2. Open a separate savings account

A great way to avoid accidentally spending your travel money is to open a separate savings account just for your trip. This will help you track your progress and keep funds safe. Some banks even offer student accounts with no fees and better interest rates. You can also set up automatic transfers so that a small amount goes into your travel fund each month without you having to think about it.

3. Take advantage of student discounts

As a student, you have access to numerous discounts. There are websites that offer cheaper flights and accommodation to students. Always carry a student card, such as the International Student Identity Card (ISIC), which is accepted worldwide and offers you discounts on attractions, transportation and more.

4. Stay in budget accommodation

Accommodation can be one of the largest travel expenses; however, there are many cheaper options. Hostels are generally much more affordable than hotels and often offer student discounts. Plus, staying in hostels is a great way to meet other travelers.

You can also consider renting through platforms offering bed and breakfast accommodation, staying with a local family in homestays, or even couch-surfing, which can sometimes be free.

5. Save on shipping costs

Transportation costs can quickly add up when traveling, but there are ways to save. In many countries, students can benefit from discounts on public transport. For example, passes like Eurail (for non-EU residents) allow you to travel cheaply by train between several European countries.

For flights, try to book as early as possible to benefit from lower prices. Use price comparison websites like Google Flights to find the best deals and be flexible with your travel dates for better savings.

6. Consider working or volunteering abroad

One way to make your travels more affordable is to work or volunteer abroad. Many part-time jobs or internships are available for students; some may offer free accommodation or meals. If you want to travel and make a difference, consider volunteering in exchange for accommodation and food. Websites like Workaway can connect you with hosts from all over the world.

7. Cook your own meals

Eating out regularly can be expensive, especially in tourist areas. An easy way to save money is to prepare your own meals. If you’re staying in a hostel or B&B, they often have kitchens where you can prepare food. Visit local markets or grocery stores to purchase fresh ingredients inexpensively.

When you want to eat out, look for local street food or student-friendly restaurants that offer cheaper meals.

8. Get travel insurance

No matter how much you want to save money, one thing you should never ignore is investing. travel insurance. Travel insurance is there to protect you in case of emergencies like medical issues, lost luggage or trip cancellations. Without it, you could end up spending a lot more if something goes wrong.

For students there are special offers student travel insurance plans that provide comprehensive coverage. These policies can cover various eventualities such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, loss of personal effects, interruption of studies and loss/theft of documents.

When choosing insurance, compare different plans to find the one that suits you best and make sure it covers the country(ies) you plan to visit.

9. Use bank accounts and cards with low fees

When traveling internationally, using your credit card may incur additional fees for currency conversion or withdrawals. To avoid this, look for student-friendly banking options that offer lower or no international fees. Some banks offer special student accounts for travelers, or you might consider getting a prepaid travel card that lets you load different currencies and avoid extra fees.

10. Stay flexible with your travel plans

If you want to save even more, try to be flexible with your travel dates and destinations. Traveling out of season can result in cheaper flights and accommodation. You can also keep an eye out for last-minute deals that could provide you with significant savings.

Plus, if you’re willing to explore neighboring countries or less touristy areas, you can often have great experiences at a much lower cost.

Conclusion

Saving money for international travel as a student is entirely possible with the right planning and approach. By creating a well-defined budget, making the most of student discounts, and being mindful of your spending, you can make your travel dreams come true without breaking the bank. Don’t forget to invest in a comprehensive program student travel insurance plan to protect yourself against unexpected travel costs. Through careful saving and smart spending, you can explore the world on a budget. Travel safely!

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