1. Study abroad
If you’re still in college, studying abroad is the best way to see the world. Everyone’s heard the spiel on semester- and summer-long programs from the Study Abroad office, but I want to encourage travel-hungry college students to look at short-term programs, too. Most of these programs take place over break, are faculty led, and have a course theme. For example, the summer after my freshman year, I did a program called “Art and Culture in France” during which I spent two weeks with a group of students traveling between Paris, Nice, and Arles and earning college credits in French Culture and Art History. In January I’ll be going to India for two weeks to study Women’s Leadership. Not only do these programs offer the chance to earn credit during break, participants can broaden their horizons by taking new classes in foreign countries.
2. Cut out extra spending
I spend most of my money on food. My roommate spends most of her money online shopping. Whatever your guilty pleasure may be, finding ways to cut unnecessary spending from your budget goes a long way in saving money. If you cut out your daily $5 latte and brew some coffee at home, you’ll have close to $2,000 after a year – more than an average flight to Europe.
3. Pick up a side job
Find a small way to make money and put your salary directly into a savings account. If you’re good with kids, get an account on Care.com and start babysitting. Same goes for dogs. If you’re an artist, try freelancing or selling your work. If all else fails, consider taking a trip to your local plasma donation center; many swear this is the easiest way to make extra money.
4. Sign up for travel credit cards
There are loads of credit cards out there that allow you to accumulate points to go towards flights. These points build up slowly and may not be practical to fund an entire flight, but they are a great way to pad your travel savings a bit. Pro tip: to avoid overspending on your credit card, only use it for small, monthly recurring payments (Netflix, for example).
5. Travel domestically
I am a big fan of international travel, but there are lots of sights to see right here in the US. Domestic flights are significantly cheaper and shorter than international flights, and weekend trips should also not be forgotten. Anything within a five-hour drive is a good candidate for a cheap trip out of everyday life.
