BY: Chelsea Bassett
FIRST… RESEARCH, RESEARCH RESEARCH
When getting ready to travel somewhere for the first time, it is always best to do a lot of research
of the place before spending any money on flights, package deals or getting caught in tourist
traps. It is also significantly cheaper to buy plane tickets well in advance instead of a month or so
before traveling. Also, plan out the details of the trip in advance. Do you know if you want to go
anywhere specifically while your there? How will you get there? Do you need to save for train or
bus tickets? Know all the ends and outs of your trip before you make it. Researching can be
tedious and not seem spontaneous, but your wallet will thank you for it later.
PLAN ON TRAVELING DURING THE OFF SEASON
Not only will you be avoiding the tourist crowds, but it is also significantly cheaper to travel
during the off season. Hotels and travel expenses will usually spike during tourist season and
many people will fall victim to this money-spending trap. Also, if you’re planning on flying,
leave on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Flights are unquestionably cheaper on those days.
CHECK OUT HOSTELS
Hostels are budget-friendly dormitories where groups of people or individuals can rent beds
(usually bunk beds). They usually have a shared common space, kitchen and bathroom. Hostels
are also cheaper because one can actually cook while traveling instead of eating out all of the
time. Some hostels even offer free food for their guests. For those that are uncomfortable with
the idea of staying in one room with multiple people, there are hostels that are single-sex and
even some with private rooms. However, as a precaution it is always best to make sure that all
personal items are locked away when you’re gone.
CLEAR COOKIES & USE INCOGNITO WINDOW WHILE BOOKING
Websites can track what you’ve searched in the past, and travel sites use this specifically when
trying to see what prices you have been previously quoted. Websites will jack up their prices,
especially for flights, compared to other websites you’ve searched. Clearing your browser
history/cookies and using an incognito window helps keeps prices competitive and cheap.
TRAVEL LIGHT
It is so much cheaper and convenient to only have carry-on luggage while traveling. Checked
luggage fees can get crazy expensive and it is best to avoid them completely. During your
research, find out what you will absolutely need for your trip and only take those items. You can
also check out some great YouTube videos on how to pack your luggage in a way that gives you
more room for your stuff.
TRAVEL OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Most places have tourist traps that can easily con you into spending a ton of money for tours,
pictures, food etc. However, sometimes it’s cheaper and more exciting to explore areas that
tourists are not aware of; which is why it is important to get to know the locals. Many places also
have free museums and art galleries.
Also, walk everywhere; instead of spending money on tours or taxis, just walk around the area.
You can walk at your own pace instead of keeping up with a group and you can take as many
pictures as you want. Walking everywhere can also create more memories and will often lead to
you exploring unknown sites compared to the common tourist.
TALK TO THE LOCALS
Locals can offer great advice and even point you in the direction of places and events that are
free. Locals are also very aware of tourist traps and can give offer alternatives that won’t break
your bank while you’re traveling. Just be mindful of your situation and always be mindful of
who you are speaking to while you are traveling.
INVEST IN AN ISIC
ISIC stands for International Student Identity Card. Many places abroad also provide student
deals and discounts and an ISIC is valid in over 133 countries. ISICs can be can be requested by
any student without limitation or age restriction.
