Why Traveling Abroad Matters

Studying abroad is not just about classes and exams; it’s also about exploring new cultures, cities, and experiences. For Pakistani students, the chance to visit nearby countries while studying abroad is a dream opportunity. But travel can be expensive if you don’t plan smartly.

The good news: With the right strategies, you can travel on a student budget and explore more of the world while studying abroad, whether in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, or Australia.

1. Plan Early and Use Budget-Friendly Airlines

Flights can take up the biggest chunk of your budget. The key to cheap travel is planning early and using budget airlines.

• Use Skyscanner and Google Flights to compare deals.
• Check StudentUniverse for student-exclusive discounts.
• Use budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz Air (Europe), AirAsia (Asia), FlyDubai (Middle East).
• Travel with a carry-on to avoid baggage fees.

Pro Tip: Book flights 6-8 weeks in advance for the best rates and use incognito mode when searching.

2. Use Trains and Buses for Short Distances

In Europe and Asia, trains and buses are comfortable, reliable, and cheap if booked early.

• Use Omio to compare train and bus prices across Europe.
• FlixBus offers ultra-cheap intercity travel.
• Get a Eurail Pass if you plan to visit multiple countries in Europe.

Many countries offer student discounts on local transport; check your student ID eligibility.

3. Stay in Hostels and Budget Accommodation

Accommodation doesn’t have to drain your funds.

• Hostelworld lists affordable, student-friendly hostels worldwide.
• Consider Airbnb for group stays, which can be cheaper than hotels.
• Explore Couchsurfing for free stays with locals, but always check safety ratings.
• Check if your university offers affordable student housing during breaks.

Hostels often include free breakfast, WiFi, and walking tours—perfect for budget travelers.

4. Use Student Cards for Discounts

Your student status is powerful. Many museums, galleries, transport systems, and even restaurants offer discounts.

• Get an ISIC (International Student Identity Card) for global student discounts.
• Always carry your university ID while traveling.

Example: Many European museums and transport systems give 50% discounts to students.

5. Eat Smart While Traveling

Food can eat up your travel budget if you dine out for every meal.

• Shop at local supermarkets and cook at hostels.
• Carry snacks like nuts and fruit for day trips.
• Use Too Good To Go to get restaurant leftovers at a fraction of the price.
• Try street food—it’s cheap and authentic.

Tip: If your accommodation includes breakfast, eat well to save on lunch.

6. Use Budget Travel Apps

Your phone can help you save while traveling:

• Rome2Rio: Compares travel options and costs.
• Maps.me: Offline maps to save data.
• Splitwise: Manage group expenses.
• Trail Wallet: Track your travel spending.

7. Walk and Use Public Transport

Walking is free and the best way to explore a city. If you need transport:

• Use daily or weekly transport passes in cities like London, Paris, or Berlin.
• Many cities offer bike rentals for cheap.

8. Travel During Off-Peak Times

Travel costs drop significantly during off-peak seasons (e.g., February, March, October, November in Europe). Flights, accommodation, and attractions are cheaper, and places are less crowded.

Also, consider traveling mid-week (Tuesday, Wednesday) for cheaper flights.

9. Travel with Friends

Group travel helps split costs for:

• Accommodation (Airbnb, hostels)
• Ride-sharing
• Groceries

It’s also safer and more fun while studying abroad.

Use BlaBlaCar for cheap carpooling across Europe.

10. Use Student-Friendly Payment Options

Avoid high currency conversion charges:

• Get a Wise card for low international transaction fees.
• Use a local bank account in your host country if staying long-term.

11. Keep Documents Safe and Ready

Always keep:

• Passport + student visa copy
• Student ID (for discounts)
• Health insurance card

Store digital copies on your email/Google Drive for emergencies.

Traveling while studying abroad can be affordable and enriching if planned well. Pakistani students can explore new countries, cultures, and cities by leveraging student discounts, budget airlines, public transport, and smart spending habits. Traveling does not require you to be rich—it requires you to be smart.