How to Travel on a Budget

     Many students and young adults dream of traveling to their favorite places for some much needed time away or an adventurous family vacation. One problem that makes students hesitant to travel is the cost. Students often work in the summer and sometimes during the school year. Most of their money goes to food, clothes, and extra activities, not to travel.
     A few tips by professionals are: save little bits of money at a time, follow a budget and cut expenses, and find extra ways to make money.
     As you buy things with cash save your change in a little jar, wait till it is at the top, then cash it in at the bank. This will teach you saving techniques and when you cash in a feeling of accomplishment. Another way to save money is by having an automatic withdrawal come out of your checking and into a savings account designated for your next sunny vacation.
      Extra ways to make money could include mowing lawns, scooping snow, and walking dogs. Neighbors are always willing to give teens and young adults little jobs to earn extra money. A side job at a movie theater or a restaurant would also provide cash for extracurricular activities and savings for a fun and exciting trip.
     Following a budget on vacation can be very challenging and not as easy as it sounds. A few ways to save money on travel is by staying in hostels, renting bikes, and choosing an adventure that is free and does not cost extra money. Cutting expenses like fancy food and expensive souvenirs could also benefit your budget.
     Group travel is one way to follow a strict budget and feel safe with ones you know. Jill Paopao, a teacher at CHS, leads students on an EF tour every other summer and says group travel is great, but it does have its drawbacks. Airlines and museums are sometimes willing to give group rates, and traveling with friends and loved ones is an added bonus. One downfall is the itinerary, a schedule made everyday. If museums are not your favorite thing group travel may not be for you.
     Traveling young can be most beneficial when it comes to education and viewing the world around you in a better light. It broadens your view of other people, places, and cultures says, Paopao.
     Next time you think about a trip to the beach or a ride down the mountain take into consideration the steps it takes to make a little idea go a long way.