Study Abroad: 6 hacks for cheap flights, student discounts and smart savings
Studying abroad is an exciting adventure, but it can also become costly if you're not careful. From airfare and accommodation to daily expenses, the costs can add up quickly. The good news is that with the right strategies, you can save a lot without missing out on your experience. Whether you're booking your first international flight or navigating life in a new country, these six travel hacks—ranging from finding cheap flights and student discounts to clever money-saving tips—will help you stretch your budget while maximising your time abroad.advertisementGoing abroad opens up unparalleled academic and cultural opportunities, and with careful planning, you can create unforgettable travel experiences as well. However, between flights, hotels, and tours, expenses can accumulate rapidly. Thankfully, there are smart, student-friendly tips that can help you go further for less, inputs from Ritika Gupta, Counsellor at AAera Consultants.Below are the best travel tips every study abroad student needs to know.
1. Fly cheap and book smartAirfare is one of the largest expenses, but it doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg.Compare fares using tools such as Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Hopper to monitor price trends.Fly midweek or off-peak hours whenever possible—this tends to be cheaper.Consider flying in and out of secondary airports if the primary hubs cost too much.Always shop incognito to prevent cookie-based price inflation.advertisementTip: Student Universe and STA Travel provide special student and youth discounts—sign up and compare!2. Access student discounts everywhereBeing a student has its benefits—make the most of them.Obtain an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) for international student discounts.Always enquire if a museum, gallery, store, or restaurant has student prices—it's usually not advertised.Take advantage of various discount sites.Bonus: Most public transportation systems have youth or student passes—purchase them ahead of time to save a bundle on commuting.3. Pack light, travel easilySkip the high baggage fees and make things easy by packing smart.Pack in a carry-on backpack to save time and money at the airport.Pack essentials that can be layered and reused.Don't forget such essentials as a universal power adaptor, a refillable water bottle, and a compact first-aid kit.Hack: Space-maximising compression packing cubes keep your bag tidy.4. Opt for budget-friendly transportationDitch expensive taxis—venture out and discover local transport and regional travel passes.In Europe, purchase a Eurail or Interrail pass for free-form train travel between countries.Consider overnight buses or trains to save on both transport and accommodation.5. Sleep cheap and safeHotels can be pricey—opt for budget alternatives with character.Book hostels via Hostel World or Booking.com and read the reviews carefully.Check university housing boards for affordable sublets or short-term student rentals.Use Airbnb for group accommodations or couch-surfing for local, free experiences (just be careful and consider safety first).6. Take advantage of free and low-cost activitiesNot all things memorable are costly—some of the best are free.Take free walking tours in big cities (just tip your tour guide).Go to museums on free-admission days or with your student ID.Walk through local markets, parks, and cultural events.Look at Meetup or Facebook events for free local events.
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The card will be activated only after complete verification of the KYC (Know Your Customer) documents. Allirajan M is a journalist with over two decades of experience. He has worked with several leading media organisations in the country and has been writing on mutual funds for nearly 16 years.
