o

  • New Zealand

logo

45 Best Places to Travel for College Students

Due to the global pandemic, travel looks different right now depending on where you're going from/to. Please check for travel restrictions and adhere to all local guidelines before planning a trip to any destination you may read about on this site.  Please note: this post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something by clicking the links, I will get a small compensation, at no extra cost to you.

Sharing is caring!

Welcome to college! Freedom! Time to discover the highs and lows of being on your own for the first time — that means figuring out how to save money , navigate your college campus , study with less structure, and cook your own meals. College is also one of the best times to explore the world internationally and locally since you can make your own decisions ( ooh ahh ). So whether you’re studying abroad or exploring via these 9 other ways to travel in college , these are the best places to travel for college students in the USA and internationally!

And let me tell you, I’ve traveled throughout my undergraduate and graduate college careers and these really are the best places for college students to travel. They have a great mix of adventure and relaxation because we both know how tolling finals are and best of all they are all cheap destinations for student sized budgets!

best places to visit for college students in the USA and international destinations that you can visit for cheap, budget travel destinations, student travel destinations

Student Travel Destinations in the USA

1. Portland, Oregon

Recommended by me! Alanna from Periodic Adventures (this site)

If you dream of a cozy, rainy getaway where you can curl up with a book that you’ve been putting off reading, while drinking some amazing local coffee, Portland, Oregon is for you! While it’s not necessarily the cheapest at first glance, it can definitely be visited on a budget as there are lots of free or cheap things to do in Portland.

Don’t miss Powell’s Bookstore , where the main location (1005 W Burnside St) has over one million books, and coffee cafes galore!

Multnomah Falls is an epic waterfall that cascades down beautifully. There are numerous hiking trails nearby as well.

OMSI is the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and should definitely be on your list of to-do’s in Portland. This science site has many interactive exhibits for all ages that cover topics like chemistry, physics, astronomy, natural history, biology, paleontology, and more! Tickets only cost $12 for adults.

Lastly, don’t miss the incredible food in Portland, an experience that’s on our West Boast bucket list ! Try the famous Voodoo Donuts (or for a local preferred donut shop try Blue Star Donuts). Coffee shops are also popular. Try Never Coffee, Coava Coffee Roasters, or Good Coffee.

You can expect to spend $80 a day in Portland, but can easily cut down on costs by sharing accommodation , cooking your own meals, and taking public transportation serviced by TriMet.

yellow tree in the fore ground with a turquoise bridge in the center focus of the shot with pine tree covered mountains behind with fog and clouds

2. Los Angeles, California

I truly believe Los Angeles is one of the best cities in the USA to visit, whether you’re in college or not (I might be biased since I’m from Los Angeles… but still ). I highly recommend putting LA on your radar as there is a lot to do, see, and eat. Plus Los Angeles can be very affordable , believe it or not.

For a one day visit to Los Angeles , I recommend visiting highlights of Downtown including Grand Central Market where you can pick and choose from a bunch of vendors for the ultimate meal. Within walking distance you can also easily visit Olvera Street , an original Mexican cobblestone street from 1930 with food, vendors, and historic exhibits, and Chinatown , another culturally historic area with authentic food, shopping, and beautiful architecture. And nearby is also Angel’s Flight railway, the iconic Bradbury building , and the Last Bookstore where you can take some epic Instagram photos !

If you can visit Los Angeles for a long weekend or even spring break, this 5 day Los Angeles itinerary covers everything!

You can expect to spend $60 a day, if you stay in budget accommodation and cook some of your meals.

posing at the Last Bookstore with the book window in Los Angeles

3. Las Vegas, Nevada

America’s sin city is one of the best party spots for college students, even if you’re under 21! There is so much to do in Vegas that you’ll easily be entertained even without access to bars or clubs.

First, lounge at the pools for a little R&R. Every hotel has a pretty incredible pool so you can’t go wrong. Try the Virgin Hotels just where they have 3 pools, a spa, and a beach club!

Don’t miss the spectacular shows in Las Vegas. There are a number of cirque du soleil shows , like Ka at the MGM Grand, O at the Bellagio, and even the Beatles LOVE show at the Mirage. Alternatively, check out the many magic shows . My favorite is Mac King, which is a comedy magic show at the Harrah’s. Tickets might seem expensive, but there are ways to save in Vegas that can reduce the cost significantly!

In addition to shows, Las Vegas hosts lots of concerts, exhibitions, and events throughout the year that are over the top in the best way.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to venture outside of the Strip for other fun activities like visiting Red Rock Canyon and the Seven Magic Mountains art exhibit.

Budget $60-70 per day, assuming you stay at a hotel on the Strip and assuming you share lodging with friends.

Las Vegas picture

Recommended by me! Alanna from Periodic Adventures

International destinations are so appealing as a college student (and just in general), but there are incredible natural wonders at home in the USA. Arizona is full of them and makes for a great travel destination for some epic weekend getaways that will easily fit into your student schedule.

First, visit Page in Northern Arizona to see Horseshoe Bend , a natural curve in the Colorado River that lies deep in a canyon, which is an extension of the Grand Canyon. If you are looking to see the Grand Canyon, but don’t want to pay the National Park entry fee of $30, Horseshoe Bend is a good free alternative!

Also in Page is Antelope Canyon , a slot canyon with beautiful sweeping curved red rocks. Antelope Canyon lies on the Navajo Reservation so tours are required and generally cost $70 per person. While not the cheapest thing to do in Arizona, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so if you can do it, then do it!

Moving South, Flagstaff, Arizona is a college town with snowy mountains in the winter, stunning fall foliage in autumn , and lovely parks in the summer. Hike Humphrey’s Peak, visit Buffalo Park for stargazing, or learn about the discovery of Pluto (which happened from Flagstaff) at Lowell Observatory.

Next, Sedona has lots of incredible hiking and spas, which make it a great destination for adventurers who also need a little relaxation. Visit Devil’s Bridge, Cathedral Rock, and Slide Rock State Park.

Last but not least, Montezuma’s Castle and Well isn’t entirely a natural wonder since they feature Native American crafted cliff dwellings. But they are a sight to see!

Arizona is very affordable, so spending only $50 a day is doable, especially if you opt for camping instead of staying in a fancy resort.

orange red rocks in a slot canyon in Page Arizona with sweeping curves and seemingly smooth surfaces, sunlight coming in from above at the back of the canyon, view from inside the canyon

5. South Padre Island, Texas

Recommended by Ellie from Ellie’s Travel Tips

Located 2 miles off the southern tip of Texas, South Padre Island welcomes thousands of college students every year. With pristine beaches, fun resorts, and exciting attractions, South Padre Island is known as one of the most  affordable spring break spots in Texas .

South Padre Island is home to over 30 miles of sandy beaches along the warm, blue waters on the Gulf of Mexico. Hop in your favorite swimsuit and grab a towel to relax along the sandy beaches after a long and tough semester. Another great spot to relax is along the Laguna Madre Nature Trail . This boardwalk path, located on the bayside of the island, is a great place to spot the local wildlife on a peaceful stroll.

If you prefer to get on the water, rent a paddleboard to explore South Padre’s canals and Laguna Madre . Others may enjoy a scenic horseback ride along the beach—a great morning activity to start your day.

At night, head to one of the area’s popular bars like Louie’s Backyard and Wanna Wanna Beach Bar to let loose and have fun. You will find countless college students at these bars just looking to party and have a good time.

The average cost of a trip to South Padre Island for a solo traveler is around $120 per day. However, if you are traveling with your friends or family, this cost will significantly decrease with shared accommodations and group rates.

seagulls flying above a beach in Texas with a clear blue sky

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

Recommended by Jori from  The Tejana Abroad

New Orleans is a great destination for anyone, but especially college students. The city is young and lively, with endless events and great nightlife.

NOLA is filled with history, which you can see by simply walking around the French Quarter. There are many museums, such as the WWII Museum , Jazz Museum , or Museum of Art , and if you have a car or take a tour, you can also visit some old Southern Plantation Homes .

New Orleans is known for its Mardi Gras festival in the spring, where the streets are filled with people in masks and constant parades. Halloween is also an adventure in the city, as the gothic architecture provides a great backdrop for spooky activities. And of course, don’t skip the unforgettable experience of bar hopping on Bourbon Street .

Since New Orleans is home to a few universities, the town has a very friendly, young and outgoing population. The city also has one of the best hostels in the US: Auberge NOLA Hostel, which organizes all kinds of events and bar crawls for younger people. New Orleans is great for students because there’s so much to do , it’s easy to get around, and the nightlife is amazing.

New Orleans accommodation costs around $150 for a hotel room or $20 for a bed in a hostel . Food prices average at $15 per meal, and transportation costs are minimal if you stay in the downtown area (French Quarter).

French Quarter architecture in New Orleans decorated for Mardi Gras with a partly cloudy, but sunny sky

7. Panama City Beach, Florida

Recommended by Dan from Layer Culture

If you’re a college student in the US and looking for the best places to visit then Panama City Beach (PCB) in Florida is a must! Are you the type of person the likes wet and wild adventures? Here you can experience some of the best spring break parties there are. With 27 miles of white sand and beaches dedicated to beach parties , what are you waiting for? There are areas where you can chill and relax, but also things like live concerts , celebrity appearances , and free giveaways to contend with.

It can get super crowded on the beach so try not to carry anything too valuable with you, a travel neck wallet or the equivalent is recommended if you want to avoid losing anything precious.

Still, the closer to the beach you are the better. You can expect to pay around $150 per night for a family room which you can share with friends. Many restaurants and party bars, such as Harpoon Harry’s are located right on the beachfront. There you can connect yourself with one of their famous seafood buckets.

Spending $100 per day is a breeze in PCB when eating in restaurants and buying drinks in the bars. However, there is a Walmart in town so you can save money by carrying drinks to the beach. Most of the hotels are equipped with kitchens so  you should be able to rustle up a few meals during your stay, which will help you save a considerable amount of money. All in all, Panama City Beach is a must-visit place if you are a student looking to get the most of your vacations.

florida beach crowded with college age students and young people all in bathing suits partying, with white sand and partly cloudy skies

8. Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta, Georgia is an underrated city with lots of activities, amazing restaurants, fun events, and vibrant nightlife if you want it! When in Georgia , make sure you try classic Southern food at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, Buttermilk Kitchen, or the Flying Biscuit. Staples to sample are grits, biscuits, fried okra, BBQ, fried chicken, mac & cheese, fried green tomatoes, black eyed peas, or collard greens.

Ponce City Market or Krog Street Market have multiple restaurants and vendors in one place so you can take your pick. I recommend these if you only have one day in Atlanta , to save time traveling from one destination to the next.

For activities, some of the best things to do are the Georgia Aquarium , the largest in the world, the Atlanta Botanical Gardens , which feature huge topiary sculptures themed like Alice in Wonderland currently, and MLK Jr. Historic Park to learn about Atlanta’s rich history.

An iconic stay is the Marriot Marquis in downtown Atlanta , which has been featured in numerous movies. It costs $110 on average per night, so this is a good option if you’re splitting costs by sharing the room. If not, there are plenty of Airbnb’s in Atlanta that can be as cheap as $30/night for a private room in a shared house or apartment.

Typical food costs $12 on average and drinks are about the same. Hit up happy hours and cook some of your own meals to reduce this cost.

If you wanted to hit two places on this list, you could easily take a bus between Washington DC and Atlanta for only $60!

piedmont park view, atlanta skyline view, midtown, what to do in atlanta in one day, free things to do in atlanta

9. Savannah, Georgia

Recommended by Brittany from Travel by Brit

Savannah, Georgia, is the perfect place for college students to travel during a long weekend. There are tons of  budget-friendly things to do , and the entire city is walkable, so you won’t need to rent a car or spend any money on public transportation.

Another unique attribute of Savannah that makes the city perfect for college students is the open container policy —you can purchase a drink at one of Savannah’s excellent restaurants or bars and take it with you as you explore the city!

During a three-day weekend in Savannah, you can expect to spend $500 on accommodations , $50 on activities, and $200 on food and drinks during a long weekend in Savannah—so roughly $750 for a long weekend, plus transportation costs.

While you’re in Savannah, you can’t miss the chance to go on a spooky ghost tour or stroll through Forsyth Park (one of Savannah’s 22 historic squares!). City Market is fun to walk around, and you can stop at the Georgia Tasting Room for a $3 wine tasting. You can also take a day trip to Tybee Island for some relaxing time at the beach.

Enjoy brunch at the Collins Quarter or a liege-style waffle from Mirabelle Savannah! And don’t forget to stop by Huey’s to order some warm, delicious beignets.

Finally, the DeSoto Savannah is the perfect place to stay. It’s located just a short walking distance from everything in the city (and for the rooftop pool!). 

dirt road shaded by large spanish moss covered oak trees at Wormsloe Historic Site in Savannah Georgia

>> Read more: 100 Epic Things to Do in Georgia

10. asheville, north carolina.

Recommended by Julia from The Cure for Curiosity

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is the perfect destination for college students. Not only is it a college town itself – home to UNC Asheville, but it also offers plenty of adventures at a low cost. Whether you are spending one  perfect weekend in Asheville  or have all summer to get to know the area, your first visit will not be your last.

Spend your days driving the famous Blue Ridge Parkway (free) or hiking to stunning natural wonders (mostly free). There are plenty of trails ranging from beginner to long distance, like the Appalachian Trail . Some of the more popular hiking destinations are Craggy Gardens, Chimney Rock ($17), and Dupont State Forest. You’ll also find dozens of picturesque waterfalls , like Looking Glass Falls, Catawba Falls, and Triple Falls, scattered throughout the area.

After exhausting yourself in the mountains, head back into the city to spend your afternoons and evenings exploring the art galleries and murals in the River Arts District (free) and then trying all the craft beer you can stomach.

With over 30 breweries in Asheville and 48 in the greater Asheville area, you will not go thirsty! Don’t miss the ever-popular Burial Beer Co., which offers delicious beer with a well themed taproom, or The Funkatorium by Wicked Weed for sour and funky beers. Whatever your favorite style of beer, you’re sure to find it in Asheville.

green pine trees in the foregound with lots of layered green mountains in the background in Asheville North Carolina with a partly cloudy sky in midday

Related read → How to spend a 48 hours in Asheville, North Carolina

11. Wilmington, North Carolina

Recommended by MacKenzie from Rainbow Travel Life

Wilmington, NC may seem like an odd choice for college student travel – college students want to go to a college town? Absolutely! Wilmington has everything a student might want, including outdoor adventures, nightlife, inexpensive activities, plus the ultimate attraction to a stressed college student: beach access .

There are three wonderful beaches all within 20 minutes of Wilmington: Wrightsville , Carolina , and Kure . Kure Beach is the most cost-effective choice because parking is free! While in Kure Beach, you can also go on a few nature walks; Basin Trail leads to an observation deck overlooking the area. Kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing are all popular activities too.

Another one of the many things to do in Wilmington, NC for college students is downtown. During happy hours, there are tons of specials and plenty of bars and restaurants open late into the evening. No matter what time you head downtown (parking starts at $1/hour), make sure to walk the Riverwalk . It’s a 1.75-mile boardwalk along the Cape Fear River with shops, restaurants, art galleries, and a bit of history. Prices will of course vary based on what you find in the shops! Student tip : pop into Island’s for some extremely cheap but satisfying food.

Cost wise, Wilmington is probably the best location for students within driving distance. Avoiding a flight and rental car (as cars are imperative for getting around), saves a lot. For accommodation , budget hotels are typically $50-60; however, camping at Carolina Beach State Park is the cheapest option at $20-30/night.

beautiful rocky beach with a small covered seating area at the end of rocky barrier on the beach, during sunset with a pastel peach colored sky

12. Madison, Wisconsin

Recommended by Elisa from Flitter Fever

Mostly thanks to Playboy who named the University of Wisconsin #1 US Party School several times, Madison, Wisconsin has the reputation of a party city for college students. That’s convincing to study there for a while, right?

Since about a quarter of Madison’s inhabitants are students, who keep the city alive, there is always something fun going on.

There are two annual student parties that attract tens of thousands of young people to party in Madison. The Halloween Party on State Street , and the Mifflin Street Block Party , usually held on the last Saturday of April. Try a local Spotted Cow, a specialty unfiltered brew.

Besides the great party and music scene, the Badgers’ games always attract a young, infectiously enthusiastic crowd. The hub for college students is the University of Wisconsin (UW), an internationally renowned state school that welcomes many international students for a study abroad experience in Madison . There are lots of amazing people to meet and socialize with.

State Street Brats and the Ratskeller are popular student-friendly bars where you can get food, like a brat basket for only $3.50. These places pretty much sum up Madison; friendly people, bratwurst, and micro-brewed beer. Don’t miss Stock Exchange Night , with cocktails as cheap as $1.25.

If you can’t find a UW student that will allow you to crash their couch, Airbnb rooms cost $80 per night on average with shared bathroom. The most inexpensive motel starts at $37 per night.

view of a capitol building in Madison Wisconsin with beautiful architecture and white building; sunny skies with wispy clouds

13. Washington DC

Recommended by by Claire from ClairePins Travel

Washington DC is a surprisingly affordable destination for first-time travelers and students on a budget who are interested in art, culture and history!

There is no other city in America that is home to as many free, high quality attractions as Washington DC. All of the monuments, memorials, government buildings and branches of the Smithsonian museum (which includes several galleries) are free of charge and typically also offer free tours. The most challenging part of your visit might be choosing where to go first!

Washington DC is home to several universities and has a large student population. If you want to experience the local nightlife, try the Adams Morgan neighbourhood , Dupont Circle , or the Georgetown area, which is popular with local college students.

Keep an eye out for the many street art murals around the city if you want to get some unique photos from your visit.

You can get around the city using the affordable, reliable Metro System , which also connects to the airport, and many of the main sights are within easy walking distance. The city is also well connected by rail and bus service to other major cities in the USA, if you are looking to avoid an expensive flight.

You can visit Washington DC for $75-200 per day by staying in a hostel dorm for a solo traveler  or sharing a budget hotel room if you have a travel partner, and choosing grocery store and café food, using metro tickets and walking for transportation, and taking advantage of free museums and attractions.

colorful umbrellas hanging from a glass ceiling in an indoor mall in Washington DC

14. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Recommended by Derek and Mike from Robe Trotting

One of the most fun cities in America is the east coast gem of Philadelphia. It offers historical attractions, some of the nation’s best museums, and a delicious food scene . On top of all that, the nightlife and affordability make it the perfect place for college students to visit.

The best areas to stay for nightlife are the Gayborhood/Midtown and Old City neighborhoods. It’s also easy to find an affordable   Philadelphia Airbnb to stay in these areas and have the best of the city at your doorstep. Depending on the season, group houses can be about $50 per person at a nightly rate.

Bars like Drinker’s and Lucy’s Hat Shop are popular for students as well as the bars in University City. There’s a cheap drink special that you can get anywhere in the city of Philadelphia. It’s called the “citywide” and it’s a can of Pabst Blueribbon and a shot of Jim Beam whisky. The original venue to serve it was Bob & Barbara’s, a hip dive bar with live jazz and drag performances and it quickly spread across the city.

Philadelphia is also full of must-eat foods like the popular cheesesteak and local favorites tomato pie and soft pretzels. One of the best places to try local food flavors is Reading Terminal Market . It’s an open-air market with rows of food stalls and a seating area for dining.

The city is also home to some of the country’s most treasured historical attractions and many are free to visit. The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are both free to visit including a guided tour of Independence Hall that can be booked online. Other museums in the city offer student discounts for entry, so there will be plenty to do while in the city.

Beautiful buildings in Philadelphia on a sunny day with one white building centered with a street leading to it, trees on the right, and an old church with more beautiful historic architecture on the left

15. Boston, Massachusetts

Recommended by Nicole from Go Far Grow Close

Boston would be a great destination for your college spring break. It is a beautiful walking city – all of the cool restaurants, historic sites, and shopping areas are near each other and one of the best ways to enjoy them is to walk to them . However, if you don’t like walking, Boston has an excellent transit system , both within the city and between the suburbs. This means that not only can you easily access different parts of Boston, but if you need cheaper accommodation, you can stay outside of the city, and take one of the trains in. The trains run regularly and are inexpensive.

An example of inexpensive accommodation outside of Boston but along one of the train lines is The Lodge at Brandeis University.

A great activity in Boston to consider is a food tour – like the Boston Secret Food Tour . You explore Boston all the while eating lots of delicious food. At first blush, the tour itself might seem expensive. However, if you take the tour early afternoon, you could skip lunch before and dinner afterwards.

As for one of the best evening activities, check out the Improv Asylum in Little Italy . There are multiple showtimes and seat prices at some very budget friendly. Afterwards, walk a couple stores down to Mike’s Pastry where you can try one of the best cannolis in the city. Bring cash and prepare to wait in line.

With the food tour, this day would likely cost you $180 ( accommodation based upon a sole occupant with food included). However, if you exclude the food tour, it would likely be closer to $100.

Collection of buildings of varying style and age in downtown Boston with skyscrapers in the background, an old historic building in the center with a tower (Faneuil Hall) and glass buildings on the sides

Related read >> Where to visit in the US in summer (Boston is on the list!)

16. New York City, New York

Recommended by Carolin from Happy When Abroad

New York City , the city that never sleeps, is the ideal place for a student getaway. Even though it is a big, loud, and popular place, New York City is not necessarily expensive. In fact, there are plenty of budget-friendly hostels ($40 – $50 / night average), restaurants, and attractions for college students.

Since the city is so incredibly diverse, you can freely decide how you would like to spend your time there. Whether you prefer to experience wild party nights, go on big shopping and sightseeing tours, or relax in the park, New York City has it all. No matter how you want to plan your stay, make sure to not miss out on some of the  must-see attractions in New York City . These include walking across the Brooklyn Bridge , enjoying the view from Top of the Rock , taking photos at Times Square , and visiting the Flatiron Building .

Completely free attractions for students include a ride on the Staten Island Ferry , an entrance to the Museum of Modern Art , a relaxing afternoon in Central Park , or a tour in the New York Public Library . Besides walking, the fastest and cheapest way to get around in the metropolis is the metro ($33 ​​for a 7-day-ticket). Are you ready to explore the impressive and inspiring city with the world-famous skyline, yellow taxis, and film locations? Let’s go!

New York City Brooklyn Bridge with yellow taxi driving across and NYC skyline in the background

17. Acadia National Park, Maine

Recommended by James Ian from Parks Collecting

Acadia National Park is a great place to travel for college students looking for an outdoor adventure. There are plenty of cheap campsites in and around the park, a free shuttle bus throughout the park, and the park is right next to Bar Harbor , where there are restaurants and bars for those looking for more comfort and social activity.

Most of the main activities are free or cheap.  The park has incredible hikes , including two of the most adventurous hikes in the country. The Beehive and the Precipice trails require climbing up iron ladders on sheer rock faces and walking along narrow ledges, so they are not great for those with a fear of heights, but perfect for college students looking for an adventure.

There are also miles of former carriage roads that are great for cycling . Bring your own bike or rent one cheaply in Bar Harbor. The shuttle buses have bike racks.

The park is surrounded by islands and you can take a ferry out to the Cranberry Islands for $32 round trip, where you can visit remote fishing villages and walk along the rocky shoreline. For a splurge, this is one of the cheapest places in the country to eat fresh lobster . There are lobster shacks right by the water’s edge that serve fresh lobster on no-frills picnic tables in the sunshine.

A campsite typically costs between $30 and $55 per night. You can get a pizza in a restaurant for about $10. Self-catering is cheaper, of course. With the park shuttle, transportation is basically free. So, Acadia National Park is a great option for college students on a budget looking for an active outdoors vacation.

large boulder sitting atop a rocky surface and leaning over but not in danger of falling; green trees cover hills in the background with a lake; Acadia National Park

International Places to Travel for Students

The Americas

Recommended by Julien from Cultures Traveled

What do you think of when you close your eyes and dream of traveling to Mexico? Perhaps you envision lounging on a white sand beach with glistening turquoise water. Or maybe you wish to discover the food and artisans of Oaxaca City ? Or is it possible that you aspire to explore all the ancient  Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan  while also uncovering cenotes along the way?

At nearly three times the size of Texas, some say Mexico has it all . Landscapes include beaches, mountains, active volcanos, deserts, and canyons with lots of cultural explorations in between. You could spend weeks in Mexico and barely scratch the surface. But its affordability and proximity to the United States mean you won’t go broke doing so.

Traveling around Mexico by bus or plane is relatively inexpensive and safe. The ADO buses are incredibly comfortable with plush seats, bathrooms onboard, an extremely cold air conditioner, and movies playing for entertainment. You can expect to pay about $20 for a seven-hour ride from Mexico City to Oaxaca, or about $10 for shorter travel within the Yucatan Peninsula .

Accommodations in Mexico can also be very affordable with lots of shared hostel rooms under $15 and many under $10 in large cities. And perhaps the best bang for your buck will be the food. You can eat tacos for 50¢ each or a meal in a modest restaurant for about $5.

Whether you are in need of a few days soaking up the sun at the beach after exams or you’re anxious to continue learning about ancient cultures, Mexico is a great destination for college students looking for an affordable travel experience.

beautiful turquoise beaches of Mexico

19. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Recommended by Chris from Punta Cana Travel Blog

Punta Cana is a perfect destination for college students, especially for those who require some sun, Caribbean vibes, and exciting excursions. Of course, you won’t miss out on the party either, especially when choosing popular entertainment all-inclusive resorts such as RIU República, Be Live Collection Punta Cana or Royalton CHIC (choose one of the first two if you are traveling on a budget), but there are also a lot of other amazing things-to-do in Punta Cana , even if you don’t like to party. How about joining a catamaran cruise to one of the most paradisical islands in the Caribbean (Isla Saona), exploring the highest waterfall in the Dominican Republic (Salto de la Jalda) or having fun while cruising with some dune buggies through the countryside?

