlines and travel companies to get alerted about current sales and promo codes. 

Hop on these flight deals, kids!

very cheap student flights

Don't forget to stock up on Toblerone at duty-free!

The truth is, traveling doesn’t have to break the bank! Using a few simple tricks—student discount flights, waiting for sales, being flexible with timing and booking early—can save you hundreds, if not thousands, on your flights. All that means: that dream trip to Bali is a lot closer than you think. 

Subscribe & Get More Meaningful Travel Tips Straight to Your Inbox

Ready to start planning your ideal summer trip? Head over to StudentUniverse , sign up and verify your student status (super easy and free!) and start looking for flights. If it’s your first flight with StudentUniverse, you'll love this student discount on international flights! Use promo code NEWFOR20 for $20 off your first international flight. Or check out active promo codes for even more opportunities to save.

maps on the table

Want to Get Matched with Programs?

man looking at the mountains

Use MyGoAbroad to Save & Compare Programs!

Related articles, global respectful disruption summit: why it’s worth it & what to expect, how to practice cultural sensitivity during meaningful travel, how to make travel meaningful in 2024, announcing goabroad’s top rated providers of 2023, what solo travel teaches you, 11 undeniable benefits of solo travel, popular searches, study abroad programs in italy, study abroad programs in spain, marine biology study abroad programs, study environmental studies abroad, fall study abroad 2024, spring study abroad programs, recommended programs.

ITA teacher sitting on the floor with her students

2564 reviews

International TEFL Academy

Volunteers in front of rainbow mural

1675 reviews

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

Maximo Nivel students

1879 reviews

MAXIMO NIVEL

IAHQ participants in Dublin

555 reviews

Intern Abroad HQ

For Travelers

Travel resources, for partners.

GoAbroad

© Copyright 1998 - 2024 GoAbroad.com ®

  • Study Abroad
  • Volunteer Abroad
  • Intern Abroad
  • Teach Abroad
  • TEFL Courses
  • Degrees Abroad
  • High School Abroad
  • Language Schools
  • Adventure Travel
  • Jobs Abroad
  • Online Study Abroad
  • Online Volunteer Programs
  • Online Internships
  • Online Language Courses
  • Online Teaching Jobs
  • Online Jobs
  • Online TEFL Courses
  • Online Degree Programs

7 Cheap Places to Travel for College Students

It is a red lie if somebody has told you that there is no cheap travel destination for students without flouting the bank. Yes, we know you are short on budget, but still, we have a list of some fantastic budget-friendly vacation destinations . These destinations, solo or with friends, will let you enjoy the cheap, tasty eats, favorable exchange rates, campgrounds, and affordable accommodation as well.

Before getting started with the list of cheap places to travel for college students, let us first guide you about visiting budget-friendly.

Table of Page Contents

Tips & Tricks to Make your Visit Budget-Friendly:

  • Eating street food will aid a lot in saving money and spending it on traveling and other activities. Otherwise, international restaurants will end up with skyrocketing bills.
  • Couchsurfing can help you find cheap to free accommodation with an additional opportunity to hang out with locals.
  • Don’t book any tourist agency-level transportation. Instead, go for local trains or buses to travel distances that will save you big money.
  • Instead of going to typical tourist crowded places, go for exceptions like local temples, markets, community arranged activities, etc.

Cheap Travelling Destinations for Students

I am going to share the list of my favorite cheap destinations that I have visited over the last couple of years and I have truly enjoyed there despite being on a tight budget. Most of these cheap travel destinations are located in Asia and this continent is called heaven for tourists.

1. Thailand

Thailand, as you know, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. The archeological sites, tranquil beaches, exotic cuisines, and colorful culture and history grab tourists’ attention around the globe.

Cheapest Month to Fly to Thailand:

September is the ideal month to travel to Thailand. November to February is the high tourist season in Thailand. If you visit in any other month then you will save a lot of money.

Cheap Places to Visit in Thailand:

The most valuable part of traveling is exploring a different culture and experiencing their life. The cheapest places to visit in Thailand are:

  • Mae Hong Son
  • Railay Beach (Tonsai Bay)
  • Ubon Ratchathani
  • Sangkhlaburi

2. Belize (Caye Caulker)

If you are looking for a beach vacation and want to enjoy bombastic water sports, Caye Caulker (Belize) is ideal. Belize is a small tropical country located in North America.

Caye Caulker is the jewel of the Caribbean Sea, defining “island vide” at its best. This tranquil island is tiny enough to walk around barefoot but has numerous activities that students will enjoy.

Besides the breathtaking view of palm trees groves, shoreline, the teal and turquoise hues of the water, and the dazzling white sand, you can also enjoy:

  • Diving and flying over the Great Blue Hole
  • Chill at the Split
  • Manatee spotting
  • Snorkeling at Caye Caulker Marine Reserve and Hol Chan Marine Reserve
  • Windsurfing
  • Kite surfing
  • Cave tubing
  • And, Fishing
Quick Tip You should also have a beach vacation packing list to enjoy fully there on the beach with friends. If you like vlogging while traveling then we have the best GoPro alternatives for you.

Best Time to Visit Caye Caulker:

January to April is the best time to visit Caye Caulker. However, you can visit any month of the year if you want to save more money because generally, the high tourist season is during the winter months.

Best Cheap Places to Stay in Caye Caulker:

The best cheap places to stay in Caye Caulker are:

  • Sandy Land Guest House and Cabanas
  • Pause Hotel

Cheap Places to Eat in Caye Caulker:

Following are the best places to enjoy cheap food:

  • Eurolines House of Fry Jacks
  • Wish Willy’s Restaurant

Moreover, to make it cheaper, you can buy directly from the fisherman or catch your dinner by fishing. Street food at night is also an affordable, valuable option.

  • From Belize City, use the bus service to reach the water taxi which will take you to Caye Caulker. You can find the cheapest accommodation on Agoda
  • Use cheap accommodation and go fishing and catch your dinner.
  •  Book and travel Caye Caulker in optimal times to make the pocket-friendly flying.

3. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is the capital of Hungary and one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe . Budapest can be extremely affordable for students if they plan the trip wisely.

Cheap Month to Visit Budapest:

January is the cheapest month to visit Budapest. If you visit before May and after October, that will also save you a lot. This is because the high peak season starts in May.

Cheap Places to Stay in Budapest:

  • Bohem Art Hotel
  • Casati Budapest Hotel
  • Bo18 Hotel Superior

Cheap Places to Visit in Budapest:

Budapest has a history and character. The astonishing architecture and castles are worth exploring. Below are the cheap places to visit in Budapest to make this cheap travel destination for students enjoyable:

  • Buda castle
  • Gaze at Fisherman bastions.
  • Explore the ruin bars
  • Take a free walk tour with guides
  • Plan a picnic at Margaret Island
  • Relax in Szechenyi Thermal Baths
  • Hit the farmer’s market
  • Walk around the historic Memento statue park
  • Book the hostel in the center of the city or green belt to make the walk tours more and save the traveling expenses.  Find Hostel on Agoda
  • You can also book a room in someone’s home via Agoda .
  • Avoid traveling in the peak season as everything is expensive relatively.
  • Visit a great market hall for budget-friendly, simple yet delicious cuisine.

4. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

If you want to bag pack to visit Asia’s one of the cheapest travel destinations, Kuala Lumpur is the epitome. The diverse cuisine, modern architecture, various shopping malls, and an ideal gateway location are worth considering Kuala Lumpur among the top picks.

Cheap Month to Travel Kuala Lumpur:

May is the cheapest month to fly to Kuala Lumpur. The high season is from November to April and the rest of the year will be savvy for college students to make a holiday in Malaysia.

Free Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur:

The 10 cheap things to do in Kuala Lumpur are:

  • Visit Kl Eco Forest Park
  • Central Market, China Town.
  • Thean Hou Temple
  • Fitness Community Classes
  • Rock Climbing in Batu Caves
  • Kl Go Green Car-Free Morning On Every first and Third Sunday of the Month.
  • Free Roof Top Movie Screening in Frisky Rooftop Bar
  • Wheelie Sunday at Publika Shopping Gallery
  • Free Clubbing at Sky Bar and Zeta Bar
  • Visit Petronas Art Gallery.

Cheap Accommodation in Kuala Lumpur:

One of the cheap accommodation options in Kuala Lumpur is Mingle Hostel . They also provide a fully equipped guest kitchen facility if you prefer to make a meal on your own. Rest you can also consider:

  • Ibis Styles Kuala Lumpur Fraser Business Park
  • Sunway Putra Hotel Alpha Genesis Hotel
  • Hotel Transit
  • Gold 3 Boutique Hotel
  • Hotel Mezzo
  • and V Garden Hotel

Most of the hotels offer free breakfast and Wi-Fi.

Cheap Traveling Options in Kuala Lumpur:

You can opt for monorails and buses to save on traveling. There is a free bus service in the Bukit Bintang area that will take you to Kuala Lumpur city center near the twin towers and you can enjoy many places by riding that free bus service in Kuala Lumpur.

5. Kathmandu, Nepal

For student budget travelers, Nepal is an ideal vacation destination with cheap accommodation, affordable food, and historical places. It’s considered one cheapest travel destinations not only in Asia but in the entire world.

Cheap Month To Travel in Kathmandu:

June to September is ideal if you want to make a budget-friendly visit to Kathmandu. However, I have personally seen that Nepal is a very budget-friendly place any month of the year. I suggest visiting it once in life to see how cheap this place is.

Cheap Places to Visit in Kathmandu:

Kathmandu is the city of temples, and the following are the budget-friendly places to visit in Kathmandu:

  • Swayambhunath
  • Pashupatinath
  • Garden of Dreams
  • Patan Durbar Square
  • Bhaktapur Darbar Square
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square

Cheap Accommodation in Kathmandu:

Below are some of the cheapest accommodations available in Kathmandu:

  • Famous House
  • Sudha’s Green Home
  • Zen Bed and Breakfast
  • Hotel Pleasure Home
  • Durbar Square Backpackers Inn

Cheap Places to Eat in Kathmandu:

Some of the affordable places to eat in Kathmandu are:

  • Thamel Doner Kabab.
  • Fusion Himalaya Café and restaurant
  • Grill oregano restaurant
  • French creperie Kathmandu
  • Upstairs café
  • Kantipur tandoori house.

6. Siem Reap, Cambodia

In southeast Asia, Cambodia is a developing country that bargains for travelers and thus is one of the cheap travel destinations for students. Siem Reap additionally has affordable accommodation, food, transport, and entertainment.

We also have a detailed travel guide to Cambodia and I will recommend you to read it at least once to become familiar with traveling there. For me, it’s heaven on earth.

Best Time to Visit Siem Reap:

The peak time to visit Siem Reap is in December and January. I visited in May and I had no issues at all because it’s all year destination and still budget-friendly.

Places to Visit in Siem Reap:

Following are the places to visit in Siem Reap, which are not heavy on budget but will leave a heavy impact on your memory for a long time.

  • Angkor Thom
  • Angkor National Museum
  • Angkor Archeological Park
  • Banteay Srei
  • Bayon Temple
  • Apopo Visitor Center
  • Cambodia Landmine Museum

Cheap Places to Stay in Siem Reap:

  • Uncle House
  • The Siem Reap Chilled BackPacker
  • Onederz Siem Reap
  • Parklane Hotel
  • Angkor Peal Hotel

Siem Reap Cheap Eats:

No matter if we opt for a low-budget trip, delicious food can be enjoyed anyway. Following are some of the places to have simple yet mouthwatering food within the budget in Siem reap.

  • Wild creative bar and eatery
  • Sambo Khmer and Thai restaurant
  • JOMNO modern cuisine
  • Tevy’s place
  • La bruschetta

Cheap Transportation in Siem Reap:

Walk around, tuk-tuk, and rework are the cheap transportations modes in Siem Reap. Most of the tourist attractions in Siem Reap are doable by walking.

7. Granada, Nicaragua

Granada is one of the cheapest travel destinations in Central America. The Spanish architecture, rich history, beautiful churches, and friendly locals are the essence of Granada. The food and accommodation are also low comparatively.

Best Time to visit Granada:

The best time to visit Granada is May and June. Any other month of the year will not save you money because this place is generally expensive.

Places to visit in Granada:

Explore Granada in the student budget by:

  • Visiting Tapas
  • Plaza Nueva
  • Magical Fountain of Youth
  • Tinto De Verano
  • Granada Cathedral

Cheap Accommodation in Granada:

The hostels in Granada are a perfect choice for students. Most of them have small pools on rooftops. Below are some of them:

  • Oasis Back Packers Hostel
  • Hostal El Cascabel
  • Granada Inn Backpackers

Cheap Eats in Granada:

Casual dining restaurants free tapas with the purchase of one drink. Take full advantage of this offer. Look out for offers hanging around different restaurants in town.

Cheap Transportation in Granada:

The cheapest option to reach Granada from any other city in Nicaragua is by bus or by train. Avoid taxis because that will be expensive. Only use a taxi in an emergency situation.

Always plan everything ahead and do thorough research for cheap flights. Make friends with locals, they will guide you in every way. Do not hold back yourself by thinking about expenses.

This was all from us on the cheap travel destination for the student. We hope this guide will help the backpackers and students to pick their anticipated terminus. Good luck

Privacy Overview

how to travel for cheap as a college student

How to Travel as a College Student

I love to travel. I've said to many people that my travels are my "anti-drug." That's the way things really are. Nothing is more fun than visiting a new place and getting to know a new city. When I graduated from high school and went to college, I vowed to travel whenever I could.

Looking back at my college years, I successfully did that. As an undergrad, I visited several cities, such as  Miami , NYC, Las Vegas, and Nashville. People would ask me, "Aren't college students supposed to be broke?" In today's post, I discuss different ways to travel as a college student. It's going to be easier than you thought. Participating in illegal activities was not one of them! Cheap student travel can happen.

