Many people hold in their dreams to become a world traveler, or to at least go on at least one trip to a foreign locale. The reason most people do not act on their desire to travel abroad is of course financial. There are ways to enjoy world travel on a budget, but you have to know where to look and where to lay your concern when searching for the right vacation destination and flight.
Although in recent years there have been more students that request student loans and government grant so get through their college years, there is also a surge in the number of college aged students that take trips to foreign locations. These excursions occur partly because of a foreign studies program or missions trip that is offered by the school and often partially covered from the semester's tuition, but also because Americans, as a whole, are more apt to spend money that they do not have than they used to be.
In order to break down how students and adult travelers can travel abroad on a budget, we have to first separate the travel costs into categories. If you break down the trip into three categories and search for bargains in those three categories separately, you will be likely to find a good deal on each. The first category would be travel. The main portion of this category will likely be the trip to and from your destination, but you can also include transportation while on your vacation in this heading as well. For example, if you are traveling through Europe, you may be more likely to need several flights while on your vacation, whereas a trip to the Bahamas or Cancun would require only local travel.
Begin researching flight costs. You should do this at no less than three locations. Those three would be a travel agent, the internet (sites like Priceline and Travelocity), and the airlines themselves. At separate times, you may get the best price at any of these locations. If you think the first place you find a price for a flight is a great price, keep looking, you can always come back and get it in a few hours, after you have checked around. Also, if you are planning several smaller flights while on your vacation, there are great deals for short flights throughout Europe. These can also be researched on the internet or through your travel agent. If you are planning to rent a car, check with local companies in your home country to see if they can recommend a rental place in your destination, but also check with the locals once you have arrived and see where they recommend. Many times, the locals know better than anyone where to find a good deal.
Searching for a hotel can be done in much the same way as searching for your transportation needs. You should always check at least three separate places before committing. Know also that hotels in other countries are likely not the same as hotels in your own backyard. Many hotels may have community showers, while others will have private baths in each room or suite. Make a list of questions to be answered before booking any hotel. Once you have decided that the hotel you have selected is satisfactory in both appearance and price, then you should book the hotel to insure a room is available for you and your travel companion.
Finally, we come to entertainment money, or spending money as some would call it. You will inevitably want to spend money on your vacation, whether it be for meals or souvenirs for grandma. In all money spending situations, use your common sense. In foreign countries, it could be difficult to remember the exchange rate and know what you are spending on certain items, so an electronic exchange calculator is a great tool for your outings.
If you keep these suggestions in mind, you can enjoy world travel on a budget and still have a great time!