If you are traveling on a budget , you can also head on inexpensive hiking trips, explore the fantastic beaches for free or join the locals on a round of Domino. If you want to explore the nightlife, drinks are also cheap in the Dominican Republic, so be prepared for some of your best Cuba Libres you have had in your life.

In general, a vacation in Punta Cana is not meant to be expensive. The cheapest all-inclusive resorts are already starting at $60 per person per night with all food and drinks (incl. booze!) included, and excursions can be priced as low as $40 per person. And if you want to experience Punta Cana even cheaper, just skip on excursions and enjoy some of the free stuff to do in Punta Cana.

off roading vehicle on a muddy road that follows a beautiful turquoise water beach with palm trees in the distance; in Punta Cana Dominican Republic

Recommended by Becky from Becksplore Travel

Panama is a great place for any college student, as it is super diverse and you can find anything from beautiful beaches to the big city life to the most stunning nature and wildlife. The locals are incredibly friendly and Panama is also one of the safest countries in Latin America.

Panama is rather small so you can easily travel across the country and see a lot in just a short amount of time. One place that should be included in any  Panama itinerary  is Panama City. Panama City isn’t only home to the famous Panama canal, but also an incredible city with great nightlife and a beautiful old town.  

Other places that you just have to visit are Boquete and Bocas del Toro. Boquete is surrounded by beautiful nature and popular things to do are going on a coffee tour or hiking up to the volcano Barú . Whereas, in Bocas del Toro you can spend your time scuba diving, surfing, taking boat tours or just hanging out by the surrounding beaches.

It certainly isn’t the cheapest country in Latin America but still affordable for college students as hostel accommodation is super cheap, usually around $10 a night. However, tours can be a little pricey at times. So if you are planning on going on some tours, sometimes taking a shuttle bus instead of public transportation and go out for some drinks every now and then, it might sum up to around $60 a day.

Panama City from above with a sunset purple sky and ocean to the left, skyscrapers to the right, road running between ocean/beach and skyscrapers

21. Colombia

Recommended by Emily from Wander-lush

Visiting South America has long been a rite of passage for college students – and as one of the most accessible destinations on the continent, Colombia understandably draws many young visitors. Extremely affordable and easy to get around using public transport, it’s a dream budget-travel destination with something for every preference (literally) – from the bustling cities of Bogota and Medellin, to the northern coastline and lush interior.

If hiking is your scene, don’t miss the Lost City Trek , which is often dubbed the best hike in South America. A bean-to-cup tour of the Coffee Triangle will give you a new appreciation for your daily cup of joe. Here’s where you’ll also find gorgeous colourful  pueblos  such as  Jerico in Antioquia region . Horse riding, paragliding and white water sports – and on the coast, snorkelling and diving – are all available.

Colombia’s cities are packed with history and culture. Join a salsa class before hitting the clubs to show off your skills. Other popular hands-on activities include cooking classes and language immersion courses , so you can come back from Colombia with a few new life skills – including how to make the best  empanadas  – under your belt!

The hostel scene is well-developed in Colombia, and things like food, alcohol and transport are very affordable as well. It’s recommended to budget around $50 per person per day – but you can cut that down considerably by travelling with friends and splitting some costs.

beautiful yellow and white houses on a steep street in Columbia with green mountains in the background

22. Ecuador

Recommended by Deb from The Visa Project

Ecuador is a traveler’s paradise, no matter which kind of travel you are into. Said to be one of the most ecologically diverse countries, it is packed with volcanos, beaches, quaint little towns, the amazon and a lot more.

Feeling adventurous? Then head to Baños to hike to its waterfalls, do some mountain biking or water sports, and then relax in the hot springs. Or go to Tena , to indulge in jungle excursions in the Amazon. And if hiking to a volcano is your idea of adventure, Cotopaxi National Park is a must.

Want a beach vacation? Salinas , called the Miami of Ecuador is a popular choice. Or just take the bus on the coastal route from Salinas until Esmeraldas, and explore all the small beach towns and villages on the way. Stop at Montañita for sure to experience crazy parties and nightlife.

If you are a college student and on a budget, Ecuador can be an amazing place to start out, considering how cheap it is. A basic lunchtime meal would cost $3 or more. A night’s stay in a decent hostel would cost upwards of $7. And long-distance buses typically cost from $1–2 per hour.

On top of that, if you are coming from the United States, you can simply spend in US Dollars since that is the currency of Ecuador . As simple as that.

And make sure to check about the entry requirements and  visas for Ecuador   before you travel.

incredible green mountains with a tree in the fore ground and snowy mountain in the background behind the green mountains, on a partly cloudy day

Recommended by Megs from Packing Up the Pieces

Peru is the ultimate adventurous destination for college students on a budget.

The Imperial City of Cusco is a great place to base and offers plenty of authentic experiences without a large price tag. Within the city limits, find tons of Inca ruins that have no entrance fees and see little to no tourists. There are also tons of hiking trails and lush parks that are free to explore.

Grab the best and local food from the neighborhood markets, many which are serving up a daily two course menu for under $1.50. There are a wide range of bars close to the Plaza de Armas , but save money and drink with the locals and grab a 2 liter of chicha , Peru’s favorite fermented corn beverage for less than half the price.

Adventure seekers should plan for at least one epic multi-day trek, but there are so many, it’s hard to choose. While most tourists take the Inca trail to Machu Picchu , there are many alternative routes, and almost all of them can be done for cheap and without a guide, like the 9 day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek . There’s also the world-class Ausangate , or Lares treks , both worth the climb. In the nearby Sacred Valley , there are wonderful day hikes with free Inca sites like  Saywa, Inti Punku, and Perolniyoc.

With shared hostels as low as $5 a night, market meals for $1.50, regional buses for under $2, and city buses for under 50¢, it’s feasible to spend under $25 USD a day, making Peru the perfect budget destination.

jagged rocky mountain with a little snow on stop and blue lake at the base, photo taken from rocky cliffside, partly cloudy sunny day with blue sky

24. Bolivia

Recommended by Carley Rojas Avila of Home to Havana

Known as the Salar de Uyuni, the Salt Flats in Bolivia are both an unforgettable travel experience and one perfect for college travel. Known popularly as the “world’s largest mirror” for reflecting the sky when flooded in the rainy season, the Salt Flats are a popular visit for college students studying abroad in South America looking for a more budget friendly adventure than Machu Picchu. Though the Salt Flats may be popular with photographers and on many travelers bucket lists, it is surprisingly inexpensive to visit.

The best way to visit the Salt Flats is by taking a 3-day or 4-day jeep tour through southwest Bolivia, along the famous Lagunas Route . This route includes visits to high-elevation volcanos, hot springs, and bright red and green lagoons home to numerous flamingos. This is an incredible off-the-grid experience to share with an adventurous group of friends. The  best Salar de Uyuni tour itinerary  starts from Tupiza in south Bolivia and finishes at the Salt Flats for a fantastic culmination of the trip.

These popular multi-day jeep trips are quite affordable, often working out to a cost of around just $50 per day, inclusive of all expenses. Traveling around the rest of Bolivia, backpackers and budget travelers can easily get by on around $30 a day or less, while enjoying this diverse country – think major cities, the Amazon rainforest, and incredible mountain vistas wherever you look.

salt flats of Bolivia with cacti in the fore ground and a mountain in the background on a sunny day

25. Ireland

Recommended by Pam from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

One of the best destinations to visit as a college student is the Emerald Island – Ireland. Rolling hills of green, breathtaking cliffs , and friendly locals welcome visitors. From historical castles to gorgeous nature, college students will delight in the variety of  things to do in Ireland . 

From kissing the Blarney Stone to exploring Fairy Forts , Ireland is truly a unique destination. Travelers will relish in the historical castles looming over the countryside. After a full day of exploring, head to a local pub to unwind. Drinking beer is not a requirement, but enjoying local food – like colcannon and shrimp – is! Great conversation over delicious food is what Ireland is known for!

While the official language of Ireland is Irish, most of the population also speaks English. It makes it easier to get around and talk with locals to find hidden gems. A budget friendly way to travel around the country is renting a car. You can drive from coast to coast in a few hours, but honestly taking your time is a better option. With proper planning, a trip around Ireland can cost around $75 per day.

Ireland’s rich personality makes it one of the best destinations for college students.

Guinness Store house in Dublin, Ireland, Two Guinness glasses clinking

26. Portugal

Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Portugal is a fantastic country to visit for anyone looking for a laid back lifestyle, beautiful scenery and fun nightlife. As one of the more affordable countries in Europe, this is a great place for students on a budget who want to experience without spending too much.

Portugal is not a large country and it’s the perfect place for a road trip . Camping is very popular and probably the most affordable way of exploring the area. Even larger cities like Porto or Lisbon are actually not as expensive as you might expect them to be. And of course, the nightlife is fantastic. Whether you are having drinks in Lisbon’s Bairro Alto , partying the night away with university students in Porto or dancing on the beach in the Algarve , there is something for everyone.

You could easily spend less than $300 per week in Portugal if you are smart about saving. You could find a campsite for around $18 per night for two people and if you cook for yourself and avoid eating out you won’t be spending much on food either. Since alcohol taxes in Portugal are quite low, even a few drinks in a bar won’t break the bank.

You’ll fall in love with this incredible country and find yourself wanting to come back as soon as possible.

orange trolley car in Portugal on the tracks, view from inside a window in a nearby building looking out at the trolley car

27. Andalucia, Spain

Recommended by Linn from Andalucia Hiking

Andalucia is the perfect destination for college students. There are many adventure activities to be had all over the region.

Start with Sierra Nevada and a Mulhacen hiking adventure that can be done in a day or several days to cross the highest peak of the entire Iberian Peninsula off your bucket list.

Go on a road trip to see the best white villages, like the hillside village, Frigiliana , with astounding coastal views, Antequera , which just happens to be next to the most unique karst landscape in Europe, El Torcal , which invites for another exceptional day out in nature.

Explore the dramatic white village of Arcos de la Frontera or the village of love, Vejer de la Frontera . Wander in the melting pot of Andalusian culture in its capital city, Seville . Learn how to salsa and have tapas and drinks with the locals.

The sand blown coast of Cadiz is just the place to go to save money. This is where you can party with the locals in Los Caños de Meca or go windsurfing in Tarifa .

There are endless things to do in Andalucia and it doesn’t have to cost an arm to do so. Budget $70 per day, but there are great hostels in the cities where you can save money, meet other travelers, and cook your dinner at home. You can get by pretty cheap by traveling by bus or train too and tapas are cheap. You can easily get a beer for $2 at local places. The most expensive area in Andalucia is Costa del Sol, so try focus on Seville and Cadiz if you need to save money.

view from under an archway out and up looking at the birds flying in the sky with Spanish architecture and details on the archway in Andalusia region of Spain

28. Paris, France

Recommended by Elisa from World in Paris

Paris is an excellent destination for college students. The French capital is a lively and cultural city with many cool things to do for people of all ages! To get the most out of the city, we recommend spending a minimum of  4 days in Paris .

Many people believe that Paris is an expensive city. This is true only if visitors decide to stay in Paris’s most central areas and eat and drink close to the main attractions.

On the other hand, Paris has many cool things to do for free and many beautiful parks and picturesque neighborhoods to hang around without spending anything. Besides, there are many advantages for students under 25 , from significant discounts to free entrance, especially for students from the EU countries.

College students will appreciate the nightlife in Paris. There are many cool areas in Paris to hang around at night, being Canal Saint-Martin , La Villette , or Belleville some of the favorites, places where a beer can cost half of the price or less than in the fancy bars around the Champs Elysées.

Another fun thing to do in Paris at night is the apéro-dinatoires – evening drinks that turn into casual dinners with patés, cheese, and cold cuts.

Finally, for those who want to see something other than the French capital, there are transportation discounts for students for a day trip out of the city to places like Versailles, Normandy, or Lille. A good daily budget is $90 per day, but this cost can be reduced significantly by staying in Paris’ extensive hostel system, cooking your own meals, or even having inexpensive sandwiches for some meals from cafés.

View of the Eiffel Tower from the middle of a distant street busy with European cars with restaurants on the right and left of the streets

29. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Recommended by Sam from Sam Sees World

There are so many amazing places in Europe to visit for college students but few are as amazing as Amsterdam. A city known for its vibrant nightlife, stunning canals, and young atmosphere, Amsterdam is the perfect travel destination for college students of all kinds. Whether you like partying, history, culture, or learning about new traditions, Amsterdam has something for you.

Many college students are drawn to Amsterdam for the nightlife. There are over 1,100 bars and clubs in Amsterdam, which is enough to keep you very busy. The best areas to visit for bars and clubs are Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein , here you will find rows of bars and clubs making the options endless. Spending a night out in Amsterdam promises an amazing time, even if drinking and partying isn’t your speed. Visitors can also enjoy the canals by night , go on evening cruises, and check out live music , and more.

Luckily for college students flights to Amsterdam can be really cheap. You can easily find flights from other cities in Europe for 40 euros and from New York for $300 round trip! Plus, there are plenty of hostels around Amsterdam that offer low-cost accommodations in a fun and exciting atmosphere.

Amsterdam at twilight with buildings lit up along the river and beautiful lights reflected on a cloudy evening

30. Berlin, Germany

Recommended by Matt from Wheatless Wanderlust

Berlin is one of the most affordable capital cities in Western Europe, which makes it a perfect destination for traveling college students. It has a diverse range of things to do and see, ranging from free to relatively inexpensive, and a food and drink scene full of cheap-yet-delicious eats like döner kebab and currywurst.

Plus, it is widely regarded as one of the best nightlife scenes in Europe, with clubs pumping out dance music well into the early (and not-so-early) hours of the morning.

Some of the best things to do in Berlin, like walking through the Brandenburg Gate , climbing to the top of the dome of the Reichstag , and admiring the vibrant street art of the Eastside Gallery , are all free.

Things that aren’t free, like the awe-inspiring Pergamon Museum and the other museums on Museum Island , offer hefty discounts for students .

One of the best parts about Berlin, particularly in the summertime, is the green spaces. And there are no open container laws in Berlin, which means you can enjoy a picnic in the park complete with a bottle of wine or some local beer. Head to the Tiergarten or Tempelhofer Feld, the former airport that has been transformed into the biggest park in Berlin.

If you’re wondering  where to stay in Berlin  on a budget, the answer is Fredrichschain , which is also where you’ll find the best nightlife in the city. There, you’ll find a range of affordable hotels and hostels , and you’ll be within walking distance of both the Eastside Gallery and the coolest neighborhood in Berlin – Kreuzberg.

You can easily live in Berlin on $50 a day by either staying in a hostel dorm room or splitting a private room with a friend, taking advantage of all the great free attractions in the city, and eating breakfast at your accommodation.

Berlin Wall presidents kissing with a woman walking in front

31. Munich, Germany

Recommended by Devin of Deventuretime.com

Munich is a great destination for college students as it’s a budget-friendly city, easy to travel around, and has plenty of exciting things to do. It is a city that is frequented by many backpackers, so there are plenty of hostel accommodations throughout the city that are perfect for making new friends!

Munich is known for its incredible beer gardens and beer halls throughout the city. Not to mention, the famous Oktoberfest beer celebration ! One of the most famous taverns in the world, Hofbräuhaus , is located within the city. Here, you sit along tables and order giant steins of beer to enjoy with friends. Beer in the city is quite cheap, with full liter steins costing around $13.

Aside from beer halls, the city is full of fascinating history and beautiful architecture. Marienplatz is a beautiful square to visit, lined with shops and stunning gothic buildings. It is home to Rathaus-Glockenspiel , which is an interesting, automated show built into the side of New Town Hall. It attracts many locals and tourists daily to enjoy the show!

When traveling to Munich, you can budget daily for as low as $60. To keep costs low, opt to stay in a hostel , buy food from markets, and buy beer from shops. Costs rise as you shop, eat at restaurants, or stay at more glamourous accommodations.

view of Munich city square from above with tower and European charming city buildings with scattered trees

32. Prague, Czech Republic

Recommended by Charu from Travel With CG

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a beautiful destination to visit in Europe. Home to medieval buildings, charming castles, and gothic cathedrals; it is a fascinating yet affordable place to travel internationally. With a picturesque Old Town full of colorful buildings and orange topped roofs, Prague is also an ideal city to explore on foot.

If you like going on walking tours , please note that multiple free ones start from the city’s astronomical clock every day. You can either walk the cobbled streets of Prague from your accommodation to reach there or hop on a tram and get yourself an inexpensive ride. A 3-day tram pass for students visiting Prague only costs 310 CZK ($15) and can be bought from nearly every tram stop or online.

The nightlife in Prague is enjoyable too. Whether you like multiple story clubs that play different music, beer gardens , or vibrant cocktail bars ; it is that one city in central Europe that you will find has got it all. Live music is big there as well, so you might even come across artists playing at famous touristic sights such as the John Lennon Wall when visiting.

Like any other big city, Prague is also home to a variety of budget accommodations . Apartments with multiple rooms, for instance, can even be found for as low as $25 per person per night.

drone view of Prague city in Czech Republic with red brown topped roofs and bridge with people on it, on a cloudy day

33. Budapest, Hungary

Recommended by Cecily from Groovy Mashed Potatoes

Budapest is an Eastern European city with an energetic nightlife and culture. The historic spa capital is inexpensive compared to other European cities and a great way to discover Europe’s fascinating history and impressive architecture. There are many fun things to add to your  Budapest itinerary , from relaxing in thermal baths to partying in ruin bars with your friends.

During the daytime, unwind from your studies in one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths. Szechenyi Baths is the largest thermal bath in Budapest and has a stunning neo-Baroque architecture. Weekday entrance fees are cheaper than weekend prices. Budget 3,500 HUF (~ $12 USD) for the weekday or 3,900 HUF (~ $13.50 USD) for the weekend.

Just before sunset, walk to the top of Castle Hill to admire views of the Danube River and the city’s most prominent buildings, such as the Hungarian Parliament building .

Budapest has one of the best party scenes in Europe. Have a unique night out in their eclectic and bohemian ruin bars , known to have cheap drinks and a lively atmosphere. Szimpla Kert was the first ever ruin bar, built in an abandoned factory in 2002.

It’s easy and inexpensive to get around with the city’s excellent transportation system . A one-way fare costs 350 HUF (~ $1.19 USD). There are many places to stay in Budapest , so budget $28 USD per day for accommodation , plus $20 USD per day for food and $20 USD per day for activities/alcohol.

Budapest view of the city and parliament building from across the river from a high vantage point

34. Slovenia

Recommended by Simona from Slovenians Travel

Slovenia is a small country in the heart of Europe. It is still quite undiscovered and compared to its neighbors and still affordable. With a short coastline, beautiful mountains and lakes, and charming medieval cities it offers a great variety for different tastes.

Public transport works well and is cheap (choose between bus or train), accommodation can be found almost everywhere, and the prices range from $30, camping and hostels are even cheaper.

Slovenia has a wide variety of food as it has influences from the Italian, Austrian, Mediterranean and Hungarian cuisine. During the week many restaurants offer set lunch menus for $10-18 for a 3-course meal, and mains are about the same price. There are fast food stalls and food markets, where a kebab is around $3-5, burek (Balkan meat or cottage cheese pastry) is from $2, burgers from $5. Vegetarians and vegans also won’t be hungry. 😉

You should definitely visit Lake Bled , the most famous sight in the country. Unfortunately, everything is much more expensive there, so maybe think about a day trip from Ljubljana . Ljubljana, the capital, is a good base as it offers a lot of accommodation, restaurants, bars and clubs. For a little more off the beaten track and a bit cheaper city, choose Maribor , the second biggest city in Slovenia. Both are university cities, so many young party people live there and like to have a good time in all the bars and clubs.

You can get a big beer for about $3-4, cocktails from $7, not to forget the prices in supermarkets, where a big beer is around $1 and a bottle of wine from $4. The prices are a bit higher on the coast – Piran, Portorož, Izola and Koper are the biggest cities on the coast, Piran surely the most charming.

Slovenia is still an affordable destination, which offers so much on such a small area. That’s why it’s perfect for budget travelers.

small island in the middle of a lake with a small castle like building on it with surrounding pine covered hills and mountains in the distance with partly cloudy sky

35. Rome, Italy

Recommended by Claudia from Strictly Rome

With all its art, history, and culture, Rome is bound to be a fantastic destination for college students who can join one of the many short and long term university and college programs offered in the Eternal City. The city is intense but undeniably charming and beautiful and a great place to get acquainted with the Italian lifestyle. There are any great places to visit, delicious food, and incredible nightlife (especially in Trastevere).

Among the places to visit there is the Colosseum and the nearby Arch of Constantine , Roman Forum and Palatine Hill . A combined ticket for the 3 sites is $20. St. Peter’s Basilica is another must see – it’s free, and with a small fee you can access the Dome. The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel require pre-bookings, but they are a must see for art students.

If you are looking for free places to visit, a walk around the historic center will take you to the beautiful Altare della Patria in Piazza Venezia; Largo di Torre Argentina , a nearby archeological site home to a cat sanctuary; the Spanish Steps , Fontana di Trevi , the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona .

One important thing to know before visiting Rome is that the city is not cheap. The best budget hostels are in Esquilino – for nicer places look around St. John in the Lateran Church, which is safe and very central. Trattorie and street food are your best budget options for food. Calculate a daily budget of at least $65 USD per day.

Ornate fountain in Rome Italy with sculptures of men and other figures in white marble with a huge building directly behind; Trevi Fountain

36. Ios Island, Greece

Recommended by Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

From the end of June until late August, Ios becomes a giant party for college students from around the globe. Daytimes are spent on the beach and nights spent dancing, against a backdrop of one of the most beautiful Greek islands . Ios is a seven-hour ferry journey from Athens , but the big draw is that it is cheap and friendly.

There are several great beaches including Koumbara  and Manganari , which can be reached by bus or boat. Milopotas beach is the main draw. This beach is long, sandy and one of the best in Greece. Sunbathers share the beach with coffee shops and restaurants where they can meet loads of people and there are water sports too. Scuba diving and windsurfing are popular and jet skis and banana boats are fun.

There are rooms to rent, but these need to be booked well in advance and there are several campsites including Far Out , with a 24-hour bar, two swimming pools, and volleyball. Ios is a fantastic place to forge new friendships with people of all nationalities.

A one-way ferry ticket from Athens to Ios can cost between $30-43 depending on the ferry company. While accommodation can be anything from $30-36 euros per night for a double room or a bit cheaper on the camping. Food in a taverna can be from $13 upwards depending on what you order but there are many street food options available like souvlaki . Drinks can be bought either from the kiosk and enjoyed at the beach or you can take advantage of the happy hours if you are on a budget.

If you have long said goodbye to your college days, Ios is still a gorgeous island to visit during the spring and autumn when it is peaceful by comparison!

Greek island with blue capped white buildings, palm trees, on hillsides with ocean in the background at sunset

Middle East

Recommended by Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad

Iran is definitely one of the most underrated travel destinations for college students, especially for those who enjoy history and culture. Filled with gorgeous architecture, calming nature, and delicious food, Iran is an amazing place to relax in after a busy semester. Contrary to popular belief, Iran is also incredibly safe and the locals are very friendly (yes, even to Americans!). Many travelers deem this destination safer than Europe.

Two weeks is the ideal amount of time to see Iran’s most beautiful places . Start your journey in Shiraz , home to the famous Pink Mosque which will take your breath away. Not far from Shiraz lies Persepolis , an incredible UNESCO site where you can learn about the history of the Achaemenid Empire. Next, move on to Yazd , a stunning desert city home to the spectacular Sar Yazd Castle .

No trip to Iran would be complete without spending a few days in Isfahan , where you can see two of the most magnificent mosques in the country: Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque and Shah Mosque . While you’re there, make sure to eat at the nearby Naghshe Jahan Restaurant . Don’t leave Iran without stopping by Kashan , one of the friendliest cities in the country!

Iran is a great budget destination; you can stay in very decent hostels for $7-20 a night. You’ll typically spend about $6.50 on meals per day, and each VIP bus ticket to get you between cities is around $6. It’s worth noting that it’s incredibly easy to get around Iran on your own, and the buses are super comfortable too!

woman draped in a large sheer covering sitting and looking away from the camera; inside a rainbow colored mosque with intricate stained glass, pillars, and ceiling

38. Istanbul, Turkey

Recommended by Roxanne from Faraway Worlds

At the crossroads of Asia and Europe, Istanbul is the perfect city for college students who want a glimpse of the wider world. A large, vibrant city, Istanbul offers a peek into other cultures and ways of life. While it can be a bit overwhelming at times, Istanbul is also exotic and exciting, and, with a well-developed tourist industry , it’s relatively accessible to Westerners.

Istanbul is also an affordable city. It’s easy to get around with public transport and, if you watch your budget, you should be able to get by on around $30 a day. This should cover a dorm bed, groceries, beer, and entrance fees for tourist attractions. If you want to eat out, there’s a wide range of delicious and affordable food on the streets of Istanbul from donor kebabs and mussels, to freshly-squeezed juices and stretchy ice cream.

