Unforgettable Adventures: Fun Trip Ideas for College Students

College is a time of learning, growth, and new experiences. While academics are a priority, it's also the perfect time to explore the world, make lasting memories, and broaden your horizons. Traveling as a college student may seem challenging, but with careful planning, a bit of sacrifice, and some ingenuity, it's entirely possible to embark on incredible adventures without breaking the bank.

The Possibility of College Travel

Many students wonder if traveling during college is feasible. Questions arise: How can you study abroad? How can you find the time with a busy class schedule? What college travel discounts do you need to know? Traveling as a full-time college student is possible but it requires planning, sacrifice, and ingenuity.

Budget-Friendly Travel Strategies

Travel is often seen as a luxury, but it doesn't have to be expensive. Here are some strategies to make travel more affordable:

Be Honest and Specific with Your Budget

Once you're in college and ready to travel, being honest and specific with your budget is essential.

Group Travel

Group trips tend to be cheaper than going solo because you can split a lot of the costs and qualify for group rates.

Read also: Backpacking for High Schoolers

Groupon Getaways

Groupon Getaways are a great way to travel far, for cheap. You and a friend could go to China for a week for $800.

Travel During the Offseason

When it's summer break, hit places like South America and Australia where it will be their cooler months or winter. By taking your college trip in the offseason, you'll get travel deals you'll never get during the high season.

Accommodation Options

Hostels are the most affordable route. These can run as low as $5 - $25 per night depending on the location. If hostels are a bit much or you're traveling with a larger group and can split costs, consider Airbnb. With Airbnb, you can rent an individual room or the entire house/apartment.

Flight Research

GoogleFlights, StudentUniverse, Hopper, and Skyscanner are all great sites to do flight research on.

Transportation

For longer distance travel needs I suggest Wanderu. It's a scraper that collects long-term public transport options like bus and train rides and compares their costs. Renting a car when you’re under 25-years-old comes with a ton of fees, so I tend not to.

Read also: Travel Opportunities for Alumni

Student Discounts in Europe

Europe specifically is super good at promoting student discounts at museums, public transportation, activities, and more.

Time Management for Travel

Balancing academics and travel requires careful planning. Consider these strategies:

Strategic Class Scheduling

Craft your class schedule to only have classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. However, it also meant that Tuesday and Thursday class hours were like 9AM - 5PM for me-test days were horrible.

Plan Trips Around Breaks

Plan trips adjacent to other breaks like Spring/Fall Break, or of course during the summer (even with my summer classes).

Embracing Spontaneity and Opportunity

Sometimes the best travel experiences are unplanned.

Be Open to Opportunities

Open yourself up for travel to find you. Manifesting opportunities to travel into your life is one of the biggest tips I can give you. Make friends with other people who love to travel too.

Say Yes to Invitations

When people invite me to travel I don't say no, so I went!

Embrace Spontaneity

At 11 PM on a Thursday, I spontaneously booked a flight for 6 AM that next day.

The Value of College Travel

Traveling in college is an investment in yourself.

Prioritization

Prioritization, especially. Working extra hours wherever I could fit them in. Taking 4 tests a day during exam week because of my hacked schedule.

Unique Opportunities

At this point in our lives, we truly have the least reason to say no to travel. We're not bogged down by a career, mortgage, children, etc. and we're actually surrounded by opportunities available only to students.

Budget-Friendly Destinations

Traveling on a budget is a win-win situation, really. Here are some of the best places to travel on a budget:

Asia

Asia is an excellent place to travel on a budget because of the cost of living there.

Indonesia: Indonesia really is a great place for budget travel. I’d say it’s one of the cheapest places to travel in Asia, or even in the world!
The Philippines: From the stunning beaches to the deep blue lagoons, you can really have a ‘luxury’ holiday on a backpacker budget in the Philippines!
Nepal: This small country in the Himalayas is a cheap and safe destination for every backpacker. Nepal is really popular for its trekking, so if you want to join guided treks, you may be closer to the top end of the budget.
India: India is an INCREDIBLE country to travel through and it can definitely be done on a backpacker budget!
Cambodia: I first went to Cambodia during my first solo backpacking trip, and loved it.
Malaysia: Budgets for Malaysia depend entirely on where you stay; Kuala Lumpur is a lot more expensive than the rest of the country.
Laos: This landlocked Asian country is often overlooked by backpackers, who often visit just for a visa run.
Pakistan: Tensions in Pakistan in recent years have subsided, and I’ve heard that it’s a beautiful country to explore.
Vietnam: I loved exploring Vietnam during my solo backpacking trip and I’d return in a heartbeat.
Thailand: Thailand was the first place I went on my first backpacking adventure. The islands, jungles and cities stole a piece of my heart forever.
Sri Lanka: This small island off the coast of India is well worth exploring. Beaches, surfing, wildlife, hiking, waterfalls, wellness… you name it, Sri Lanka’s got it, and all on a budget!

