One of the best parts about studying abroad is traveling to new and interesting places. If you’re like most students, you probably can’t wait to start exploring all that Europe (or wherever you’re studying) has to offer. However, it’s important to remember that you are still a student, so you must budget your time and money carefully. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your weekend travels while still completing your work.
1. Do Your Research
Before booking any tickets or making plans, it’s important to do your research to know what you’re getting into. Not every city or country is going to be right for every traveler. For example, if you’re looking for a party scene, Amsterdam will probably be better than Paris. On the other hand, if you’re interested in museums and history, Paris will probably be a better choice than Amsterdam.
So, here are a few things to consider while researching:
- Your interests and what you want to see/do
- The cost of accommodation, food, transportation, and attractions
- Any events or festivals happening during your visit
2. Find Affordable Accommodation
Finding cheap student accommodation can be a bit of a challenge, but it’s definitely doable. You can do a few things to help ensure you find a place to stay that fits your budget. One option is to look for hostels that cater specifically to students. These establishments often offer room discounts and may even have special rates for longer stays.
Another option is to look for rooms or apartments online, where you can often negotiate prices with the host. You can also try contacting local universities and colleges to see if they have any guest housing options available. With a bit of research, you should be able to find a place to stay that meets your needs and your budget.
3. Travel in a Group
If you’re traveling with friends or fellow students, one great way to save money is by traveling in a group. You can often get discounts on accommodation and transportation when you travel in a group, so it’s worth considering if you’re looking to save some money. Plus, exploring a new place with friends is always more fun!
When you’re traveling in a group, it’s important to plan ahead and establish a budget. This will help ensure everyone is on the same page and prevent any money issues during the trip.
4. Get Creative with Your Itinerary
Being on a budget doesn’t mean your trip has to be boring. There are plenty of ways to have fun without spending much money. For example, instead of going out for dinner every night, why not cook at home? Or instead of going clubbing every night, why not explore the city during the day?
Also, most cities have plenty of free attractions that are great for tourists on a budget. For example, many museums offer free days or discounted rates for students. So, if you’re looking for things to do, don’t forget about all the available free attractions. There are endless possibilities if you just get creative with your itinerary.
5. Plan Ahead and Budget Your Time
Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so you want to ensure that you fully experience everything the destination offers. That being said, it’s important not to overload your schedule with weekend trips. Be realistic about how much time you have available for traveling, and don’t forget to schedule a time to complete your studies and assignments.
It’s also important to plan and budget your time during the trip. It can be tempting to stay out late and sleep in, but remember that you still have responsibilities as a student. Make sure to schedule some downtime for studying and catching up on any work you may have missed while traveling.
6. Stay Safe
Finally, it’s important to stay safe while traveling. Whether you’re traveling alone or with friends, make sure to research the destination’s safety measures and take necessary precautions. Also, remember to always carry a form of identification and keep track of your belongings at all times.
You should also inform your university and any family or friends back home about your travel plans. That way, if anything were to happen, someone would know where you are and how to reach you.
Overall, traveling while studying abroad can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these tips and keeping safety in mind, you’ll be able to fully enjoy all the destinations and experiences that come your way. Happy travels!
