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Find out why Educational Destinations is the 1st choice in educational student group tours.

View our 2 minute intro video to see what Educational Destinations can do for your group.

Are you looking for custom educational travel for your students?

At Educational Destinations, each program is custom-designed to meet your group's wishes, with no hidden costs. Our company is led by accomplished educators, dedicated to anticipating and exceeding your needs.

The Trip Account app is offered to our groups as they travel.

Included in your trip, group leaders, staff, chaperones and travelers will use the information packed, versatile Trip Account App during their travels.

Powerful Director Tools

Interactive Checklists, Pop Up Communications, Emergency Notifications.

Tools for all travelers

Live Itineraries, Group Messaging, Photo Gallery and much more.

Everything you need for your next trip .

The Trip Account app is available for iPhone and Android.

Ready to experience the 2024 Solar Eclipse?

On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will arc across the southern half of Indiana from southwest to northeast. learn more

Check out our featured STEM destinations.

Encourage your STEM students as they participate in discovery labs, live shows, exhibits and hands-on educational experiences. learn more

Meet the ED Travel Designers

Our team is focused on creating custom trips that provide relevant, memorable and rewarding student travel experiences. learn more

Discover our featured history destinations.

Your students are ready to learn about the American Revolution and how Boston led the nation in fighting... learn more

Explore our our featured art destinations.

How about discovering a feast for the eyes with around 35,000 pieces of artwork at the Louvre... learn more

Check out our featured language immersion destinations.

Your Language Immersion students are ready to embrace the culture of France and participate in... learn more

Discover our featured adventure destinations.

Imagine your students as they kayak along the stunningly scenic coastal route along the Costa Verde in Brazil... learn more

Explore our featured theatre destinations.

Are your theatre students ready to participate in an actual Broadway Musical Theatre Workshop... learn more

Travel with Special Considerations or Dietary Restrictions

When a group is focused on its education, it is easy to overlook issues with accessibility. learn more

Top European Destinations

With the world full of fascinating educational destinations, just choosing the perfect spot for your students can present quite a challenge. Here are some of our cleints' must popular top European destinations. learn more

Getting parents involved in your educational trip.

Having parents involved in the program it a vital piece of the puzzle to be successful. learn more

Getting Groups Through Airport Security

Here’s how to get your students through security, smoothly and efficiently. learn more

Motor Coach Travel Advice for Students

Make the most of your ride with these insider tips. learn more

Choosing the right educational student group travel company.

When a student gets to experience to new locations, new cultures and new people with education being the focus, the revelations and the eye-opening impact that develop are priceless. learn more

Disney on Broadway with Educational Destinations.

Breathtaking! Amazing! Phenomenal! These are words you have probably heard time and time again from friends, family, and others when seeing a musical on Broadway. learn more

The Value of Education with a student Disney trip.

Have you ever wondered why opportunities involving educational trips to Disney are so abundant? The significance of education brought feeling and heart into... learn more

Health Tip: Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis, or deep venous thrombosis, (DVT) is the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) within a deep vein, predominantly in the legs... learn more

Fund Raising for your educational student trip.

Time for some heavy lifting. Before your trip becomes a reality, some homework has to be done. Don’t worry, Educational Destinations is here to help... learn more

Partners, Accreditations, and Awards

Hear from our Valued Clients throughout the world

Since 1987, Educational Destinations, led by passionate, award-winning teachers, has become the first choice for educational student group travel. By listening to teachers, providing cutting edge technology and unmatched service, and having dedicated ED Tour Directors conduct trips, Educational Destinations has built an unmatched reputation. Focused on designing custom trips that provide educational, memorable, and rewarding student travel experiences, Educational Destinations successfully partners with customers to do just that, in destinations within the United States and worldwide. Decades of combined travel expertise, earned in dozens of countries, enables Educational Destinations to anticipate performance needs and deliver group wishes, without surprises or hidden costs.

I wanted to write and tell you what a terrific job you did with our trip. I’ve been traveling since 1980 and this was the easiest trip ever for me. I simply had to do nothing but teach! It’s hard to believe it’s taken me this long to get it right, slow learner! The students and parents have had nothing to say but wonderful things…

Nan Moore Male High School

You have been so wonderful with our parents and students throughout the entire course of this tour. I am so glad we signed on with Music Travel Consultants/Educational Destinations as you gave our group the red carpet treatment every step of the way.

