Heading off to college for the first time is an exciting time for most of young people, but with the new-found independence comes challenges and responsibilities. One of the biggest issues for college students is budgeting their money. But there's no reason why a tight budget has to prevent you from having fun or even exploring the world. In fact, if you take our advice and follow these 7 budget travel tips, you can learn how to plan low budget holidays without burning a hole through your wallet.
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| Seoul Searching with my childhood friend Kay, December 2016. :) |
1. Fly using low-cost airlines
The cost of flying to Europe might set you back a few hundred bucks, but once you get there you'll be shocked to discover that flying discount air carriers such as Ryanair, Wizz Air, and EasyJet can actually be cheaper than taking a bus or train. In fact, flights between European cities can cost as little as $10 if you plan early.
2. Choose Backpacker Hostels
Staying at a hotel in major European cities is insanely expensive. In fact, even a modest hotel in places like Rome and Barcelona can cost $200 a night! But backpacker hostels, where you share a room and bathroom facilities with fellow travelers, are not only affordable
(around $15 a night even in popular destinations), they are truly a fun experience. Many city-owned hostels, such as the one in Geneva, Switzerland, even offer a discount on public transportation and airport transfers. Finally, a lot of hostels provide a free breakfast, which means one less meal to spend money on.
3. Hitchhiking
Through the Country
Although hitchhiking went out of fashion in America in the 1970s, the practice is still very much alive and well in Europe. Not only is it the cheapest way to travel
(and often entirely free), it is the perfect way to take in the landscapes and countryside while making your way through such places as France and Italy.
4. Join Couch Surfing
Couch Surfing, a popular hospitality service and social networking site, is how savvy travelers find places to crash without spending a dime. In fact, your host will often be eager to show you around their city and some even offer to cook meals in order to give you an authentic culinary experience. Airbnb is another hospitality site to use when you want to enjoy cheap European vacations, although unlike Couch Surfing it does require payment.
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| Street food! :) |
5. Choose Meals Sensibly
While it might seem tempting to eat in luxury while visiting London or Paris, it is truly a budget breaker. But fear not, there are plenty of ways to eat delicious, satisfying meals while traveling. For example, the simple task of avoiding the restaurants in the most touristy parts of a city will save you money. Street vendors offer a taste of the city in a way that is very affordable. Many hostels have kitchens where guests are welcome to cook, so buying food at the supermarket is yet another great option.
6. Visit Museums When They're Free
Visiting a museum in a major European city can get pricy, but very often even the most famous ones designate a day or time when they are free. For example, the Louvre in Paris
(home of the Mona Lisa) is free to everybody under 26 on Fridays after 6:00pm. While you are busy taking in all of that rich art and history, you may also discover the benefits of buying a college essay. Your custom college paper will meet all of your specifications and is guaranteed to arrive in your inbox on your deadline.
7. Go on Free Walking Tours
The best way to learn about a city is to take part in a walking tour. Not only does every major city offer them, they are often free! While the tour guides appreciate tips, it is a small price to pay for 3 hours of fresh air and fascinating stories about the city that you were not aware of.
We hope you found this advice helpful. There are numerous additional tips that are guaranteed to save your many and time while travelling. Do not be afraid to explore your options.
