There is no better time to travel than when you’re young. Without financial responsibility, like mortgage payments, or major personal obligations, like raising a family, young adulthood opens up a vast world of possibility and adventure. 

However, during this same time, many young people attend college or seek an education. A necessary foundation to start your independence off on the right foot, these choices may appear to conflict with your desire to travel. But they don’t have to. Here are a few tips to be a responsible, forward-thinking student without missing out on your chance to see the world.

Bring Your Studies With You

When you’re young, you don’t need much to have an incredible trip: a small suitcase, a smartphone, your passport, and you’re ready to go. But even if you travel lightly, you still carry the responsibility for your schoolwork with you.

Thankfully, there are a few innovative ways to navigate taking your studies along for the ride. Whenever possible, book busses or trains. While they take a little longer than flights, they are typically less expensive, and they also give you ample time to read and study. Whether you’re focusing on ancient philosophy or contractor exam prep,this type of travel builds time to focus directly on your itinerary. Use a tablet or download content onto your smartphone before your journey to lighten your load.

Ask For Student Discounts

The average student loan debt in the U.S. is close to $38,000. Yikes! 

While you want to experience your travel destinations fully, you also should be mindful of cost. As a student, you may be eligible for a slew of discounts across the globe. From discounted museum admission to student lodging, packing your student ID may be the most intelligent financial decision you can make on your trip.

Enhance Your Resume

Are you traveling somewhere that aligns with your professional interests? Then take the opportunity to go beyond the role of tourist and gain some once-in-a-lifetime experience. Working while traveling makes the cost of your trip investment in your education and future career. 

Look for volunteer or work opportunities that align with your interests before you depart. You may be surprised by the experiences that await you!

Learn a New Language

Studies have shown that immersionimproves efficiency in learning a language. That means that there’s no better time to learn a language than while in its home country! 

Speaking multiple languages is a sought-after skill that can drastically increase your potential earning long-term. Learn the alphabet and some basic greetings and vocabulary before you go. This not only makes it easier to pick up on the language as you travel, but it allows you to communicate more easily with locals.

Conclusion

Travel can be an incredibly enriching experience, especially early on in adulthood. 

If done cleverly, you can excel in your studies and set yourself up for future professional success while having the time of your life!