Central America

There are a few big gaps to fill on my travel bucket list, and Central America is one of them!

Mexico: Mexico is a really diverse country and how much you spend really depends on where you want to go.
Guatemala:
Nicaragua: Nicaragua is one of the cheapest countries in Central America. If you’re backpacking across Central America and you’re on a budget, you’d be wise to spend more time here than the more expensive likes of Costa Rica.
Cuba: Cuba is one of the lesser travelled Caribbean countries. There are a lot of rumours that Cuba is expensive and difficult to travel around, but this is not the case!

South America

Another huge destination on my travel bucket list, South America is somewhere that I can’t wait to take my backpack and explore.

Ecuador: There is more to Ecuador than the Galapagos Islands, which as stunning as they are, come at a huge cost.
Bolivia: Bolivia is said to be one of the cheapest, safest and most beautiful countries in South America!

Africa

Africa is the most diverse continent I’ve visited.

South Africa: South Africa is where I went on my budget safari.
Tunisia: With 8 UNESCO world heritage sites, it’s no wonder that Tunisia was included on Lonely Planet’s Best in travel 2020 list!
Tanzania: Tanzania, in particular Zanzibar, has been on my bucket list forever.

Europe

Europe is the perfect destination for a cheap break because it’s only a short flight or train journey away.

North Macedonia: An often overlooked destination, but one with plenty of adventure.
Albania: Albania is the country that has taken me by surprise the most on my travelling journey so far.
Serbia: An underrated destination with vibrant cities, beautiful national parks, and excellent wine.
Romania: With an eclectic history and a variety of things to do, Romania is great if you are travelling on a budget.
Budapest: Budapest is one of the cheapest cities in Europe (budget accommodation starts from Ft 2000/night!), and it’s great fun to explore too!
Italy: Granted, some parts of Italy are really expensive (yes, I’m looking at you Rome, Milan and Florence!).
Portugal: Portugal is a stunning country, and one of the cheapest in the Eurozone. Some of the best things to do in Portugal are hiking and exploring the beaches… both of which are free!

Australia

Australia is certainly not the cheapest place on this list, and not usually included on ‘travel on a budget’ bucket lists. But, if you really want to see Australia, it can be done on the cheap!

Affordable Spring Break Trip Ideas

Key West, Florida: Known for its quirky residents and premier snorkeling opportunities.
Panama City Beach, Florida: A tried-and-true Florida spring break location with white sand beaches.
New Orleans, Louisiana: A prime spring break destination for those seeking epic nightlife and Southern comfort food.
Sanibel Island, Florida: Best for those seeking a low-key spring break getaway.
Playa del Carmen, Mexico: Offers multiple stretches of white sand and a lively nightlife scene.
South Padre Island, Texas: A hot spring break destination for college students with affordable hotels and a free public shuttle system.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: Outdoor lovers can plan a budget-friendly trip to Arizona's Grand Canyon National Park.
Outer Banks, North Carolina: An attractive spring break vacation spot with sprawling beaches and ample low-cost accommodation options.
Daytona Beach, Florida: Known for its ample amount of hotels and trademark Florida weather.
Yosemite National Park, California: Yosemite's scenic peaks and valleys may be less crowded, resulting in cheaper room rates and more elbow room.
San Diego, California: A great place to vacation on a budget with 70 miles of beaches and gorgeous parks.
Key Largo, Florida: Appeals to spring breakers who want a getaway that feels off-the-beaten-track.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: A great choice for budget-conscious travelers with affordable oceanfront hotels and 60 miles of beaches.
Savannah, Georgia: A Savannah spring break appeals to culture hounds, foodies and partygoers alike - and it won't break the bank.

Domestic Destinations for Friend Trips

There are a TON of places in both the United States that are perfect for friends’ vacations and group trips.

San Diego, California: Known for its extensive beaches, laid back attitude and near perfect year-round weather.
Vero Beach, Florida: Definitely one of the lesser commercialized places in Florida, but no doubt one of the most beautiful.
Savannah, GA: It is known for its manicured parks, cobblestone squares and parks.
Charleston: It has colorful homes, the amazing food, the people, and the rich history.
Salem: If your group of friends are into spooky stuff and all things Halloween like mine are, then definitely add Salem to your bucketlist of best places to travel with friends!
Boston: Boston is known for it’s rich American history, beautiful neighborhoods, fresh seafood and much more which makes it’s the perfect place for a friends’ trip!
North Fork of Long Island, New York: If you’re not familiar with the area, the North Fork is a 30-mile long peninsula in the northeast part of Long Island, New York about 75 miles east of Manhattan!
Chicago: I highly recommend visiting Chicago during the warmer months to be able to take advantage of everything the city has to offer, but even in the Summer I suggest packing layers just in case it gets chilly!!
Lake George: I don’t think many people realize how beautiful Lake George truly is and the private island the historic hotel is located on is stunning!
Newport: The entire city is walkable and 2 days is the perfect amount of time to explore the entire coastal community!
Florida Keys: Spend 5 days traveling through Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key and finally Key West!
New Orleans: New Orleans is know for it’s food so don’t miss out on NOLA delicacies like fried alligator, po boys, shrimp creole, bananas foster, muffuletta sandwiches and of course BEIGNETS!
Nashville: Nashville is the capital of Tennessee and most known for the legendary country music venues it’s home to!
Austin: Austin is known for its eclectic live music scene, but also it’s many parks and lakes!
Las Vegas: If you’re looking for things to do just outside of Vegas I highly suggest taking a trip to the Grand Canyon!
Orange County: You can easily spend a week in “The OC” with friends driving up and down the coast exploring and seeing what each of it’s distinct cities has to offer!

