Summer is almost upon us... that magical season of sky-high temps, barbecues, seeing old friends and did I mention no school? Now is the time of year when most college students make a list of summer must-dos and want-to-dos in preparation, hoping at best to get half of the things done because while summer might be academia-free, it's still not business-free.
Between summer jobs and the increasingly important summer internship, it's nearly impossible to read through that entire stockpile of books you've got going, (finally) learn to cook, visit your friend in California and work on your tan. Travel is, for a lot of people, always on the list. After a semester—or at least the final weeks of one—cooped up in your room or the library, getting the opportunity to see more of the world (or just of your city or state) provides much needed perspective and renews that sense of adventure, excitement and curiosity about the world you thought might have died after one too many group projects.
Unfortunately, it's not always just about wanting to travel. An even bigger obstacle than time for most people is cost, especially for college students who use summer as a time to live at home rent-free and actually make some money. It's no secret that summer airfare prices can get more than a little out of control. So, I've compiled this list of budget-friendly travel "workarounds," in the hopes that anyone with the desire and time to get away this summer still can.
1. Roadtrip It
This one might be the most obvious. You might be surprised what you'll find if you just get into the car, pick a direction and drive. Driving, while time-consuming, is significantly cheaper than flying, and you get to see a lot more than just the back of the head of the person sitting in front of you on the plane.
You know the old cliche: it's about the journey and not the destination. In the case of road trips, it's actually true. If you pick the right road trip partners (in crime), there's a surprising amount of joy to be had playing I Spy, listening to your favorite CDs, bingeing on gas-station junk food and stopping at every historical marker you see. Bonus points to those that dare to use paper maps and not GPS.
2. Couchsurf
If you're looking to spend some time in a new zip code (or continent) this summer but lack the funds for a hotel or even motel, it's time to sacrifice a little dignity and mooch. Call every good friend you know in California or Oregon or New Jersey, let them know just how much you'd love to see them and then hint that you'd like an invitation to sleep on their couch for a few days. Getting to see old friends can be the best part of traveling, especially if they have the time to spend catching up and showing you around.
If you're going to a new place where you know absolutely no one (especially internationally), consider trying a site like Couchsurfing.com, which allows travelers to contact hosts in any city who provide an open couch, meals and cultural information for free. Airbnb also has some pretty reasonable deals for both private and shared rooms.
3. Plan a Stay-cation
A really sad term, born out of the Great Recession, for a great money-saving idea. If you're short on cash, take the initiative to really explore your own city and take advantage of all the cool stuff is has to offer. How many times has a friend or relative come into town and you've gone all out to show them around, only to realize you haven't seen that much of your own city in a long time? We all get into work and school routines, and we forget all the cool stuff that exists nearby.
Go crazy on Facebook and find (and RSVP) to every free festival happening in your area from now until September (looking at you Chicago Margarita Fest!). Make a list of all the super touristy things you've never done (but secretly wanted to do) and do them. Or go the opposite route and take the time to really explore your neighborhood and all its independent businesses. Is there something you really love like foreign films, cajun food or modern architecture? Do a little digging, go onto your city's tourism website, and create your own foreign film/cajun food/architecture tour or crawl.
4. Take the Bus
Taking the bus as an adult might not be as cool as the above '90s cartoon made it seem, but it's a super cheap option for those of us who are who are car-less and who don't care if it takes a little longer to get to our getaway destination. Greyhound and Coach USA have routes that crisscross the continental US, and Megabus has busfares across states for as low as $1 if you book a month or so in advance.
5. Use Your Student Discount
It's good for more than 10 percent off at the 24-hour diner on campus, I promise. Flaunting your student ID can get you discount museum tickets, festival admission and dining (see a list here). Plus, many travel organizations like STA Travel have special international airfare, hotel/hostel, and tour prices for anyone who can prove that they are a full-time university student. When in doubt, do not be afraid to ask if any business has a student discount. We're stressed and drowning in student debt, we deserve the potential 15 percent off.
6. Do a Work Abroad or Service Program
Sometimes, the most rewarding way to travel isn't by vacationing. There are tons of job and travel opportunities (through sites like Language Corps) available to those with a desire to teach English. I also recently discovered a site called Workaway, whose mission it is to match willing volunteers with hosts across the globe. Often the duties required of "workawayers" include light housekeeping, childcare, meal preparation or assisting in the routine tasks of a local business for a few hours a day in exchange for housing and all meals. Placements through Workaway can be as short as a few days or as long as a few months and are a good option for anyone who isn't sure if a long-term intensive service program is right for them.