Stay With Friends or Family

The 1st way to travel as a college student was to stay with family or friends. On some of the trips that I went on, I stayed with friends. I was there if they had an extra couch or decent floor space. I easily saved a couple of hundred dollars by doing that. It took the stress out of trying to find a hotel or other lodging place.

Use Some of Your Student Refund

We're up to number three on the list of how to travel as a college student. I will be the first to say I never purchased a car or expensive clothes with my student refund. However, I did use some of my refund for a few trips. There may be better decisions than this, especially if your refund is student loan money. You will eventually have to pay back. Just keeping it real, some of my refund was from  student loans . I don't regret using it to travel at all. It allowed me to see other cities besides Atlanta and  Savannah . My comfort zone expanded because of that. I'm sure the same will happen to you. Just spend your refund sparingly.

Work a PT Job

I worked a part-time job during the majority of my college days. At one of my jobs, I was a busser at a restaurant. I made GREAT money there. After I had paid a couple of bills I had each month, I saved a decent amount for travel. A couple of road trips and fraternity conferences were paid for with that money. The crazy thing was that I didn't get a car until the summer before my senior year. I found several ways to get to that job before then.

Travel as a Group

The most common way I saved money was to travel with a group. There were numerous road trips where 4-5 of us would pile into someone's car and split the gas and hotel charges. If we knew someone that lived in the city that we were visiting, we would save even more money by just having to pay for gas. Numerous road trips cost less than $60 per person because of this strategy.

If you're going to do group travel, make sure that you and the people you're traveling with are on one accord. Out of all the group trips I've been on, I only had one that started badly. To keep it short, I will say that I had to book a room at another hotel to keep people from potentially fighting. Most of the group came with me, while three stayed at the original hotel. Once we separated from them, the trip turned out great.

Study Abroad Program

 Studying abroad is an excellent way for college students to gain new experiences, meet new people, and travel the world. By participating in a study abroad program, you can earn a global perspective on your studies in college, experience new cultures and lifestyles, and develop valuable skills that will help you in your career.

The way it works is that you apply for a study abroad program through your college or university. The application may be required to include letters of recommendation from faculty members, an essay describing why you want to participate in the program, and a statement of financial resources. Once accepted into the program, you will typically work with a study abroad advisor who will help you with your travel details, such as the logistics of flights and accommodations.

Backpacking your way through another country is a great way to see the sights and experience new cultures firsthand. One of the benefits is that you will have more freedom to explore on your own and decide where to go and what to do, depending on your interests and preferences. There are many ways to backpack – from backpacking across Europe using the Eurail pass to taking a tour of national parks in the United States to trekking through a remote country on foot.

Remember that you will need to be flexible and adaptable to travel on a backpacker's budget . You may need to stay in inexpensive hostels or guesthouses or camp outdoors in a tent. If you plan to go backpacking on your own, you should have some basic survival skills, such as knowing how to read a map, set up camp, and find your way in the wilderness.

Hostels are another popular way for college students to travel affordably. These accommodations typically offer rooms where you share a bathroom with other guests or dorm-style accommodations with bunk beds. There are common areas where you can hang out, meet fellow travelers, or even work on your laptop.

Although there are many benefits to staying in hostels, such as low cost and social opportunities, it is essential to research before you book a room. For example, consider the hostel's location and whether it is safe for women travelers. Also, find out what amenities are offered – for example, many hostels will have a shared kitchen where you can cook your own meals.

Exchange Progam

Another popular way for college students to travel is through an exchange program. This program allows you to study at a foreign university while paying your regular tuition at your home university. There are typically exchange programs through student organizations or universities themselves.

If you decide to participate in an exchange program, you will need to work with your college or university to get approved for the program. You will typically need to pass a test of your language skills, provide a statement of financial resources, and meet other requirements depending on the program.

Volunteer Abroad

If you have a strong interest in volunteering abroad, many organizations can help you find volunteer opportunities. These types of programs may take place in foreign countries for periods of a week or longer.

When you volunteer abroad, you typically work with local organizations and communities to help with various projects. For example, you may help to construct houses, teach English in schools, mentor children, or work on agricultural projects.

While participating in a volunteer program can be very rewarding, it is essential to do research before signing up for one. Consider what type of project you would like to work on and ensure that your skills match the program's needs. Also, find out what training or support will be offered and what steps you need to take to get started.

This article was published on My Money Chronicles .

How to Travel the World as a College Student

  • Credit cards
  • View all credit cards
  • Banking guide
  • Loans guide
  • Insurance guide
  • Personal finance
  • View all personal finance
  • Small business
  • Small business guide
  • View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

The Best Travel Insurance for Students

Alisha McDarris

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

What does travel insurance for students cover?

How much does travel insurance for students cost, travel guard: best for budget travelers, world nomads: best for adventurers, allianz: best for premier travel benefits at a lower cost, geoblue navigator for students: best study abroad health insurance, more tips for purchasing study abroad travel insurance.

If you’re a student who’s planning to travel internationally or study abroad, it’s a good idea to go prepared with comprehensive student travel insurance. But where do you find plans tailored to your unique needs?

These companies offer some of the best options for travel insurance for students, whether you’re globe-trotting for a week, a semester or a whole year.

Student travel insurance can vary from plan to plan. But there are a few things you should look for whether you’re an exchange student, studying abroad or simply planning an international trip between classes.

Trip cancellation insurance : This coverage reimburses you for any prepaid, nonrefundable costs of your trip should you have to cancel for any unexpected circumstances covered by your selected policy. 

Travel medical coverage : If you become ill or get injured while traveling, travel medical coverage can help pay for medical expenses and even emergency travel back home.

Travel delay insurance : In the event of rescheduled or canceled flights that result in painfully long layovers, this coverage will reimburse you for personal items, food and lodging you may have to pay for as you wait for a rescheduled flight.

Delayed baggage : Just as it sounds, this coverage reimburses you for luggage (including necessities you might have to purchase while you wait for your luggage to arrive) if it’s delayed or lost by a travel provider in transit.

» Learn more: When to buy travel insurance

As with travel insurance for more general travelers, there are several factors that affect the cost of travel insurance for study abroad students and other young travelers, including:

Traveler age.

Overall trip cost.

Trip duration.

Specific coverage selected.

Because there are so many factors involved, and because every travel insurance company is different, it’s often wise to compare a number of plans to decide which is best for you and your travel plans. That said, these are some of the best student travel insurance options.

» Learn more: Best annual travel insurance this year

insurance-product-card-logo

Travel Guard by AIG

  • Offers last-minute coverage.
  • Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Exclusion Waiver available at all plan levels.
  • Plan available for business travelers.
  • Cancel For Any reason coverage only available for higher-level plans, and only reimburses up to 50% of the trip cost.
  • Trip interruption coverage doesn't apply to trips paid for with points and miles.

What Travel Guard covers

There are several options available from Travel Guard for travel insurance for students studying abroad or simply exploring on break: Deluxe, Preferred and Essential.

They all include trip cancellation and interruption, medical coverage, and lost or delayed baggage insurance. Bonus: They even come with dental coverage. Add-ons like car rental coverage and “cancel for any reason coverage” are also available with some plans.

There is also an annual plan available, but coverage automatically expires if any single trip lasts longer than 90 days, so it wouldn’t likely be sufficient for more than a semester abroad.

Multiple price points for a wide range of coverage options.

Dental coverage included.

24/7 emergency assistance available with all plans.

If you plan on participating in adventure sports, the Adventure Sports Bundle is only available as an add-on on some Preferred and Deluxe plans.

» Learn more: Read our full review of Travel Guard

insurance-product-card-logo

World Nomads

  • Travelers can extend coverage mid-trip.
  • The standard plan covers up to $300,000 in emergency evacuation costs.
  • Plans automatically cover 200+ adventurous activities.
  • No Cancel For Any Reason upgrades are available.
  • No pre-existing medical condition waivers are available.

What World Nomads covers

Designed for independent, often more adventurous travelers, World Nomads offers several travel insurance options for students of any age.

While plans may seem more expensive than some other options, it’s important to remember that these plans include medical treatment and evacuation if you are injured while participating in some adventure sports. Plans also cover medical expenses, trip cancellation and interruption, baggage loss and delay, and include 24/7 travel assistance.

Many adventure sports are covered.

Some plans include car rental coverage.

Dental is covered.

Pre-existing conditions aren’t covered.

» Learn more: Best adventure sports travel insurance

insurance-product-card-logo

  • Annual or single-trip policies are available.
  • Multiple types of insurance available.
  • All plans include access to a 24/7 assistance hotline.
  • More expensive than average.
  • CFAR upgrades are not available.
  • Rental car protection is only available by adding the One Trip Rental Car protector to your plan or by purchasing a standalone rental car plan.

What Allianz covers

A well-known travel insurance company, Allianz offers a number of travel insurance plans that may appeal to students.

All plans include epidemic coverage, trip cancellation and interruption, medical and dental coverage, baggage loss and delay, and 24-hour assistance. And premium plans tend to offer similar coverage as other insurance companies but at a lower price.

There’s also an annual plan available called AllTrips, but it doesn’t cover individual trips longer than 45 consecutive days.

Includes epidemic coverage (including for COVID-19).

Covers 100% of prepaid costs if you cancel your trip for a covered reason.

The cost to change flights or other transportation is covered on some plans if you have to change or cancel bookings because of a covered reason.

Rental car coverage not included on any plan.

» Learn more: NerdWallet's Allianz review

insurance-product-card-logo

  • Flexible deductible options.
  • Wide ranging medical coverage.
  • Low prices for medical only needs.
  • Lacks in traditional travel insurance coverage options such as trip Interruption, bag delays, etc.
  • Better when paired with travel credit card insurance coverage.

What GeoBlue covers

Designed for students staying in one place for more than a week or even a whole semester, GeoBlue’s Navigator for Students plan is perfect for students studying abroad who are more concerned with health care coverage than travel-related benefits.

It’s designed more like traditional health insurance with deductibles, monthly payment plans and unlimited annual maximums when it comes to medical care. It covers medical care inside and outside the U.S., making it a good overall health insurance if you plan to travel back and forth. Travel vaccinations, emergency medical transportation and repatriation are even covered.

What’s not covered are more typical travel-related expenses like lost baggage, delayed flights and trip cancellation. But the medical coverage is so comprehensive that if you want travel-specific coverage, you could opt to purchase a more budget-friendly plan for each specific trip.

Unlimited annual maximum for medical benefits.

Sliding payment scale to customize your deductible-to-monthly premium payments.

Preventive care is covered.

Dental and vision benefits are extra.

Coverage for most travel-related snafus isn’t included.

» Learn more: GeoBlue travel insurance review : Is it worth the cost?

The best travel insurance for students studying abroad or traveling between semesters or even on holiday breaks is insurance that’s best suited to you and your travel plans.

Before you hit “Add to cart,” compare several plans, make sure to read the fine print and understand what’s covered (and, just as importantly, what’s not ). Select a plan that offers the coverage required to help you feel safe, secure and protected wherever you roam.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

How to Travel Europe as a College Student

Published by rachel bicha on december 10, 2021 december 10, 2021.

Who doesn’t dream of taking a big trip to Europe during college? Whether you’re looking to study abroad for a semester, head across the pond for a big summer trip or just take a winter or spring break vacay, there’s plenty of ways to see Europe for cheap. Between cheap destinations in Europe for students and budget tips for traveling in Europe, where to stay, how to find cheap flights and more, we’ve got the ultimate guide to how to travel Europe as a college student (on a budget!) 

How to find cheap flights to Europe 

If you’re searching for ways to travel to Europe for cheap, it all starts with finding a cheap plane ticket. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to get to Europe cheaply and without sacrificing leg room! 

how to travel for cheap as a college student

How far in advance to book flights to Europe?

The best time to book flights to Europe depends on when you want to go. A good rule of thumb is to book your flights at least six weeks in advance, but no more than 3-4 months ahead of time. If you’re visiting during winter break (especially over Christmas or New Years) or peak summer months (July and August), book your tickets a bit earlier. The best prices for winter flights are generally in September or early October. For summer flights, the best months to book are February or March. 

Don’t care when you go, just want the cheapest flights? Book in December-February for travels in February or March. You’ll definitely find cheaper prices! 

How much does it cost to fly to Europe? 

Major European hubs often have cheaper flights than smaller, regional airports. The cost of flying to Europe also depends, of course, on where you’re flying from. If you’re traveling from the East Coast of the US to a major European hub, a good price is somewhere around $400 – $600. From the West Coast, a good price is around $500 – $700. If you’re flying into or out of a smaller hub, expect the price to be a bit higher. Still seems too expensive? Don’t worry—you can get discounts on flights as a college student! Just sign up on StudentUniverse with your .edu email address, search for the flights you need from over 220+ airlines, and book with a discount. You can regularly find flights to Europe for $200-$400 if you’re a student! 

Or check for promo codes before you purchase. You’ll find deals for specific airlines, destinations and more. For example, right now you can get an extra $30 off your flights to Europe if you fly LOT Polish Airlines . 

Cheapest destinations in Europe for students

Traveling to big cities in Europe will be more expensive than visiting smaller, off-the-beaten path destinations. While Paris and Rome absolutely should be on your bucket list, we’ve got a ton more destinations that offer just as much charm at a fraction of the cost. If you’re traveling Europe as a college student, here’s five destinations that need to be on your list: 

Warsaw 

how to travel for cheap as a college student

History-lovers, architecture-lovers, foodies and hipsters can all unite in Warsaw! Although often overlooked, Warsaw (the capital of Poland) is a great destination for anyone traveling Europe on a budget. Visit markets and gardens, get a feel for authentic local life, wander through Old Town with centuries of history or head to Praga, the hipster capital of Warsaw for modern art, restaurants, street art and more. The average daily cost to travel in Warsaw is only $40. 

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Like other European cities, Budapest is home to cathedrals, castles, parks, historic districts and even thermal spas. Students will easily find relatively cheap accommodation, transportation and food options here. Even better? Many of the best things to see and do are free! Make sure to visit the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle and, of course, the Szechenyi Thermal Baths! The average daily cost to travel in Budapest is $42 a day. 

