How to Save Money while Studying Abroad
Written by Kevin February 25, 2016
Going abroad is obviously an expensive experience, but it doesn’t have to be! I can remember right before I left thinking that I wasn’t coming home for at least three months (maybe more) depending on how much money I have leftover come April. There are many things that are important to do before leaving, but here are a few things I thought of that can help you save money while abroad.
- Get a good international credit/debit card
I have a few suggestions for this, in Italy especially cash is the preferred method, which is a huge change of pace from the U.S where it seems like people never need to have cash. The important part here is to be able to get cash out of an ATM without huge interest or transaction fees because they really add up, and to be able to use a card at places when they are accepted without running up a huge tab. Avoiding these fees will help to save lots of money and let you spend your money where you want to – traveling!
- Get a good travel backpack
This is really important even though it may not make sense, how does spending money save you money? But if you have a good travel backpack, it can help you get cheaper flights where you don’t need to check a bag. To avoid getting charged at the airport, check before you leave to make sure that your bag is under the weight and size limit. (Hint 2.2 pounds is 1 kilogram.)
- Plan ahead ways to contact home
There are a bunch of ways to do this, if you have an iPhone, it is really easy because iMessaging works wherever you have Wi-Fi which is pretty readily available throughout Europe, much more so than the U.S. Some phone providers have international plans that have limited data and some calling, which is what I have at this point. But there are other ways. Apps like Skype, Viber, and even FaceTime/FaceTime Audio can be good ways to make phone calls home pending Wi-Fi connection. If you do decide to get the plan from your wireless provider be careful to look over the prices and how much you have to avoid going over and having huge bills.
- Plan ahead
This is obvious because it is true everywhere, planning ahead for trains, planes, hostels etc. can save money on each trip which really adds up. It may be difficult to get your group to plan a trip in a few weeks, but it really helps to save money and limit stress when planning your next trip. Also booking tours beforehand and understanding where to go when you get to a city can prevent spending a lot on taxis or other unnecessary expenses.
- Budget!!!
Understand how much money you can spend and figure out how much that is per weekend, this might be the hardest part because there are so many places to go. I would recommend staying in less expensive places when you travel for two reasons, one it saves money, and two if you aren’t staying somewhere nice you are more likely to spend more time exploring the city than sleeping. Maybe not the best idea I have but something I have noticed so far. Having a budget and sticking to it is important. There are many apps, especially bank apps, that you can track purchases and let you know what kind of cash you have taken out.
Blogger: Kevin, Clemson University
