A Student's Money Saving Guide to Traveling Abroad

During their college years, students experience many new things. They are enrolled in new classes, joining new clubs and extracurricular activities, and meeting new people. Another new tradition that has become increasingly popular for college students is to spend a semester or year studying abroad in another country. Students who choose to study abroad will experience new places, languages, cultures, and traditions. While traveling can be an exciting experience, it can also be costly. It is important to learn ways to save money while traveling, so you can relax and enjoy the experience.

Before Your Big Trip

Once you have decided to study abroad, you should start planning right away. First, compare the different options of where you would like to travel. Compare the cost of the transportation and how expensive everyday items are in each destination. Use a currency converter to see how their rate compares to yours as well. This will help you learn where you will get the most for your money. Then, once you have decided on a place to travel, start building a budget. Ask your school's guidance or career center to see what scholarships might be available to you to help cover some costs for studying abroad. They may require you to get references or write an essay to be considered. To cover any other costs that are left, you can find small but effective ways to save some extra money. Money prepping is a very effective money saving tactic. Instead of buying food or drinks out at restaurants, buy groceries and prepare meals at home. Maybe even consider side-jobs in your free time such as babysitting, pet walking, or tutoring. Another way to save extra money is to find your spare change and turn it into a coin counting machine. In your budget, be sure to include travel costs, food and drink, fun things to do, transportation, and everyday items. Make sure to set aside money for emergencies as well just in case.

While You're Traveling

There are a bunch of ways to save money while you are in your new study destination as well. Part of going to a new country is experiencing the new food. And while going out to dinner every night may sound exciting, it can also start to add up in cost. One of the easiest ways to save money on your trip is to go to the grocery store and buy snacks and ingredients to make a few meals yourself. You can even look up how to make some of the favorite local meals of the country you're in. Looking to see what places offer student discounts is another great way to save money. If you have an ISIC card (International Student Identity Card) there may be discounts on things such as museums, stores, or restaurants. Places may offer group discounts if you buy tickets all together as well. You can also look for cheap alternatives for travel. Walk to close by destinations or use a ride share service if they have one. And lastly, be sure to do your research and look for fun things to do that are completely free of charge.

A Student's Money Saving Guide to Traveling Abroad

Before Your Big Trip

While You're Traveling

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