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Travel Essentials

Airplane Wing

Travel Tips for Study Abroad

1. Booking Your Flight

Some programs include flights, but others require you to book your own. If you are booking:

  • Purchase your ticket early, especially during busy travel seasons
  • Make sure your arrival date matches your program schedule
  • Most countries require a round-trip ticket for entry
  • Consider if you plan to travel after your program ends

If you lose your ticket, contact the airline or travel agency right away. Fees may apply for replacement.

2. Saving Money on Travel

Students can receive discounts on flights, trains, and lodging. You may need an International Student ID (ISIC).

Helpful travel sites:

  • Expedia
  • Travelocity
  • Orbitz
  • Kayak
  • Yahoo Travel
  • Exito Travel
  • CheapFlights

Student discount sites:

  • STA Travel
  • Student Universe
  • Travel Cuts
  • AESU

Rider students may receive additional discounts through the Student Universe Rider portal.

3. Preparing Before You Go

To feel prepared and confident:

  • Learn a few basic words in the local language
  • Use travel guides like Frommer’s, Fodor’s, Lonely Planet, or Rough Guides
  • Bring a bilingual dictionary if needed
  • Visit sites like goabroad.com for updates and resources
  • Get free brochures and maps from AAA or tourism offices

4. Connecting with Others

Reach out to Rider students who have studied abroad before. They can share helpful advice and tips.

5. Where to Stay While Traveling

Hostels are a popular and affordable option:

  • Lower cost than hotels
  • Options for shared or private rooms
  • Great way to meet other travelers

Helpful resources:

  • Hostels
  • Rick Steves’ Travel

Some hostels may require a hostel pass or student ID.

6. Getting Around Abroad

Train Travel:

  • Common in many countries
  • Rail passes can save money
  • Sites to explore:
    • Eurail
    • BritRail
    • RailEurope
    • Deutsche Bahn

Bus Travel:

  • Affordable and widely used
  • Good for reaching smaller towns

Car Travel:

Local Transportation:

  • Most cities have reliable buses, метро (metro), and taxis
  • Usually safe and inexpensive
  • Be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas