Student Travel Tips

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Just because you’ve chosen to go to university rather than take a year off backpacking doesn’t mean that you can’t travel. You’ll still have free weekends for shorter city breaks, and term time only covers around half of the year anyway, so there’s ample opportunity to get away – your only real limiting factor is of course the bane of all students – your finances. With this in mind, here are a few tips to help you keep those costs down and carry on travelling while you study.

Hostels vs Hotels

Hostels are very frequently going to be your cheapest option, and if you’re dead serious about saving money then get comfortable using them. Yes, it’s not ideal having only a bunk bed to yourself, but you’re travelling to see the sights, not your room, right? Having said that, bear in mind that if you’re not travelling alone, a hotel room may well work out cheaper, even if it’s just two of you, so don’t just assume.

Trains, Planes and Automobiles

Think carefully about your travel options, because it’s not always as simple as comparing ticket prices. Flights can sometimes look very cheap, but baggage may well not be included, making another option cheaper – transport to and from the airport can be expensive too. It’s common for budget airlines to be based well outside city centres, surprising unwary travellers. Driving can often work out a lot cheaper than you think if you’ve got or can rent an economical car – just bear ferries and toll roads in mind.

Competitions

Lots of students look to earn a bit of extra cash through competitions and by completing surveys. Spend an hour or so per week doing something like this, and there’s always the chance that you’ll win money that you can put towards a trip, goodies that you can sell, or even a holiday in itself. Columbus Direct, a travel company, are running a competition for instance where you can win a GoPro. Ideal if you like taking photos and video when you’re on your travels.

Look in Advance

Last minute deals aren’t all they’re cracked up to be. Yes, there’s always the chance that you’ll be able to grab a cheap flight and room in low season, but the chances are more likely that you’ll be disappointed. The best prices are going to be those found well in advance – and often if you can pay in advance too. Many hotels and hostels offer reduced rates if you’re willing to commit months beforehand.

Tags: student travel

Category: Travel