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Krakow is the perfect place in Europe to visit if you’re on a budget, want to have an authentic experience AND want to immerse yourself in culture and history. From the medieval city center to the Old Town to the Jewish Quarter, there’s plenty to see and explore. Visit castles and cathedrals, enjoy wandering through beautiful town squares lined with shops and cafes, or have a tour through the underground salt mine. The average daily cost to travel in Krakow is $38. 

how to travel for cheap as a college student

If Prague isn’t on your bucket list yet, it’s time to add it! This budget-friendly city is one of our favorite places to visit in Europe as a college student (or anyone). From the iconic bridges and historic Old Town Square to the unique architecture ranging from the ancient (the 9th-century Prague castle) to the modern (Dancing House, anyone?), modern street art to parks and gardens, there’s plenty to explore. The average daily cost to travel in Prague is $50 a day. 

Sofia, Bulgaria

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Sofia is often overlooked among European cities, but it’s an incredible destination—and one that’s easily explored on a budget. With Persian, Slavic, Greek and Ottoman influences, there’s so much to experience all in one place. Not to mention that it’s home to over 2,000 years of history, from the ancient St. George Rotunda Church to the famous Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, there’s centuries of historical architecture, culture and traditions to explore. The average cost to travel in Sofia is $30 a day. 

How to travel on a budget in Europe 

Avoid tourist hot-spots in peak season. Prices will be MUCH more expensive, travel during off-season or visit more off-the-beaten-path destinations. You’ll save a lot of money AND have a more authentic experience, too! (Remember: for most places in Europe, peak season is July-August, as well as December.) 

Shop during sales . Why pay full-price for flights when you don’t have to? Sign up for our emails and bookmark our promo code page so you’ll stay up-to-date on all the sales and deals. You can find discounts year-round to make your flights cheaper, whether you’re booking last-minute flights or planning ahead.

Find cheap accommodation . This is often the most expensive part of traveling, but there’s lots of ways to make it cheaper. Staying in hostels can save you a TON of money, and it’s a great way to meet like-minded travelers and new travel buddies! Airbnbs can also be a good option, especially in bigger cities. 

Eat local. If you’re eating at fancy, sit-down restaurants for every meal, your budget is going to go out the window pretty quickly! Thankfully, there’s lots more options in Europe to eat cheaply. Check out local markets and cafes, get lunch at a street food stand, shop at local markets and grocery stores and make your own food and most of all, watch where the locals go! The small, unknown restaurants and cafes away from the touristed center of town are often much cheaper and just as delicious (if not more so!). 

Get around Europe on a budget. Good news: there’s lots of cheap transportation options in Europe! If you’re staying in one city, use the local subway or bus systems to get around instead of renting a car or taking taxis. Or rent a bicycle or even a scooter if the city is on the smaller side! 

Rail passes can be a good bet if you’re planning to take lots of long-distance trains in a short amount of time. For example, a 10-day Eurail travel pass costs € 301 ($349 USD). Many flights in Europe cost less than $50, so you may be better off flying between cheaper destinations and buying train tickets for more expensive ones. Long story short: do your research!

Red-eye flights and overnight trains are often a great way to save money when traveling Europe as a college student. Not only do you get a cheaper price (usually) for the route, but because your trip happens at night, you also save the cost of one night’s stay!

Ready to start planning your trip to Europe? Check out cheap flights to one of these cheap European destinations and fly LOT Polish Airlines to save even more on your next flight to Europe.

Related Posts

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Destinations

A guide to visiting basque country.

Meet your new favorite destination: Basque Country! Plan your visit with our expert tips on when and where to go. Plus find out what to see, do, and eat there too. Is Basque Country really a student budget friendly trip?

study abroad deals

Before You Go

The new europe visa requirements: everything you need to know.

Starting in 2025, US citizens and US or Canadian passport-holders will need to apply for a visa to travel to Europe. What does that mean for you? We've got answers.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

Top 8 gap year destinations

Skip those lectures + go on a gap year to one of these top destinations. See new places + gain cultural immersion for experiential education.

  • Search Search Please fill out this field.
  • Why Students Need Insurance

Is Health Insurance Optional?

  • How Student Plans Work
  • Other Options
  • How to Choose

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The bottom line.

  • Health Insurance

Health Insurance for College Students: How It Works

how to travel for cheap as a college student

SDI Productions / Getty Images

If you’re heading off to college, think of how you’ll pay for your healthcare. Most college students rely on their parents’ health insurance, according to surveys. But coverage from a parent’s plan might not be the best way to cover your bills and not everyone has this option. There are a few possibilities to set up health insurance for college students. Learn how students interact with the healthcare system and can stay protected.

Key Takeaways

  • College students need health insurance to cover their medical bills in the United States, the same as anyone else.
  • The majority of universities provide student health insurance plans.
  • Students could also get coverage from a parent’s insurance plan, by buying their own individual plan, through a part-time job, or with government programs.
  • Some schools require students to buy health insurance but many do not.
  • Even if a student isn’t required to buy health insurance, they should still strongly consider it. The cost of medical care in the United States is extremely high and many doctors won’t see someone who doesn’t have insurance. 

Why College Students Need Health Insurance 

"Having insurance is tantamount to access to care," said Stephen L. Beckley, who has been working on college health programs since 1982. Since the early 1990s, he's been with the firm Hodgkins Beckley & Lyon, helping colleges and universities develop and refine college health programs for students. 

 "If you don't have insurance, you don't have access,” he said. “Even if you have financial resources, providers can be dubious about taking somebody on as a new patient without insurance the provider participates in and recognizes."

Healthcare costs are very high in the United States. A 2023 Federal Reserve report found that 23% percent of U.S. adults had unexpected medical expenses with a median cost between $1,000 and $1,999 over the previous 12 months. Thousands of dollars in expensive medical bills and medical debt could impact your ability to focus on your studies and stay in college. 

Around 28% of adults reported skipping medical treatment due to cost, according to the Federal Reserve report. Without health insurance, you might skip dental cleanings, prescription medications, mental healthcare, immunizations, and checkups, exposing yourself to more severe illnesses. If you become very ill while in school, you may miss classes or worsen due to healthcare costs. 

"It's vital for students to have good insurance to stay in school because they can withstand the huge financial circumstances," Beckley said. 

According to a 2023 American College Health Association (ACHA) report, around 2% of students don’t have health insurance.  

Whether health insurance is required for college students depends on the state the school is in and several other factors.

Many colleges require insurance or automatically enroll medical students and/or health science students under certain circumstances. But Massachusetts is the only state requiring all students to have health insurance, Beckley said. 

In other states, requirements vary by school—for example, the University of North Carolina and the University of California systems mandate health insurance for students attending school. Twenty-eight states have one or more public universities requiring health insurance for domestic students in the 2023-2024 academic year, according to Beckley’s research.

Generally, most schools with health insurance requirements also offer a health insurance plan. If the school requires mandatory coverage and you have another health insurance plan that qualifies, you can apply for a waiver from your school.  