If you’re wondering  where to stay in Istanbul , Taksim or Galata are good options for students. Both are conveniently located, with cafes, bars and street food close by. These areas are also renowned for their nightlife , and you’ll see a good mix of locals and tourists out and about late into the night. During the day, you can wander through the ancient streets, see the big-ticket tourist attractions like the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sofia , and relax in one of the city’s beautiful parks.

Blue Mosque in Istanbul Turkey with large minarets and archways with blue accents and details in the architecture and tilework, view from below

Recommended by Sasha Naslin from The Alternative Travel Guide  

Egypt is the ideal destination for history and adventure lovers. Only in the hot deserts of Egypt, can you visit 40-centuries old monuments, the guardians of the history of mankind.

The Pyramid of Cheops is one of the world wonders that has survived to this day. Apart from the Chinese Wall, this is the largest structure ever erected by man. The Egyptian pyramids are a miracle that you should definitely see once in life if you have the opportunity.

In addition, Egypt is suitable for student travelers who love diving, snorkeling, and other adventurous activities. The Red Sea is one of the most ecologically clean seas in the world! The crystal clear water allows you to admire the indescribably beautiful coral reefs and the Red Sea fauna, diverse in colors, shapes, and sizes. You can see all this beauty already a few meters from the shore, but if you use fins and a mask, you will discover the fabulously beautiful underwater world.

And another important factor for students, Egypt is a fairly cheap country. A week in Hurghada in an all-inclusive hotel costs $200-300, depending on the season and the hotel’s level. In Cairo, you can pay for a hotel as little as $ 15 per night.

woman with brunette hair wearing a tank top and white hat looking away from the camera at egyptian street with palm trees, ancient statues on the right, and Cairo building in the distance

40. Don Det, Laos

Recommended by Samantha from International Detours 

One of the best places to travel for college students is  Don Det, Laos . While all of Laos is beautiful, Don Det is a small river island that just exudes relaxation . 

It’s cheap, can be explored by bicycle , and is a fantastic place to meet other travelers. This backpacking hub is filled with bungalows that sit right over the edge of the Mekong River , and there’s really not much better than being able to watch an epic sunrise right outside your door. And Don Det’s sunsets are truly extraordinary.

The island is also filled with delicious cafes and bars, making it an ideal place to meet other young people as there’s always something to do both during the day and after dark.

The affordability of Don Det is what really makes it a winning spot for those on a budget: for food, drinks, bicycle rental and miscellaneous extras, you can easily spend $20 per day or less. If you split costs, this value will decrease.

With zero cars, little noise besides the crowing of roosters, and no light pollution, Don Det is the absolute perfect hippie haven to truly forget about college and the world. And despite being as amazing as it is, the island is far less popular than some other spots in Southeast Asia, meaning you won’t get that overtouristed feel either.

young man biking on a dirt path surrounded by grassy land with a few trees dispersed and partly cloudy sky; man is wearing bright blue T-shirt

41. Thailand

Recommended by Luke from Wild About BC

Thailand has long been a favorite destination for new travelers looking to dip their toes into the wonderful world of international travel. It is the ideal destination for college students to visit as it is so easy to plan a trip here . One of the reasons Thailand first became so popular is that it is stunningly beautiful. There are endless islands to visit, all full of amazing beaches.

There are plenty of beautiful places out there but Thailand is such an easy pick for numerous reasons. It’s great for planning a trip on a budget as food, accommodation and transport are all very cheap here. You can expect to pay around $10 per night here for a decent hostel with air conditioning and meals are just a couple of dollars each and the food is delicious.

As Thailand has been popular for a while it also means that there is lots of infrastructure to help you easily get around. There are plenty of transport companies and tour operators making planning your trip much easier. Booking busses, boats and tours online is easy and there is a wealth of information out there to help you plan.

The local people are used to having tourists here and English is widely spoken which also helps if you get stuck and need to ask for help. Thailand is also renowned for the vibrant nightlife. If you are looking to party and blow off some steam then there are few places better. Cities like Bangkok have their own party districts or you can go to Koh Phangan to enjoy the world-famous full moon party on the beach.

This is an awesome place to visit and the beauty, budget friendliness, infrastructure and nightlife all combine to make it an epic trip for college students.

Halong Bay in Thailand with randomly dispersed islands and many small boats, view from atop a hillside

42. Vietnam

Recommended by Trisha from Try Wandering More

Vietnam is a fantastic place to visit as a college student because it has a bit of everything – natural beauty, quaint towns, unique culture, interesting history, delicious cuisine, and eccentric nightlife. The most inviting aspect is that it is inexpensive, so you can have an incredible time without burning a hole in your pocket.

This country has so much to offer that it is a struggle to choose among the  best places to visit in Vietnam . At least 10-14 days are required to get a good flavour of the country, though a fast-paced trip through the main places can be managed in a week.

Vietnam’s Capital city of Hanoi is an ideal city to begin exploring. Further, it would be best to travel along the country’s length ending in the south at Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon) , Vietnam’s most modern city.

Popular places to see include the picturesque Ha Long Bay near Hanoi, the quaint town of Hoi An near Da Nang, and the fascinating Mekong Delta near Saigon.

Expect to be delighted by mouth-watering food and drinks with steaming bowls of Pho, local beers like Bia Hoi, and Vietnamese Coffee.

Vietnam is a backpacker’s paradise with per day costs being about $5-$10 for accommodation, $8 for local food, $2 for beer, $5 for transportation and $3 for attractions. So, about $20-30 a day is enough to get by if traveling cheaply or about $40 per day for a super comfortable trip. If traveling in a group, consider staying at hotels and motels , as opposed to only hostels, as these can come out to be inexpensive too when divided per person.

A night market in Vietnam, one of the best places to get food for budget travelers and students on a buget; red lanterns hang and stalls are well lit up

43. Philippines

Recommended by Sharon from Dive Into Philippines

One of the best places to travel for college students is definitely the Philippines. One of the great budget travel destinations in the world, the Philippines can feel very adventurous while being a relatively easy place to travel. Many people speak English , it’s fun to get around and there are gorgeous beaches seemingly everywhere.

One of the big plusses of the Philippines is that you can easily find yourself at a beach where you can feel like you have escaped the world. Or if partying is more your holiday style, there are plenty of places you can do that.

A great place to start your trip is in Cebu City , the Philippines’ second largest city and home to its second busiest airport. On this island, there are many great beaches and you can choose backpacker favorite Moalboal , swim with whale sharks at Oslob or get away from it all in many places. Close by is Bohol Island where you can also experience great beaches and diving on Panglao , visit the Chocolate Hills , meet a cute tarsier, or go jungle trekking. It’s a great spot and you can take it as easy or active as you like.

A huge benefit of traveling the Philippines is how cheap it can be – it’s possible to travel here on $20 a day. You don’t have to spend much more to feel like you are doing it in style too. Food, transport, accommodation is all cheap. In fact, booking ahead on domestic budget airline can even make travelling from one side of the country to the other quite affordable.

The Philippines really is the ultimate destination for college students where you want peace and quiet, partying or adventure.

Philippines beach view from the boardwalk pier, turquoise choppy water with orange snad and buildings and lots of trees in the distance.

44. East Java, Indonesia

Recommended by Kaylini from The Curated Travelist 

If you’re in search of adventure, then look no further than East Java in Indonesia. For college students seeking refuge from city life and in need of fresh air, scenic landscapes and cultural enrichment, this can be found in abundance in this region. Apart from it being a great escape, it’s equally prudent on the pocket. With the currency of Indonesia being significantly weaker than that of the dollar, you’ll get plenty of value for money here.

Your East Java itinerary will begin in the city of Yogyakarta . Embrace your zen when visiting Borobudur the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Take a train from Yogyakarta to Surabaya for the bucket list worthy experience of visiting the active volcano of Mount Bromo . The Bromo volcano at sunrise is a truly breathtaking moment and summiting to the crater rim and peering into a volcano is few most can boast of.

Just a short drive away you’ll find the magnificent Tumpak Sewu Waterfall , a giant panoramic curtain of showers. Heading further East of Java you’ll find the mystical Kawah Ijen crater . Mount Ijen is another active volcano, however, this volcano has the largest acidic crater lake in the world and allows you to experience the phenomenon of blue-flamed fire! This phenomenon can only be seen in several places around the globe and truly something not to be missed.

Will bucket list items like these, one would think you’d be paying an arm and a leg. However, with transport costs less than $20 using buses and trains and accommodation at hostels costing $10, it’s very budget-friendly. Plus, local cuisines are an absolute steal at $2-3. This adventure destination is life-changing for most and definitely worth adding to your bucket list!

volcano with other mountains surrounding in the background with fog and clouds, view from above in East Java, Indonesia

45. Bali, Indonesia

Recommended by Margherita from The Crowded Planet

Bali is definitely a great destination for those traveling for the first time, making it perfect for college students heading out of the US for the first time. The Island of Gods has so much to offer, that even diverse groups of friends will all have something to do.

To give you an idea, Bali offers lots of adventurous activities like volcano hiking, walks and bike rides around rice terraces, surf lessons, and scuba diving courses. At the same time, it’s easy to plan spiritual or cultural experiences like yoga, meditation, cooking classes, and temple visits with local guides. It’s very easy to arrange activities – Bali has been a tourist destination for many decades, and it’s well set up with local travel agencies allowing you to book activities even with short notice.

Let’s not forget nightlife – in places like Canggu and Seminyak you’ll find plenty of beach clubs where you can relax by the pool during the day, and party at night!

Speaking about costs, Bali is also a budget-friendly destination. The main expense will probably be the flight – accommodation is affordable, with some dorm beds going for less that $10, and eating out is also really cheap, especially if you go for street food! The easiest and cheapest way to get around is hiring a motorbike for about $5 a day, but make sure your travel insurance covers motorbike accidents. Alternatively, you can opt for hiring a driver for a day for a price of about $30 to be shared between 4 people.

famous gate in Bali with red flowers in the foreground and a bird flying against a sunny, yet cloudy sky

For more student travel tips, read these posts:

How to save money in college for traveling

10 ways to travel as a student

How to explore your own backyard (when you can’t go on a big trip)

woman handing off a freshly picked Ruby red apple with leaves still on the stem to her boyfriend's hand

Save to Pinterest!

45 incredible places to visit in College in the US and international destinations; student travel tips and cheap college student travel destinations; travel guides; travel hacks; budget travel ideas

My Travel Essentials

  • Travel Insurance  – Going on an international trip? Don’t forget travel and medical insurance with SafetyWing .
  • Travel Card  – If you’re new to travel hacking, fear not! My favorite card for beginners gives you $750 in rewards when you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus lounge access, 10x points on hotel bookings, and free TSA pre-check!
  • Get Your Guide  – Check out Get Your Guide for a one-stop-shop for booking travel activities.
  • Booking.com  – This is my favorite hotel search aggregator, specifically for reading reviews. On Booking.com , the reviews can be searched for keywords like WiFi, breakfast, pool, amenities, etc.! So helpful!
  • Anti-pickpocket bag – Worried about having your valuables swiped? PacSafe makes the best travel bags with zippers and straps that lock and with mesh steel enforced fabric.
  • Merino Wool  – Where are my chronic over-packers? Merino wool is the material you’ve been looking for. It’s naturally anti-microbial, so you can rewear it…so, less clothes to pack! I’m a fan of WoolX Merino .
  • Give the Gift of Travel  – This is the perfect gift for travelers in your life! Tinggly allows you to gift experiences around the world, perfect for birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries.
  • Staycation Idea  – Check out Resort Pass , which gives you day passes to resorts so you can use their pool, spa, and fitness center, a great staycation idea!

sunset white sands national park

previous post

man stargazing with a telescope looking at the starry sky with galaxy clouds and nebulae in the background, man is silhoutted.

Alanna Koritzke

Recent PhD graduate and hyper-planner of Periodic Adventures, my goal is to share travel inspiration, budget tips, detailed guides, and fun travel stories!

Related Posts

lush garden in spring in Portland

7 Most Beautiful Gardens in Portland Oregon

Cleveland sign on the waterfront

How to Spend a Delightful Day Trip to Cleveland, Ohio

Namesake cactus at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in Arizona

Best 35 Attractions and Places to Visit Near Tucson, Arizona in 2024

trips for college students

I think that most of the countries in Eastern Europe are great for students because they’re relatively cheap. I travelled to Poland while at university and came back home with half of my budget!

trips for college students

Agreed! I haven’t been to any yet, but they all seem very budget-friendly perfect for college students!

trips for college students

Elena Pappalardo

Although I’m no longer a college student, I definitely want to hit up some of these places when I can! Great round-up.

Thanks Elena! They definitely are great for any budget traveler.

Pingback: The Best Dublin Vegan Guide: Restaurants, Sights, & More 2023 - Veggies Abroad

Post a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

fdg logo

  • Last Updated On
  • June 10, 2023

13 Best Family Vacations with College Students and Young Adults

Tanner Wilkes

Family vacations aren’t over just because your kids are off to college. 

The dynamic will change for the better. 

Each second you spend time with family is more precious now that they’re older.

You’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.

But planning trips can now be a hassle with different schedules.

They’re too young for adult fun and old for kiddie adventures.

So, I’ve curated a list to help you plan a smooth vacation with your family.

I’m a travel writer and a parent.

I go on trips yearly for the best family vacations with college students and young adults.

I’ve also talked to locals and fellow parents about their experiences on these trips.

And I have ranked them based on activities and attractions, affordability, safety, accessibility, and accommodation options.

So, get your shoes on and pack your bags for the perfect getaway with your family.

Best Family Vacations With College Students Compared

Mix your plans with outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, fine dining, and fabulous shopping. Here’s a quick guide to the best vacations ever:

Editor’s Choice

trips for college students

New York City, New York

If your college-going kids are into theater, a visit to New York City’s Great White Way will be the perfect family vacation destination you can gift them.

  • Activities and Attractions: 5/5
  • Affordability: 4/5
  • Safety: 3.5/5
  • Accessibility: 5/5
  • Accommodation Options: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

trips for college students

London, England

If your young ones have also been bitten by the Harry Potter bug, then a visit to the Wizarding World in London will be irresistible for them.

  • Activities and Attractions: 4/5
  • Safety: 5/5
  • Accommodation Options: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

trips for college students

Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise

Experience Europe by booking your family on a Danube River Cruise to have a great trip with your college-age kids.

  • Affordability: 3/5
  • Safety: 4/5
  • Accessibility: 3/5

Here are the top 13 family vacations with college students and young adults.

1. New York City, New York (Editor’s Choice)

New York City, New York

New York City, NY (212) 639-9675 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

  • Many educational landmarks
  • Several restaurants and attractions

There is some new show that’s happening there always and could even be on the bucket list of the young adults in your family!

If you are traveling in January, you can even catch the NYC Broadway Week.

You will also find it easy on your pocket with offers such as 2-for-1 tickets to many shows.

Don’t forget to dine at Ellen’s Stardust Diner that has a singing waitstaff.

Some of the other attractions are a walk through the theater district; visiting the Drama Book Shop to discover scripts and sheet music; or just a stopover at Shakespeare in the Park during summertime.

Recommended Hotel: Crosby Street Hotel

Related: Top NYC Restaurants

Related: Best All Inclusive Resorts for Families with Young Adults

2. London, England

London, England Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

  • Wizarding World
  • Shopping centers and restaurants nearby
  • Unpredictable weather

See Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in his West End home, and then proceed to the Palace Theatre, where you can find the House of MinaLima, the one who did the graphic designing for the Wizarding World.

If you love shopping and munching, there is a shopping center nearby.

Hop over to the Chinatown a couple of blocks away, or visit the Warner Bros to complete the Harry Potter experience.

The Making of Harry Potter – Studio Tour just outside the city will be an unforgettable experience.

Don’t miss the photo opp at Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station.

Recommended Hotel: The Biltmore Mayfair, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Related: Places to Eat: London, England

3. Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise

Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise

Danube River, Europe Visit Website Open in Google Maps

  • Visit eight cities in four different countries
  • Guided tours

You can visit eight cities in four different countries as you cruise from Germany to Hungary or the other way round.

At each port, Adventures by Disney organizes special experiences that narrate the stories of each city and town, giving them a peep into European history and culture.

Don’t miss exciting activities such as climbing through the treetops 50 feet above the Bavarian forest floor or sliding into a salt mine under the Austrian Alps.

You will be hiking to the ruins of English King Richard the Lionheart’s castle built in the 1100s, tasting gourmet meals and exploring world-famous Christmas markets if you visit during the holiday season.

Recommended Hotel: Sugó Panzió

Related: Best Family Vacations in Europe

4. Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City, Canada Visit Website Open in Google Maps

If you want a more affordable destination that is still rich in culture, go to Quebec City in Canada.

It’s an excellent alternative to London, England, and Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise.

If you want international vacation spots but the budget is a constraint, you can still cross over to Canada and soak in the French culture, language and cuisine.

Quebec City has a 400-year-old history and Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is the only fortified city in North America besides Mexico.

Samuel de Champlain set it up as the base for explorers, trappers, and traders from France in 1608, till the British defeated them and took over in 1759.

Even today you will find at least 95 percent of the population speaking French in the City.

You will also find tasty French cuisine and you can soak in the European charm so noticeable in the region continues.

Walk between towering walls, on cobblestone streets, ride horse-drawn carriages and watch street performers.

Recommended Hotel: Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

5. Tulum, Mexico

Tulum, Mexico

Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico Visit Website Open in Google Maps

For ideas on family trips, Tulum, Mexico, is a must-visit destination, especially for those with interest in anthropology and archeology.

Located just an hour south of Playa del Carmen, you can visit the only surviving Mayan walled city with its well-maintained ruins of the Mayan port dating back to 564 AD and declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The Mayan pyramid of Coba is just a 45-minute drive away from Tulum.

It is not just history, you can also have some fun time on the white sandy beaches by the turquoise Caribbean sea, visit the cenote river caves and the eco parks and experience Spanish culture, language and cuisine.

Don’t forget to drop into the trendy downtown area for some shopping.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Bardo

Related: Places to Eat: Tulum, Mexico

6. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, Ireland Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

There is something for students, the religiously inclined and the one with a parched throat in the capital city of Ireland.

Trinity College in Dublin was started in 1592 and is well known even among American college students who choose this as one of their destinations to study abroad.

Its “long library room” is popular among book lovers.

While here, you can see the 9th Century Book of Kells, the 15th Century Brian Boru harp, which is the national symbol of Ireland, and a copy of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic.

Nearby, you can visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublinia, Christ Church Cathedral and the Dublin Castle.

For some drinks, for a bite or just enjoy a night out, go to the Temple Bar quarter.

Right across is the iconic, 200-year-old, cast-iron Ha’Penny Pedestrian Bridge over the River Liffey.

Recommended Hotel: InterContinental Dublin

7. Kruger National Park, South Africa

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Kruger National Park, South Africa (27) 21 424 1037 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Trips with college kids must include a visit at least once when they are twenty something to a wildlife destination as they are old enough to be able to patiently observe animals as well as handle the long journey.

South Africa’s Kruger National Park covers nearly two million hectares of land with a wide diversity of life forms along with historical and archaeological sights.

Apart from the Big 5, which include the Cape buffalo, African elephant, leopard, lion and rhino, you can also sight the wild dog, the ground hornbill, the fish eagle and see the Baobab and Marula trees.

Jabulani Safari in South Africa’s Kapama Game Reserve is also nearby and, if you are lucky, you can catch sight of the herd of elephants whose four-month-old calf had been rescued in 1997.

Recommended Hotel: The Cycad Lodge & Chalets

8. The Rose Bowl – Pasadena, California

The Rose Bowl – Pasadena, California

1001 Rose Bowl Dr Pasadena, CA 91103 (626) 577-3100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

No college-goer can resist the pull of sports, and no sports buff can resist a visit to the granddaddy of all football events, the Rose Bowl.

So if you are planning a trip with your college-going kids during the winter holidays, make sure you drop in for the New Year’s Day Tournament of Rose Bowl football game, a worldwide event with over a million viewers every year.

It is preceded by a Roses Parade, an impressive affair with over 40 flower-covered floats, several marching bands and many equestrian units marching 5.5 miles down Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena, California.

Even after the parade has ended, these floats are on display at the Showcase of Floats.

You can also have some fun at the public fanfest that happens at 8 am and is free and open for all.

Recommended Hotel: 1 Hotel West Hollywood

9. Disney World – Orlando, FL

Disney World – Orlando, FL

Orlando, FL, United States (407) 939-5277 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

There is no age limit to have a fun-filled vacation at Disney World.

Plan a weekend getaway to explore, discovering events and activities you have never done before.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a new addition that is bound to go down well with your college-going kids.

Some of the other cool fun things that would keep your twenty-something entertained include Resist the First Order, Fly the Millennium Falcon and the water park.

Soak yourself in the atmosphere of Oga’s Cantina, a local hangout, and enjoy the DJ churning out some out-of-this-world music.

You may find it difficult to drag your young adult from the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex with over 60 sports and thousands of events for athletes of all ages and abilities being conducted over 230 acres of land.

Recommended Hotel: Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

Related: Restaurants: Orlando, Florida

10. Give Kids The World – Kissimmee, FL

Give Kids The World – Kissimmee, FL

210 S Bass Rd Kissimmee, FL 34746 (407) 396-1114 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

College students today are aware of their social responsibility and are highly committed to working for their communities with a desire to give back.

Universities provide them with the opportunity to do community service by partnering with relevant organizations to organize trips related to such activities.

One of the summer vacation ideas for families with college students is the Give Kids The World Village in Kissimmee, Florida, just outside of Disney World.

A cheap vacation that can also provide an unforgettable experience.

You can take college students to volunteer in this whimsical vacation resort where children with life-threatening illnesses wishing to visit Central Florida stay with their families.

The volunteers, selected after screening and provided training, work in shifts and are provided with meals, ice cream and entertainment in the evenings.

Recommended Hotel: Calypso Cay Vacation Villas

Related: Places to Eat: Kissimmee, FL

11. Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line

200 Celebration Pl Kissimmee, FL 34747 (407) 566-3500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you have made several trips to Disney theme park, Disney Cruise Line may be an option you want to try out.

Not just Florida, the Bahamas or the Caribbean, you can explore more exciting options such as the Mediterranean, Northern European or Alaska.

Not only will your family get to enjoy the entertaining shows and storytelling sessions along with exceptional service, but you can also experience new cultures and countries at the ports of stop of the cruise.

Your college-going children will also be allowed access to adult areas such as the Quiet Cove pool, Senses Spa and the adults-only restaurants such as Remy and Palo.

This can be also a great gift for a soon-to-be graduate as a reward for years of hard work in college. 

Recommended Hotel: Reunion Resort & Golf Club

12. Sydney, Australia

Sydney, Australia

Sydney, Australia Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If the young adults in your family are wired for some thrilling adventures, they may want to try climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge cabled to the structure for safety.

As you ascend the 1,332 steps, the panoramic view gets exciting.

The ferry boats cruising the harbor below are a sight to see, and you may also want to take one to visit Manly Beach, a sandy stretch that is an attraction of its own.

Take Bonza Bike Tours to visit some of Sydney’s iconic sites.

The Great Barrier Reef is a must see, as are some of the many other attractions this region has to offer such as the lush national parks and restaurants serving delicious food.

Don’t miss the joy rides in the seaside amusement park, The Luna Park.

Recommended Hotel: Meriton Suites Pitt Street

Related: Best Beaches in Australia

13. Iceland

Iceland

Iceland Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Iceland has many natural wonders such as volcanoes, hot springs and massive glaciers.

Float in Iceland’sn oldest hot pool, Blue Lagoon, go on a whale safari, hike to waterfalls or go caving.

The black sea sand of Reynisfjara Beach is a rare, not-to-be-missed sight.

If you enjoy snorkeling, Silfra in Thingvellir National Park with its clearest water on earth should be part of your itinerary.

Iceland lets you go on self-drive tours or you can book one of the packages and let someone else take care of the logistics as you sit back and relax the enchanting view Iceland has to offer.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Grimsborgir – Your Golden Circle Retreat

Tourist’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

For the perfect vacation, you have to consider your family’s preferences and your budget. 

New York City has tons of educational sites like world-renowned art museums and national landmarks.

Many attractions and restaurants are also offered.

Just remember that the city is notorious for being crowded.

If your kids love Harry Potter, they’ll enjoy London, England.

They’ll witness how the movie was made.

And all the shopping centers and restaurants around are a plus.

Sadly, the weather is unpredictable, so you must dress appropriately.

Meanwhile, at Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise, you can visit eight cities in four different countries.

You can also do many exciting activities onboard.

But the cruise comes with high rates.

It may hurt your wallet. 

A trip to Quebec City, Canada, is a good alternative to these destinations.

You can learn about French culture and soak in the European charm.

The only drawback is that it is reported to have unreliable public transportation. 

How I Picked The Vacations

As an experienced travel writer, I review the best places to visit for families with older children.

I did thorough research on these destinations.

I also interview locals and fellow parents about their experiences during those trips.

And I consult other review sites to use the information posted by other travelers. 

