Travelling on a Student Budget
I used to think travel was something I’d do “one day”... maybe after graduating, when I had a ‘real job’ with some ‘big boy money’. But when I went on an exchange to Singapore, it gave me a reason to try. $30 hotels; cheap flights; I learned that with the right tools, travelling as a student is actually pretty doable. I visited 10 countries in four months while studying full-time, all on a student budget. So here are a few pointers that helped me make it happen!
Plan Smart
Before you even book your flight, smart planning sets you up for success. A little research up front = a lot more fun later.
TL;DR… Most important tip: Book early! Start looking 3-6 months before your trip.
Flight Tips
Google Flights and Skyscanner are your best friends. Use the “Explore” feature to discover the cheapest places to fly from your location.
Be flexible with your dates and destinations. Flying at less popular times (looking at you, 11pm and 5am flights) can save you heaps.
Travel light. Most airlines charge extra for checked baggage. Depending on how far you’re going and how long you’re going for, stick to carry-on and save ~$40+ per flight.
Accommodation Tips
Sites like Booking.com, Airbnb, Agoda, and Hotels.com are solid go-tos for finding cheap, well-reviewed places. Look for perks like free breakfast, free cancellation, or late checkout.
Consider overnight transport. Buses and sleeper trains are a great way to save money on accommodation and cover distance while saving you the cost of a night’s stay.
Planning Tips
Use a simple Google Sheet, Notion, or Notes page to track flights, budgets, accommodation, and activities.
Roughly plan your days (use Google Maps!) to make the most of your time, but leave space for spontaneous moments. Some of the best memories aren’t on an itinerary.
Always check local public holidays, festivals, and events; prices can spike, and attractions may be closed.
Look into student travel cards or transport passes (like Eurail, JR Pass, etc).
Planning smart doesn’t mean overplanning. It means being intentional so your money goes further and your trip flows better.
Spend Smart
It’s not just about spending less; it’s about spending better. Knowing where your money is going and using smart tools to stretch it further goes a long way.
Money Tools & Payments
Wise (not an ad) is my go-to for international spending; better exchange rates, lower fees than my NZ bank card, and easy to transfer to other people or convert currencies. Alternatives I came across: Revolut, Stripe, PayPal and credit cards that waive international fees.
Always choose to pay in local currency when given an option. This avoids extra conversion fees.
Bring a backup card and keep it separate from your main one (you’ll thank yourself if your wallet goes missing).
Try to minimise cash withdrawals as there are usually flat withdrawal fees!
Splitting Costs & Group Travel
Splitwise: An absolute lifesaver for tracking shared expenses when travelling with friends. No awkward “who owes who” conversations — saves time and mental (health) math.
Prefer Excel or your trusty Notes and Calculator apps? That works too. The important thing is to keep track.
Eating and Spending on the Go
Avoid the “tourist traps”. Walk a few blocks away and find where locals eat. If there’s a line, that’s your sign.
Street food is almost always cheaper (and often better) than sit-down restaurants. Just do your research, use common sense, trust your gut (figuratively and literally), and don’t be the next Bali belly victim!
Consider grocery shopping and cooking in hostel kitchens once in a while. It cuts costs and can be a fun group activity.
Activities & Experiences
Research free or low-cost activities ahead of time, like walking tours, hiking spots, beach days, and museums with free entry days.
Use student discounts where available. Don’t be shy about asking, and don’t forget to bring your Student ID Card!
Bundle activities when possible: many cities have tourist passes (e.g., Lisbon Card, GoCity, Klook deals) that combine transport and attractions.
The goal isn’t to spend nothing. It’s to spend with intention, so you don’t come home wondering where all your money went (and why you bought that third “I ❤️____” shirt). Budget doesn’t mean deprivation. Prioritise what’s worth paying for.
Insurance
It’s not glamorous, but travel insurance is one of those “better to have and not need it” situations. Lost bags? Delayed flights? Bali belly? You’ll thank yourself later. It’s usually best to buy travel insurance as soon as you make your first booking. Again, look for student deals!
Swap This, For That
Where could your money be going? Small swaps. Big gains. Who knows… maybe your next adventure is hiding in your spending habits.
That $8.40 Large Strawberry Matcha with Oat Milk? That could be a night’s hostel in Vietnam 🇻🇳
That $40 Uber Eats delivery combo? That’s your ticket to the Louvre 🇫🇷
Pass on that $40 Impulse purchase and you’ve just scored a snorkelling day in the Philippines with gear included 🇵🇭
$120 night out (Uber, drinks, post-club kebab)? That’s your round-trip from London to Rome 🇬🇧 - 🇮🇹
Embrace Our Own Backyard
If an international trip isn’t in the cards, consider exploring New Zealand on a budget. Some of my favourite memories have been road trips where we split gas, camped under stars, and had chip butty for dinner. That roadie can be just as rewarding and a great way to practice your budgeting skills. No trip is too small! Make the most of what you’ve got.
Final Takeaways!
Travelling on a student budget isn’t always easy, but it is possible. With the right mindset, planning, and a few smart choices, you can turn “maybe one day” into memories you’ll keep for life. Travelling was mine. What’s yours?
Opinion by Cris Escandor