Some states' public colleges and universities don't have any requirements at all, including Alaska, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Washington, and Wyoming, according to Hodgkins Beckley & Lyon's research.

International students may have different requirements. Beckley said that international students with a J Visa need proof of health insurance, but F Visa students do not. However, "most schools apply the same health insurance coverage requirements to all international students," he said.

Student Health Insurance Plans: How They Work 

As many as three million students are covered by college, university, or other higher-ed institution student health insurance plans (SHIPs). However, the particulars of these student health insurance plans vary by institution, including costs, benefits offered, coverage areas, and how they work.   

A college or university-sponsored SHIP is the primary insurance source for almost 21% of students, according to 2023 research from the American College Health Association. Student plans are provided by 91% of public universities and 77% of private institutions.

The average annual cost of a public university student health insurance plan is $2,924, while a private school health plan averaged $3,874 annually for undergraduates in the 2023-24 plan year, according to Beckley.

“Public institution plans often have slightly lower benefits than private institution health plans, but still usually offer gold or platinum-level coverage ," Beckley said. On the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, this metal level means that your copays and other out-of-pocket expenses will be low.

Some public universities offer very broad coverage. Beckley points to the University of California's system, which offers dental, vision, and a mini- COBRA students can use to keep health insurance after leaving the school. 

The plans are designed to work with the needs of a local student, as well as coverage for internships around the country, study-abroad stays, or spring break.

“Student health plans have integration with on-campus health and counseling services, plus networks of providers that are easy to access and familiar with a student insurance plan," Beckley said. 

The plans often use a health insurance company’s existing network , such as Cigna or Blue Cross Blue Shield. These may come with extra benefits such as virtual or app-based mental health sessions.

Other surprising features of student health insurance plans are that financial aid awards can include SHIP premiums to reduce monthly costs; coverage is available for spouses and children for an extra premium; and international coverage includes emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, and accidental death and dismemberment.

Other Options for College Health Insurance 

Parent plan.

Students can stay on a parent’s insurance plan through age 26, and most do. According to ACHA, the primary source of health insurance for 54% of students is a parent’s or guardian’s plan.  

But if you’re moving to a different state or region, it’s essential to understand the plan rules and call beforehand (if possible) to understand your coverage. 

"Many parent plans tend to offer a narrow network in the local area, whether you're across the state or out of state," Beckley said—even if that plan isn’t designated as an HMO (health maintenance organization) . This is true for a parent’s ACA plan too, he noted.

Insurance policies typically feature provider networks and may only cover care within that network, including care provided by your student health center. Depending on your plan, visits to an out-of-network doctor or hospital may not be covered . 

So if you attend school in a different state or a region outside what your parents’ plan covers, you may not have coverage for anything beyond emergency care. 

While you could wait until you go home in the summer or on breaks to schedule preventive checkups and immunizations, you’d go without most urgent care and more regular needs such as mental health services.  

Other parent plans may offer a regional or national network of providers you can access. You can also call a consulting nurse or your provider, or connect with a provider by email or online. 

According to ACHA, around 2.5% of students rely on a self-bought health insurance plan. This is likely a Marketplace health insurance plan , based in the state where the student will attend college.  If you’re older than 26 or your parents don’t have health insurance, you’ll likely want to enroll in a Marketplace plan. A primary advantage is that the policy will cover care in your new locale.  

If you’re under 30, you qualify for a low-premium catastrophic plan , which offers free preventive care and three doctor visits a year. These plans typically have a high deductible (the amount you pay before insurance begins paying).

One drawback: If you return home to another state for the summer, your ACA plan coverage may be limited to emergencies only. Review your policy plan for details, or call your company to determine how out-of-state care works. 

When you move to attend school, you may be eligible for a Marketplace special enrollment period . This period allows you to enroll immediately instead of waiting for the annual open enrollment period in late fall or early winter.

Workplace Plans

Around 9% of students’ primary source of health insurance comes from an employer’s group health insurance plan —whether their own or their spouse’s or partner’s employer.  

Employers don’t have to offer coverage to part-time workers (although some may). However, some states, such as Hawaii, require coverage for part-time employees working more than 20 hours per week. Still, working enough hours to earn healthcare insurance benefits could eat into your available hours for college attendance, assignments, and studying. 

If you’ve left a full-time job for college, you could also enroll in COBRA. However, this option may be costly, limited in geographic portability, and will only cover you temporarily.   

Other Government Health Insurance

For almost 10% of students, health insurance coverage comes from a government or public health source:

  • Medicare for those 65 and older and younger people with specific physical disabilities
  • Medicaid for those who qualify due to income or family status
  • Veterans Affairs for retired former members of the U.S. military
  • CHIP health insurance for those under 19 years of age  

Medicaid might work for some students, but many Medicaid programs present issues for switching designated primary care providers and plans if you’re moving to attend school. 

"It's a common problem that it's really hard to get mental healthcare access," Beckley said, and it may entail a significant wait. “In some states, it's easy and quick to enroll in Medicaid and get residency without burdensome proof, while in other states, it can take months to complete Medicaid enrollment.” 

How to Choose a Plan for Coverage in College

Increasingly, colleges are touting their health plans, and families face decisions when comparing plans. "If you can save money by going to a school with a built-in health insurance plan at a UC campus versus California State, it's an important consideration," Beckley said.  

If you’ve already accepted an offer for a school and are now trying to choose a health insurance option, consider the following: 

  • Medication: Can you receive your prescription by mail-order, or is there a local pharmacy you can access?
  • Primary care: Can you get a primary care physician who’s covered where you’ll attend school for most of the year? Is that physician accessible if you don’t have a car or primarily spend time on campus?
  • In-network care: Are there options for specialist providers, urgent care centers, and hospitals near your school?
  • On-campus coverage: Does your health plan (whether ACA, parent, spouse, employer, or COBRA) cover the on-campus health center and mental health services?
  • Portability : Does this plan move with you as you travel, work, or study abroad and when you return home?

Do Students in the U.S. Get Health Insurance?

Students in the U.S. may be automatically enrolled in their college health insurance plan, depending on the institution and state where the college or university is located. However, there is a quarterly or semester-based fee for this insurance. It is not free. 

Why Do Some Colleges Require Students to Have Health Insurance?

Typically, the colleges requiring health insurance also offer health plans. Colleges require students to have health insurance to help them get care while attending college and avoid burdensome debt that could result from unexpected medical emergencies. In addition, some states make health insurance mandatory for all adults. 

Is Health Insurance Mandatory for International Students in the US?

Health insurance is mandatory for some international students as well as domestic students. Check with your college or university for details.  

Can I Go to the Student Health Center Instead of Getting Health Insurance?

On-campus student health centers can offer affordable services, but good health insurance is still necessary. Student health centers have limited hours, may not be able to manage your complex chronic condition or mental health concern, and are only located on campus—not much help if you’re traveling abroad or taking an internship in a nearby city.

