By: Miriam Bribiesca
We hear you have officially caught the travel bug, maybe it was that study abroad TikTok you saw, or your best friend who won’t shut up about their trip to Portugal. Either way, welcome to the family!! We know that right after the excitement wears off, you’ll probably be consumed by questions like “Wait, how do I pack?” or “Do I need, like, twelve chargers?”…breathe. We’ve got you!
This article is all about budget friendly, stress free, first timer approved international travel, so don’t sweat it. Plus, we’re plugging in a few other helpful articles along the way that’ll turn you from travel rookie to passport pro in no time.
Where Should You Go?
When it comes to traveling, some places are just easier (and safer) for first time international travelers. Here is a quick list of student friendly, and affordable spots:
- Portugal – Ridiculously walkable, safe, affordable, and full of pastel de nata. Lisbon and Porto are perfect for first timers.
- Japan – Efficient transportation, ultra safe cities, and convenience stores that are basically gourmet restaurants. Being a student on a budget here won’t feel like one!
- Mexico – Budget friendly, culturally rich, and close enough to the states that you won’t suffer from jet lag. And to be specific, we suggest going to either Mexico City or Oaxaca.
- Spain – If you are all about tapas, siestas, and super easy travel between cities by train then go no further than Spain.
- Ireland – Everyone speaks English (with a charming accent), it’s super safe, and there’s a pub on every corner. Score!
- Thailand – Genuinely the ultimate budget traveler’s paradise with pristine beaches, elephant sanctuaries, and insanely delicious street food that costs less than gas station coffee.
Packing Without the Panic
Take it from us when we say that packing is an art form. And right off the bat we can assure you that no, you don’t need seven pairs of shoes. But Yes, you do need a portable charger that won’t betray you halfway through your 16 hour day.
Check out our full guide on Packing Hacks for International Trips for the nitty gritty, but here’s the gist of it.
- Carry on life = stress free life. Skip the checked bag fees (and the risk of lost luggage).
- Compression packing cubes? Life changing!
- Universal adapters. We admit that they are not cute, but are extremely necessary.
Emergency meds, a photocopy of your passport, and a tiny laundry kit? Underrated MVPs!
How to Afford Your International Trip
We get it, you’re a student on a tight budget. That’s why flight deals are your new personality trait.
Ever heard of Travel Tuesday? It’s basically the Super Bowl of cheap flights, but since that only happens once a year, our exclusive deals are year round and available for students like you! (Yea, that was a bit of a shameless plug). But thanks to all the savings you’ll make, we are confident you’ll be sipping espresso in Rome in no time.
Here are more ways to save:
- Travel during their off seasons, it’s cheaper and less crowded.
- Stay in hostels, guesthouses, or split Airbnbs with friends.
- Whip out your ID wherever you go! Museums, trains, and even some restaurants offer student discounts. Doesn’t hurt to ask.
- Avoid tourist traps like the plague and instead look for local street food vendors.
How to Afford Your International Trip
If the idea of solo travel feels like a lot, consider bringing the crew. Because let’s be real, splitting accommodations, laughing over wrong turns, and making memories together? 10/10 recommend!
And yes, planning large group getaways can be a lot, BUT with our guide on Group Trip Planning spills all the tea on how to plan without wanting to abandon your friends. Think shared spreadsheets, setting budgets early, and figuring out who’s the group’s designated excel queen (there’s always one).
Safety, Always
If the idea of solo travel feels like a lot, consider bringing the crew. Because let’s be real, splitting accommodations, laughing over wrong turns, and making memories together? 10/10 recommend!
