Airfare is typically not included in the program cost. Your program provider may suggest a group flight or a travel agent for your airfare. Also, affordable flights can be found on the internet through search engines such as Expedia, Kayak or Orbitz.

There can be many advantages to using a travel agency. An agency can help you find student rates and special prices that airline representatives may not know about. They can find the cheapest flights available for a 6 month layover. Many cheaper flights regularly have a maximum stay of 1 month, for example. An agent can tell you about the airline restrictions and transportation system of the country you are traveling to.

Special Passes
If you plan to travel while abroad, you may need additional travel arrangements. It is recommended that you do a bit of research about where you might want to travel while you are there, and how to get where you want to go. Doing research can save you a large amount of money on buses, trains, food, movies, and accommodations.

Rail
Once you are inside your host country, you should consider traveling by rail. The world’s train systems are far more extensive and inexpensive than the U.S. system. There may be discounts, package deals, weekend rates, daily rates, or student rates for rail travelers. Do not hesitate to go to the main train station and ask about your options.

Eurail Pass
If you are traveling in Europe for an extended period, think about purchasing the Eurail pass. These are great passes to get you unlimited train travel in all of Europe except Great Britain (Britrail passes must be purchased separately). However, you can only buy these passes inside the U.S. Eurail passes can typically be purchased at local travel agencies.

Public Local Transportation
Consider public local transportation. You will find it to be more convenient and efficient for day to day than public transportation in the U.S. Inquire about month-long bus passes or discounted bulk tickets. There are usually discounted student tickets, so do not forget to bring your student ID with you.

Youth Hostels
Youth hostels are places that you can stay overnight at very reasonable rates. They offer you a bed in a room shared with an average of about 5 other people. For those of you who have an anxiety about traveling alone - youth hostels offer great opportunities to meet other travelers from around the world! Everybody traveling is usually in the same situation you are - they don’t know anyone, they want to talk to people, and they probably have some interesting stories / traveling tips to share with you, as in turn you will for other people. Consult a travel planning guide (such as Lonely Planet) for location and other information.

YHA (Youth Hostel Association) is one of the major hostel organizations around the world. You can obtain a membership card at any YHA. The card will give you a few dollars off of your hostel stay every time you use it, and in many places, you can use it for discounts similar to the International Student ID card. There are also independent hostels and pensions that are typically comparable in price.

Keep in mind that if you are traveling to places during peak season such as during Easter holidays, youth hostels can book up like hotels, so think about it, and make a reservation if appropriate. Many hostels will have luggage rooms where you can store your gear for the afternoon, while you go on a day excursion. Be sure you know how these rooms are secured before storing any valuables in them.