Finding the right health insurance that covers you as a college student is important for your long-term physical and financial health. A health plan should offer enough coverage that you won’t be left destitute if you slip and break your arm while skiing—or just crossing the quad. Your school’s student health insurance plan, your parents’ plan, an ACA plan, part-time work, or government programs are all possible ways to get coverage so you stay safe during your studies. 

The Federal Reserve. “ Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2022 - May 2023 .”

American College Health Association. “ Spring 2023 Reference Group Executive Study .”

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. “ Student Health Plans .”

American College Health Association. “ Why SHIPs Matter .”

California Senate Office of Research. “ Health Insurance Coverage for California’s College Students .” Page 12.

how to travel for cheap as a college student

  • Terms of Service
  • Editorial Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Your Privacy Choices

College tour season is about to kick off. Here are 10 tips from college tour guides to have a successful campus visit.

  • As spring starts, colleges nationwide will welcome parents and students to tour their campuses. 
  • College tour guides want people to arrive on time, ask the right questions, and have fun.
  • They also recommend students take the tours on their own, without their parents.

Insider Today

Spring break is right around the corner, and for many high-school students and their parents, that means many will be hitting the road to tour colleges around the country.

To make the most of your visit, Business Insider spoke with college students and tour guides. They know the campuses like the backs of their hands, and they know how to walk backward.

Here are the dos and don'ts of college tours from student guides .

1. Get there with no time to spare, but don't be late.

You won't get points for arriving early, so try to arrive on time. But if you do happen to arrive late , there's no need to worry.

"If something comes up and you are late, ask your guide what you missed once the tour finishes," Skyler Kawecki-Muonio, a senior at Sarah Lawrence College in New York, told BI. "They will happily fill you in."

2. Dress to impress, but don't sacrifice comfort.

It's important to look nice, but you don't have to don a jacket and tie. Tour-goers should put their best foot forward with a sturdy pair of walking shoes , and don't forget to dress for the weather.

"At Fairleigh Dickinson, tours go out rain or shine, so make sure to wear clothes that will keep you warm," Emily Bone, a junior at Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey, said .

3. Don't forget to sign in, but skip the résumé .

Most schools have a check-in desk where you'll receive a campus map and other literature. But don't bother furnishing schools with your portfolio.

"Students can leave their résumés at home," Henry Millar, a senior at the College of William & Mary in Virginia, said. "Tour guides generally do not have any sway in the admissions process whatsoever, so feel free to save the paper."

4. Pay attention on the tour, but do it solo if possible.

Some schools offer to let parents and kids take separate tours, which has advantages.

"Get excited about your child's potential future in college, but give them some space to see what they think of that school on their own," Nathan Weisbrod, a junior at Wesleyan University in Connecticut, told BI.

Related stories

Students can comfortably ask questions without a parent present and compare notes afterward .

5. Ask all your questions, but avoid personal interrogations.

This is the time to inquire about any aspect of campus life , and don't feel shy about speaking up.

"Tour guides love getting questions because it allows us to cater the tour, especially in small groups, toward the needs and interests of the families on that specific tour," Halle Spataro, a senior at Bucknell University, said.

But some topics are off-limits, so don't ask your tour guide about their SAT scores , ACT scores , or what they wrote about in their essay .

6. Speak up, but let the student take the lead.

Parents may be tempted to raise their hands again and again, but this tour is about the student, so there should be space to let them shine.

"Try to take the back seat — or the passenger seat — but refrain from driving all of your child's interactions," Julian Jacklin, a junior at Reed College in Oregon, said. "Students who feel they can own that experience usually ask the most questions and engage with the tour more."

7. Say thanks, but don't leave with questions unanswered.

Maybe your guide didn't hear you, or your kid was reluctant to speak up. You can still get the information you want before leaving.

"There's a lot of information students are getting that day and a lot of excitement with being in a new place, which can make people forget to ask certain questions," Lorenzo Mars, a junior at Pepperdine University in California, said.

Therefore, get your tour guide's email address so that you can follow up .

8. You may know exactly what school is right but keep an open mind.

Don't be surprised if a city-living kid is suddenly intrigued by a small-town setting.

"The college search and college experience are all about getting to know yourself better and growing, so on a tour, students have to trust themselves and their judgment of the 'world' they've just stepped into," Thomas Elias, a senior at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania, said .

9. Take in as much as possible, but remember to have fun.

Sure, preparing for the next four years can be scary and stressful. But it's also an exciting milestone, so enjoy the ride.

"These tours serve as great opportunities to learn more about colleges — along with their cities, culture, and people," Connor Gee, a sophomore at the University of Mississippi, said. "Have fun with it!"

10. Weigh the pros and cons of the school, but don't stop there.

Your tour may be over, but you can still learn other ways to immerse yourself in college life .

"See if the school offers additional experiences, like eating in the cafeteria or attending a class," Emily Balda, a senior at Seton Hall University in New Jersey, said. "Consider it 'food for thought.'"

Watch: What new Citadel military college "knobs" go through on day one at the controversial school

how to travel for cheap as a college student

  • Main content

IMAGES

  1. 7 Tips For Traveling On A College Student Budget

    how to travel for cheap as a college student

  2. 5 Ways You Can Travel as a College Student

    how to travel for cheap as a college student

  3. Cheap Vacation Ideas for College Students

    how to travel for cheap as a college student

  4. 7 Real-Life Tips for Saving Travel Money from One Broke College Student

    how to travel for cheap as a college student

  5. Traveling on a College Student Budget

    how to travel for cheap as a college student

  6. Ways to Travel as a College Student

    how to travel for cheap as a college student

VIDEO

  1. Cheap college meal!

  2. Cheap College budget Meal + Its Healthy… Ft Mr Brownie

  3. CHEAP UNIVERSITIES IN NEW JERSEY FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

  4. Meet Rishi Kukkar from India International Students at PLC

  5. WHEN A COLLEGE STUDENT WANTS TO BUY A KEG

  6. Got F1 Visa

COMMENTS

  1. 8 Tricks to Cheap Student Travel

    Sept. 13, 2012, at 1:12 p.m. 8 Tricks to Cheap Student Travel. As the days grow longer and the weather warmer, a tremor of excitement passes through college campuses: Summer vacation is on its way ...

  2. 4 ways I save money on travel as a college student: Award travel on a

    Avoid fuel surcharges. The arch nemesis of a college student, fuel surcharges are a relevant issue to all award travel enthusiasts. They can often accompany award tickets, tacking on hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in addition to miles redeemed. I will avoid paying surcharges at all costs. RYAN PATTERSON/THE POINTS GUY.

  3. How to Travel on a Budget in College

    Taking the subway or hopping on a local bus or streetcar can get you around to many major attractions and areas of the city for usually just a few dollars—much cheaper than an Uber or taxi! And of course, renting a bike or just walking can be a great way to experience a new city as well. 10. Travel during off-season.

  4. 28 Cheap Travel Destinations for College Students on a Budget

    12. Zagreb, Croatia 🎨. The Croatian capital of Zagreb is bursting with old-world and avant-garde attractions, making this a fun but cheap travel destination for college students on a shoestring budget. However, keep in mind that a visa application will be an added expense .