Janis Stackhouse Bloomington High School North

Music Travel Consultants/Educational Destinations is top-notch. The professionalism of the staff and their attention to detail is a director’s dream come true. My students and I have traveled with them four times over the past several years and I can say that “I won’t leave home without them!

Jena Adrianson Lawrence Central High School

I can’t say enough good things about Educational Destinations. They had everything covered and it was a relaxing and fun trip. My students and parents commented that it was the best trip we have ever taken. I’m ready to plan another trip with this company.

Brenda Bergman Jay County School Corporation

I recently had the pleasure of going on a Disney Trip with our band from Eastern High School in Greentown, IN. I was skeptical about going but am so glad I did. My Grandson and I came in rather late and had no problems whatsoever in getting onto your site, paying for our trip, and having confirmation that we were good to go.

Dianna Workinger Greentown, IN

Being able to trust implicitly the people who are planning what we will see, the timing of the itinerary, and the traveling arrangements is comforting not only to our staff but also to our parents. For our parents to know that this is a company that we use year after year with great results gives them the peace of mind that their children will experience the safest trip possible.

Mrs. Kathy Schubel Principal, St. Bartholomew Catholic School

I wanted to thank you so much for such a great trip! Our kids had a wonderful time and I could not imagine how we would have seen all that we were able to see without having you organize this trip for us.

Angie Remington Madison-Grant Elementary Students

I have worked with Educational Destinations on a yearly basis since 2001 and ED is the best educational travel group our school has ever worked with. It is refreshing to know that during the course of a trip that if any questions or problems arise, we have the consultant, whom we have worked with all year, right there with us to answer all questions and take care of the tickets and timing. It makes the trip very relaxing and enjoyable and a trip our kids never forget.

Darrin Russell 8th Grade U.S. History, Mitchell High School

I have been coordinating educational field trips for my school for the past 10 years and could not be happier with Educational Destinations. From the very first brainstorming session to the moment we return home from our trip, Educational Destinations works tirelessly to make sure our trips are memorable and successful. They are always quick to answer my questions, which I truly appreciate. Michael, Robin, and Ryan have been fantastic to work with over the years and I highly recommend them!

Kris Samick Spencer-Owen Community School Corporation

Educational Destinations has taken the stress out of planning and traveling with a large group. As a teacher, I am now able to actually enjoy the time I have with my students instead of worrying about all of the necessary details. From the very first contact made to the last moment of the trip and beyond, each and every person we have interacted with from Educational Destinations has been professional, concerned about fulfilling our needs, and exceptionally conscientious.

Linda Crady History Teacher, Sycamore School

Inspire a new perspective on the world

Student or parent? Join your teacher’s tour.

Experience the modern approach to educational travel.

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With EF Explore America, students are bound for an incredible experience that will exceed their (and your) expectations. That’s because our compelling itineraries are rooted in human connection—and crafted specifically for you.

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Investigate the most important elements of society by walking the streets where history happened and today’s culture is created.

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Our people are your people

Joining the EF family means you’ll have the support of our community of educators, tour architects, operations wizards, and ever-curious explorers. We’ve experienced the transformative power of travel firsthand—and we can’t wait to explore the opportunities that are out there for you and your students.

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What’s important to you is important to us

We believe travel is for everyone. When students go beyond the classroom it brings education to life, unlocks new potential, and opens a world of possibilities. That’s why we prioritize safety, value, and the kind of learning that prepares students for the future and their futures.

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Feel the impact of travel

Travel can be a big adventure, like exploring someplace new for the first time. But it’s also about the smaller moments on the road. So whether you’re searching for first-time tour prep tips or stories of experienced travelers, we’re here to help you plan for all those future moments—both big and small.

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All about “STEM Discovery: Boston”

We’re pulling back the curtain on everything that goes into this incredible Boston STEM program.

Hundreds of destinations. Endless possibilities.

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• High School

6 Student Travel Programs to Get You Out of the House 

Rebecca’s desire to experience the world began as a young child during her first viewing of...

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Sick and tired of hearing about college selections and internships? Are you totally over applying for the same summer jobs as everyone else? Do you feel like you’re going to scream if you hear the words “SAT prep” ever again? It’s cool, we know the feeling and have a solution!

If you’re looking to do something unique, exhilarating, and boundary-pushing, consider participating in a #clutch like traveling abroad? Trust us, your sanity, college applications, and Insta will all thank you. If Lizzie McGuire taught us anything, it’s that overseas travel is what dreams are made of!

