This past year I have had the opportunity to travel frequently throughout semester breaks and the summer. While traveling, I have constantly looked into flights and booked them as well. This has forced me to discover the budget-friendly world of travel for a college student whose budget is small. Flying is expensive, but, there are websites and tips that will allow you to save your money and still take that spring break trip. There are seven things that I do each and every time I travel:
1. Book flights at least more than a month in advance
This is an obvious tip. If you plan to make a trip somewhere start looking at flights in advance, they are typically cheaper than when you look a few weeks beforehand.
2. Tuesdays and Thursdays mornings are for the good deals
Buying plane tickets is a bit strategic, on certain days and times prices decrease and then increase. I have discovered that Tuesdays and Thursday mornings are always the time when flights are the cheapest. You will notice at these times the prices decrease and it will save you money.
3. Avoid big holidays
Holidays are the busiest and most expensive times to fly somewhere. This is typically when airlines make the most money as well which is why their prices go up. Start to buy holiday tickets sooner and definitely don't fly the day before Christmas Eve.
4. Are you a night owl or a early bird?
Most flights are rarely midday depending on where you are going, so you have a choice of the red-eye flight at 6 am or an evening flight at 7pm. Traveling is draining but if you are a morning person, the morning flight might suit you better than the evening flight.
5. Visit the Student Universe website
Last summer I discovered the Student Universe website and it is the only website I buy my flights on. They compare other websites and college students, high school students, and teachers receive the best deals and discounts.
6. Travel light
https://www.wellandgood.com/good-advice/packing-tips-for-carry-on-suitcases-from-flight-attendants/
I almost always bring a carry on bag and a personal item on a flight now. Paying almost 30 dollars to check a bag to and from my destination is too much money. Learn to condense the items you are packing and find a go to carry-on bag. Typically I pack a carry-on duffle bag or suitcase and a backpack which fits all of the items I need. Also, you can buy toiletries at your destination much cheaper than having to check a bag with toiletries you have.
7. Plan your trip
In order to know what to pack and budget for you should plan your trip a little more. This helps me structure my budget and helps me make sure I am still doing things I want to do while being smart.