Cheap Student Summer Travel Ideas
Inexpensive Budget Vacation Opportunities for College Students
Summer travel can be prohibitively expensive for students-- but it doesn't have to be. Here are some cheap travel ideas to help you plan a great vacation.
For college students, finding cheap travel these days can be a challenge. With rising fuel prices, both car and plane travel are more expensive than ever, especially during the premium summer months. In addition, summer is a busy travel time for everybody, so student travellers have to compete with families and everyone else who's looking for a summer getaway.
With a little creativity, though, students can still find cheap summer travel. Student discounts, travel packages, and other deals designed for the young traveller are working in you favor, if you're willing to do just a little research. Here are some ideas for finding cheap student summer travel.
International Student Work Abroad Programs
One strategy for paying for international travel is to find a job or internship in another country. This gives you a unique opportunity to get to know the locals and the cultures by rolling up your sleeves and becoming a part of the community. Work abroad experiences are available in many countries, but are especially common throughout much of Western Europe.
One industry where work abroad opportunities are common is the tourism industry. After all, this is the busiest tourism season for everyone. If you're at least somewhat fluent in another language, you may be able to find work assisting tourists who speak your native language in a country where your second language is spoken. Another work possibility is childcare, as parents need nannies to watch children when school is out. In addition, you may be able to find work related to summer agriculture.
To explore work abroad opportunities, visit the international student center on your campus. Along with job listings, this office will have information on how to get a work visa and other essential travel information.
Summer Volunteer Opportunities for Students
Spring break volunteer trips have become an increasingly popular way for students to have fun and do good at the same time. Summer volunteer opportunities can be equally as rewarding. Because summer vacation is so much longer than spring break, students have the opportunity to volunteer for longer periods of time and to get more involved with their projects. The longer time period also allows for more extensive travel, so while spring break volunteering usually takes place in one's own country, summer volunteering can take place locally or abroad.
Whenever you make a commitment to volunteer, do some research to find a volunteer experience that suits your skills, interests, and comfort level. Some volunteer activities involve manual labor, like building houses. Other opportunities include tutoring children, working with the elderly, or teaching adults your native language. Keep in mind that many volunteer opportunities require a fee – and sometimes an expensive one – and that you often have to apply for these opportunities.
To find out more about volunteering abroad, visit your school's international center, or do a web search. One company that sponsors many student volunteer experiences is United Planet.
Youth Hostels
Young people around the world find cheap, safe, and convenient accommodations at youth hostels. Hostels are inexpensive living areas where visitors usually sleep in dormitory like areas with bunk beds. Hostels usually have kitchens, so you can save more money by preparing your own food. Many hostels also serve breakfast.
If you've never experienced a youth hostel, you may just want to give this experience a try! Hostels give you the opportunity to meet people from all over the world – and cost a fraction of what you would pay for a hotel. You can get information about hostels at websites such as Hostels.com.
Student Travel Discounts
When shopping for travel, always look for student discounts. With a little research, you'll find discounts on many travel related expenses, including air travel, train travel, hotels, theater tickets, and museums. Stop by a travel agency that works with students to find out what's available. Many college campuses have at least one travel agency on campus or in close proximity. When making student travel plans, it's a good idea to speak with a live person at a travel agency instead of shopping on the Internet, as there are plenty of unscrupulous people out there trying to take advantage of students with 'too good to be true" travel deals.
Don't let the high cost of travel scare you away from a fabulous summer vacation! With a little effort and research, you can take advantage of your student status and have an unforgettable semester break.
See also:
Cheap Flights for College Students