[Watch this: High School Study Abroad is LIT ]

Ready to switch out textbooks for guidebooks?

What are student travel programs?

Student travel programs are exactly like what they sound like...young students can sign up for a program to take them across all corners of the world! Most have some type of educational component, such as language immersion if it’s somewhere with a different language or a cultural class to engage students more, but the focus is on traveling and exploring. Because meaningful travel has become so popular, there are student travel programs for high school students that focus on one specific country and there are others that take students to multiple countries. Whatever your preference, there’s a program out there for you!

[ Get matched with student travel programs like...yesterday]

Who can do student travel programs.

Students, of course! Namely, YOU. Whether you’re currently in high school or looking to take a gap year in between high school and college , there are tons of options! Most student travel programs for high school students require that you are enrolled somewhere and have above a 2.5 GPA, but the requirements are pretty lax besides that. Depending on the specific provider and location, there may be language requirements or courses that need to be completed before departure, so check each program carefully!

[Save and compare your favorite student travel programs with MyGoAbroad ]

Can i find student travel programs in europe.

Yup, all over the world, in fact! From student travel programs in Europe (think Norway ) to programs all the way in southeast Asia (hello Thailand !), there are opportunities in areas as remote or as cosmopolitan as you can imagine! Whether you’re looking for a traditional travel program or something more unique, trust us when we say there are so many different options that you won’t know what to do with yourself!

[ Download your FREE Ebook for great Tips & Tales for First Time Teen Travelers ]

Put. Down. The. College. Applications. (For now, at least.)

To help you narrow down your selection of awesome travel programs, we have selected our top seven picks:

Top student travel companies

When it comes to student travel programs for high school students, these are the best companies to check out. With engaging curriculum in the most interesting places around the world you can’t go wrong! 

1. Travel for Teens

As you probably could have guessed from the name, Travel for Teens is one of the best choices for students looking to explore! With over 100 different programs in 40 countries across five continents, this provider is a total winner. With a motto of “travelers not tourists”, Travel for Teens is excellent at providing an immersive and meaningful experience rather than just a tour. Their program types include community service, outdoor recreation, language immersion, college prep, and even photography, so if you’re looking for a provider that offers unique trips, this should be at the top of your list!

Most popular program: Summer in Berlin, Paris, and London Next: Read TFT reviews | Visit their site Related: See all student travel programs in Germany , France , and England

2. Academic Programs International

API is very well-known in the college study and intern abroad world, and they recently have launched an entire section of the company dedicated to just high school meaningful travel called “Aspire by API”. They offer summer programs in England, Spain, France, Ireland, and Italy, as well as summer community service programs in Ecuador, Argentina, and Costa Rica. Don’t stop here, as API is incredibly popular among gap year students, so if you’re thinking of doing more than just a few week travel program, check out their programs for gappers across nine countries in Europe and South America!

Most popular program: Art, Language, and Culture in Italy Next: Read API reviews | Visit their site Related: See all student travel programs in Italy

Make new friends around the world and laugh and learn together with student travel programs in Europe.

3. Experiment in International Living

Just like the name of the program suggests, The Experiment in International Living is an experiential international learning provider for high schoolers. The Experiment provides three to five week summer trips for students to become immersed in a new culture, pick up some foreign language skills, and explore a diverse region through hands-on experiences with the local community. The Experiment has been a high school study abroad leader for over 85 years, and each of their 32 programs in 26 countries around the world offers a specific theme for students to learn through. With so many options, there’s definitely one that will fit your needs!

Most popular program: Mongolia: Nomadic Culture & Outdoor Adventure Next: Read Experiment reviews | Visit their site Related: See all student travel programs in Mongolia

4. American Farm School

Get ready to get down and dirty with some farm animals! (No, not really…) Since 1904, the American Farm School has focused on the agricultural needs of Greece and the Balkans, and in 1970 created the Greek Summer Program. High school students spend a summer living with a family in a rural Greek village, and learn about the importance of agriculture and social issues related to refugees through hands-on experiences. The highlight of the summer is the “Big Trip”, where students participate in an eco-adventure like hiking Mt. Olympus and sailing through island communities and spectacular bays. Sounds much better than studying for the SATs! 

Most popular program: Greek Summer Next: Visit their site Related: See all student travel programs in Greece

Your path will be a lot clearer after participating in student travel programs for high school students.