Our Rating Method

I rate these vacations based on the following criteria: 

  • Activities and Attractions: This criterion assesses the quality and availability of activities in every destination. Does it have museums, art galleries, or theaters? Are there concert venues or sports arenas in the area? Are there national parks or beaches? I ask myself these questions when assessing activities and attractions. 
  • Affordability: I use this to evaluate each affordability. Does the area have a reputation for being expensive? Are the accommodation options budget-friendly? Are there locations and attractions you can visit for free? Does it have affordable dining spots? I consider these factors when rating affordability. 
  • Safety: This is used to evaluate a vacation destination’s safety. Does the area have a low crime rate? Is it tourist-friendly? Are the attractions well-maintained? Is the staff trained for emergencies? Are there safety measures in place? These are the factors I consider when assessing safety. 
  • Accessibility: I use this criterion to assess a location’s accessibility. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have an efficient public transport system? Are there free parking spaces in popular areas? Are the local attractions wheelchair accessible? I ask myself these questions when rating accessibility. 
  • Accommodation Options: This is used to evaluate the accommodation options of every destination. Are there hotels, motels, or vacation rentals near popular areas? Are the rooms spacious and comfortable? I use these factors to assess this criterion. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do i choose a family vacation.

Choose a vacation destination based on its activities and attractions, affordability, safety, accessibility, and accommodation options.

What Is The Most Affordable Vacation For Young Adults? 

Going to Quebec City, Canada, is the most affordable vacation for college students and young adults.

trips for college students

Each destination on this list offers not only fun but also educational adventures. 

London, England, was fascinating since my kids were movie buffs.

We went on thrilling rides and tried Harry Potter-flavored food.

Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise was a different experience.

Where else can you visit four countries in one trip?

Besides the activities onboard, the tour guides gave us a peep into European history and culture.

Quebec City was also unique because we got to experience Europe without actually going there.

We devoured tasty French cuisine we had never tried before.

Nonetheless, New York City is still our favorite.

We went to museums, tried different slices of New York pizza, and even got tickets for Broadway.

It’s truly one of the best family vacations with college students and young adults.

13 Best Family Vacations with College Students and Young Adults

Get student discounts on KAYAK .

We get it, you’re on a tight budget. As in, instant ramen is one of your main food groups. But just because your bank account got blown on textbooks this year, doesn’t mean an epic trip is out of the question.

That’s why KAYAK partners with travel companies that offer discounts on flights specifically for college students and travelers under the age of 26. Kick off a flight search to see if a sweet discount is available for your trip.

frame-1283sponsors-1

How to find cheap flights for students on KAYAK .

Enter your origin, destination and select “students” instead of “adults” as your traveler option.

Sort by cheapest to see which partners offer the lowest price. If it’s one of our student providers, they’ll rise to the top.

Check out all the flights our partners offer and book the one that is best for you.

Search discounted flights for students now .

frame-1284

Sign up to never miss a deal.

Get travel inspiration – and deals – every week, straight to your inbox.

By signing up you agree to our privacy policy .

Find cheap flights to top destinations .

KAYAK searches for flight deals on hundreds of travel sites to help you find the cheapest options. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute flight or planning ahead, you can find flight deals on KAYAK.

Cheap students flights to Europe

Cheap students flights to London

Cheap students flights to Boston

Cheap students flights to San Francisco

Cheap students flights to Houston

Cheap students flights to Asia

Cheap students flights to Beijing

Cheap students flights to Chicago

Cheap students flights to Philadelphia

Cheap students flights to Atlanta

Cheap students flights to New York

Cheap students flights to India

Cheap students flights to Los Angeles

Cheap students flights to Dallas

Cheap students flights to Cancún

  • How we work
  • Hotel owners
  • Advertise with us
  • Airline fees
  • Low fare tips
  • Badges & Certificates
  • Terms & Conditions

California consumers have the right to opt out of the sale * of their personal information. For more information on how we securely process personal information, please see our Privacy Policy .

Do not sell my info ON

* The definition of "sale" under the California Consumer Privacy Act is applicable only to California consumers.

trips for college students

College Students

Explore the world on your own terms.

Looking for an authentic travel experience with your peers that allows you the flexibility to travel your way? We have you covered!  Taking a gap year and not in college? No problem! This trip is designed for anyone ages 19-22 interested in an adventure.

We unbundled most of the activities to provide an affordable program where you can have plenty of flexibility to pick and choose your own unique experience! Creative itinerary, plenty of free time, and exciting options allow you to make the most out of your travels. Meet fellow travelers from all over while experiencing Greece on your own terms!

naitian-tony-wang-Mb7oWIDHdnE-unsplash

College Programs with TFT

Plenty of freedom.

Our tour is designed with plenty of free time so you can explore on your own or with your new friends!

Choice & Flexibility

Our tour offers a wide range of activities to choose from. Want to learn how to cook like a local? No problem! Want to spend your evening on a sunset cruise in Greece? We can make that happen! Choose your own adventure.

Affordable Tours

We have created affordable options so no matter what your budget is you can travel the world! Pick and choose to add on as many activities and additions as you would like.

Small group sizes

Group sizes of 14-30 travelers means you will make plenty of new friends and never feel like just a number. Small groups are a safer and more authentic way to travel!

Greece Island Hopping Summer Break for College Students

Dancing Lesson Greece

  • Jun 18 - Jun 28 Available

Current Grades

Program length.

trips for college students

05 / 05 Swim in the Mediterranean.

Get a free brochure

Questions for us.

trips for college students

Stay informed about 2024!

Sign up for our special travel newsletter and be notified about exclusive discounts, new trips, and other announcements. Stay in the know.

Tour Scoop

7 Best Group Travel Companies for Young Adults and College Students in 2024

These guided tour companies offer the very best group tours for young people..

Dave Parfitt

The Scoop: What to Know About EF Go Ahead Tours

With stress-free itineraries, travel dates built around school schedules, and even flexible payment plans, the best group tours for young people give travelers of a similar age the opportunity to vacation together all over the world. Most travel companies for young adults offer summer vacation, winter break, spring break, and even semester-long or gap year immersions geared toward college-aged young adults. Some of the most popular excursions include ski tours in North America and Europe and island hopping in the Caribbean or Greece.

2024’s Best Group Travel Companies for Young Adults

If you’re a college-aged young adult looking for a guided trip with similarly aged people, consider one of these travel tour companies for young adults whose group tours rank among the very best in the world for people between the ages of 18 and 35.

WORLD’S BEST: 15 Best Group Travel Companies for Guided Tours around the World in 2024

Contiki specialiazes in group tours for young people (Photo: Contiki)

Tour operator Contiki has specialized in group travel for people ages 18 to 35 since 1962. Today this popular group travel company for young adults offers more than 300 trips to more than 50 countries, encompassing many different trip styles. A favorite tour among college-aged adults is Contiki’s 11-day Greek Island Hopping  adventure around Greece’s most popular islands. Other popular tours include its  Cape Safari and Falls tour  in South Africa and  Balkans Discovery tour  in Central Europe. Contiki is currently booking trips for both 2024 and 2025.

WHERE TO GO: 10 Best Contiki Tours to Take in 2024

Contiki throws in all of the essentials in its group travel tours, including lodging in hotels, hostels, lodges, or boats. Trip managers, drivers, local guides, on-site team members, and on-road cooks are all trained, knowledgeable, and have a strong passion for travel to make each experience hassle-free. The company’s tours for young adults also include air-conditioned coaches (all with free Wi-Fi) in Europe, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, and comfortable mini-coaches in Asia and Latin America. Some tours include an internal flight, a boat, or even a bullet train.

Contiki is dedicated to sustainable travel with “Make Travel Matter” experiences on many trips and ongoing initiatives to reduce food waste, source electricity from renewable sources, eliminate single-use plastics, and ultimately achieve carbon neutrality.

Quick Facts about Group Tours for Young Adults with Contiki

  • Average guided tour group size:  12 to 50 people depending on location; no more than 16 on Detour trips led by a local host.
  • Price range:  Most of Contiki’s trips are in the $1,000 to $3,000 range, but some are as low as $187 (for a four-day ski trip) and some as high as $7,600 (for a 45-day European adventure).
  • What’s included:  Accommodations, transportation within the trip, admission prices, most breakfasts, and many dinners.
  • What’s not included:  Pre-and post-trip transportation, activities during free times, some meals, and tips.
  • Primary audience:  Contiki is a specialized group travel company for young adults that exclusively offers group tours for people ages 18 to 35.
  • Destinations:  United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.

2. G Adventures

Mad Monkey Hostel Pool in Phnom Penh, Cambodia (Photo: G Adventures)

One of the world’s largest independent adventure travel companies, G Adventures provides 750 small group tours across all seven continents. With such a large portfolio, G Adventures attracts a wide range of travelers, but two of its travel group styles in particular are perfect for young adults: 18-to-Thirtysomethings and Roamies .

FAR AND WIDE: 10 Best G Adventures Tours to Take in 2024

Partnering with Hostelworld, G Adventures created Roamies specifically for 18- to 35-year-olds, offering small group tours with the social atmosphere found in hostels around the world. G Adventures currently offers about 40 Roamies itineraries in Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Americas. For example, the  Yucatan Adventure  in Mexico lets young adults explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum while staying in hostels along the way to keep the trip budget-friendly.

The tour company’s 18-to-Thirtysomethings trips specialize in fast-paced and affordable itineraries that appeal to young people. Some popular tours include  Paris to Rome: Picnics and Pizza ,  Peru: Ancient Cities and the Andes ,  New Zealand: Mountain Biking and Black Sand Beaches ,  Southern Africa: Bush Camps and Wildlife Spotting , as well as multiple U.S.A. road trips such as California’s Highway 1 .

Quick Facts about Group Tours for Young Adults with G Adventures

  • Average guided tour group size:  10 to 12 people.
  • Price range:  Depending on the destination and length of trip, tours range from $169 to $8,949.
  • What’s included:  Accommodations, activities listed on the itinerary, and some meals.
  • What’s not included:  Airfare, some meals, and tips.
  • Primary audience:  Roamies and 18-to-Thirtysomething are specifically geared towards the traditional college-age and young adult market.
  • Destinations:  More than 100 countries across all seven continents.

3. EF Education First

EF Gap Year trips are designed for students taking time off between high school and college (Photo: EF Education First)

Founded in 1965 in Sweden and widely recognized as a leader in group tours for young people, EF Education First is a global education company specializing in language, academic, cultural exchange, and educational travel programs. EF Education First has grown to become one of the world’s largest international education companies, offering every imaginable way to see the world, experience a new culture, learn a language, or earn an academic degree. 

FIND A DEAL: 17 Best Flight Booking Sites for Cheap Airfares

Programs specifically designed for young adults include EF Gap Year, EF Ultimate Break, and EF College Study Tours:

  • EF Gap Year  offers experiences tailor-made for young adults taking time off between high school and college; programs range from short-term to semester-long to full academic year. A 10-week gap year program called The Voyager (running in spring and fall 2024) visits Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, and Japan, and it includes language learning, internships, and service. 
  • EF Ultimate Break  trips are vacations for 18- to 35-year-olds ranging from a week to a month or longer. These popular group tours for young people include  Ultimate Europe  (14 cities in 35 days),  Japan: Tokyo and Beyond  (nine days, four cities), and  Scandinavia  (11 days, three cities). 
  • Specifically for college students, EF College Study Tours are faculty-led study abroad programs that include  Anime and Manga in Japan ,  Intercultural Studies in South Africa , and many more.

Quick Facts about Group Tours for Young Adults with EF Education First

  • Average guided tour group size:  10 to 40 people, depending on the specific program.
  • Price range:  $2,800 to $19,450 (for 10 weeks).
  • What’s included:  All flights and local transfers to each stop of your itinerary, all accommodations and some meals, one-on-one mentorship and 24/7 travel support before and during your program, program leadership and direction by full-time EF Field Directors and Student Life Coordinators, guided excursions, and hands-on workshops with local experts.
  • What’s not included:  Some meals, optional activities during free time, and some tips.
  • Primary audience:  U.S. college students and young adults ages 18 to 35 years old.
  • Destinations: EF Education First has tours in more than 60 countries around the world.

4. Intrepid Travel

Young adults on Intrepid Travel's Morocco Sahara Sunset tour (Photo: Intrepid)

For more 30 years, Intrepid Travel has helped travelers experience local cultures around the world while creating positive change in the communities its group tours visit. Intrepid’s nonprofit foundation, The Intrepid Foundation , has raised more than $11 million for 130-plus charities worldwide.

All of Intrepid Travel’s group tours utilize experienced, local leaders to handle the trip logistics, and those leaders offer unique insights and take groups to places where the locals frequent.  Getting from one place to another each day is included in the trip experience, and utilizing local transportation is part of the cultural immersion, which can mean anything from a Japanese bullet train to a Thai tuk tuk.

GO WITHOUT THE GROUP: 4 Great Tour Companies with Independent Tours

The company’s trip itineraries for young adults are called 18 to 29s Adventures . These tours build in plenty of free-time to explore your own way. Understanding the limited budgets of college students, Intrepid’s group trips for 18- to 29-year-olds offer simple, well-located accommodations, tasty local food, and local transportation in order to help your travel budget stretch further.

Popular destinations for college-age students and young people include traveling from Casablanca to Marrakech in  Essential Morocco , visiting the Taj Mahal and Himalayan Mountains in  Real Delhi to Kathmandu , and discovering the heart of Bohemia passing through seven countries in  Real Central Europe . Because Intrepid believes in giving back to the community, it plants 50 trees in Kenya for every 18-to-29s trip booked.

Quick Facts about Group Tours for Young People with Intrepid Travel

  • Average guided tour group size:  10 people.
  • Price range:  $1,000 to $5,000.
  • What’s included:  Local leaders, admissions to big-ticket attractions, simple accommodations ranging from hotels to guest houses to hostels, local transportation, and some meals.
  • What’s not included:  Airfare, some meals, optional activities, and tips.
  • Primary audience:  Traditional college-age students and young adults 18 to 29 years old.
  • Destinations:  More than 40 itineraries in Africa, Asia, Central America, Europe, Middle East, North America, and South America

5. REI Adventures

Grand Canyon Women's Backpacking with REI (Photo: REI Adventures)

You’re familiar with their outdoor gear, but did you know REI also offers guided outdoor trips for young adults throughout North America? REI Adventures ‘s tours are a great way for young travelers to get first-hand experience and guidance as they’re getting more into backpacking and adventure travel.

DECIDING FACTORS: 9 Tips for Choosing the Best European Tour for You  

The company has many curated itineraries specifically for 18- to 35-year-olds that are designed to be more affordable and flexible. These shorter under-35 tours last three to six days and visit popular national parks around the United States, such as the Great Smoky Mountains , Joshua Tree , Yosemite , and Zion . Camping, backpacking, hiking, and rafting are among the featured activities on these under-35 trips for young people.

Quick Facts about Group Tours for Young Adults with REI

  • Price range:  $1,149 to $2,999 for members; non-member rates are slightly higher.
  • What’s included:  Camping gear, meals, and national park fees.
  • What’s not included:  Transportation to the trip’s starting point.
  • Primary audience:  REI’s Under-35 tours are intended for 18- to 35-year-olds.
  • Destinations:  National parks in the United States.

6. AdventureWomen

Snowshoe trek with AdventureWomen (Photo: AdventureWomen)

Offering more than 50 trips to 65 different countries,  AdventureWomen  is a women-owned, women-run company that exclusively offers travel tours for women . While not specifically designed for college students, the itineraries are perfect for female college friends or young adults looking to travel the world together in a safe and empowering environment.

GIRLS TRIPS: 9 Travel Companies That Specialize in Women-Only Tours

On the company’s trips, young women can expect small, multigenerational groups that allow bonding with each other as well as connecting with local women along the way. Trips are specifically designed to engage women in the regions visited, such as female artisans in Thailand, an apprentice geisha in Japan, or rose farmers in Turkey.

Popular destinations include week-long  trips to Iceland  to chase the Northern Lights, a multisport adventure in Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks , and even a trek to the  Everest Base Camp in Nepal . Adventure trips range from moderate levels that engage your brain more than body to challenging trips for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. The women-only adventures include lodging, ground transportation, most meals and activities, guides, and some gratuities.

Quick Facts about Group Tours for Young People with AdventureWomen

  • Average guided tour group size:  12 to 15 people.
  • Price range:  Upscale.
  • What’s included:  Accommodations, most meals and activities, ground transportation, tour guides (called Managers), some gratuities.
  • What’s not included:  Pre- and post-trip transportation, alcohol, some gratuities, certain meals.
  • Primary audience:  Women seeking to travel with other women.
  • Destinations:  Europe, Africa, North America, Central America, South America, and the Middle East.

7. IES Abroad

While not a tour company, per se,  IES Abroad  is notable among the best group travel companies for young adults because it’s one of the leading providers of cultural education opportunities for college students. With more than 130 programs throughout Europe, South America, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, and Africa, its offerings run the gamut from short-term summer programs (one to two weeks) to full academic year immersion. 

WHAT TO PACK: 10 Essentials for Your Carry-on Bag

College students can find places to study abroad based on subject, interests, lifestyle, or hobbies. Interested in food? Then perhaps a  study abroad program in France  or  Tradition and Cuisine in Tuscany  summer program is the way to go. Consider yourself an environmentalist? Browse the company’s list of environmentally focused study abroad destinations .

If you’re currently a college student, consider this your reminder to also check out the study abroad options at your school. Even if you don’t use IES Abroad, oftentimes colleges and universities will offer their own study abroad programs that cost the same (or less) than a semester at your home institution. And if your college or university doesn’t have a study abroad office, it will still have access to IES Abroad’s programs.

Quick Facts about Cultural Education Opportunities for College Students with IES Abroad

  • Average guided tour group size:  Varies depending on course size.
  • Price range:  Cost of a semester at a U.S. institution.
  • What’s included:  Personal advising before you go, access to academic opportunities, guaranteed housing, and health and safety support.
  • What’s not included:  Pre- and post-trip transportation, meals, optional tours and weekend activities.
  • Primary audience:  Traditional college-age students.
  • Destinations:  IES Abroad partners with 500 colleges and universities around the world, including in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, and South America.

More from TourScoop:

  • 10 Best Guided Tour Companies for Family Vacations
  • 8 Best Senior Tour Companies for Older Travelers
  • 7 Immersive France Tours You Can Take This Year
  • 10 Best Spain Tours You Can Take This Year

Dave Parfitt

Road Scholar Debuts Special Trips for Retired Teachers

kids on a tauck bridges tour in Paris throwing their berets in the air in front of the Eiffel Tower

New Vacation Trend: European River Cruise Companies Are Now Targeting Family Travelers

Northern lights display in Alaska

New Year Tour Sales: They’re Big and They’re Limited Time

What’s tourscoop.

Tour Scoop’s team of travel experts brings you in-depth tour company overviews, tour itinerary reviews, the latest tour news, and travel tips and advice written just for guided tour travelers like you.

More about us

Outdoor Afro and REI Co-op Team Up on New Trips Celebrating Black Joy

These tours celebrate Black joy through belonging, togetherness, and connection with nature.

Northern Lights viewing on Up Norways teen-friendly tour

Tours That Are Surprisingly Great for Teens and Their Families

Guided tours hit the sweet spot when it comes to traveling with teens.

Tour guests on G Adventures' South America Inca Trail trekking trip

The Scoop: What to Know About G Adventures

Award-winning small-group adventure-travel tours are the G Adventures specialty.

Pyramids outside of Cairo, Egypt (Photo: Intrepid Travel)

The Scoop: What to Know About Intrepid Travel

Local experts, a focus on sustainability, and immersive small group experiences help set Intrepid Travel apart from other tour operators.

  • Campus Life

Logo

Are you tight on cash but itching to have your own version of a fancy European ski trip or tropical adventure after seeing your classmates’ vacations on Instagram? 

You’re in luck! There are plenty of cheap travel destinations perfect for college students looking for a fun and reasonably-priced vacation. 🌍 

Catch some waves on spring break or spend a weekend exploring another city as you visit 28 of the best travel spots for college students on a budget . 💸

1. New Orleans, Louisiana 🎭 

2. daytona beach, florida 🏄, 3. andalucia, spain 👑, 4. myrtle beach, south carolina ⛵, 5. porto, portugal 🌉, 6. savannah, georgia 🍸, 7. denver, colorado 🍺, 8. belgrade, serbia 🚍 , 9. new york, new york 🗽, 10. philadelphia, pennsylvania 🌭, 11. placencia, belize 🐆, 12. zagreb, croatia 🎨, 13. portland, oregon 🌹, 14. cancun, mexico 💃, 15. phoenix, arizona 🏜️, 16. boston, massachusetts ⚾, 17. raleigh, north carolina 🌳 , 18. albuquerque, new mexico 🌮, 19. austin, texas 🎸, 20. san juan, puerto rico 🤿, 21. kraków, poland 🥨, 22. prague, czech republic 🧑‍🎨, 23. punta cana, dominican republic 🏞️, 24. budapest, hungary 🏰, 25. panama city, panama 🛳️, 26. athens, greece 🏛️, 27. bucharest, romania 👢, 28. negril, jamaica 🏖️, 1. plan a budget-friendly itinerary, 2. book cheaper local accommodations, 3. maximize your student discounts, 4. learn how the public transportation system works , 5. arrange your visit during the off-season , 6. book flights with the best value, cheap travel destinations for college students: frequently asked questions.

Experience a vibrant culture sans the jet lag by visiting New Orleans — the home of Mardi Gras, fried chicken and gumbo, and jazz. 

It’s a one-of-a-kind destination that pairs a bustling nightlife with strong booze, good music, and a little touch of creepy with voodoo. It’s no surprise why this city’s a popular destination for college students. 🎆

A college student wearing a Mardi Gras mask during her cheap travel to New Orleans

Munch on New Orleans’ signature beignets for less than $5 and jam to live music at the French Quarter where you’ll find a series of nightclubs, historical buildings, and soul food diners. 😋

There’s no need to bust your budget on pricey hotels when you can stay in cheaper accommodations in the Central Business District or the Marigny neighborhood (which are still close to the best attractions). 🏨

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, music lovers, and history buffs 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $85

When looking for a wallet-friendly trip, hearing the words “free attraction” will instantly make you giddy. 😀 Daytona Beach has plenty of these around, making it one of the cheapest travel destinations for college students. 

You don’t need to spend a dime at the “ World’s Most Famous Beach ” or the North Peninsula State Recreation Area to swim in the ocean, play beach volleyball, or just soak up the sun (don’t forget your sunblock!). ☀️

Male college student holding a surfboard during his budget vacation at Daytona Beach, Florida

Cap off your day at the beach by watching the sunset with a glass or three of happy hour drinks (we’re talking one-dollar whiskeys and two-dollar tequilas😉) from the bars lining the beachfront.

👍 Best for: Beach bums, party animals, spring breakers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $76

While Andalucia isn’t the fairytale kingdom from the hit film Enchanted, it’s still a magical place to visit (and one of the most affordable regions in Spain!). ✨

The Andalucian capital of Seville makes you feel like a royal with its architectural wonders, like the Plaza de España and the 15th-century Palace of the Marquises of La Algaba (and they’re all free). 🫅

Female college student backpacking on her budget vacation in Seville, Andalucia in Spain

Seville is tourist-friendly since you can explore the city by foot or by bike , especially the hip district of Macarena (an area littered with vintage shops and student-priced tapas bars) near the Santa Cruz historic quarter. 🚶

Note: American citizens traveling for up to 90 days don’t need a tourist visa to Spain (and selected European countries) because it’s a signatory to the Schengen Agreement . 

Without needing to spend for a visa, keep an eye out for discounted flight fares during low peak seasons to get the best bang for your buck on this overseas trip. ✈️

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, history buffs, artsy students  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $43

Worn out after a college hell week? Escape to the popular Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, which is a paradise that fits every tourist’s budget. 🍹

Plan a picnic spread by the seaside with grub from affordable supermarkets like Aldi and the Walmart Neighborhood Market instead of giving tourist trap restaurants the time of day.

Five college friends walking and laughing during their summer vacation at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Looking for free entertainment? The Barefoot Landing has live music on selected days, and the Great American Summer Nights event offers live shows and fireworks at Broadway at the Beach. 🎆

👍 Best for: Beach bums, novelty seekers, spring breakers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $61

Compared to tourist hotspots like Barcelona or Paris, you can find cheaper round-trip flights in Porto that leave you with leftover pocket money. 😊

Hit up the affordable riverside neighborhood of Ribeira (which is also a UNESCO heritage site) located in this city’s old town, munching on fresh sardinhas assadas or grilled sardines served by cheap bars and watching the sunset while sipping this city’s world-famous port wine. 🍷

A smiling female college student poses for a photo during sunset at the Dom Luís I Bridge in Porto, Portugal

After a day’s activities at the Ribeira, head over to the enchanting library called the Livraria Lello and purchase a book as a souvenir (or pay the $5.50 admission fee instead).

Tired from touring around? Check-in at affordable hostels and guesthouses for around $35 a night. 😴

TIP: Get a Porto Card from the airport or tourist offices for discounts or free entrance to Porto’s attractions and commercial stores. If you plan to travel as the locals do, add a travel card for unlimited access to public transportation. 

Don’t forget to snap a photo of yourself with the famous blue-and-white tiled chapel called Capela das Almas in the Rua de Santa Catarina (and maybe sneak in some shopping) to complete your trip.

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, artsy students, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $47

Is relaxing in a laidback city with Southern hospitality your perfect getaway? Sounds like you can use some time in Savannah, Georgia. ✈️

Book dormitory-styled rooms at the local inns for around $25 to $30 a night with your friends, then slurp down happy hour oysters at Common for less than a dollar each or sip on three-dollar rosé glasses with a view at the Top Deck . 👯

A group of college friends holding beer while taking a selfie around Savannah, Georgia

Carrying alcoholic drinks around is possible in the Historic District because of its open-container policy . Cheers to drinking responsibly, right? 🍻

After filling your tummies, freely stroll through scenic spaces made famous by movies . You can step into the Forrest Gump bench scene at Chippewa Square or visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist at Lafayette Square, found in the 2019 version of Lady & The Tramp. 🎬

👍 Best for: History buffs, party animals, novelty seekers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $53

Soothe your study-induced stress by hiking and drinking (but not at the same time, okay? 😅) in Denver without busting your student budget. 

