Plan to fund a European backpacking trip on a summer’s worth of tips from waiting tables? Or a flight to Amsterdam on student loan overages? Before planning your fall break or summer vacation based on Cheapflights’ list of top 10 college student destinations, consider these cost-cutting strategies for traveling on a student budget.

Pack smartly

Baggage fees are the worst, especially if you’re not expecting them. If you can, plan your wardrobe ahead of time and pack only a carry-on to avoid baggage fees. If you’re carrying a load – or hope to bring home lots in souvenirs – consider flying domestically with a low-cost airline like Southwest, which allows two checked pieces free of charge, or JetBlue, which permits one.

Bring friends

Traveling with a group means splitting expenses, from your hotel room to cabs to food. Though your biggest expense will probably be your flight, you’ve got the chance to save big at your destination by going Dutch with travel buddies. Plus, you’ll feel significantly safer in a new destination with friends by your side.

Get connected

Traveling is your chance to disconnect from school-year stresses, and that means everything “college,” from exams to social networks. Though we recommend ditching Facebook and getting to know locals face-to-face, your phone can certainly come in handy, especially abroad. Skip the internet café and hook your smartphone up to your hostel’s Wi-Fi network for free. To let your parents know you’re OK, of course. (Remember to unlock your phone before going abroad, to avoid roaming charges.)

Read more of our tips on how to travel on a student budget, from crashing on couches to investing in an international student ID card.

(Image: Nic McPhee)

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