5. Campus Education Australia

Despite the name, Campus Education Australia is not just a program down under. For 20 years, CEA has provided educational programs and homestays for teenagers in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Austria, Denmark, Switzerland, and of course, Australia. Their main goal is to promote cultural understanding and world peace, so students are exposed to all types of cultures, languages, and societies to develop critical thinking and social awareness skills, all while tying in awesome adventures like safaris in the Outback! 

Most popular program: Sydney Safari Adventure Next: Visit their site Related: See all student travel programs in Australia

6. GoBeyond Student Travel

Looking for something really meaningful in your summer trip? Head abroad with GoBeyond Student Travel! This student travel company focuses on traveling with a purpose, so all trip options offer “cross-cultural service adventures” where students volunteer in underdeveloped communities while having an exciting “vacation” abroad. Students can enjoy traveling and volunteering in places as kick-ass as Iceland, Peru, Thailand, India, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Australia, and the British Virgin Islands, with program options such as watersports adventure, wildlife stewardship, or hiking and walking tours. 

Most popular program: Ecuador and Galapagos - Islands, Andes, and Amazon Next: Visit their site Related: See all student travel programs in Ecuador

Next steps to signing up for student travel programs

Thinking really seriously about enrolling in a travel program? Time to do some narrowing down! While the above programs are some of our favorites, they are certainly not the only options, so use the below resources to help you pick the right one for your needs!

• Use the MyGoAbroad tool to read program reviews and narrow down your list
• Take advantage of our free OnlineAdvisor tool to get matched with your dream program
• Browse scholarships and financial aid options to help finance your trip
• Learn how to find incredible teen travel programs
• Check out this cheat sheet for can’t-miss high school travel programs
• Ready to get LIT? Watch our video on why you should study abroad in high school
• Consider taking a gap year if you’re REALLY interested in getting away from your parents

Now all that’s really left to do is pack, right? 

You’ll learn to appreciate and—dare I say you might even miss—mom’s nagging after spending time abroad.

Au revoir mom and pop! 

Whether you’re traveling, studying, volunteering, or taking a gap year abroad, any type of international adventure in high school is important! You are never too young to take the plunge into overseas travel, and if there is an additional component that makes it more meaningful such as taking a class or helping an underprivileged community, then all the more reason to go. 

So, escape those nagging parents and pressure-cooker schools by taking your studies and experiences out into the real world. We all know you’ll learn more by spending a summer traveling through South America than you will by taking a minimum wage job at the Tastee Freeze!

Find student travel programs for high school students

Explore High School Programs on GoAbroad.com

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Travel Changes Lives

Exceptional educational journeys.

“At ACIS, we are not just providing trips that last for a week; we are building them to last forever. Our philosophy is based on a passion for travel, delivering exceptional educational experiences, more cultural touchpoints, a service guarantee and our profound commitment to make every single moment count. We want this to be the greatest class you have ever given.”

Peter Jones , ACIS President

Committed to Excellence

Since 1978, ACIS, the American Council for International Studies, has been a leader in quality educational travel for middle and high school students and their teachers. We believe in the power of travel to open students’ eyes and change their lives—and every detail of our educational tours is carefully crafted to help make it happen. Our standards are high, and our commitment to excellence is relentless.

and more teachers and students have traveled with us since 1978

of 2022 group leaders rated their ACIS tour good to excellent.

days out of the year, we love what we do.

In educational travel, every moment matters

Pushing the experience from “good enough” to exceptional is what we do everyday. Our mission is to empower educators to introduce their students to the world beyond the classroom and inspire the next generation of global citizens. Travel changes lives.

Meet Our Team

We care about the little things because we want to make every moment special..

At ACIS, we’re passionate about making your trip an experience you’ll never forget. Our committed staff works hard to get every detail right and provide the support you need at every step. We love to travel ourselves, and we want you to experience all the adventure, fun and learning every ACIS trip delivers.

Why Choose ACIS

No other educational travel company matches ACIS for quality and level of service provided. Your program team is there to build a long-lasting partnership, and our network of suppliers around the world ensures 24/7 responses to any needs on tour. Adding in centrally located hotels, authentic meals, and the best Tour Managers in the industry, you will see The ACIS Difference from the moment you start planning.

“The amount of care, quality, attention to detail, and personal touch they do shows in every part of the trip.” ACIS Group Leader Scott S.

We’ve got you covered, at home and abroad

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Travel and educational trips enriches the minds of young students on their knowledge of places and works of art they have learned in the classrooms. To facilitate in amplifying a 360° assimilation of information in young minds along with their academic curriculum, EduVoyage curates unique educational travel experiences for young & student travelers. EduVoyage prides in not just generating smiles but also instilling a sense of wonder through a journey and experience into reality in their minds each term, embarking on a new dimension of learning.

