How to Travel as a Broke College Student
Wondering how to travel as a broke college student? Traveling as a college student can be challenging, especially when on a tight budget. However, with some creativity and planning, you can explore new places, meet new people, and immerse yourself in different cultures without breaking the bank.
I always wanted to go away for Spring Break, but my friends were either all talk, had no passport, or it was a combination of both factors. Graduation season and summer break are right around the corner, meaning tons of students will be traveling more.
How to Travel as a College Student
Whether you’re heading to college after high school, currently a student, or returning to school, here are some of the best ways to travel as a broke college student:
Do an International Exchange or Study Abroad
One of the best options for students interested in international travel is participating in an international exchange or study abroad program. These programs provide opportunities to study in a foreign country, often at a reduced cost. Exchange students typically don’t pay tuition fees to the host university, making it a more affordable option.
If you’re studying to be a doctor, consider looking into medical schools in other countries with U.S. accreditation. Many universities in Europe, Asia, and South America offer programs in English, making them accessible even to non-native English speakers.
Volunteer for a Good Cause
Volunteering is an excellent way to travel while giving back to the community. Organizations like World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) offer free accommodation in exchange for work on organic farms.
You can join non-profits that build schools, church missionary groups, or rebuild communities after natural disasters. These opportunities allow you to experience a new culture, learn a new language, and make new friends while contributing to a good cause.
Take a Gap Year
A gap or sabbatical year is the process of taking a break between academic years. These days, it is pretty popular for High School and undergrad students to travel during a gap year while still keeping a scholarship or admission status. Some intern or volunteer, while others choose to backpack.
Join a Student Organization or Club
Student organizations and clubs often offer opportunities for both domestic and international travel. Whether you’re part of a dance club, sports team, academic team, or cultural club, these groups can provide affordable travel options.
For instance, academic teams may travel to compete in competitions, while cultural clubs may organize trips to explore new destinations. These trips are often subsidized by the school or through fundraising efforts, making them a cost-effective way to see new places.
Save Money with Student Discounts
Save extra money by asking for and using a student discount. Some places don’t even care that you graduated already. Many post-grads use student discounts for clothes, train and bus fare, as well as admission to sites and attractions.
Be sure to carry your student ID or proof of enrollment when booking travel or accommodations, and don’t hesitate to ask if a student discount is available whenever possible.
Consider Short Trips and Local Travel
If international travel isn’t in your budget, consider short trips or local travel within the United States. There are plenty of new places to explore close to home.
Take a road trip during spring break, visit a national park during the school year, or explore a new city over a long weekend. These trips are often more affordable and require less planning than international travel.
Work While You Travel
Working while traveling is another great way to fund your adventures. Consider becoming an au pair, teaching English as a foreign language, or finding a part-time job abroad.
These opportunities allow you to earn money, gain valuable work experience, and immerse yourself in a new culture. Additionally, some universities offer travel cash advances for students participating in academic activities, which can help cover travel costs.
Explore Travel Grants and Scholarships
Many universities and external organizations offer travel grants and scholarships for students. These funds can be used to cover travel expenses for academic conferences, study abroad programs, or field trips.
Check with your university’s administrative office for information on available grants. Be sure to apply early, as these opportunities are often competitive.
Use Social Media and External Websites to Find Deals
Social media and travel websites can be valuable resources for finding travel deals. Follow travel bloggers, join travel groups on social media, and sign up for newsletters from travel companies to stay updated on the latest discounts and promotions.
Embrace New Experiences and Cultures
Traveling is not just about visiting new destinations; it’s also about embracing new experiences and cultures. Take the time to learn a new language, try new foods, and immerse yourself in the local way of life.
Whether visiting high-risk destinations like Mount Kilimanjaro or exploring new environments in North America, every trip is an opportunity to grow and expand your horizons.
Plan Ahead and Take Appropriate Steps
When planning your trip, make sure to take the appropriate steps to ensure a smooth and safe journey. This includes obtaining proper visas, purchasing travel insurance, and understanding the health insurance requirements for your destination.
If you’re traveling to a foreign country for the first time, research the local customs and laws to avoid misunderstandings. In case of an emergency, have a plan in place and know how to contact your country’s embassy or consulate.
Make the Most of Your Free Time
Lastly, remember to make the most of your free time while in college. Whether it’s during a long weekend, spring break, or summer vacation, there are plenty of opportunities to travel and explore the world. Even if you’re on a tight budget, there are countless ways to experience new cultures, meet new friends, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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I so wish that I had the support to do something like this when I was a graduating senior from high school. My parents were crazy paranoid, and just didn’t want their oldest child wandering the planet with no way to get in touch with them quickly (no cell phones for me back then!) I do want to encourage my son to travel more, and that’s why we sent him to Germany this year as a junior in high school. I hope this sparks a love of travel for him.
OMG that’s so cool! I’m sure he had a great time. My parents always encouraged me to travel, I just didn’t have the time when I was in school.
Great Post! My son just finished his freshman year at Tuskegee University. He loves to travel with friends and I will certainly share this post with him. We were not aware of the many student discounts to travelers.
Yes. Just go to a museum or tour company and ask. Worst they can say is no.
My son is 17 and he will be graduating from high school soon. One of the things he wants to do is travel. I was talking to him about this very thing you write about in your post – that students often travel after graduating as an exchange student or they take a year off. I’ll need to research some programs so we can make this happen for him! It would be an amazing experience!
I wish I had travelled during my college years. I road tripped a lot but never anything mind blowing or any international trips.
Road tripping is still traveling! All I did is work and go to school. It’s still an experience. 🙂
That’s true. I did have some good times and funny stories.
I am grateful for the leadership opportunities I had in college but my biggest regret is not studying abroad. Thankfully, the travel bug never left me and I’m going for it now but I can only imagine how much it would have enriched my experience when I was in school.
Traveling as a student can definitely save you money. These are great tips! I love the idea of taking a gap year. Thanks for sharing!
Erica | Black Bloggers Network
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If I could go back a couple of years…lol Thanks for reading Erica.