Nature lovers can take the scenic route along the 40-mile paved Cherry Creek Trail or stroll along Denver’s Botanic Gardens during Free Days , like Earth Day on April 22.

Four college friends relaxing outdoors with craft beers at Denver, Colorado

Parched from your outdoor activities? Quench your thirst with the local craft ales on the Denver Beer Trail, with around 100 taprooms to choose from . 🍺 

This city has plenty on offer for art lovers, too! Catch some of the limited free admission tickets at the Denver Art Museum or stop by the RiNo , the hub for creatives and a go-to place for a hip nightlife scene. 🎨

👍 Best for: Outdoorsy types, novelty seekers, artsy students 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $71

We’re out here proving that Europe shouldn’t be feared by tight-pocketed students. From historic palaces to modern entertainment hubs, Belgrade is one of the most accessible and affordable go-to travel spots . 👍

You may have to spend around $870 for roundtrip airfare, but your stay in the city is easier on the wallet with $4 authentic Serbian fast food, less-than-a-dollar bus fares, and $20-a-night accommodations . 

A female college student checking a European city's public transportation map

Are you a sucker for street art, concept stores, and hole-in-the-wall coffee shops? Take your pick of attractions while wandering around the trendy neighborhoods of Dorćol and Vračar , which are around 30 minutes away from each other by bus. 🚌

TIP : To save on transportation, pay for bus, tram, and trolley rides using an electronic card purchased from city kiosks or stores with a “Bus Plus” sticker. 

Despite the modern culture taking over, you can still see traces of the age-old city in places like the Belgrade Fortress (which was built in 279 BC), the old citadel, and Kalemegdan Park — all with free access 24/7 .

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, history buffs, artsy students  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $14

The bustling Big Apple may be known as a city with high price tags, but it’s also got diverse attractions for every budget if you know where to look. 👀

Trade your hours spent studying indoors for a good ol’ stroll around Central Park or join free walking tours to Soho, Little Italy, and Chinatown , giving you a glimpse of NYC’s melting pot of cultures. 

Note: While these tours are advertised as “free,” it’s customary to tip the guide. 😄

A female college student walking along the streets of New York during winter

Art and architecture buffs will have a field day inside the Guggenheim Museum (which has Pay-What-You-Wish Saturdays) and the Museum of Modern Art (free admission for students of selected schools ). 🖼️

Lastly, don’t forget to drop by Times Square for cheap pizza slices and street performances . 

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, artsy students, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $87

A vacation in Philadelphia — the historic heart of the American Revolution — can feel like a front-row seat to our nation’s history.

Head toward the Liberty Bell at the Independence National Historical Park and the Independence Hall where the 1776 Declaration of Independence was signed. 📃 Admission is free but may require a dollar fee for ticket reservations. 

Four college friends eating burgers from a Philadelphia's farmer's market

Walk around 17th to 18th-century American buildings and colonial alleys (all for free) at Elfreth’s Alley , a national historic landmark. 

Make sure to stop by for some famous Philly cheesesteak at Pat’s King of Steaks or grab student-budget-friendly meals from the food trucks in the hundred-year-old Reading Terminal Market . 🌭

👍 Best for: History buffs, foodies, novelty seekers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $65

College stress will be miles away as soon as you’re nestled within this beautiful coastal village in Belize. 🌅

Who has time to worry about grades when snorkeling in clear waters and walking barefoot along the sands is freely accessible in Maya Beach or Seine Bight ? 🏖️

Male college student breathing in the beach air in Placencia

A two-for-one attraction can be found in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary , where you can hike and spot jaguars for around $5.

Let your hair down and fill your stomach with affordable authentic food from local eateries like Carmen’s and taprooms like Barefoot Bar (which has a Traveller’s Tuesday Happy Hour!). 🥳

👍 Best for: Beach bums, outdoorsy types, spring breakers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $32

The Croatian capital of Zagreb is bursting with old-world and avant-garde attractions, making this a fun but cheap travel destination for college students on a shoestring budget. However, keep in mind that a visa application will be an added expense . 

Marvel at 17th-century buildings in the oldest part of Zagreb: Gornji Grad (Upper Town). Then, grab an affordable sandwich with pršut at Pingvin while strolling along the busy Donji Grad (Lower Town). 🥪

A female college student walking around the cobblestone streets of Zagreb, Croatia looking for budget street food

On the lookout for something out-of-the-ordinary? Visit the quirkily-themed Museum of Broken Relationships displaying discarded items from ended relationships. 💔 It’s open every day, and you can enter for around $6 using your student ID. 

In the summer, the culturally curious can soak up street festivals involving artists and performers scattered around the city. Otherwise, a stroll down the art-splattered alleys of Branimirova Ulica will do just fine. 🚶

👍 Best for: History buffs, artsy students, novelty seekers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $28  

Beautiful scenery? Check. Bike-friendly? Check. Iconic food carts? Check. Stressed college students can come for a breather in Portland. 🍃

So, what can you expect in the “ City of Roses ?” You can stop and (literally) smell the roses for free at the International Rose Test Garden , then bask in nature at the Hoyt Arboretum . 🌹

Two college tourists bike in a Portland green park

Next, stuff yourself silly at the numerous food carts around the city, where even vegan meals come at student-friendly prices. Drop by The Saturday Market in Chinatown for some artisanal crafts shopping and take Instagram-worth snaps at the Alberta Arts District . 📸

👍 Best for: Outdoorsy types, foodies, novelty seekers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $57

Get ready for a sand -sational vacation in Cancun, Mexico! After being buried in schoolwork, you might just find the relaxing break you need in this tropical fun zone. 

Sunbathe at the free-to-access public beach Playa Delfines during the day and party all night in the Hotel Zone’s (Zona Hotelera) nightclubs, such as La Vaquita .🪩

Note: While American citizens don’t need a visa to fly to Mexico for leisure purposes, they may need a valid Mexico Tourist Card called Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM). Check out the instructions from the US Government and Mexico for updates.

Two female college tourists partying during spring break at a beach in Cancun, Mexico

Grab souvenirs to remember your trip from the Mercado 28 flea market, where you’ll find locally-made handicrafts, like a Mexican or Mayan-style hammock, for just a few pesos. 

Save on your accommodations by choosing to stay in budget hostels at El Centro (downtown Cancun), which have the added benefit of being close to the beaches and attractions. 🏨 

👍 Best for: Spring breakers, beach bums, party animals 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $40

This desert city is more than just the gateway to the Grand Canyon; in Phoenix, Arizona, you’ll find everything from A to Z. 😉

Time to get acquainted with stunning desert flora at the Desert Botanical Garden for free every second Tuesday of the month . As it is one of Phoenix’s top tourist spots, make sure to reserve your tickets in advance. 

Hiking on Camelback Mountain or Piestewa Peak to enjoy the views is also a great way to spend your day. ⛰️

A female college student posing for a picture inside the Grand Canyon in Phoenix, Arizona

If the heat becomes unbearable, cool down at the Phoenix Art Museum and be inspired by haute couture exhibitions, Latin American art, or Old Master paintings. You can pay whatever you like on Wednesdays. Otherwise, bring your student ID for sweet discounts . 💸

TIP: Plan your trip to Arizona on the first Friday of the month because this is when the streets of Roosevelt Row and Historic Grand Avenue districts come alive with art, food, and music. 

👍 Best for: Outdoorsy types, artsy students , novelty seekers  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $68

Buried in schoolwork and daydreaming about the day you can take a break? Boston might be the place to go, and you don’t need to be an avid Red Sox fan to know that this budget vacation is a home run!

Multiple Boston attractions in the Freedom Trail can help you unearth the city’s and America’s histories without spending a fortune through a free walking tour . 🚶

trips for college students

Along the way, look for the red-bricked buildings and cobblestoned road of Acorn Street to provide the best backgrounds for Instagram. 🧱 Then, you can visit the Institute of Contemporary Art for free every Thursday from 5 pm to 9 pm. 😄

Hungry after all that touring? Find locally sourced food (and specialty souvenirs) at the Boston Public Market . 

👍 Best for: History buffs, artsy students, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $80

Dubbed the “Smithsonian of the South,” Raleigh in North Carolina is abundant not only in museums but also in pleasant city amenities and attractions.

You can wander for free at North Carolina’s Museum of Art , Museum of History , and the Museum of Natural Sciences . 🦕 Prefer something outdoors? Wander into the floral wonderland of the JC Raulston Arboretum at absolutely no cost. 

trips for college students

The City of Oaks is also great for walking or biking around. 🚴 If you’re looking to get off the beaten track, hike or bike at the Capital Area Greenway Trail System . 

After all that sightseeing, grab a bite at the Morgan Street Food Hall and other local haunts like Sup Dogs that offer delicious food at student-budget-friendly prices. 😋

👍 Best for: Museum-goers, art lovers, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $66

Did watching Breaking Bad change your life? It’s about time that Albuquerque should be at the top of your list of places to visit. It’s also one of the cheapest travel destinations for college students!

More than just the filming locations for the iconic TV show, this New Mexican city is rich with cultural gems. Visit the Old Town to munch on enchiladas, buy locally-made trinkets, or watch the latest free events at the plaza , like flamenco and salsa dances. 💃

A couple of college students looking for Albuquerque attractions to take a photo of during their summer vacation

Check out the Albuquerque Museum (which is free on Sundays and the first Wednesday of the month) to learn about how this multicultural city was influenced by Native Americans and Latinos, among many other cultural groups. 🖼️

👍 Best for: History buffs, foodies, outdoor enthusiasts 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $46

As the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin hits all the right notes to become one of the top cheap travel destinations for college students. 🎵

Pub crawlers and music fans alike will love walking down Sixth Street (Austin’s entertainment district) that’s bursting with live entertainment venues boasting cheap drinks. 🎶

Three college students play guitar and sing on the top deck of a bar in Austin, Texas

In the morning, get some fresh air at Austin’s famous Zilker Park and head over to Lady Bird Lake to enjoy an afternoon of kayaking or canoeing (equipment rentals are priced from $15 to $25 per hour).  

All this exploring will definitely make you hungry, so stop by for some affordable chow at The Picnic , a food truck trailer park . 🚚

👍 Best for: Music lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $55

San Juan might just make American college students feel like they’re on a European vacation with its Spanish architecture, but there’s no passport required as Puerto Rico is considered a US territory. 🌎 Travel back in time at El Morro , a fortress completed in the 1700s used to protect this city. You need to pay a small admission fee of $10 per head, but certain holidays let you in for free.

A male college student on summer break poses for his San Juan vacation photos

Instagram-worthy photos are within reach in the Old San Juan historic district with its cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses. 📸 You can also find cocktails for around $10 at La Factoria , a hidden gem of a bar located in the same district. 

And, what’s a trip to tropical San Juan without hitting its free-to-enter seasides? Sunbathe on the Condado beach and go snorkeling at Escambron. 🤿

👍 Best for: Spring breakers, history buffs, party animals  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $70

You don’t need to shell out big bucks to take in the beautiful architecture and UNESCO world heritage sites when you have a crack at visiting Kraków, Poland.

First order of business: saunter into the Old Town and the Rynek Główny (Main Square) , where you can enter Cloth Hall to buy handicraft souvenirs or visit the 13th-century St. Mary’s Basilica. ⛪

Two happy male college students ordering cheap beers at a bar in Krakow, Poland

The bustling nightlife doesn’t disappoint since any of the pubs in Kazimierz (a former Jewish quarter transformed into a trendy neighborhood) offer cheap beers and Polish vodka. Then, doze off after a night out in decent accommodations for around $25 . 😴

Find yourself full for less than $10 with authentic Polish street food like obwarzanek (a cross between a bagel and a pretzel) or a zapiekanka (an open-faced sandwich made using a baguette). 🤑

👍 Best for: History buffs, novelty seekers, party animals 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $19

From beautiful buildings to hearty meals, Prague is a city that you will definitely love to czech out. 😉

Getting to walk around Prague’s Old Town and across the iconic Charles Bridge while munching on a trdelnik (chimney cake) sold on the streets is possible on a roundtrip flight worth around $850. 💸 Consider checking out cheaper airfares to score better deals . 

A female college traveler on the lookout for art installations along Prague's streets

Keep your eyes peeled up, down, and around for quirky street art installations like David Černý’s The Hanging Man near Bethlehem Chapel and the Piss installation fronting the Franz Kafka museum . 

If you’re starting to feel peckish after a day of exploring, visit any jídelna serving classic canteen-style Czech meals and feel full for around (or less than) the price of a burger-and-fries meal back home. 😋

Prague is also known for its party scene, and you can go bar-hopping at Wenceslas Square , one of this city’s main cultural and business centers.  

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, artsy students, party animals 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $38  

After a grueling semester, kick back and relax on the pristine beaches of Punta Cana without inflated expenses for a Caribbean getaway.

You won’t need to spend a dime to take a dip in the calm waters of the famous Bávaro Beach or Macao Beach or simply relax by the shore and admire the view. 😎

A female college traveler posing on a Punta Cana public beach

Adventurers on a budget can take advantage of affordable hiking trails to view spots usually hidden from tourists , like the Loma Linda mountain. ⛰️ The trail begins at Rancho Terranova where you pay around $5 to trek the private property toward the mountain or nearby waterfalls. 

Unwind with a happy hour Cuba libre (rum and coke) in a beachside pub and join dancers swaying to the beat of merengue music for a vacation to remember. 🕺

👍 Best for: Beach bums, spring breakers, outdoorsy types 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $43

With piles of schoolwork upon more schoolwork, you must be Hungary for an adventure. And guess what? You’ll find just what you need in the budget-friendly city of Budapest, with roundtrip flight prices going as low as $477. 😲

Get a breathtaking overview of the city from the terrace of the Fisherman’s Bastion to begin your trip. 🏰

Just a 15-minute walk away lies Buda Castle , the former royal palace which was transformed into the National Gallery and Budapest History Museum. Best of all, you can roam around these two popular attractions for free ! 🤩

A female college student on vacation poses for a photo in front of a palace

Quench your thirst while meeting the locals at the city’s famed Ruin Bars (an old Jewish quarter with abandoned buildings), where you can find cheaply-priced booze.

Resting up for another day of adventure in Budapest on a budget is also possible, thanks to low-cost hostels going for $10 to $25 a night. 😴 

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, party animals, history buffs  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $28

Tropic like it’s hot in Panama City, but don’t confuse this destination with Panama City Beach in Florida because this one’s in Central America. 🕶️

It’s recommended that tourists warm up by exploring Casco Antiguo , a former Spanish colonial plaza with everything from bars to museums . 🏛️

Three female college students having a picnic on Panama's Parque Omar

Parque Omar is another free-to-enter attraction that’s worth the trip. The large green park offers a wide range of activities, like having a picnic, swimming in the clean public pool, or joining a dance class. 💃

Wondering how you can explore the rest of the city without busting your wallet? The answer: ride the Metrobus for a trip that costs less than a dollar.

TIP: Remember to buy a Metrocard from the Albrook bus station or a supermarket to use before riding the MetroBus because they don’t accept cash. 

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, outdoorsy types, history buffs 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $26

Whether you grew up obsessed with Disney’s Hercules or the live-action film 300 , visiting Athens can have you greek – ing out. 🤓

Planning your trip during academic breaks opens a lot of doors, like a free close-up of ancient Greek artifacts at the Acropolis or museums showcasing Greek folk music instruments available on selected days from March to May.  

A female college student visiting the Acropolis as part of her cheap travel destinations

After traveling back in time, you can explore modern-day Greece via the Psiri street art, discover hidden city gems guided by locals on a free walking tour , or wander along the narrow streets of Plaka and score some souvenirs. 🖼️

👍 Best for: History buffs, novelty seekers, outdoorsy types 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $46

Sometimes, college can be overwhelming and you just want to get away from it all. While everyone’s escaping to the Caribbean, why don’t you take time off in Bucharest? 😀

Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready when you pass by historical landmarks like the Palace of Parliament (one of the largest administrative buildings in the world) and the postcard-worthy Calea Victoriei area in the city center during sunset. 🌇

A couple of college students walking along the cobblestone alleys of Bucharest in Romania

Cheaply priced admission fees and student discounts can be expected when you visit the National History Museum and the Suţu Palace to learn more about Romania’s significant events. 

All that walking is bound to make you hungry, so grab a bite of cheap street eats like covrigi (pretzels) . Then, explore some more when you walk around the streets of Lipscani, the city’s charming Old Town filled with cafes, pubs, street performers, galleries, and boutiques.🚶

👍 Best for: History buffs, novelty seekers, party animals 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $45

Yearning for a Caribbean getaway? This tropical Jamaican paradise deserves a place on your travel wishlist!

Soak up some sun along Seven Mile Beach, a paradise of white sand and emerald sea . 🤩 The best part? It’s free to the public, with guards patrolling to ensure visitor safety and enough space for everyone. 

A male college student strolling along a Jamaican public beach in Negril

Thrillseekers can find just what they’re looking for at cliff-jumping hotspots like Rick’s Cafe , which also has a good view of the sunset. 

Of course, what’s a trip to Jamaica without enjoying some reggae music? Jam at the Jungle Night Club or sit back and relax to classical reggae during live music nights at The Roots Café . 🎶

👍 Best for: Spring breakers, beach bums, music lovers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $45

6 Tips for Affordable Traveling for College Students

Cheap flights are a good reason to plan a college trip, but having a blast while staying within your budget is what makes it memorable. These six tips are bound to give you the #BestVacationEver. 

A female college student taking pictures of her cheap travel destination's attractions

Research your itinerary to know your estimated expenses at least six months before your trip so you’ll know how much to spend on your flight, food, accommodation, travel insurance, and tours. 💸

Start by checking and making your student budget and figuring out how long it will take to save up for your trip. If your current savings need a boost, consider doing side hustles . 

Note: Don’t forget to set aside some cash for emergencies , like flight cancellations or losing your passport. 😲

READ MORE: 15 Best Summer Jobs for College Students (With Killer Perks!)

Popular hotels tend to be near the action, but they also come with a hefty price tag. The good thing is that there are tons of cheaper options available. 🏨

You can stay in hostels which can be great for groups traveling on a shoestring budget, or meet some residents by checking into homey inns run by locals or via Couchsurfing .

If you want a place all to yourself, find an Airbnb or stay with a friend who lives in the area . 😄

This requires one thing you must always have with you: your student ID . Use this to score free or discounted museum admissions, flights , and public transportation fares. 🪪

READ MORE: Sweet Discounts for College Students You Might Not Know About

trips for college students

Hailing taxis or booking Ubers in a foreign city can be intimidating and expensive. You have two options to get from point A to B as cheaply as possible: take advantage of public transportation or find a walkable or bike-friendly city . 🚶

If you go with the first option, you can check out tourist guides online or YouTube videos about the city’s public transportation, fares, and routes. 

Expect cities or beaches to be crowded and overpriced during peak season. It’s important to anticipate which months are too popular so that you can find a better alternative because no one wants to swim at the beaches of Puerto Rico if you’re packed like sardines. 

Since this can differ among locations, research will be your wallet’s best friend here. ✅

Consider the Goldilocks window — or the period when the best rates are found — to secure the cheapest airfares. 

Here’s how it’s done: book one to three months ahead for domestic flights and two to eight months ahead for international flights . ✈️

Do this by checking for available dates on budget airlines then make the deal sweeter by setting alerts on days when ticket prices are at their lowest (typically on Tuesdays and Wednesdays) .  

Use flight comparison sites like Kayak or Expedia as references to book directly on the airline which has the lowest price or the better deal. 🤑

Even if college students don’t always have the luxury of time and money, who’s to say it’s impossible to travel? 

With this list of 28 cheap travel destinations for college students, you’re ready to discover new places without breaking the bank. Bon voyage! ⛵

Where is the cheapest place to travel out of the US?

Cheap travel destinations that US college students can consider are Mexico, Central American countries like Panama, Puerto Rico, Belize, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, or Eastern European countries like Serbia, Croatia, Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Romania because the US dollar can go a long way when converted to their local currency.

How can a college student travel on a budget?

1. Plan a budget-friendly itinerary 2. Book cheaper local accommodations 3. Maximize your student discounts 4. Learn how the public transportation system works  5. Arrange your visit during the off-season 6. Book flights with the best value

What factors should you consider to keep travel costs to a minimum?

If you don’t want to stretch your college student travel budget, traveling to places that are geographically near, are walkable or bike-friendly, and have an excellent public transportation system is the way to go.

How much does the average college student spend on travel?

The average daily travel expense for college students going on domestic trips is $144, while traveling internationally averages $271 per day. However, this can vary based on many factors, like your accommodation type, the time of year, and chosen activities. 

What is the best place to visit during spring break?

The best places to visit during spring break are:

1. Daytona Beach, Florida 2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 3. Placencia, Belize 4. Cancun, Mexico 5. San Juan, Puerto Rico 6. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic 7. Negril, Jamaica

What are cheap travel destinations in Europe?

These are the cheap European travel destinations for college students on a budget:

1. Andalucia, Spain  2. Porto, Portugal 3. Belgrade, Serbia 4. Zagreb, Croatia 5. Krakow, Poland 6. Prague, Czech Republic 7. Budapest, Hungary 8. Athens, Greece 9. Bucharest, Romania

Other Readers Loved:

31 states with free community college to save you money, 12 best books for college students: 2024 must-reads, how to write a winning cover letter as a fresh graduate [2024].

The College Post is part of Globe Post Media, a US digital news organization publishing the world’s best targeted news sites.

Latest Posts

13 best college traditions in the us to ignite school spirit, these 10 us colleges offer awesome work-study programs, most popular, these are the cheapest colleges in the us, 73 top side hustles for college students to make fast cash in 2024, fast access.

© Globe Post Media | All rights reserved

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

trips for college students

AESU Free Newsletter

Safe travel guidelines learn more.

AESU, Expanding Horizons Since 1977

2024 GRAD & ALUM TRIPS NOW

EARLYBIRD DISCOUNTS ON TRIP PAGE

Inspired Travel for 20-35 yr olds

The most popular way for young people to discover Europe, South America & beyond with their peers. Embrace your wanderlust.

Grad Trips & Young Alumni

Unique trips for recent college grads, young alumni, and traditional alumni travelers. Expand your horizons in great places with great people.

Study Abroad & Educational Travel

See the world and study abroad with customized programs for professors and travel planners. Any age group, any budget and any destination.

play button

The Latest From Around The World

Check back any time for the latest updates, news, travel tips and great deals.