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EduVoyage is a specialised division of ITL World - Travel Management Company, catering to the intricate requirements of student enrichment travel.

EduVoyage introduces students to the world beyond just the amazing sights and immerses them in knowledge, culture, and inspiration. These help students to broaden their horizons, challenge their minds and create memories that will last a lifetime. Where possible, students are given opportunities to engage in community services or interact with other students and teachers from a local institution, making their trip a responsible one and giving them eye-opening experiences.

Meeting the needs of multinational students, parents, and teachers, EduVoyage follows stringent measures to ensure quality, safety and security. Every aspect of the trip is thoroughly inspected to ensure suitability and compliance with safety measures. In addition to faculties from the institutions and local guides, all trips are accompanied by an experienced member of EduVoyage for 24/7 on the ground assistance. Moreover, all our student travel are mandatorily protected with Travel Insurance.

With tailor-made itineraries and a portfolio of solutions or bespoke arrangements, EduVoyage continues to play an integral role in enriching Education with Travel.

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Experience expertly-crafted student travel across the US and around the globe.

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Whether you plan the annual 8th grade trip to DC or you're studying the birth of democracy in Athens, our Social Studies and History tours make the textbook pages come alive.

Give your band, orchestra, or choir the chance to train with world-famous artists and discover cities rich with culture and history.

Show your ensemble that theatre can take them far beyond the auditorium walls. Take in a hit show, participate in clinics with master artists, and perform in world-renowned destinations.

Journey to cultural capitals that inspire your students to see the world from a new perspective as they experience the works of master artists and icons.

As a preferred travel provider, we have over a decade of experience planning custom TRIO tours for programs across the country. We handle all the details — including college visits, admissions presentations, and must-see cultural attractions — so you can have a stress-free, inspiring travel experience.

Bring the classroom to life

Our educational tours are custom-tailored to your curriculum, making the pages of a textbook come alive.

Brightspark has been supportive, professional, and extremely helpful in working through the difficulties of COVID-19. Your company has shown exemplary customer service. We will DEFINITELY travel with you in the future. We appreciate all you have done for our families.

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Make the world your stage

Give your ensemble the performance opportunity of a lifetime on a custom music, dance, or theatre student trip.

I am still smiling thinking about our fantastic trip to Disney World last month! Over the year of planning, I spent hours on the phone with Brightspark, and they were always resourceful, helpful, and understanding of my needs.

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For over 50 years, Brightspark has been helping educators and directors take their students on customized, personalized tours across the world. From exploring the history of Washington, D.C., to performing in Europe's culture capitals, our student tours are all about getting an interactive, hands-on experience — all while having tons of fun!

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The Brightspark team has planned inspiring tours for tens of thousands of student groups over the last five decades, developing strong relationships in each of our destinations.

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Surprises can disrupt even the best-laid travel plans. Our RGP plan for domestic tours returns every penny spent on trip payments when a tour is cancelled.

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Sharing her advice on building an inclusive curriculum, Group Leader Lisa said, "Culturally relevant thinking and pedagogy is allowing students to bring their experience into the classroom."

At Brightspark, the world is our classroom, and she inspired us to consider how diverse communities influenced some of our favorite cities over centuries of migration, struggle, and progress.

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Seven Top Student Travel Providers

Student travel is on the rise and to help you with all your planning needs, we present the student travel providers you need to know

When educators first get the inspiration to travel with their students, they usually turn to a tour operator that specializes in student travel. Whether it’s a short trip to the state capital or an international adventure, these organizations can smooth the way and make the planning process a positive experience. Lifting many of the burdens off the teacher’s shoulders, experienced operators take care of all the details, from flights and bus transportation to hotel arrangements. They also may provide free travel and other incentives to teachers interested in forming groups.

Here is a brief look at 7 top student tour operators and what they offer:

1. WORLDSTRIDES

While on a trip with his class to Washington, D.C., a middle school teacher from Chicago realized the positive impact travel had on students and established Lakeland Tours in 1967. In the 1990s, Lakeland Tours combined with other travel programs, including American Student Travel, Educational Field Studies, Heritage Festivals, Bowl of America and Wider Horizons to create WorldStrides . Since then, many others have joined, including Classic Festivals, Accent Travel Group, New Century Tours, TravelMBA, Casterbridge Tours and Envision.

