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Features: Travelling on a budget

Written by MoneySupermarket.com, August 2012

 
 

Your student years are the best time in your life to go travelling to far-flung destinations. Don't let a lack of funds prevent you from exploring - there are plenty of ways you can see the world, even on a limited budget

Get the most from your money

If you have a bit of money put aside, you want to get the most out of it. Exchange rates can vary wildly between different providers so you should shop around before you change your hard-earned cash into the local currency. MoneySupermarket.com - Compare International Money Transfers  has the most up-to-date information on exchange rates so be sure to check it out before you transfer your money.

Find a job

The best option for many students who are travelling abroad is to get a job and earn while travelling. Teaching English as a second language is one of the most popular ways to fund foreign trips. Once you're qualified, it's possible to get a job in many countries.

Photo: British passport on map

One of the advantages of working abroad is that you get to see so much more of a country's culture than you would by just going on holiday. Other great options are bar and restaurant work, or even becoming an au pair. If you enjoy the great outdoors then look at options such as fruit picking or other agricultural seasonal work. Not only will you get to meet a wide variety of people, but it also looks great on your CV.

Plan your trip

No one plans to fail, they just fail to plan. Student finances and travelling the world don't seem to go hand in hand but by planning your adventure as much as you can, you will get the most out of your travels. Research where you want to go thoroughly so that you can avoid the tourist traps and save money for the things you really need.

Research the destination

Find out the cheapest places to visit and be realistic about budgeting for food, travel and accommodation. Keep an eye on travel forums, as reading about other travellers' experiences of a certain country can be a really useful way of picking up tips and avoiding the pitfalls which could cost you more money than you've got.

There are plenty of ways to travel in a financially sustainable way, even if you are on a very limited budget, so make the most of your student years and go and explore the world.

 
 
 
 

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