Share this:

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • How to Tip in Europe
  • What is Multigenerational Travel Like?
  • Some of the Best Cities in Europe to Visit for Easter
  • The Spring Tulip Festival in the Netherlands
  • Travel for Good

logo-pgslot-game-png

PG SLOT » Fortune OX

Fortune OX – ฟอร์จูน อ็อก ทดลองเล่นสล็อต แตกง่าย PG SLOT

Fortune-Ox-530x530

หากขึ้นข้อความแจ้งเตือน ให้ผู้เล่นกดคำว่า “ภายหลัง, รีโหลด ” หรือ รีเฟรช หน้าใหม่

เกมสล็อต Fortune OX   สล็อตเกมพีจีใหม่ล่าสุดมาพร้อมตัวละคร มนุษย์วัวสุดเท่มาพร้อมกับฟรีเกม ตอนรับปีใหม่ 2021 แนวจีนเกมสล็อต สามช่องที่มีโอกาศแตกง่ายกว่าสล็อตทั่วไปและฟรีเกม มนุษย์วัวจะส่ง Wild แถวตรงกลางและคูณ 10 ของผลรางวัลชนะในรอบนั้น ๆ ซื่อโอกาศเข้าฟรีเกมง่ายมากสามารถทดลองเล่นได้ที่ pgslot พร้อมอัพเดทเกมใหม่ ๆ ของค่าย PG ตลอดเวลา ตอนนี้มีโปรใหม่มาแรง แจกเครดิตฟรี สมัครใหม่รับโบนัส 100% และโปรอื่น ๆ อีกมากมายห้ามพลาด เกมทดลองเล่นครบครันทุกเกมของ PGslot 

Fortune-Ox-new2

ทดลองเล่นสล็อต Fortune OX

Fortune-Ox-icon

เกมสล็อตFortune OX เป็นสล็อตวิดีโอ 3 รีล 4 แถว (มีรีลเพิ่มเติมที่ด้านบนของรีล 2, 3, 4 และ 5) ที่มีสัญลักษณ์ Wilds-on-the-Way ไม่มีสัญลักษณ์โป๊กเกอร์และคุณลักษณะสัญลักษณ์เสริมแบบสุ่ม Wild เป็นฟรีเกมของ Fortuneox เมื่อเข้าฟรีเกมถ้าชนะรางวัลจะคูณ 10 และเป็นสล็อคสามช่องก็มีโอกาศกว่าแตกง่ายกว่าสล็อตทั่วไป เมื่อชนะจะมีมนุษย์วัว เต้นท่าสุดเท่และกลายเป็นสีทองของสล็อต โชคลาภวัว

ทดลองเล่นสล็อต PG

Ways of the Qilin icon

สัญลักษณ์ เกม Fortune OX

Wild symbol.

fortune-ox_s_wild

สล็อต โชคลาภวัว   นั้นจะมีสัญลักษณ์  Wild  ที่ใช้แทนสัญลักษณ์อื่นๆ ( ยกเว้นสัญลักษณ์ Scatter ) เป็นรูป  วัวสุดเท่

  • สัญลักษณ์ Wild นั้น เป็นตัวแทนของสัญลักษณ์ทั้งหมด ( ยกเว้นสัญลักษณ์ Scatter ) สัญลักษณ์ Wild นั้นจะช่วยทำให้โบนัสแตกง่ายขึ้นกว่าเดิม มีโอกาสได้รางวัลทั้ง Mega Win, Super Win, และ SuperMega Win

สัญลักษณ์ พิเศษ

fortune-ox_h_ingots

สล็อต โชคลาภวัว เป็นสัญลักษณ์ที่ให้อัตรา เหรียญจีนทองโบราณ การเดิมพันสูงที่สุดเป็นอันดับหนึ่งใน  สล็อต โชคลาภวัว

  • สัญลักษณ์ใน สล็อตโชคลาภวัว  นั้นจะมีทั้งหมด 6 สัญลักษณ์สัญลักษณ์ เหรียญจีนทองโบราณ สัญลักษณ์ที่ให้อัตราเดิมพันสูงที่เป็นอันดับหนึ่งสุดใน สล็อตโชคลาภวัว

fortune-ox_h_chest

สล็อต โชคลาภวัว เป็นสัญลักษณ์ที่ให้อัตรา เหรียญจีนทอง การเดิมพันสูงที่สุดเป็นอันดับสองใน  สล็อต โชคลาภวัว

  • สัญลักษณ์ใน สล็อตโชคลาภวัว  นั้นจะมีทั้งหมด 6 สัญลักษณ์สัญลักษณ์ เหรียญจีนทอง สัญลักษณ์ที่ให้อัตราเดิมพันสูงที่เป็นอันดับสองสุดใน สล็อตโชคลาภวัว

fortune-ox_h_bag

สล็อต โชคลาภวัว เป็นสัญลักษณ์ที่ให้อัตรา ถุงทองเหรียญ การเดิมพันสูงที่สุดเป็นอันดับสามใน  สล็อต โชคลาภวัว

  • สัญลักษณ์ใน สล็อตโชคลาภวัว นั้นจะมีทั้งหมด 6 สัญลักษณ์สัญลักษณ์ ถุงทองเหรียญ สัญลักษณ์ที่ให้อัตราเดิมพันสูงที่เป็นอันดับสามสุดใน สล็อตโชคลาภวัว

pg slot เครดิตฟรี

เกมสล็อตFortune OX   Pgslot สมัครสมาชิก pg slot ในส่วนของการสมัครสมาชิกเพื่อนๆสามารถสมัครได้เองง่ายมาก ๆ เล่นง่ายผ่านมือถือทั้งทางแอพพลิเคชั่นและเล่นผ่านทางหน้าเว็บตรงของเราโบนัสที่ให้เยอะที่สุด สล็อตออนไลน์ สำหรับท่าน ที่ต้องการ พกความสะดวกติดตัวตลอดเวลา เราก็มีแอพลิเคชั่น หรือหรือ ผ่านเว็บไซต์ ได้เลย ไม่ต้องดาวน์โหลด สำหรับ ทุกเกมส์ ให้ท่านเล่น ได้ในทุกที่ ทุกเวลา ที่ต้องการ โดยไม่กินพื้นที่ ของมือถือของคุณ ให้คุณสะดวก มากขึ้นกว่าเดิม เล่นได้ทุกสเป็คมือถือ ไม่ว่าจะเป็น รุ่นเก่ารุ่นใหม่ แล้วความสนุก ก็เกิดขึ้นได้ ทุกเวลา @pgslotamb  pgslot ค่ายเกมส์ พีจี สล็อตออนไลน์ เกมส์ สล็อต ที่กำลังได้รับความนิยม ในประเทศไทย ที่มีผู้คน ชื่นชอบและ เล่นเกมส์ มากกว่า 100000 คน ด้วยระบบ และรูปแบบเกมส์ ของ ทางค่ายเกมส์ pgslot ได้ถูกรองรับจากคาสิโนชั่นนำ ใน ต่างประเทศ จึงทำให้ มั่นคง ปลอดภัย ต่อลูกค้าทุกท่านอย่างแน่นอน หากทุกท่านสนใจ อยากจะเล่นเกมส์ pgslot online สามารถ สมัครสมาชิกได้ที่นี้ @pgslotamb

pgslot-game.io เว็บไซต์รวมเกมสล็อตออนไลน์ทุกค่ายยอดนิยมจากทั่วโลก เกมซื้อฟรีสปินได้ลุ้นรับรางวัลแจ็คพอตมากมาย ด้วยระบบออโต้ ฝาก-ถอน รวดเร็ว ทันสมัย มั่นคง ปลอดภัย 100%

แผนผังเว็บไซต์

  • ทดลองเล่นสล็ฮต

ทุกท่านสามารถติดต่อสอบถามเพิ่มเติมหรือแจ้งปัญหา ที่ไลน์แอด ได้ตลอด 24 ชั่วโมง

2020 © Copyright PGSLOT-GAME.CO All rights Reserved.

หน้าแรก

สมัครสมาชิก

เข้าสู่ระบบ

ดาวน์โหลดแอป

ทดลองเล่นเกมส์

  • College Study Abroad

Summer Study Abroad

Summer Study Abroad

CIEE offers summer study abroad programs for college students in 30+ destinations

Shake Up Your Summer with Study Abroad!

Summer is the perfect time for a change of scenery. Your dreams – both personal and academic – can come true as you explore dozens of summer study abroad programs around the world. Our summer programs for college students allow you to intern in Dublin , learn Korean at Yonsei University, study the roots of apartheid in Cape Town , and so much more. Take that first step and GO!

costa rica students

Short-Term Summer Programs

For those looking for a short-term program, our summer blocks and summer sessions are a great way to fit study abroad into your summer plans. Summer blocks run six (or up to 12) weeks, and you can either stay in one location the whole time or spend six weeks in one city and the next six in another. Summer sessions , on the other hand, run four to 12 weeks long. Students can enroll in one four-week session or stack two (or even three) consecutive sessions for a full summer of academics and cultural immersion. Even better, if you enroll in more than one four-week session, you'll get a 20% discount on all additional sessions!

seville students biking

Long-Term Summer Programs

For students looking to spend a full summer immersing themselves in a new culture, a long-term eight-week program is an excellent choice. Whether you're looking for a program that aligns with your major or one that fast-forwards your language skills, we have tons to offer.

berlin summer interns orientation

Summer Global Internships

For those interested in gaining real-world work experience, our Summer Global Internships are the perfect way to develop professional skills in a cross-cultural environment. With both part-time commitments and full-time opportunities available in 17+ locations around the world, we offer more ways to get on your way. Choose from 10+ different industries – like business, politics, sustainability, and more – to spend part (or all) of your summer advancing your skills, expanding your global network, and preparing for your future career.

View All Summer Programs

Trending Summer Study Abroad Programs

Legon beach with boats lined up

  • Legon, Ghana

Summer Ghanaian Studies

  • Study Program

Earn credits studying culture and reproductive health in the extraordinary West African city of Legon” to “Earn credits studying Ghana’s rich history in the extraordinary West African city of Legon.

  • Life by the Sea
  • Volunteering

temple seoul south korea sunset

  • Seoul, South Korea

Summer Korean Studies

Explore culture, business practices, and Korean language

  • Art Capital
  • Host Institution

london Saint Pancras station

  • London, England

Summer Global Internship

  • Full-Time Internship

As a Global Intern in London, and expand your professional portfolio

barcelona buildings night

  • Barcelona, Spain

Summer Business + Culture

Spend summer exploring international business in the culture-filled capital of Catalonia.

  • Bike Friendly

study abroad monteverde backpacking jungle bridge

  • Monteverde, Costa Rica

Summer Tropical Ecology + Conservation

Your classroom? Cloud forest treetops, sandy beaches, lush rain forests

  • Mountains to Hike

student with camel desert middle east

  • Amman, Jordan

Summer Arabic Language

Put your learning of Arabic on fast-forward in the heart of Amman’s traditional Eastern district.

  • Ancient City
  • Language Immersion

Search by Popular Locations

Study Abroad_Spain

Indulge in Spain's remarkable culture where world-class landmarks, Spanish tapas, and rich history will delight you.

Asia Pacific_South Korea

South Korea

Explore the global powerhouse that is South Korea, and immerse yourself in K-Pop, ancient palaces, and more.

red temple in japan fall seasons

Dive into Japan's rich history, economic development, and blend of traditional and modern culture.

Paris skyline river

Discover all France has to offer, from its world-renowned fashion to its acclaimed cuisine, vibrant culture, and more.

prague river bridge church hill

  • Czech Republic

Take your studies to the Czech Republic, where medieval castles, rich history, and natural beauty will excite you.

Berlin tower at night

Study abroad in the trendy city of Berlin, home to Europe's largest economy and multinational companies. 

london historic buildings sunset big ben

Discover world-class landmarks, rolling hills, and medieval castles while immersing yourself in British culture.

mountains in costa rica with sunset and jungle

Make lush, biodiverse, and rural Monteverde your Costa Rican classroom and study wildlife, flora, and fauna.

sydney opera house clear sky

Study in Australia's multicultural coastal capital, Sydney, where natural wonders and biodiversity beckon you.

#cieesummer on Instagram

Summer blogs.

Photo for blog post

Is Studying Abroad Worth It? 10 Outcomes of Studying Abroad

Whether you’ve dreamed of studying abroad your whole life or you’ve only just begun unpacking what study abroad is, you probably have the same question other students ask us: I... keep reading

  • Activities & Excursions
  • Foreign Language

Photo for blog post

Study Abroad Scholarships: Everything You Need to Know

Funding your study abroad journey can feel like an overwhelming process before you even begin. And applying for scholarships and grants may sound like a daunting concept. But don’t let... keep reading

  • Frederick Douglass Global Fellows
  • Global Scholars
  • Planning/Packing
  • Scholarships

Photo for blog post

10 of the Best Study Abroad Programs in Europe

Has studying abroad in Europe ever crossed your mind? If so, you’ve come to the right place! CIEE offers programming as rich and diverse as Europe itself in 10 epic... keep reading

  • Open Campus

Questions About Summer Study Abroad Programs

Summer study abroad programs vary in length depending on what summer program type you choose. In general, summer study abroad programs with CIEE can last anywhere from  four to 12 weeks . If you’re wondering how long summer study abroad programs at CIEE are, checkout the information below: 

  • SUMMER SESSIONS: FOUR TO 12 WEEKS 
  • SUMMER BLOCKS: SIX TO 12 WEEKS 
  • SUMMER INTERNSHIPS: EIGHT WEEKS 

CIEE’s top five best study abroad summer programs include:  

  • SEVILLE: SUMMER LANGUAGE + CULTURE  
  • SEOUL: SUMMER KOREAN STUDIES  
  • BARCELONA: SUMMER LANGUAGE + CULTURE  
  • BARCELONA: SUMMER BUSINESS + CULTURE  
  • ALCALÁ DE HENARES: SUMMER LANGUAGE + CULTURE  

Read More: The 10 Best Summer Study Abroad Programs for 2023  

Put simply, yes! CIEE offers a range of summer  study abroad programs in Europe  in locations including Seville , Rome , Amsterdam , London , Dublin , Lisbon , and more! Topic-wise, CIEE summer programs in Europe range from areas of study like business, communications, cultural studies, language immersion, and more!

CIEE offers summer study abroad scholarships to students across three main areas: need-based, merit-based, and others. Summer scholarship amounts are primarily based on a students’ Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their FAFSA.  

Summer scholarships and grants include the Gilman Go Global Grant , GAIN Travel Grant , Minority Serving Institution (MSI) Grant, Frederick Douglass Summer Scholars , and more.  

For more information, visit our Summer Scholarships and Grants page.  

When deciding whether to study for a semester or summer, it’s important to consider your  goals for studying abroad , as well as credits to ensure you stay on track academically.  

A semester program typically lasts  15-17 weeks or more , while summer programs can range from  4-12 weeks . Semester programs may provide more diverse course offerings, excursions, and language learning opportunities, while summer programs are more focused on particular subject areas and language immersion. Ultimately, it’s up to you!  

study abroad tour in seville

Shake up your summer with study abroad!

From ciee, just for you:.

  • Receive summer scholarships and grants for summer or single blocks , including airfare assistance to and from CIEE program locations for PELL-eligible students 
  • Want to stack the savings? Explore our stackable summer sessions and automatically get a 20% discount off each additional session when you enroll in two or more four-week sessions in 13 epic locations around the globe
  • Can’t choose just one program? Mix and match your summer plans by selecting up to two consecutive six-week summer blocks in 16 incredible global cities, with federal financial aid never beyond reach
  • Are you a STEM major? Earn a $500 CIEE STEM Scholarship toward any summer program when you demonstrate how your chosen program helps you reach your academic or professional goals
  • Looking for an in-depth academic experience? Learn like you never have before in our specialty & intensive summer programs with outstanding, dynamic instructors who challenge and engage you! 

Ready to study abroad this summer?

Explore All Programs      Find Scholarships      Apply Today!

© 2024 CIEE. All Rights Reserved.

  • Privacy Notice
  • Terms & Conditions

trips for college students

How to Travel as a College Student

I adore taking trips. I've often said that my travels serve as my "anti-drug." That's the actual state of affairs. There is nothing more enjoyable than traveling to a new location and getting to know a new city. I made a commitment to travel whenever I could when I entered college after high school.

Looking back at my college years, I successfully did that. As an undergrad, I visited several cities, such as  Miami , NYC, Las Vegas, and Nashville. People would ask me, "Aren't college students supposed to be broke?" In today's post, I discuss different ways to travel as a college student. It's going to be easier than you thought. Participating in illegal activities was not one of them! Cheap student travel can happen.

Stay With Friends or Family

The 1st way to travel as a college student was to stay with family or friends. On some of the trips that I went on, I stayed with friends. I was there if they had an extra couch or decent floor space. I easily saved a couple of hundred dollars by doing that. It took the stress out of trying to find a hotel or other lodging place.

Use Some of Your Student Refund

We're up to number three on the list of how to travel as a college student. I will be the first to say I never purchased a car or expensive clothes with my student refund. However, I did use some of my refund for a few trips. There may be better decisions than this, especially if your refund is student loan money. You will eventually have to pay back. Just keeping it real, some of my refund was from  student loans . I don't regret using it to travel at all. It allowed me to see other cities besides Atlanta and  Savannah . My comfort zone expanded because of that. I'm sure the same will happen to you. Just spend your refund sparingly.

Work a PT Job

I worked a part-time job during the majority of my college days. At one of my jobs, I was a busser at a restaurant. I made GREAT money there. After I had paid a couple of bills I had each month, I saved a decent amount for travel. A couple of road trips and fraternity conferences were paid for with that money. The crazy thing was that I didn't get a car until the summer before my senior year. I found several ways to get to that job before then.

Travel as a Group

The most common way I saved money was to travel with a group. There were numerous road trips where 4-5 of us would pile into someone's car and split the gas and hotel charges. If we knew someone that lived in the city that we were visiting, we would save even more money by just having to pay for gas. Numerous road trips cost less than $60 per person because of this strategy.

If you're going to do group travel, make sure that you and the people you're traveling with are on one accord. Out of all the group trips I've been on, I only had one that started badly. To keep it short, I will say that I had to book a room at another hotel to keep people from potentially fighting. Most of the group came with me, while three stayed at the original hotel. Once we separated from them, the trip turned out great.

Study Abroad Program

 Studying abroad is an excellent way for college students to gain new experiences, meet new people, and travel the world. By participating in a study abroad program, you can earn a global perspective on your studies in college, experience new cultures and lifestyles, and develop valuable skills that will help you in your career.

The way it works is that you apply for a study abroad program through your college or university. The application may be required to include letters of recommendation from faculty members, an essay describing why you want to participate in the program, and a statement of financial resources. Once accepted into the program, you will typically work with a study abroad advisor who will help you with your travel details, such as the logistics of flights and accommodations.

Backpacking your way through another country is a great way to see the sights and experience new cultures firsthand. One of the benefits is that you will have more freedom to explore on your own and decide where to go and what to do, depending on your interests and preferences. There are many ways to backpack – from backpacking across Europe using the Eurail pass to taking a tour of national parks in the United States to trekking through a remote country on foot.

Remember that you will need to be flexible and adaptable to travel on a backpacker's budget . You may need to stay in inexpensive hostels or guesthouses or camp outdoors in a tent. If you plan to go backpacking on your own, you should have some basic survival skills, such as knowing how to read a map, set up camp, and find your way in the wilderness.

Hostels are another popular way for college students to travel affordably. These accommodations typically offer rooms where you share a bathroom with other guests or dorm-style accommodations with bunk beds. There are common areas where you can hang out, meet fellow travelers, or even work on your laptop.

Although there are many benefits to staying in hostels, such as low cost and social opportunities, it is essential to research before you book a room. For example, consider the hostel's location and whether it is safe for women travelers. Also, find out what amenities are offered – for example, many hostels will have a shared kitchen where you can cook your own meals.

Exchange Progam

Another popular way for college students to travel is through an exchange program. This program allows you to study at a foreign university while paying your regular tuition at your home university. There are typically exchange programs through student organizations or universities themselves.

If you decide to participate in an exchange program, you will need to work with your college or university to get approved for the program. You will typically need to pass a test of your language skills, provide a statement of financial resources, and meet other requirements depending on the program.

Volunteer Abroad

If you have a strong interest in volunteering abroad, many organizations can help you find volunteer opportunities. These types of programs may take place in foreign countries for periods of a week or longer.

When you volunteer abroad, you typically work with local organizations and communities to help with various projects. For example, you may help to construct houses, teach English in schools, mentor children, or work on agricultural projects.

While participating in a volunteer program can be very rewarding, it is essential to do research before signing up for one. Consider what type of project you would like to work on and ensure that your skills match the program's needs. Also, find out what training or support will be offered and what steps you need to take to get started.

This article was published on My Money Chronicles .

How to Travel the World as a College Student

10 Cheap Road Trip Ideas For College Students On A Budget

These cheap road trips are ideal for college students and can inspire and relax them. Take a break and have the most amazing college road trip ever!

  • College students can take affordable road trips to stunning locations to escape and make lifelong memories.
  • Scenic highways like the Pacific Coast Highway and Route 66 offer breathtaking landscapes and affordable attractions.
  • Road trips like the Nashville to New Orleans and Charleston to Myrtle Beach routes provide opportunities to experience music, history, and culture on a budget.

College life can be difficult at times and calls for a break to recharge. The ideal plan for college students would be to take a road trip to a stunning highway or interesting location to escape, discover new areas, and make lifelong memories. It's also an affordable way to enjoy, indulge, and unwind, as well as for personal growth.

The United States is full of scenic locations that make for fantastic road trips and an affordable opportunity to experience a variety of landscapes. Think about highways such as the Blue Ridge Parkway, Route 66, and the Pacific Coast Highway. All are amazingly scenic! Save money by staying in budget lodgings, going camping, and exploring free attractions, all while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the open road. Here are the ten best cheap road trip ideas for college students that are sure to inspire and de-stress them. Just pack your bags and get ready for the most amazing college road trip ever!

We have sorted all road trips from the least cheap to the cheapest based on the gas cost calculated with the gas calculator . This calculation is based on the assumption that the car will give an average gas mileage of 25 MPG for both driving on a highway and in the city. And there are no stops during the drive. We also referred to AAA Gas Prices for the average price of regular gas (subject to change) in each state.

The listed costs exclusively cover the expense of gas for driving the specified routes.

10 Scenic Road Trips In Maine That Offer Stunning Views

10 pacific coast highway, average cost of a one-way road trip: $82.78.

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) aka Highway 1 is incredible because it is extremely scenic, allowing road trippers to drive for miles and miles and have fantastic adventures without going over budget. The PCH spans more than 600 miles in California between Leggett and Dana Point, but most travelers opt to drive north to south from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

This stretch of highway is along California's magnificent coastline, passing through quaint towns , famous landmarks, and breathtaking scenery. From Laguna Beach 's artsy vibe, Carmel-by-the-Sea 's charm, and Big Sur's untamed splendor to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge , experiences are unlimited. Students can opt for camping in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park , enjoy the serenity of Venice Beach, and have fun on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk without breaking the bank.

  • Distance: 460 miles
  • Starting & Ending Point: Los Angeles & San Francisco
  • Drive Time: Approx. 9 hours without a break
  • Affordable Attractions for College Students: McWay Falls ($10 entry fee for Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park per car, per day ) , Morro Bay , Bixby Creek Bridge (free), Elephant Seal Vista Point (free), Pacific Grove Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary (free)

9 Los Angeles To Las Vegas

Average cost of a one-way road trip: $80.24.

Even though flying is the fastest way to get from Los Angeles to Vegas , taking a road trip offers college students an affordable option as well as some incredible stops along the way. There are many different ways to do this drive, but for those who enjoy the great outdoors, the route via Joshua Tree National Park ($15.00 per person or $30.00 per vehicle for 7 days), the Mojave National Preserve (free), and a few charming desert towns is unquestionably the best.

The drive provides the chance to experience the iconic Joshua Tree National Park vistas, the immensity of the Mojave Desert, and the brilliant lights of the Las Vegas Strip. During the drive, camping in Joshua Tree National Park ($20 - $25 per person per night) is added fun, as is exploring the Cholla Cactus Garden, Twentynine Palms, and free activities in Las Vegas .

  • Distance: 467 miles
  • Starting & Ending Point: Los Angeles & Vegas
  • Drive Time: Approx. 7 hours and 48 minutes
  • Popular Attractions: Cholla Cactus Garden (included in the park's entrance fees), Noah Purifoy's Outdoor Desert Art Museum (free), Kelso Dunes (included in the park's entrance fees)

8 Olympic Peninsula Loop

Average cost of a one-way road trip: $78.19.

Thinking about taking a road trip across the Pacific Northwest? The Olympic Peninsula Loop in western Washington is one of the most affordable drives in the United States for students who want to reconnect with nature without breaking the bank. Starting in Seattle, the route takes Highway 101 and then loops around the magnificent Olympic National Park , providing breathtaking views of ancient forests, rugged coastlines, the snow-capped Olympic Mountains, quaint small towns, and the untamed majesty of the Pacific Ocean. It's a true retreat from the stresses of everyday life, with options for camping, hiking, fishing, and simply taking in the beauty of nature. There is so much to see and do along this route , so spend a few days to fully appreciate the region.

  • Distance: 492 miles
  • Starting & Ending Point: Seattle
  • Drive Time: Approx. 9 hours and 57 minutes
  • Affordable Attractions for College Students: Olympic National Park ($15.00 per person or $30.00 per vehicle for 7 days), Hurricane Ridge (included in the park's admission fees), Kalaloch and Ruby Beach , Lake Crescent , Sol Duc Falls

7 Nashville To New Orleans

Average cost of a one-way road trip: $61.47.

A road trip from Nashville, Tennessee, to New Orleans, Louisiana, is a memorable adventure complete with music, culture, history, and gastronomic delights. Nashville, a hotspot of rhythm and blues, offers a range of free activities that can excite college students. Next, while driving south, Graceland in Memphis offers amazing experiences on a budget. Arriving in vibrant New Orleans, often called "The Big Easy," is on every music lover’s bucket list. Enjoy the street performers and vibrant atmosphere of the French Quarter . There's a lot to discover in this college town without going over budget, including jazz, voodoo, delicious Creole cuisine, and an incredible culture.

  • Distance: 556 miles
  • Starting & Ending Point: Nashville & New Orleans
  • Drive Time: Approx. 8 hours and 36 minutes
  • Affordable Attractions for College Students: Tennessee State Museum (free), The Parthenon ($10), The French Quarter (free), Jackson Square (free)

Average Cost of a One-way Road Trip: $35.69

This USA road trip, one of the most popular driving routes in the world , offers a glimpse of American wonders and the erstwhile Wild West. The 2,448-mile old Route 66 , aka Mother Road, takes travelers on a nostalgic trip through charming tiny villages, quirky roadside attractions, and breathtaking scenery . While students can begin and conclude their trip at any point, the best stretch to drive is from Springfield, Missouri, to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. There are multiple attractions on this stretch, including Meramec Caverns, the Blue Whale of Catoosa, and the Golden Driller Statue, that are absolutely fun without going over budget.

  • Distance: 311 miles
  • Starting & Ending Point: Springfield, Missouri & Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
  • Drive Time: Approx. 5 hours 17 minutes
  • Affordable Attractions for College Students: Meramec Caverns ($28), Blue Whale of Catoosa (free), Route 66 Drive-In Theater ($8), Golden Driller Statue (free)

5 Texas Road Trip

Average cost of a one-way road trip: $32.18.

A road trip in Texas, from urban Dallas to cultural gem San Antonio, is an unparalleled experience. The route through Fort Worth and Burnet is great for college students, as it offers several cultural sites and gorgeous views. Start with some of Dallas' free activities and attractions, such as the Dallas Museum of Art and Klyde Warren Park. Next, explore Fort Worth's stockyards , then enjoy Burnet's gorgeous surroundings.

