The Best Travel Deals for Students and Young Travelers

Home | Travel | The Best Travel Deals for Students and Young Travelers

Written By William David Smith

Traveling is an exciting way to explore new cultures, meet new people, and create lasting memories. However, for students and young travelers, the biggest challenge can often be the cost. Between tuition, rent, and daily expenses, traveling on a tight budget might seem impossible. Fortunately, there are plenty of travel deals and discounts available to help students and young travelers explore the world without breaking the bank. Whether you're planning a backpacking trip through Europe, a cultural tour in Asia, or a weekend getaway, here are some of the best travel deals and tips to make your journey more affordable.

1. Student Discounts on Flights

One of the biggest expenses when traveling is often the flight. But as a student or young traveler, there are several ways to score discounted flights.

Student Flight Search Engines: Websites like StudentUniverse and STA Travel specialize in finding discounted flights for students and young adults. These platforms often offer cheaper prices on international flights, as well as special deals for flexible dates.
Youth Travel Cards: Many countries offer youth travel cards that give discounts on flights, trains, buses, and even ferries. For example, the ISIC (International Student Identity Card) is a globally recognized card that gives you access to a range of travel discounts, including cheap flights and accommodation.
Sign up for Airline Newsletters: Many airlines offer exclusive deals for students or young travelers, especially if you sign up for their newsletter. Keep an eye out for flash sales and last-minute offers.
Flexible Travel Dates: If you have the flexibility to travel on weekdays or outside peak season, you can find much cheaper flight deals. Avoiding popular travel times like summer and holidays can save you a significant amount.

Tip: Be sure to check if your flight is eligible for additional discounts by using your student ID or ISIC card at checkout.

2. Budget-Friendly Accommodation

Accommodation is often one of the most significant costs for travelers, but there are numerous ways to stay cheaply—or even for free—while traveling.

Hostels: Hostels are the quintessential budget accommodation for young travelers. Websites like Hostelworld and Booking.com allow you to search for affordable options with great amenities. Hostels often offer dormitory-style rooms or private rooms at a fraction of the cost of hotels. Plus, you’ll get to meet fellow travelers from around the world.
Airbnb: For a more local experience, consider staying in an Airbnb. This option can be more affordable than traditional hotels and often gives you the opportunity to stay with locals. Some hosts even offer discounted rates for students.
Couchsurfing: If you're really on a tight budget, Couchsurfing is an excellent way to stay for free. The platform connects travelers with locals who are willing to offer a free place to sleep in their homes. It's a great way to meet locals and get insider tips on what to see and do in a city.
University Accommodation: Many universities offer discounted housing during the summer or academic breaks. Check with universities in your destination to see if they offer affordable short-term rental options for students.

Tip: Book your accommodation well in advance for the best deals, especially if you're traveling during peak season.

3. Train and Bus Passes

Traveling by train or bus is often cheaper than flying, especially for short to medium-distance trips. There are several passes available for students and young travelers that can save you money on transportation.

Eurail Pass: If you're planning to travel extensively in Europe, the Eurail Global Pass offers unlimited travel on most European trains. The pass allows you to travel flexibly for up to 3 months, and discounts are available for those under 27. The Eurail Youth Pass is a great option if you're traveling with friends or on your own.
Interrail Pass: For European residents, the Interrail Pass is an alternative to Eurail that offers similar benefits. It's available for residents of Europe and offers unlimited train travel across 33 countries.
Bus Passes: Long-distance buses are often cheaper than trains or flights. FlixBus and Greyhound offer budget-friendly bus travel throughout Europe and North America, respectively. Both companies also offer student discounts.
Local Transportation Passes: Many cities offer transportation passes that provide unlimited use of buses, subways, and trams for a fixed period (e.g., 24 hours, 3 days). This can be a great way to save money on local transport.

Tip: Plan your train or bus routes in advance, as some passes can require reservations, especially for popular routes.

4. Discounted Tours and Activities

Exploring a new city or country can be expensive, but there are many ways to enjoy cultural activities and sightseeing on a budget.

Free Walking Tours: Many cities offer free walking tours where you can learn about the history, culture, and architecture of the place with a local guide. While these tours are free, it’s customary to give a tip at the end based on your budget and satisfaction.
City Passes: City passes, like the Go City Pass or Paris Pass, provide discounted access to top tourist attractions, museums, and landmarks. These passes often allow you to skip the lines and save money on popular sights.
Volunteer Opportunities: Some organizations offer free tours or accommodations in exchange for volunteering. This can be a great way to explore a city and meet people while contributing to a good cause.
Discount Apps: Download apps like Groupon or Klook, which offer discounted tickets to tours, activities, and attractions. You can often find significant savings on excursions, shows, and other fun activities.

Tip: Always compare the cost of individual tickets to a city pass to see if it’s worth the investment.

5. Student and Youth Discounts on Dining

While food is one of the most enjoyable parts of traveling, it doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of ways to save on meals while exploring new destinations.

Student Restaurant Deals: Many restaurants, especially in university towns, offer student discounts or special deals. Look for restaurants with signs that advertise student prices, or ask locals about where to find affordable, delicious meals.
Street Food: Street food is not only an affordable way to eat, but it also gives you the opportunity to try authentic local dishes. Whether you're enjoying tacos in Mexico, pho in Vietnam, or kebabs in Turkey, street food is often delicious and inexpensive.
Happy Hours: Many bars and restaurants offer happy hour discounts in the afternoon or early evening. Take advantage of these deals for cheaper drinks and food.
Cook Your Own Meals: If you’re staying in an Airbnb or hostel with a kitchen, buy fresh produce and cook your own meals. Shopping at local markets and cooking your own food can save you a lot of money compared to eating out for every meal.

Tip: Download apps like HappyCow (for vegetarian/vegan restaurants) or Yelp to find affordable and highly-rated food spots.

6. Take Advantage of Travel Deals Websites

There are several websites and apps designed to help you find the best travel deals, including discounts tailored to students and young travelers.

Skyscanner: Use this flight search engine to compare prices across airlines and book the cheapest flights. Skyscanner also offers price alerts, so you can monitor when fares drop.
Airfarewatchdog: This site helps you track flight deals and offers alerts on major discounts, including last-minute fare sales and student-friendly discounts.
Travelzoo: Travelzoo regularly offers exclusive deals on flights, hotels, and vacation packages. Sign up for their newsletter to stay updated on discounts and promotions.

Tip: Set up price alerts on these websites to be notified of major discounts and flash sales on flights, accommodations, and tours.

Conclusion

Traveling as a student or young adult doesn’t have to be a financial burden. By utilizing student discounts, budget-friendly accommodations, and taking advantage of deals on transportation and activities, you can explore the world without emptying your bank account. Remember, some of the best travel experiences come from the unexpected, so take the time to wander, explore, and make the most of your journey. Whether you're backpacking through Europe or exploring a nearby city, these tips will help you travel smarter and cheaper, so you can focus on the fun and adventure. Safe travels!