International Destinations for Friend Trips

Baha Mar Resort in the Bahamas: Baha Mar is one of the best places to travel with friends - especially groups of any size because of the vast amount of bars and restaurants on the property so you won’t have trouble getting reservations for a group.
Kauai: Kauai is Hawaii’s fourth largest island and in my opinion the most laid back and chill of the Hawaiian Islands!
Maui: Also, Maui is my pick of Hawaiian islands to visit if you’re looking for a luxe Hawaiian adventure!
Orlando: You may consider Orlando a place for families or kids (and it can be), but don’t dismiss it if you’re traveling with friends especially if you’re looking for a fun filled trip!
Seville: From stunning palatial houses and Roman ruins to Royal Palaces and breathtaking cathedrals and churches, if you want to experience authentic Spain, Seville is the place to visit!
Barcelona: Barcelona’s neighborhoods are compact and easy to walk around and it’s public transportation is simple to understand!
Madrid: Madrid is a huge city, but still very walkable!
London: The best time to visit London without it being too expensive is from March through May.
Paris: France’s capital, Paris, may be the “city of love”, but it’s also the ultimate city for a girls’ trip and easily nabbed a spot on my best places to travel with friends list!
Folly Beach: Looking for the most laid back vacation spot? Then Folly Beach is for you!
Costa Rica: If you’re headed to Costa Rica with friends make sure you add zip lining to your itinerary!
Palm Springs: It’s no surprise that Palm Springs is always on the list of best destinations to have a bachelorette party. It made it a shoe in for my best places to travel with friends list!

Alternative Spring Break Ideas

For some, staying home or on campus during spring break is what feels the most relaxing. An alternative spring break idea that might not be typical-but is productive-is getting ahead on schoolwork.

Staycation Ideas

Take a day trip to a zoo close by and hang out with the wildlife. Check out zoos like the San Diego Zoo or the St.
If you live in the heat, grab some friends and head to the waterpark for the day.
Whether you’re there for one day or five days, theme parks offer loads of fun for everyone.
If you’re looking for a more affordable activity over spring break, play a round (or two) of mini golf with your friends or family.
Visit this diverse ecosystem in southern California, distinguished by unique trees and rock formations.

Productive Spring Break Ideas

Even though we encourage you to relax and recharge for your spring break, we know that some students just don’t like to do that. If you want to be more productive, then getting ahead on your coursework is a great idea for spring break!
A great idea for your spring break is to get an internship or start looking for one to do during the summer.
If you’ve already exhausted all of the previous spring break ideas, then consider signing up as a volunteer somewhere.
Take advantage of the downtime you have during spring break and apply for scholarships!

Family Getaways for College Students

There’s never enough time to travel everywhere with your kids, but if you refuse to stop even when they head off to college, you can make a good dent in the list and great memories.

Sydney, Australia: The BridgeClimb jumpsuit isn’t high fashion, but no one will care once they start climbing Sydney‘s Harbour Bridge.
Iceland: Volcanoes, hot springs and massive glaciers are just a few of the reasons everyone wants to go to Iceland.
Galapagos Islands: The Galapagos Islands are one of the few places in the world where animals have little or no fear of people, making it one of the top destinations for wildlife lovers.
The Pyramids at Giza: By the time they’re in college, kids likely have at least a passing familiarity with Egyptian culture, from the pharaohs and the pyramids to the mysteries of hieroglyphics.
Fairbanks, Alaska: Thanks to its geography, Fairbanks, Alaska, offers an excellent chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
Ka’anapali Beach, Maui: The warm blue waves at Ka’anapali Beach know how to make a first impression, but the true reason to visit this stretch of Maui‘s coast lies below the water’s surface.
Yosemite National Park: With waterfalls, wildlife and landmarks the likes of Half Dome and El Capitan, it’s hard not to be wowed by Yosemite National Park.
Churchill, Canada: Located in the far north of Canada’s Manitoba province, Churchill has a population of about 900 people, but it’s the thousand or so polar bears that most visitors come to see.
Berlin, Germany: There are historical reminders in Berlin at every turn, from remnants of the Berlin Wall to the famous border crossing, Checkpoint Charlie.

Planning and Preparation

If you are planning a spring break trip, whether with friends or family, it’s important to focus on your safety and of course-sticking to a budget.

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