Spend time admiring the grandeur of Marble Falls Lake and Canyon Lake . Continue on to San Antonio to experience its ancient missions, bustling River Walk, rich Texan heritage, and a choice of free activities . All in all, this Texas road trip is a cheap drive in the US for college students filled with memorable experiences.

  • Distance: 296 miles
  • Starting & Ending Point: Dallas & San Antonio
  • Drive Time: Approx. 5 hours and 14 minutes
  • Affordable Attractions for College Students: Dallas Museum of Art (free), Klyde Warren Park (free), San Antonio River Walk , Canyon Park ($20 per vehicle)

Jacksonville To Miami: 10 Scenic Towns & Cities To Visit During A 10-Day Road Trip

4 california national parks, average cost of a one-way road trip: $30.05.

One of California's most scenic drives passes through some of the most popular US national parks . The route starts at Yosemite National Park , taking students to Kings Canyon and then to Sequoia National Parks . Every national park offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences, including breathtaking waterfalls, hiking paths, viewpoints, amazing wildlife, and spectacular foliage. Hike Half Dome in Yosemite, one of the cheapest places in the US , or enjoy the jaw-dropping views of some of the world's largest redwood trees in Kings Canyon and Sequoia, especially General Sherman . Campsite fees are reasonable ($10.00 per person in shared campsites in Yosemite Valley and $32 for up to 6 people in a standard campsite ), and roadside eateries help save money. The best thing is that King Canyon and Sequoia National Parks are included in a single park fee, saving money.

  • Distance: 167 miles
  • Starting & Ending Point: Yosemite & Sequoia National Park
  • Drive Time: Approx. 3 hours and 47 minutes
  • Affordable Attractions for College Students: Yosemite Falls , Half Dome , The General Sherman Tree , Giant Sequoia Groves

10 Las Vegas To San Diego Road Trip Stops That Showcase California Bliss

3 overseas highway, average cost of a one-way road trip: $20.48.

The Overseas Highway, the southernmost stretch of U.S. Highway 1 , is a unique road trip that allows travelers to experience the beauty of all the Florida Keys. Although drivers may reach Key West from Miami via this highway in just three hours and a few minutes, they should plan for a 3-day road trip to enjoy exhilarating activities, wonderful attractions, and the incredible surrounding vistas, as well as the breathtaking dawns and sunsets. While there are plenty of activities available along the way, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and camping, students on a budget can also take in the splendor of Bahia Honda State Park, marvel at the vibrant marine life at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, unwind at Anne's Beach in Islamorada, and visit Key West Lighthouse, a picture-perfect location .

  • Distance: 166 miles
  • Starting & Ending Point: Miami & Key West
  • Drive Time: Approx. 3 hours and 11 minutes
  • Affordable Attractions for College Students: Bahia Honda State Park ($8 per vehicle (two to eight people)), Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park ($8 per vehicle (two to eight people)), Anne's Beach (free), Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters ($13 for students)

2 Colorado Road Trip

Average cost of a one-way road trip: $20.40.

From the majestic Colorado Rocky Mountains to some of North America's largest sand dunes and heritage sites in Pueblo, this road trip in Colorado from Colorado Springs to the Great Sand Dunes National Park is full of experiences. It is a must for students looking for thrills and excitement while staying within their budget.

Everything is breathtaking, from the magnificent Garden of the Gods, one of the free attractions in Colorado Springs , to Pueblo's historic Riverwalk and the grandeur of Great Sand Dunes National Park. Spotting various animals at the Alamosa Wildlife Refuge and participating in hiking, sandboarding, stargazing, and other fun activities in Great Sand Dunes National Park will enhance the road trip experience. This road trip allows college students to see nature's marvels without denting their wallets.

  • Distance: 194 miles
  • Starting & Ending Point: Colorado Springs & The Great Sand Dunes
  • Drive Time: Approx. 3 hours and 20 minutes
  • Affordable Attractions for College Students: Garden of the Gods (free), Pueblo Riverwalk , Alamosa Wildlife Refuge (free), Great Sand Dunes National Park ($25 per vehicle)

1 Charleston to Myrtle Beach

Average cost of a one-way road trip: $11.10.

A road trip between Charleston and Myrtle Beach offers plenty of attractions, including the stunning beaches of South Carolina , striking historical sites, quaint towns, and outdoor adventures. Road trippers have the chance to experience Charleston's heritage buildings and waterfront parks, the historic fishing village of Murrells Inlet, and the gorgeous Myrtle Beach, renowned for its colorful boardwalks and sun-drenched beaches.

Students can visit Myrtle Beach State Park, stroll down Rainbow Row in Charleston, and take in the picturesque Myrtle Beach Boardwalk , among many other inexpensive attractions along the way. With plenty of affordable attractions, dining places, and motels, this route is undoubtedly one of the cheapest road trips for college students, letting them experience Southern hospitality without breaking the bank.

  • Distance: 97.9 miles
  • Starting & Ending Point: Charleston & Myrtle Beach
  • Drive Time: Approx. 1 hour and 53 minutes
  • Affordable Attractions for College Students: Rainbow Row (free), Marshwalk (free), Broadway at the Beach (free), Myrtle Beach State Park ($8 per adult)

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.

graphical user interface, application

The 55 Best Gifts for College Students That They Can Actually Use

You’ve got no clue what they want. We do.

We’ve got some Zoomers on staff, and they chimed in on not only what they would like to receive but what they would actually need and use, too. Whether it’s the latest in tech , games , or even homewares , these will make their life easier and maybe even yours. So you can feel good knowing they are just out there surviving on their own for the first time with these in hand. Our top picks: You can never go wrong with an espresso machine, especially for someone who’s about to be on their own for the first time. Or there’s the trusty headphones option, which works as a great gift all the time. Shop our top 55 vetted gifts here.

Drunk Elephant The Littles Skincare Travel Set

The Littles Skincare Travel Set

College students are constantly on the go—this travel set from Drunk Elephant is a great gift and can fit into any backpack or any travel bag.

Parker Jotter Ballpoint Pen

Jotter Ballpoint Pen

Although subtle, this stainless-steel pen is a practical gift for all college students who will be taking a lot of notes. Even our editors love and endorse it .

JBL Clip 4: Portable Speaker with Bluetooth, Built-in Battery, Waterproof and Dustproof Feature

Clip 4: Portable Speaker with Bluetooth, Built-in Battery, Waterproof and Dustproof Feature

Study sessions, dorm-room hangouts, or even just chilling by yourself, every college student needs a good speaker. This JBL is the perfect size and won’t take up too much space. Plus, the sound quality is amazing.

Smythson 2024 Panama Weekly Agenda

2024 Panama Weekly Agenda

Although we are in the technology age, I, like many people, am a sucker for a handwritten journal. It’s a great way to keep track of things like classes and tests.

Fulton The Classic Insole

The Classic Insole

Hear us out... we know foot insoles sound like a strange gift, but these luxurious ones from Fulton will truly change the way they walk. And with a whole new life and all those upcoming classes, they need them.

Nespresso Vertuo Pop+

Vertuo Pop+

Or, if they’re lazy, opt for an easy machine. Save them hundreds of dollars on Starbucks with a Nespresso pod machine. The new Pop+ is compact enough for a dorm room and comes in a handful of colors to match their tastes.

HP Tango Smart Wireless Printer

Tango Smart Wireless Printer

An exciting gift? Not at first. But once they get to skip the line at the student union copy/print store during finals week, they’ll love you forever. Plus! It can print photos.

SOMA Double Cold Brew Bottle

Double Cold Brew Bottle

Or just get them a bottle to make their own at-home cold brew.

Apple AirPods Pro

AirPods Pro

No teenager or twenty-something will turn down a brand new pair of AirPods.

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2

Px7 S2

If they prefer an over-ear headphone, these are a bit more luxury than the AirPods Max. (And cheaper, too.)

Moleskine Smart Writing Set

Smart Writing Set

It’s proven that handwritten notes make memorization easier. But digital notes are a lot more convenient for organization and test prep. Moleskine’s smart notebook creates digital copies of their notes and organizes them on the cloud. Best of both worlds!

COURANT Catch:3

Catch:3

Honestly, they won’t care about an Italian leather catchall. But nothing on this list will be more useful. This thing charges their phone (most important to them), and it keeps them from losing their phone, keys, and wallet (most important to everyone around them).

Dupray Bloom Air Purifier

Bloom Air Purifier

Kids these days actually love houseplants. This Esquire Home Awards -winning air purifier also doubles as a planter for their new fiddle leaf fig or monstera. But it also doubles (triples?) as a side table, too, for when they eventually forget to water that houseplant.

Vitruvi Stone Diffuser

Stone Diffuser

A good-looking diffuser to keep their student-sized apartment smelling fresh.

Owala FreeSip Insulated Water Bottle

FreeSip Insulated Water Bottle

Oh, this? It’s just the best water bottle ever created . No, your Hydro Flask is, like...so cool, though.

Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Eye Mask

Mulberry Silk Eye Mask

Maybe their roommate is up late, maybe they’re trying to get some sleep at 2:00 p.m. Either way, a luxurious silk eye mask will do the trick.

Casper Down Pillow

Down Pillow

Not a need, but they will love you forever if you get them a proper down pillow.

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

Boat and Tote

When they get that summer internship, they’re going to need something more professional than a backpack. This is the easy answer.

Dr. Marten's Smooth Leather Chelsea Boots

Smooth Leather Chelsea Boots

One pair of shoes that look good and can be worn walking around town, to a party, or to their restaurant job.

Marshall Middleton Bluetooth Speaker

Middleton Bluetooth Speaker

How about a Bluetooth speaker that actually looks cool?

preview for HDM All sections playlist - Esquire

@media(max-width: 73.75rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.4375rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.5625rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}} The Best Gift Ideas of 2024

best gifts for stoners

61 Cool Gifts for Teen Boys 2024

best gifts for dad 2023

The 50 Best Gifts for Every Type of Dad Out There

a few silver bowls with popcorn

60 Incredibly Cool Gifts for 'Star Wars' Fans

a person wearing a necklace

This Is the Best Mother’s Day Gift of 2024

a closeup of a coffee maker

79 Can’t-Miss Gifts for Every Man in Your Life

a watch on a pole

55 Mother's Day Gifts From Her (Favorite) Son

unique gifts for mothers

59 Unique Mother’s Day Gifts for Mom

text

50 Great Last-Minute Father's Day Gift Ideas

best gifts for mothers day 2024

79 Gifts for Mom That’ll Make You Her Favorite Kid

best luxury gifts for men 2024

The 72 Most Luxurious Gifts for Men

a white and black electronic device

83 Exceptional Gifts For the Guy Who Has It All

trips for college students

22 Best student-friendly budget Destinations in India 2023

Photo of sourabh rodagi

https://www.travelshavel.co.in/2020/07/22-best-student-friendly-budget.htmlBudget Friendly destinations In India 2020

Photo of 22 Best student-friendly budget Destinations in India 2023 by sourabh rodagi

Have you Bored with regular assignment submissions and often internals in college? 

Are You already planned to have a trip with friends just after exams?

As a college student, It is the best time to explore new destinations around. with having charmful youth and enthusiasm to explore new things, it's always been a favorite and most memorable part for college students.

Traveling is something that one must do in their student life.

With having a lot of time in hand and not clear about what to do with it; college buddies mostly tempted to travel with their friends and enjoy their time.

Photo of 22 Best student-friendly budget Destinations in India 2023 1/1 by sourabh rodagi

If you're such a scholar, bored of frenetic assignments and submissions, and probably seeming to a getaway, then budget traveling is the best option to opt for.

Traveling, exploring new places, engaging with new people, exploring a beautiful world with friends, and getting out of your comfort position not only build self-confidence and responsibility within you; but also grow wholly as a person.

Getting permission from parents is not a big issue when you don't have yet any boss to ask for a leave.

And managing money for the trip is a little puzzling, nowadays many students do online freelancing with their coursework to compensate for their monthly expenses and travel itches. And money also won't become a problem.

So here are some handpicked budget-friendly destinations in India which will promise you to give most out of this Beautifull country, without having much load on your pocket.

Places to hit in India while college Trip:

North india :.

The northern side of The country has a vast number of places to look for during the college trips, some of them are,

1. Shimla :

Queen of hills

Shimla- perfect for summer vacation

Photo of Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India by sourabh rodagi

5.Rishikesh:

River rafting and other activities

(source) Rishikesh

Photo of Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India by sourabh rodagi

6.Nainital:

City of lakes

(source) -calm climate

Photo of Nainital, Uttarakhand, India by sourabh rodagi

Shimla which is situated at the height of 2200m is the Best hill station for Budget Travellers. it is the best and one of the cheap holiday destinations to spend quality and fun time with friends or family. Shimla grooms in summers with clear sun rays and scenic mountain views will leave you in awe. And If you do visit in January-February to play with snow and related activities.

The Britishers when they are ruling India are so impressed with this hill station that they positioned it as their summer capital.

Why during college?

Shimla will be best for winter road trips, summer trips with friends, and perfect for one who loves nature and hill stations at very affordable.

Best time to visit?

March to June is the most suitable season to tour Shimla when the climate as the daytime is agreeable.

Estimated Budget?

approx 2000-3000 per person for Two days

Places To Visit In Shimla:

*Mall Road, Shimla

*Kalka Shimla Toy Train

Things To Do In Shimla:

*Nature camping

*Treehouse Stay

*Jhakoo and Tara Devi temple visit

Do you remember the last scenes of 3 idiots?

(flick source) Manali-Pangong lake

Photo of Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India by sourabh rodagi

One of the perfect bike ride in India. And even every motorcycle riders dream is to trip to Manali.

Nestled in the Bees river valley with picturesque scenes and cool climate, Manali has always been the first preference of college students for hill station likers. With lush green forests, sprawling grasslands blanketed with wildflowers, flowing blue rivers make Manali a perfect vacation spot for undergrads, with affordable cost.

Manali is Bollywood’s favorite destination and it will surely become a favorite of yours too.

The Great Himalayan National Park is a must to visit in Manali.

At Solang Valley in Manali is crowded with people who are famous for activities like paragliding, zorbing, river rafting and horse-riding available, and one must not miss them.

And some last scenes of 3 idiots Bollywood film was shooted at Pangong lake in Manali.

Since you are with friends and you will enjoy camping, river rafting and other activities with your friends.

February to April when the snow is enough to enjoy and it will not let make you shiver.

Around 10k per person

Places To Visit In Manali:

*Solang Valley

*Hidimba Temple

*Rohtang Pass

*Beas Kund Trek

Things To Do In Manali:

*Paragliding in Manali

*Adventure Activities in Manali

TAKE ONLY MEMORIES, LEAVE ONLY FOOTPRINTS - CHIEF SEATTLE

3.Darjeeling:

Remember the toy train

(source) Darjeeling- toy train

Photo of Darjeeling, West Bengal, India by sourabh rodagi

Another Famous hill-station in India, and the best gateway to the Himalayas at favorable costs.

Darjeeling is the best weekend gateway from Kolkata and Delhi.

from lush green tree plantations, beautiful mountainscapes, ancient forests, quaint houses, friendly people with the world-famous Darjeeling special Tea; And Don't forget to take a ride on Toy train, which you have seen in song ' mere sapanoki rani kab aayegi Tu'.

If you have a group that loves picturesque scenes, cool climate, and a glimpse of mighty Himalayas at a very affordable price, then Darjeeling is for you.

April to June do the most suitable months to tour Darjeeling.

2500-4000 per person

Places To Visit In Darjeeling:

*Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

*Tiger Hill

*Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

*Nightingale Park

*Batasia Loop

Things To Do In Darjeeling:

*Darjeeling Ropeway

*Toy Train Ride

McLeod Ganj

4.mcleodganj:.

Popular for trekking

(source) popular Hill station In north India

Photo of McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India by sourabh rodagi

22 Best student-friendly budget Destinations in India 2020

Mcleodganj is another famous hill station in India and it is a gateway to the Tibetian culture and heritage. The current Dalai Lama was born here.

people come to Mcleodganj because to gey Mighty Himalayan experiences, spirituality, for adventures and photo sessions because of it's picturesque scenes around. Everything in Mcleodganj is very cheap whether it's eateries, transports, stays, visits, shopping and more.

And don't miss the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, Which you have seen in some of the live cricket matches.

If your group has photography enthusiasts and wants some scenes to have on your memory at a very convenient price then This Heavenly Hill station is your Next choice.

Between Mid-February till Mid-July (springs and summers)

2000-4000 per person

Places To Visit In Mcleodganj:

*Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

*War Memorial

*Gyuto Monastery

*Dharamshala International Film Festival 2020

*Library of Tibetan Works and Archives

*St. John in the Wilderness Church

Things To Do In Mcleodganj:

*Bhagsu Falls

*Namgyal Monastery

*Tsuglagkhang Complex

*Bhagsunag Temple

*Trekking in Mcleodganj

Rishikesh is a spiritual hub and yoga capital of India. This small town in Dehradun is popular for its adventure activities like river rafting. And their Ancient temples and cafes. Rishikesh is best to suit for budget travelers with all at a very minimal cost. And on top, if you share with your friends then your expenses go down even more.

The water activities here are like no other and you can enjoy those thrilling moments with your friends hence making a great memory to cherish upon. Moreover, in Rishikesh, many sadhus teach meditation and spirituality, which will help you to grow as a person.

For white water, rafting in September-June and November.

The International Yoga Festival is arranged in Rishikesh in the opening week of March

up to 3500 Rs per person

Places To Visit In Rishikesh:

*Triveni Ghat

*Lakshman Jhula

*Ganga Aarti, Rishikesh

*The Beatles Ashram

Things To Do In Rishikesh:

*Rafting in Rishikesh

*Cliff Jumping

Nainital is the most visited Hill station in North India.

This Hill station is nourished on the foothills of the Kumaon zone in the Himalayas.

Nainital is placed around the Naini Lake at an elevation of around 1938 meters. It experiences a pleasant climate Throughout the year and making it the best vacation gateway.

Take a boat riding at Naini lake at 250 rs per person, the boats which we see the same as in Kashmir, with clouds embracing you making it mesmerizing clips to experience.

The type of nature scenes you get in Nainital and if you like to be close with nature and to completely refresh yourself with a minimal price? then Nainital is perfect for you.

The most suitable season to tour Nainital is from March to June for boating in Naini Lake.

From late November to February which is the wintertime season for one who enjoys the snow.

5000-6000 rs per person

Places To Visit In Nainital :

*Naini Lake

*Eco Cave Gardens

*Mall Road Nainital

*Naina Devi Temple

*Snow View Point

Things To Do In Nainital :

*Nainital Ropeway

*Boat riding at Naini lake

*Trekking at Naina Peak and Tiffin Top Trek

Continue Reading: 22 Best student-friendly budget Destinations in India 2020

FB Pixel

trips for college students

Book an adventure,

Not a cliché.

This is travel for the you that wants something new. Like new friends, new cultures, and new adventures. And tbh, posing in front of the Eiffel Tower, ziplining in Costa Rica, and lounging in the Blue Lagoon make Daytona Beach feel like Daytona blech.

Find out your school’s Spring Break dates →

Wondering what to do for spring break? Well first, travel. And second, know that the best spring break trips are balanced spring break trips. Ones that, yes, include their share partying, but also offer a little culture. Maybe a little history. Definitely some new friends.

Speaking of friends...traveling with a bunch of them? Planning and logistics can be a pain, so...have you tried just not planning? Cuz we do all of that for you: hotels, sightseeing, flights, you name it. Turns out the best spring break trips are the ones that you don’t have to do any work for.

Our curated collection of spring break trips match up with most college spring break dates, and they go to some actually cool places. Like Tokyo and Kenya and Paris and Patagonia. Trying to hit the beach? Well, we also go to Belize and Costa Rica and Thailand and the Dominican Republic. Trying to absolutely not hit the beach? Yeah, we go to Iceland and Switzerland, too.

So whether you like cities or safaris or something in between, get more out of your spring break with EF Ultimate Break.

Popular spring break trips

Argentina (1)

Austria (1)

Costa Rica (2)

Dominican Republic (1)

England (2)

Germany (2)

Iceland (1)

Scotland (1)

Switzerland (1)

Thailand (1)

United Kingdom (2)

.css-1m22qs9{-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;background:none;border:0;color:inherit;display:grid;font-size:17px;font-weight:700;line-height:1.2;grid-template-columns:1fr auto;margin:0;padding:16px;text-align:left;width:100%;}.css-1m22qs9 path{stroke:#191919;} Where .css-xxs3zl{-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;}@media print{.css-xxs3zl{display:none;}}

7 days or less (4)

8–10 days (10)

11–14 days (4)

Price: low to high

Price: high to low

Length: longer to shorter

Length: shorter to longer

trips for college students

Tokyo: City Experience

trips for college students

Kenya: African Safari

Save up to $500

A pack of zebras grazing in a field of tall grass on a sprawling plain with a couple trees in the distance during a strikingly orange sunset

Rome: City Experience

Save up to $100

trips for college students

Egypt: Cruise the Nile

Save up to $400

Several sail boats floating through the water close to shore where there is a lush green forest and then large sandy desert dunes behind the forest

Barcelona, Paris & London

Save up to $300

A view overlooking a vibrant and colorful city with an ocean in the far background and clouds in the sky

Patagonia Adventure: Chile & Argentina

Save up to $450

A person standing on a rock in front of a turquoise blue body of water with ice-covered mountain ranges in the background

Mexico City: City Experience

Save up to $150

trips for college students

London & Scotland Escape

An extremely detailed stone carving statue in the middle of a pond surrounded by flowers and trees with a grand mansion on a hill in the background

Spring Break: Japan

A temple with a light green roof with a mountain in the background and a blooming cherry blossom tree in the foreground

Spring Break: Dominican Republic

Save up to $200

Aerial view of a sandy coast lined with palm trees

Spring Break: Costa Rica

trips for college students

Spring Break: Belize

trips for college students

Spring Break: Germany, Italy & Switzerland

trips for college students

Spring Break: Mexico & Belize

Teal water leading to a shoreline with boats, colorful buildings, and palm trees on a sunny day

Spring Break: Costa Rica & Panama

A sandy beach with palm trees and bright blue water on a sunny day

Spring Break: Thailand

Two wooden boats on the shoreline of a bay surrounded by cliffs

Spring Break: Iceland

Step-like stone pillars on a black sand beach

Munich: City Experience

trips for college students

Find your spring break destinations

Choose your spring break dates to see where you can travel.

Week of 3/1/2025

Week of 3/8/2025

Week of 3/15/2025

Down to the last deet

Trips curated to travel perfection, with so much included and lots to obsess over.

trips for college students

Round-trip flights & airport transfers (or book ’em yourself)

trips for college students

Multilingual Tour Director & local guides

trips for college students

Private deluxe motorcoach

trips for college students

Hand-picked accomodations

trips for college students

Welcome Dinner with drinks

trips for college students

Daily breakfast & three-course Farewell Dinner

trips for college students

Metro passes

trips for college students

Entrances to popular attractions

See everything you get →

A man and woman smiling at each other in front of white buildings on a cliff by the ocean.

Why go with EF Ultimate Break

Spring break faqs, how do i book one of your spring break trips.

We make it as easy as possible for college students to book their dream spring break trip. Just pick your place, pick your date, pick your payment plan—and boom! You’re locked in. Need some help choosing where to go or have questions about booking? Our expert Trip Consultants are always available for a chat or call and will answer all of your travel questions.

I’m a broke college student! How do people afford your spring break trips?

We have the most payment plan options for college students—like easy, no interest monthly payments or pay-later financing through Affirm—that make college spring break travel easy and affordable. Want to travel for free? Become a Brand Ambassador and get discounts and free travel when you rally your friends.

Any discounts if I book with a group of friends?

Yup! If you want to travel with your friends from college, call in and talk to a Trip Consultant . They'll make sure you get the right discount and even set things up so you can room together. You can also save money by referring other college students who book your trip (or even a different one).

What makes a spring break trip with EF Ultimate Break different?

This isn’t your clichéd Daytona Beach spring break. For starters, we plan trips exclusively for college students and make them accessible with a ton of payment plans. We handle all the logistics, too, from your flights to accommodations to thrilling excursions and more. Every trip is led by a rockstar Tour Director who knows the ins and outs of every destination and has all the best recos for your free time. You’ll not only have the adventure of a lifetime, but you’ll immerse yourself in culture in ways that just don’t happen on a typical college spring break trip.

Wait, but is there any partying?

There’s plenty of free time to do whatever you want. In fact, you’re traveling with only 18–35-year-olds who are looking for the same things you are. There’ll always be other people in your group that want to go out and your Tour Director can definitely point you to the best spots to let loose.

Can I book solo? My friends are being lame.

Of course! About 60% of our travelers book solo . Since this is group travel for college students, you’ll make plenty of friends along the way that you’ll probably keep in touch with long after you get home.

Is an EF Ultimate Break trip safe?

Hi mom and dad! Your college student’s health and safety are our top priority on our trips. We’re approved by the World Travel & Tourism Council and have global staff available 24/7 if anything comes up. If you want to learn more about our COVID-19 protocols, check out our safety FAQs here .

What is EF Ultimate Break’s most popular spring break destination?

We have plenty of trips that are popular with college students for spring break. If you’re looking for a new twist on sun and sand, check out our Costa Rica Adventure . Looking for a mix of city and sun? Head to the Greek Islands ! Want to feel insignificant as hell amongst 100-foot-tall waterfalls? Consider Iceland .

Everyone is going to Daytona Beach and Cancun? Will I have FOMO?

