Traveling While Abroad

While you're abroad, traveling by train may be a more accessible transport option than it is in the US. In some countries, train travel is more common than traveling by plane or car and is a clean, comfortable, and inexpensive way to explore your host country and travel to other cities/countries.

Rail passes are convenient but weigh the pros and cons before investing in one. A rail pass does give you the freedom to roam as you wish without having to spend time at the ticket window. On the other hand, these passes are not cheap and you have to use them within a specific time frame. Determine the kind of traveling that you will do to determine if getting a rail pass makes sense. You may find that purchasing round-trip tickets for individual trips is a better option especially if you will only travel on weekends during your time abroad. If you do purchase a rail pass, consider the policy on what will happen if it is lost or stolen. 

If time is not an issue, consider taking bus trips especially if the distance between cities is not that great, or if the difference between taking a train and taking the coach is only an hour or so. Traveling by bus is often even cheaper than taking the train. 

In some countries, like Ireland, Spain, Australia and New Zealand, traveling by bus is the way to go as the bus system is more extensive than the train system. Remember though to compare the money you will be saving and the state you will be in when you arrive at your destination, as well as where you will get on and be dropped off at the end of the journey. Weigh your options, and be sure to consider safety.

Although traveling by train or bus can be cheaper, getting to your destination could take significantly longer. If you are traveling a bit farther, air travel may be the better option. Flying saves time for longer distances, especially if you only have a long weekend to complete your trip and there may be low-cost airlines offering reasonable flights.

Many websites sort through fares on many major low-cost carriers but some may not appear on these searches. There are also student charters to numerous destinations (especially at break times) at bargain prices. You can also sign up to be on the mailing list of airlines so you can get announcements for special deals.

Always read the fine print - the super cheap tickets may only allow a small personal bag, and expensive luggage fees can eat up any savings. Budget airlines may also fly into airports that are farther from the city, so be sure to check exactly where the airport is and factor in additional travel time and transportation to the city center. 

Many programs prohibit students from renting cars during your program and you could be violating the student code of conduct if you do so. If your program allows it, keep in mind that unless several of you are sharing the car, renting can be expensive and gasoline in many countries costs more than in the U.S. Parking is often difficult and expensive, too. Extra fees often add up to a much higher bill than you originally anticipated.

If you think you may do some driving while abroad, look into age and insurance requirements and the appropriate documents you need to be permitted to drive. Your U.S. license will not be valid in all places, Also acquaint yourself with that country’s traffic rules and regulations. Unlike in the United States where driving is deemed a right, driving is considered a privilege in many countries abroad so the minimum skill level that drivers must possess is much higher than the level expected of a US driver, and many cars may be manual transmission. Driving violations are often punished more severely in many countries than here, and "I didn't know" will not be an excuse you can use.

For many reasons, renting a car and driving yourself is not recommended. 

Before you drive, make sure you can meet that country’s expectations of what it takes to get behind the wheel of a vehicle. Students can and have been involved in tragic accidents while abroad because they did not fully understand the rules of the road where they were.

Before leaving for your destination, you'll need to ensure you have an accommodation booked. Students usually consider cost first so staying at a youth hostel is a way to be frugal. Hostels provide inexpensive but sparse accommodations in many places around the world. Always check reviews and location before staying at a hostel, especially if you are traveling alone—not all are created equal. Airbnb and hotels are also an option, but can be a more expensive option for students, especially if the accommodation is within/closer to the city center.

Use your judgment and consider your priorities when it comes to accommodations. Do you mind spending more money for a private, nicer room? Do you want to meet other travelers and back-packers? Do you mind staying in dorm-style hotels?

• Before booking any accommodation, read the reviews and pay attention to the location.
• Keep track of your keys, especially if they clearly display a room number or hotel name—if you lose it thieves can easily see which room to rob.
• Keep your hotel door locked at all times (as well as balcony or patio doors). Do not leave money and other valuables in your hotel room while you are out. Use the hotel safe.
• Your money and passport should never leave your body if you are staying at a hostel. When you sleep, wear your money belt or slip it inside your sleep sack. When you shower, hang the money belt or neck pouch IN the shower (slip in a plastic water- proof Ziploc bag).
• If you leave your luggage in the hostel, lock your bags and take anything valuable with you. Pack a padlock to you can easily lock your items up. Some hostels provide lockers, but no lock.
• Let someone know when you expect to return if you are out late at night.
• If you are alone, do not get on an elevator alone, or if there is someone inside who looks threatening to you. Follow your gut feeling.
• Read the fire safety instructions in your hotel room. Know how to report a fire. Be sure you know where the nearest fire exits and alternate exits are located. Count the doors between your room and the nearest exit. This could be a life saver if you have to crawl through a smoke-filled corridor.
• Do not leave belongings unattended for any reason. It may be a hassle to lug everything into the restroom with you, but it is better than it being gone when you return.