Strategies to Get Student Discounts on Flights and Travel

Traveling as a student can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it often comes with financial constraints. To make the most of your budget, there are several strategies you can adopt to secure student discounts on flights and travel accommodations. Here, we explore various methods to help you save money while exploring the world.

Researching Good Deals

Use a Student Travel Agency

Student travel agencies are invaluable resources that offer special deals and rates exclusively available to students. These services can connect you to a range of opportunities that might not be accessible elsewhere. Some well-known student travel agencies include:

STA Travel Student Universe CheapOair Travelation

Read Travel News

Travel websites and blogs often provide valuable information about student-specific deals and discounts. These resources can inform you about the seasonal nature of student discounts, helping you determine the best times to book your flights and accommodations. Additionally, they offer money-saving tips for student travelers. Some useful websites include:

Travel Ticker Travel Zoo The Student Travel Planning Guide Go Abroad

News outlets, such as US News and World Report and The Guardian, occasionally feature travel sections that highlight deals and discounts for students.

Getting Deals on Transportation and Lodging

Use a Ticket Aggregator

Air travel can be pricey, but ticket aggregators can help you find the best deals. These services search for the lowest prices from multiple airlines, making it easier to compare and save on your flight expenses.

Buy Straight from the Airline

Different airlines offer unique deals for students. For example:

American Airlines' AA Vacations service offers discounted vacation packages to students with a student ID. Lufthansa's Generation Fly website provides special deals and rates for students. Low-cost airlines like Ryan Air and Aer Lingus are popular with students for their budget-friendly flights across Europe, though be wary of extra fees.

Buy a Railcard

Railcards are an excellent way to save on train travel. Some railcards require a small upfront fee, but can quickly pay for themselves. Check if your railway company offers a student railcard:

Amtrak's 15% discount card is available to students between the ages of 13 and 25. The UK's 16-25 Railcard offers savings up to 30% for people between 16 and 25, including full-time students over 25. International Student ID card holders can travel unlimited in Ontario, Canada, through ViaRail. Eurail's Youth Pass offers up to 25% off for travelers under 27.

Find Youth Hostels

Hostels are a budget-friendly option for accommodation, often offering discounts to students. Some hostels even organize special tours or events for student travelers. Ensure you find a hostel that is both affordable and safe:

In the UK, the Youth Hostel Association offers special rates for people under 26 and full-time students over 26 can save 10% on a railcard. Hostelling International provides a network of safe, clean hostels worldwide, offering a 10% booking discount upon membership.

Saving Money on Daily Activities

Sign Up for an International Student ID Card

The International Student ID card is valid in 120 countries and can land you numerous discounts on travel, food, and events. Joining this program can save you a considerable amount of money. Apply online at the ISIC website well in advance of your trip to ensure you don't miss out:

"Apply for your ISIC card to access thousands of discounts on food, shopping, travel, and more."

Ask About Student Discounts

Many museums, landmarks, restaurants, and events offer student discounts. Don't forget to ask whenever you visit a new location. If the website lists entry fees, check there first to plan your trip around cheaper options:

"Check if a location offers student discounts and present your valid ID card."

Talk to Your Hotel

Whether you're staying in a hotel or a hostel, you can usually find someone who can share local expertise. Ask at the front desk for student deals and discounts in the area. They may also provide brochures of interesting activities or organize tours at special rates:

"Ask hotel staff about student deals in the area." "Find out if your accommodations can offer any special student rates or activities."

By following these strategies, you can significantly reduce the cost of your travel and make the most of your educational journey.