Saving money and learning how to prepare a secure budget is a challenge that many college students face. With financial planning and saving, students can use their hard-earned cash for unique bargains and even travel.

Traveling on a budget can be tricky, but it can be done. Here’s a list of quick tips that can help students save money and travel while attending college.

1. Begin Saving Early

First and foremost, if you have an itch to travel, begin saving for it as soon as possible. Research ideas for destinations that will be a great experience and won’t break the bank. After you find a destination, you can begin saving for it. In addition, when you have a budget in mind for vacation, it can be easier to save.

2. Research Transportation Options

As you continue saving money, it’s important to find out what type of transportation you want to use for arrival and departure, as well as during your stay. You might find that a train to travel around town is more cost-effective than using a taxi. It makes for a great experience and a money-saver, so it’s a win-win.

Deciding to travel by car or by plane can be tricky. Sometimes paying for gas can be more cost-effective than purchasing a plane ticket, but depending on the distance, sometimes a plane ticket is the best option.

Also, if you know a friend or relative who has frequent flyer miles and doesn’t use them, ask if you can use them. Frequent flyer miles can drastically lower the price of a plane ticket, and sometimes even hotel stays.

3. Find a place to stay

Next, decide where you want to stay. Perhaps, there is a friend or relative nearby who might let you stay with them. This can save money, but it’s not always practical or possible.

If you don’t know anyone in the area, research flight and hotel bundles when you are ready to book your flight. Sometimes, students can get great deals on flight and hotel reservations purchased together. Remember to check reviews of hotels in your destination area. Find one that is safe and free of pests. No one wants to deal with bed bugs while they are trying to relax on vacation.

4. Travel through Washburn

Washburn University offers many travel opportunities for students. Spring break and summer are a busy time for study abroad programs.

Washburn University study abroad coordinators can help students who want to travel. Additionally, programs like Apeiron and Washburn Transformational Experience offer programs specifically for study abroad that will help pay for student travel.

As the process can be complicated, study abroad faculty and staff are willing to help students find an experience that works for them. According to Washburn University’s Study Abroad website, a study abroad adviser can help students explore options from a full semester, short-term, school-sponsored or internship program in the fall, spring or summer. An adviser can also help you plan so that your time abroad gets you to your goal of a degree on time and within your budget.

5. Stay on budget

After you arrive at your destination, continue searching for ways to stay within your budget. Find restaurants that have delicious food but are within your price range. Avoid costly activities and revert to enjoying nature and leisure activities that don’t have a price tag. Spend quality time with friends without technology, and, most of all, make the most out of your experience.

Travel can be tricky, but with a plan and some assistance it can be done. Students can find transportation, hotels and destinations that work with their circumstances and will help create memories to last a lifetime.