  5. 45 Best Places to Travel for College Students

    35. Rome, Italy. Recommended by Claudia from Strictly Rome. With all its art, history, and culture, Rome is bound to be a fantastic destination for college students who can join one of the many short and long term university and college programs offered in the Eternal City.

  6. 11 Affordable Travel Destinations for Broke College Students

    San Juan, Puerto Rico. Best Places to Stay. Puerto Rico is an easy trip for American students because flights usually aren't too long or expensive and you don't even need a passport since it's a U.S. territory. San Juan has lots of student-friendly hostels that have rates as low as $15 per night.

  7. Student Flight Discounts & Deals: What to Know

    Turkish Airlines student flight discounts. If you're a student flying on Turkish Airlines, whether or not you're a Turkish citizen, you can get up to a 20% discount on domestic flights within ...

  8. How to Travel as a Student (Even If You're Broke!)

    As incredible as this experience sounds, it isn't cheap. The Semester at Sea cost is around $27,000 to $33,000 USD for room, tuition, health insurance, and food. Adding in the costs of flights, visas, textbooks, vaccinations, and more, and you'll probably pay around $36,000 to $41,000 USD for a semester. Ouch.

  9. 8 Tips to Travel for Cheap in College

    Check our guide for cheaper ways to travel and tips for planning a budget-friendly vacation. By. Danika Miller. Edited by. Cameren Boatner. Updated on August 22, 2022. Learn more about our editorial process.

  10. 8 ways to travel more while in college

    Get a side gig for extra money. 7. Travel cheap with a purpose. 8. Going the traditional route. ---. 1. Take a summer job with a vacationing family in need of child care. Many families look for college students to come along with them on vacations, to entertain and care for their young kids.

  11. The 15 Best Websites for Cheap, Discount Student Flights

    SriLankan Airlines Student Special. Students flying SriLankan Airlines can get 10% cash-back on the first ticket purchased and 15% cash-back on the second through fifth ticket purchased, plus extra baggage allowance on tickets purchased through March 31, 2023. 13. Turkish Airlines Student Discounts.

  12. Student Discount Flights & Deals

    Find cheap flights for students on KAYAK. KAYAK compares student flight deals and discounts on hundreds of airline ticket sites. ... That's why KAYAK partners with travel companies that offer discounts on flights specifically for college students and travelers under the age of 26. Kick off a flight search to see if a sweet discount is ...

  13. How to travel as a college student: 10 ways to travel cheap

    Try ridesharing. Numerous services match riders and drivers who are traveling around the world. This is a great option to save money while you are on the road. As for the expenses, in most cases, you will travel in a car with other people and chip in together to pay the driver.

  14. How to Travel As a College Student: 7 Ways to Travel Cheap in College

    However, it's worth a try if you want a free way to get off campus and see a new place. 2. Organize a Road Trip. Pexels. If you or someone you know owns a car, you could get a group together and plan a road trip! With a car full of people splitting costs, this can be a great way to travel inexpensively.

  15. How to find cheap flights as a student

    It's true— StudentUniverse is a great way to save money on flights as a college student because you can get up to 30% off flights both domestic and international. With over 220+ airlines to choose from, there's a lot of destinations (and savings) available. You'll also find great deals on hotels, too.

  16. 12 Ways To Get Cheap Flights for College Students

    Use Your Student ID. "Many airlines offer discounts to students," said Fred Hoffman, founder and chief editor at The True Wilderness . "All you have to do is show your student ID when you book your flight or at the airport.". Some airlines that offer student discounts include Delta, United and Virgin Atlantic.

  17. Traveling as a Student: a Complete Guide + Travel Etiquette ...

    Traveling as a Student [Guide + Infographic] As the famous saying goes, "the world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.". This is the reason why numerous people decide to leave their homes and go on a voyage around the world. It's about seeing new places, having exciting experiences, and learning more about ourselves ...

  18. How to travel cheap as a broke and busy student

    We're here to tell you that you absolutely can travel cheap! You just need to know the secret in-and-outs of traveling low budget and still having a great time. Tips on having the time of your life traveling, even though you're a broke, busy college student: 1. Accommodations are just for sleeping.

  19. How to Travel Cheap in College

    By volunteering abroad, you will see the places that you are traveling and working, in a whole new light. 4. Book Cheap Flights. Though this is often easier said than done, it's not impossible. College students around the world are turning to companies like Secret Flying to book roundtrip airfare at really low prices.

  20. How to get a student discount on your next flight

    Lufthansa student discount. When traveling internationally or considering flights to multiple locations, German carrier Lufthansa is a popular and reliable carrier. Their student discount program allows students enrolled in a US college or university and people aged 12 to 25 to travel to more than 470 destinations worldwide for discounted airfares.

  21. 9 Secrets to Finding Very Cheap Student Flights

    8. Take a red-eye flight. Getting a cheap flight isn't just about when you travel, it's also about when you literally travel—that is, when your flight leaves. Early morning or red-eye (overnight) flights are usually the cheapest, because they're considered "less-ideal" travel times. As a result, they're usually cheaper.

  22. 7 Cheap Places to Travel for College Students

    Cheap Month to Travel Kuala Lumpur: May is the cheapest month to fly to Kuala Lumpur. The high season is from November to April and the rest of the year will be savvy for college students to make a holiday in Malaysia. Free Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur: The 10 cheap things to do in Kuala Lumpur are: Visit Kl Eco Forest Park; Central Market ...

  23. How to Travel as a College Student

    Stay With Friends or Family. The 1st way to travel as a college student was to stay with family or friends. On some of the trips that I went on, I stayed with friends. I was there if they had an ...

  24. The Best Student Travel Insurance

    What Travel Guard covers. There are several options available from Travel Guard for travel insurance for students studying abroad or simply exploring on break: Deluxe, Preferred and Essential ...

  25. How To Study Abroad As An Online College Student

    There are multiple online study abroad options. For example, you can complete remote internships or take classes on campuses in other countries. You can also attend professor-led summer tours or ...

  26. Tax Deductions And Credits You Can Claim For Tuition And Fees

    For the 2023-2024 year, the average cost of in-state tuition for a public four-year college is $11,260, according to the College Board. The number is significantly more for private four-year ...

  27. What Is The Pell Grant?

    College isn't cheap. In fact, students could have expected to pay an average of $26,000 total to attend a public four-year college during the 2021-2022 school year alone. That's like buying a ...

  28. How to Travel Europe as a College Student

    Just sign up on StudentUniverse with your .edu email address, search for the flights you need from over 220+ airlines, and book with a discount. You can regularly find flights to Europe for $200-$400 if you're a student! Or check for promo codes before you purchase. You'll find deals for specific airlines, destinations and more.

  29. Health Insurance for College Students: How It Works

    Student plans are provided by 91% of public universities and 77% of private institutions. The average annual cost of a public university student health insurance plan is $2,924, while a private ...

  30. 10 Tips From College Tour Guides to Have a Successful Campus Visit

    2. Dress to impress, but don't sacrifice comfort. It's important to look nice, but you don't have to don a jacket and tie. Tour-goers should put their best foot forward with a sturdy pair of ...