What’s the opposite of FOMO? Whatever it is, that’s what you’ll have. Our trips take the typical college spring breaks and make them better by leaps and bounds. You’ll travel to unique destinations with other college students and have a legit adventure that’ll make all your friends and followers jealous.

Watch CBS News

Biden is canceling $7.4 billion in student debt for 277,000 borrowers. Here's who is eligible.

By Aimee Picchi

Edited By Alain Sherter

Updated on: April 12, 2024 / 3:29 PM EDT / CBS News

The Biden administration on Friday said it's canceling $7.4 billion in student debt for 277,000 borrowers, with the recipients scheduled to receive emails today to alert them to their loan discharges. 

The latest effort extends the debt relief provider under President Joe Biden after the Supreme Court last year blocked  his administration's plan for broad-based student loan forgiveness. With the latest batch of loan cancellations, the White House said it has forgiven about $153 billion in debt for 4.3 million student borrowers. 

Biden, who had made student loan relief a major campaign pledge, is tackling an issue that affects about 43 million Americans with a combined  $1.7 trillion in student debt. It's a burden that some borrowers and their advocates say has harmed their ability to save for a home or achieve financial milestones, an issue that was echoed by Education Secretary Miguel Cardona in a conference call with reporters. 

"I talked to a teacher in New York this week who took out a loan for $30,000," Cardona said Friday, "and after over a decade of paying and being a teacher the debt was $60,000, and she was saying that the interest was so high that the payments that she was making wasn't even touching her principal."

He added, "We are fixing a broken system. We're relentless and taking steps to transform a broken system into one that works people across the country."

Here's what to know about who is eligible for the latest round of forgiveness.

Who qualifies for the student loan forgiveness?

Three groups of people qualify under the latest round of debt relief, the White House said. 

  • $3.6 billion for 206,800 borrowers enrolled in the SAVE plan.

About $3.6 billion will be forgiven for nearly 207,000 borrowers enrolled in the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan, an income-driven repayment program, or IDR, that the Biden administration created last year. 

The White House said borrowers who are getting their debt discharged under SAVE had taken out smaller loans for their college studies. The plan allows people to receive forgiveness after they made at least 10 years of payments if they originally took out $12,000 or less in loans to pay for college; borrowers with larger loans are eligible after 20 or 25 years of repayment, depending on what types of loans they have. 

 "You sacrifice and you've saved for a decade or more to make your student loan payments, and you originally borrowed $12,000 or less, you're going to see relief," Cardona told reporters. "An overwhelming number of those who qualify for SAVE were eligible for Pell grants and come from low- and middle-income communities."

  • $3.5 billion for 65,700 borrowers in income-repayment plans.

These borrowers will receive forgiveness through "administrative adjustments" to repayment plans where loan servicers had made it tougher for some borrowers to qualify for relief.  

"These are people who paid for a long time but were being deprived of relief because of administrative and servicing failures," Cardona said. "These people met the contract of their loan" and will receive forgiveness.

  • $300 million for 4,600 borrowers through Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).  

The PSLF program is designed to help public servants like teachers and government employees achieve debt forgiveness after 10 years of repayment. It's a program that started in 2007 but had been plagued with complex rules that effectively hampered people from getting their debt discharged, with only 7,000 receiving loan forgiveness prior to the Biden administration. 

With the latest round of discharges, the Biden administration has forgiven $62.8 billion in loans for 876,000 borrowers through PSLF. 

Are there legal challenges to Biden's debt forgiveness plans?

In two separate lawsuits, Republican attorneys general in 18 states are pushing to have the SAVE plan tossed and to halt any further student debt cancellation. They say the SAVE plan oversteps Biden's authority and makes it harder for states to recruit employees. They also contend the plan undermines a separate cancellation program that encourages careers in public service.

It's unclear what the suits could mean for loans that have already been canceled. A court document filed by Kansas' attorney general says it's "unrealistic to think that any loan forgiveness that occurs during this litigation will ever be clawed back."

—With reporting by the Associated Press.

  • Biden Administration
  • Student Loan

Aimee Picchi is the associate managing editor for CBS MoneyWatch, where she covers business and personal finance. She previously worked at Bloomberg News and has written for national news outlets including USA Today and Consumer Reports.

More from CBS News

Former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, a Republican, navigates dangerous political terrain in pivotal Senate contest

Out of dog space, BARCS waives adoption fees

Montgomery County student arrested for alleged school shooting 'manifesto', police say

Musician hosts concert to support Key Bridge collapse victims

Advertisement

Supported by

Biden Announces Student Debt Relief for Millions in Swing-State Pitch

During an appearance in Wisconsin, President Biden said 10 million borrowers could see debt relief of at least $5,000. The plan could help rally support among young voters.

  • Share full article

Biden Announces New Plan for Student Debt Relief

President biden announced a large-scale effort to help pay off federal student loans for more than 20 million borrowers..

Today, I’m proud to announce five major actions to continue to relieve student debt for more than 30 million Americans since I started my administration. And starting this fall, we plan to deliver up to $20,000 in interest relief to over 20 million borrowers and full forgiveness for millions more. [applause] I will never stop to deliver student debt relief and hardworking Americans. And it’s only in the interest of America that we do it. And again, it’s for the good of our economy that’s growing stronger and stronger, and it is, by freeing millions of Americans from this crushing debt of student debt. It means they can finally get on with their lives instead of being put — their lives being put on hold.

Video player loading

By Michael D. Shear

Reporting from Madison, Wis.

President Biden on Monday announced a large-scale effort to help pay off federal student loans for tens of millions of American borrowers, seeking an election-year boost by returning to a 2020 campaign promise that was blocked by the Supreme Court last year.

Mr. Biden’s new plan would reduce the amount that 25 million borrowers still owe on their undergraduate and graduate loans. It would wipe away the entire amount for more than four million Americans. Altogether, White House officials said, 10 million borrowers would see debt relief of $5,000 or more.

“While a college degree still is a ticket to the middle class, that ticket is becoming much too expensive,” Mr. Biden said during a speech to a small but enthusiastic audience filled with supporters. “Today, too many Americans, especially young people, are saddled with too much debt.”

Mr. Biden announced the plan in Madison, Wis., the capital of a critical swing state and a college town that symbolizes the president’s promise to make higher-education affordability a cornerstone of his economic agenda.

But it is a promise he has so far failed to achieve, largely because of legal challenges from Republicans and other critics. They accuse Mr. Biden of unlawfully using his executive authority to enact a costly transfer of wealth from taxpayers who have not taken out federal student loans to those who have.

Officials did not say how much the new plan would cost in coming years, but critics have said it could increase inflation and add to the federal debt by billions of dollars.

Mr. Biden said his new effort would help the economy by removing the drag of enormous debt from people who would otherwise not be able to buy a home or pursue a more economically sound future.

“We’re giving people a chance to make it,” Mr. Biden said. “Not a guarantee. Just a chance to make it.”

Mr. Biden’s announcement was a presidential do-over. In the summer of 2022, he put in motion a plan to wipe out $400 billion in student debt for about 43 million borrowers. That was blocked by the Supreme Court , which said he exceeded his authority. In the months since, Mr. Biden has waived small amounts of debt using existing programs. But now he is attempting a larger effort closer to the scale of his first try.

The original plan relied on a law called the HEROES Act, which the administration argued allowed the government to waive student debt during a national emergency like the Covid pandemic. The justices disagreed after Republican attorneys general and others challenged the debt waiver plan.

The new approach is different.

For months, Mr. Biden’s Education Department has been developing regulations using a long process authorized by the Higher Education Act. Instead of an across-the-board waiver of debt, the new approach targets five groups of borrowers: those whose loans have ballooned because of interest; borrowers who have been paying for decades; those who have economic hardship; people who qualify for existing debt relief programs but have not applied; and people whose loans come from schools that have since been denied certification or have lost eligibility for federal student aid programs.

Administration officials said because the new approach is based on a different law, it is more likely to survive the expected challenges. They said lawyers for the White House and the Education Department have studied the Supreme Court ruling and have designed the new program to make sure it does not violate the principles laid out by the justices.

But lawyers for those who oppose the approach are likely to argue that waiving the debt is unfair to those who already paid back their loans or never took out college loans in the first place. That argument helped sway the justices in the last case.

Neal McCluskey, the director of the Center for Educational Freedom at the Cato Institute, called the new plan “dangerous policy” that is unfair to taxpayers and would cause colleges and universities to raise their prices.

“The Constitution gives Congress, not the president, the authority to enact law, and the Supreme Court has already struck down a unilateral, mass student debt cancellation scheme by the Biden administration,” he said. “It would stick taxpayers with bills for debts other people chose for their own financial advancement.”

The legal challenges will likely take months to resolve, and that could leave the debt relief plan in limbo as voters go to the polls in November to choose between Mr. Biden and former President Donald J. Trump.

Members of Mr. Biden’s administration fanned out across the country on Monday to talk about the new plan, betting that it will rally support among voters who were disappointed that the court blocked the first one, which would have eliminated up to $20,000 in debt for tens of millions of borrowers. Vice President Kamala Harris held a round-table discussion with a teacher, a nurse and a social worker in Philadelphia. Miguel A. Cardona, the education secretary, spoke in New York City.

“We need you to stay in these jobs doing this work,” Ms. Harris said in the library of an elementary school. “And you shouldn’t have to make a decision about whether you serve or are able to pay your bills.”

But beyond the threat of legal action, the president faces steep obstacles just because of the calendar. The new plan has not yet been published in the Federal Register, which will kick off a required, monthslong public comment period before it can take effect. Officials said on Sunday only that they hoped some of the provisions would begin going into effect in “early fall” of this year.

Administration officials hope that the president’s supporters will give him credit for trying, even if many of the borrowers do not end up seeing any relief before they go to the ballot box. Andrew O’Neill, the legislative director for Indivisible, a liberal advocacy organization, praised Mr. Biden’s announcement.

“Progressives have led the fight for student debt cancellation, and Joe Biden has responded,” he said in a statement. “More than 30 million folks will now get relief from Biden’s programs. That’s a huge deal.”

White House officials have been scrambling for months to respond to the anger about student loans among the president’s base. In one poll released last month, more than 70 percent of young people said the issue of student loan forgiveness was “important” or “very important” to them as they make their decision in the 2024 election campaign.

Officials said the five groups of people targeted in the new plan will address most of the egregious issues that some borrowers have with their student loans.

People whose loans have grown beyond the amount they originally borrowed because of interest would have up to $20,000 of that interest wiped away, leaving them to repay only the amount they originally borrowed. People making less than $120,000 a year, or couples making less than $240,000, would qualify to have all of their interest forgiven.

Officials said that 23 million people would most likely have all of their interest-related balances waived from that provision.

About two million borrowers who already qualify to have their student loans waived under existing programs have not applied for relief. Under the new rules, the Education Department would be authorized to cancel the debt for those people without their having to apply.

People who took out federal student loans for undergraduate degrees and began repaying them more than 20 years ago would automatically have the debt canceled under the new plan. Graduate students who borrowed money and began repaying 25 years ago would have their debt canceled.

Officials said that about 2.5 million people would qualify under that rule.

People who borrowed money to attend colleges that have since lost their certification or their eligibility to participate in the federal student aid program would have their debt canceled. Officials did not say how many people that would affect. And people who are especially burdened with other expenses — such as high medical debt or child care — could apply to have their student loans forgiven.

Officials did not estimate how many people might qualify for what they called the “hardship” programs.

Nicholas Nehamas contributed reporting from Philadelphia.

Michael D. Shear is a White House correspondent for The New York Times, covering President Biden and his administration. He has reported on politics for more than 30 years. More about Michael D. Shear

Our Coverage of the 2024 Election

Presidential Race

President Biden called for major increases to some tariffs on steel and aluminum products from China , speaking to members of a national steelworkers union in Pittsburgh as he vies with Donald Trump for votes in Northern industrial states.

A broad coalition of the Kennedy family will endorse Biden , pointedly rejecting Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the independent candidate who many Democrats believe poses a threat to Biden’s re-election chances.

Trump’s campaign said in a letter to Republican vendors that candidates may use his name, image and likeness in campaign materials only if they turn over at least 5% of donations that they receive .

A Generation Gap: Many older Black voters see moral and political reasons to vote, but younger Black voters feel far less motivated to cast a ballot for Democrats or even at all .

Vice-Presidential Calculations: As Trump sifts through potential running mates, he has peppered some advisers and associates with a direct question: Which Republican could best help him raise money ?

Embracing the Jan. 6 Rioters:  Trump initially disavowed the attack on the Capitol, but he is now making it a centerpiece of his campaign .

Mobilizing the Left: Amid the war in Gaza, the pro-Palestinian movement has grown into a powerful, if disjointed, political force in the United States. Democrats are feeling the pressure .

Explore UCD

  • (opens in a new window) University Strategy
  • University Governance
  • President's Office
  • Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
  • Campus Development
  • Study at UCD
  • Current Students
  • Campus Accommodation
  • International Student Experience
  • Access & Lifelong Learning
  • Careers Network
  • Sports Clubs
  • (opens in a new window) Student Societies

Research & Innovation

  • Innovation at NovaUCD
  • Graduate Studies
  • Support for Researchers
  • (opens in a new window) Find a UCD Researcher
  • UCD College of Arts and Humanities
  • UCD College of Business
  • UCD College of Engineering and Architecture
  • UCD College of Health and Agricultural Sciences
  • UCD College of Science
  • UCD College of Social Sciences and Law
  • All Colleges and Schools
  • News & Opinion
  • Work at UCD
  • UCD in the Community
  • Global Partnerships
  • (opens in a new window) UCD Foundation
  • University Relations

Key Services

  • Staff Directory
  • Sport & Fitness
  • IT Services
  • (opens in a new window) Commuting
  • (opens in a new window) UCD Map
  • (opens in a new window)
  • Gold level Smarter Travel Mark awarded to University College Dublin

Thursday, 18 April, 2024

Posted 18 April, 2024

trips for college students

University College Dublin has been awarded a gold level Smarter Travel Mark from the National Transport Authority (NTA) for its efforts to support active and sustainable travel to and from its campuses.

The Smarter Travel Mark is a three tier certification that recognises and celebrates organisations that are working to reduce single-person car usage, and gold certification is awarded to those  that have put in place “outstanding measures that support sustainable and active commuting”.

UCD’s Vice-President for Sustainability, (opens in a new window) Professor Tasman Crowe and Mark D’Alton, Chair of UCD Smarter Travel Group were presented with the plaque by Siobhan Hamilton, Smarter Travel Programme Manager. 

“This is great news and achieving the gold Smarter Travel Mark award reflects the hard work and dedication of UCD Estates and others in promoting the benefits of sustainable travel,” said Professor Crowe.

“We look forward to implementing further Smarter Travel initiatives to support staff, students and visitors in making more sustainable transport choices.”

Great news! UCD has been awarded the gold level Smarter Travel Mark from the National Transport Authority. Only second university to get gold! Plaque presented to VP for (opens in a new window) #Sustainability Tasman Crowe and Mark D’Alton, Chair of UCD Smarter Travel Group by Siobhan Hamilton, NTA. (opens in a new window) pic.twitter.com/1WG0au5Dsq — Patrice Harrington (@patriceharr) (opens in a new window) April 17, 2024

Anne Graham, CEO of the NTA said that employer-led sustainable travel initiatives are essential to reducing the impact of our collective dependence on the car as a mode of travel, resulting in reduced carbon emissions.

Adding: “In achieving the Mark, UCD is demonstrating a commitment to changing attitudes and behaviours regarding walking, cycling and public transport usage, by implementing measures that facilitate, support and encourage sustainable travel options for your workforce, students and visitors.” UCD is now one of only two universities in Ireland to have achieved the gold mark.

By:  David Kearns , Digital Journalist / Media Officer, UCD University Relations (with materials from Patrice Harrington, UCD Sustainability).

  • Dr Anthony Fauci awarded an Honorary Fellowship by UCD School of Medicine
  • Emerging greentech start-up wins UCD’s 2024 VentureLaunch Accelerator Programme

Most shared

  • Ulysses Medal: ‘Godfather of AI’ Professor Geoffrey Hinton awarded UCD's highest honour
  • Presidential pardon recommended in 1882 murder case after UCD expert review

UCD academics on The Conversation

  • Opinion: The leap year is February 29, not December 32 due to a Roman calendar quirk – and fastidious medieval monks
  • Opinion: Nigeria’s ban on alcohol sold in small sachets will help tackle underage drinking
  • Opinion: Nostalgia in politics - Pan-European study sheds light on how (and why) parties appeal to the past in their election campaigns

eua members logo

IMAGES

  1. Top 6 Affordable Summer Vacations for College Students

    trips for college students

  2. 10 Healthy Tips for College Students Traveling Abroad

    trips for college students

  3. Top 5 Trips for College Students

    trips for college students

  4. Everything You Need to Know about Traveling as a College Student

    trips for college students

  5. Five Essential College Road Trip Tips

    trips for college students

  6. Amazing! 19 Cheap Trips for College Students

    trips for college students

COMMENTS

  1. 45 Best Places to Travel for College Students

    35. Rome, Italy. Recommended by Claudia from Strictly Rome. With all its art, history, and culture, Rome is bound to be a fantastic destination for college students who can join one of the many short and long term university and college programs offered in the Eternal City.

  2. The Best Way to Travel Young

    Perfect for college students, young professionals & anyone 18-35 looking for an adventure. We have payment plans, stress-free booking and a team of experts to help. ... College trips. Spring break; Summer break; Winter break; See all; Trips by length. 7 days or less; 8-10 days; 11-14 days; 15-25 days; 25 days or more; See all; Trip types ...

  3. 13 Best Family Vacations with College Students (For 2024)

    So, get your shoes on and pack your bags for the perfect getaway with your family. Table of Contents. Best Family Vacations With College Students Compared. 1. New York City, New York (Editor's Choice) 2. London, England. 3. Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise.

  4. The Best Vacation Destinations for College Students

    A little more than three hours southeast of Portland, Bend is the unofficial "outdoor playground of the West," making it perfectly situated for active college students. It's also adjacent to the Newberry National Volcanic Monument: 54,000-acres of lava flows, waterfalls and magma-formed geologic marvels.

  5. Student travel programs

    We bottled some of this event's magic in our student Summit video recap. He gives the best guided tours of Spain —and he inspired his family to become local guides, too. Hundreds of destinations. Endless possibilities. EF Educational Tours offers student tours at the lowest prices guaranteed. Learn why teachers and parents choose EF for ...

  6. 11 Affordable Travel Destinations for Broke College Students

    College students are usually short on cash and buried in textbooks during the school year. But if you've been struck with wanderlust and can't wait until spring break or the summer to plan a trip, this might be a great time to ditch the all-nighters and dining hall food for a little real-life education and a party scene beyond the frat house.

  7. #1 in College Travel

    Fun, affordable group trips for college students and anyone 18-35. Flights, hotels, activities included—monthly payment plans available. At EF Ultimate Break (formerly College Break), we wrote the book on college travel. Browse our epic trips for spring break, summer break, winter break, Greek life getaways and more.

  8. Student Discount Flights & Deals

    But just because your bank account got blown on textbooks this year, doesn't mean an epic trip is out of the question. That's why KAYAK partners with travel companies that offer discounts on flights specifically for college students and travelers under the age of 26. Kick off a flight search to see if a sweet discount is available for your ...

  9. Travel Programs for College Students & Young Adults

    Greece Island Hopping Summer Break for College Students. Cultural Exploration, For College Students. Dates. Jun 18 - Jun 28 Available. Current Grades. ages 19-22. Program Length. 11 Days. See Available Dates Program Details.

  10. Educational Travel & Educational Tours Abroad

    Take education beyond the classroom. Our tours and educational experiences for students make learning immersive and fun. Exciting travel and career exploration opportunities spark aha moments and encourage the well-rounded growth of tomorrow's leaders. Teacher-Led Programs Programs for Students. WorldStrides Higher-Ed.

  11. #1 for College Summer Break Trips

    Flights, hotels, activities all included—monthly payment plans available. The best way to go abroad for college summer break. Affordable group travel for college students and anyone 18-35. Visit Europe, Asia, South America and beyond!

  12. 7 Best Group Travel Companies for Young Adults (2024)

    EF Gap Year trips are designed for students taking time off between high school and college (Photo: EF Education First) Founded in 1965 in Sweden and widely recognized as a leader in group tours for young people, EF Education First is a global education company specializing in language, academic, cultural exchange, and educational travel programs.

  13. The 10 best spring break destinations for college students

    Vegas, baby! Las Vegas is one of the most popular spring break spots. Besides gambling and drinking, there are endless amounts of things to see, do, eat and buy here. 5 of the best strategies to ...

  14. Educational Tours & Programs in the USA

    Accredited like a school. Learning outside the classroom is crucial, and that's why WorldStrides is accredited by the same educational bodies across North America and Canada that accredit K-12 schools. It allows us to offer students high school and college preparatory credit, and teachers free professional development.

  15. 28 Cheap Travel Destinations for College Students on a Budget

    Best for: Beach bums, outdoorsy types, spring breakers. Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $32. 12. Zagreb, Croatia. The Croatian capital of Zagreb is bursting with old-world and avant-garde attractions, making this a fun but cheap travel destination for college students on a shoestring budget.

  16. Trips for Young Adults

    AESU is a tour operator specializing in fun-filled trips in Europe, Asia and South America, for students, young adults, and young alumni. ... Unique trips for recent college grads, young alumni, and traditional alumni travelers. Expand your horizons in great places with great people.

  17. Summer Road Trip Destinations Ideal for College Students

    College students looking for a road trip with historical context can head to Charleston to explore its museums, ghost tours, graveyards, and centuries old buildings. Atlantic City, New Jersey 21/28. Atlantic City has something for everyone, including gambling and gaming, award-winning acts and shows, and the beach.

  18. StudentCity

    This has been our mission as the Student Travel industry leader for 30 years. Don't settle for anything less than the best when it comes to your Spring Break, Summer Break, Winter Break or Fall Break trips. ... Offering travel experiences for college students to destinations all around the world. Starting the year exactly how we're supposed to.

  19. 31 Best Spring Break Destinations of All Time

    Check out the best college spring break destinations that will make your friends green with envy over your Insta posts. 1. Panama City Beach, Florida. If you try to book an Airbnb for anywhere in Panama City Beach this late in the spring break game, you won't find anything available below $400 a night.

  20. Summer Study Abroad

    Shake Up Your Summer with Study Abroad! Summer is the perfect time for a change of scenery. Your dreams - both personal and academic - can come true as you explore dozens of summer study abroad programs around the world. Our summer programs for college students allow you to intern in Dublin, learn Korean at Yonsei University, study the roots of apartheid in Cape Town, and so much more.

  21. How to Travel as a College Student

    Stay With Friends or Family. The 1st way to travel as a college student was to stay with family or friends. On some of the trips that I went on, I stayed with friends. I was there if they had an ...

  22. Best Spring Break Destinations for Students on a Budget

    Spring break trip ideas proved college student's time to let loose after to challenging semester. Myrtle Beach is often considered one of the best spring break destinations for college students on a budget. Myrtle Beach is a city along the United State's east coast that is the located halfway between the beginning and end of The Grand ...

  23. 10 Cheap Road Trip Ideas For College Students On A Budget

    Average Cost of a One-way Road Trip: $61.47. A road trip from Nashville, Tennessee, to New Orleans, Louisiana, is a memorable adventure complete with music, culture, history, and gastronomic delights. Nashville, a hotspot of rhythm and blues, offers a range of free activities that can excite college students.

  24. 55 Best Gifts for College Students To Actually Impress Them

    College students are constantly on the go—this travel set from Drunk Elephant is a great gift and can fit into any backpack or any travel bag. Although subtle, this stainless-steel pen is a ...

  25. BART Connects: A college student's career ambitions

    "After a few weeks, I got the hang of it, and it felt like I'd been taking BART my entire life," he said. He soon began taking the train for other trips - to Civic Center to see his friends, to Powell Street for ice skating. "BART's been a gateway for me to get out and explore the place I call home," he said.

  26. 22 Best student-friendly budget Destinations in India 2023

    6.Nainital: City of lakes. Shimla which is situated at the height of 2200m is the Best hill station for Budget Travellers. it is the best and one of the cheap holiday destinations to spend quality and fun time with friends or family. Shimla grooms in summers with clear sun rays and scenic mountain views will leave you in awe.

  27. The Best College Spring Break Trips

    Flights, hotels, activities all included—monthly payment plans available. Skip the crowds at Daytona Beach and go somewhere new on a spring break trip to Costa Rica, Iceland, Germany, Italy, Switzerland or beyond. Make this the spring break vacation that breaks the mold, with the company that wrote the book on college travel.

  28. Biden is canceling $7.4 billion in student debt for 277,000 borrowers

    White House announces new round of student loan cancelations 03:17. The Biden administration on Friday said it's canceling $7.4 billion in student debt for 277,000 borrowers, with the recipients ...

  29. Biden Announces Student Loan Debt Relief Plans for Millions

    April 8, 2024. President Biden on Monday announced a large-scale effort to help pay off federal student loans for tens of millions of American borrowers, seeking an election-year boost by ...

  30. Gold level Smarter Travel Mark awarded to University College Dublin

    Posted 18 April, 2024. University College Dublin has been awarded a gold level Smarter Travel Mark from the National Transport Authority (NTA) for its efforts to support active and sustainable travel to and from its campuses.. The Smarter Travel Mark is a three tier certification that recognises and celebrates organisations that are working to reduce single-person car usage, and gold ...