Summer has officially begun for most college students around the nation (if any of you are still finishing, maybe this article will help end your procrastination and make you excited to push through finals toward summer).
One of the many things that study abroad taught me last semester was how to travel well. That included everything from what to pack, the best places to visit, and how to travel on a budget.
Here is my list of tips for traveling this summer while being a broke college student.
1. Location, Location, Location
I’ve heard this triad of words enough times to pay for college tuition, if that tells you anything about its importance. Location really is key whether you want to take an extended road trip across the nation or a day trip in your own state. You can always find things to do all over the nation that will fit your budget. Sometimes you just need to do a little searching. I’ve even started the search for you: Best Tourist Attraction In Every State.
2. Food
Food is such an essential ingredient to any travel adventure. Especially if you’re visiting a place out of state, it’s important to try the local cuisine. However, eating out can be expensive. If you’re taking a long road trip, each meal adds up. Be sure to try at least one food known to the area, but then bring your own snacks and food to helps stretch out your dollars.
3. Timing
Timing, like location, is also key. Some places are better to visit during certain seasons. The weather can also make or break a trip. Do some research ahead of time to best prepare and enjoy yourself. Maybe there’s an annual festival you’d like to go to if you wait another weekend, or maybe you want to visit when it’s less crowded. Either way, the timing is integral.
4. Packing
This goes along with timing. Know the weather of your destination city ahead of time to best prepare. Nothing is worse than packing for sun and only getting rain. Be prepared for changes, but don’t overdue it either. You always need less than you think and, take it from someone who was traveling every weekend for three months, you’ll be glad you don’t have so many things to lug around. I highly recommend investing in a hiking backpack because it portable, accessible and can cram everything (and more) that you need for your trip.
5. Hostels
Before I studied abroad, the idea of living in a hostel kind of freaked me out, if I’m honest. But, hostels are actually a wonderful resource to take advantage of. First, they’re less expensive than hotels and nicer than motels. If you do a little digging, you can find some really amazing places (Family owned home and hostel surrounded by a vineyard in the middle of mountains? Yes, please!). Second, you’re bound to meet such interesting people from all over the world! I met people from the US, Europe, Asia and more!
6. Transportation
While flying is faster, it’s also more expensive. If you’re up to it, get a small group of four or so people and carpool! Whether you drive, take a train or bus it, your wallet will thank you. Plus, it’s great bonding time with your travel-mates. Some of your best memories might just come from singing at the top of your lungs, pretending to be an a cappella group in the back of a van.
7. Group Travel
The more the merrier! Groups of three to six people are usually a good size, plus when you divide costs, you’re spending less! Select a small group of people to accompany you. Who you travel with makes all the difference.
So what are you waiting for? Get off social media and start researching your next trip! Make this summer count. Be like Jasmine and open yourself up to a whole new world.