WorldStrides is a travel study school that is independently accredited in regions across the country and around the world. It provides educational travel programs for elementary, middle, high school and university students. WorldStrides’ mission is “Enriching Students’ Lives Through Experiential Travel.” One popular destination is Washington D.C, where students learn about American government and history in the nation’s capital. The 4-day trip visits sites such as the Arlington National Cemetery, Washington Monument, White House, Mount Vernon and Holocaust Museum.

Educators can also gain valuable experience by traveling with WorldStrides. Qualified educators can receive free professional development or low-cost graduate credit.

2. EDUCATION FIRST

EF, short for Education First , is a world leader in international education based in Cambridge, Massachusetts with a global presence in 120 countries. Since 1965, this family-owned business has been bringing people around the world together through its learning programs that help students reach their education goals by providing educational travel, cultural exchanges, language training and academic degrees.

Tour highlights include a 9-day tour of Athens, Crete and Santorini, in which students will learn about ancient Greek history, visiting sites such as the Knossos Palace, Acropolis and Agios Nikolaos. For groups who enjoy wildlife, Discover South Africa is an 11-day tour that allows students to learn about South African politics and history while viewing natural attractions like Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and Kruger National Park. Sustainability is at the heart of a 6-day trip that celebrates Earth Month by addressing climate change in the Dominican Republic by working with El Instituto del Ambiente, an institution that focuses on reforestation and the conservation of natural resources.

Teachers who lead EF tours get access to a wide range of opportunities to connect with other globally minded educators and grow personally and professionally—they can even earn professional learning hours or points while traveling. And with EF Global Rewards, teachers earn points they can redeem for VIP Rewards Tours (aka, just-for-fun adventures that go all over the world) as well as student scholarships and other EF travel opportunities.

3. EDUCATION TRAVEL ADVENTURES

Since 1991, Educational Travel Adventures has been the company of choice for so many educators planning trips for their students. With a combination of tours, site visits and experiential learning experiences, ETA can customize each subject-specific trip for maximum results. ETA offers destinations around the world, including more than 40 cities in North America as well as cities in Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, Oceania and Middle East.

Beyond destination-focused, trips can spotlight adventure, art, civics and social studies, film and TV production, history, language and culture, and science. Some of EFT’s most popular trips include a 4-day

professional workshop experience in NYC for theater, dance and orchestra students; an 8-day day trip to France with visits to Paris and Normandy; and a 3-day tour of the iconic L.A. highlights. Chaperones travel for free.

4. STUDENTUNIVERSE

The world’s leading travel booking site for students and youth, StudentUniverse has partnered with more than 200 airlines to provide exclusive trips all over the globe for those under 30. A unique pricing structure grants discount rates to large student groups, and a partnership with Flight Central in 2015 ensured students can now take reasonably priced trips to diverse countries such as Hong Kong, India and the United Arab Emirates. Headquartered in Boston, StudentUniverse has expanded into the U.K., Australia and Canada

5. STRAIGHT A TOURS

Straight A Tours is a leader in student group travel based in Orlando, Florida that provides travel arrangements for students to destinations all over the United States. It is also one of Disney’s preferred travel planners for trips to places like Disney World and Disneyland. Student groups in California can experience theme parks and other attractions. Itineraries in Northern and Southern California might include the Golden Gate Bridge, Universal Studios Hollywood and SeaWorld San Diego.

Straight A Tours’ “Festivals at Sea” program, which has been placing student groups on cruises for more than 25 years, includes workshops, classes and presentations that can be arranged with the ships’ staff and crew members on the ship. Cruises include 24-hour dining, spacious staterooms, fun shipboard activities and entertainment, interesting destinations and more.

ACIS , the American Council for International Studies, has been a leader in quality educational travel for middle and high school students since 1978. The company emphasizes Cultural Connections, where students interact with local tour guides and artisans no matter where in the world their trip takes them. Students can look forward to authentic meals that represent local cuisine and hotels close to historic sights instead of long bus trips or catered meals.

With tours across six continents and personalized service from a dedicated international program team, ACIS has established an excellent reputation after some 45 years in the industry. Unique tours include an 10-day Cities of Indochina trip with stops in Bangkok, Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City; a Cradle of Civilization trip with in-depth visits to Athens, Sorrento and Rome; and a Mystical Mexico trip full of visits to pyramids, cenotes and an eco-archeological theme park.

7. KALEIDOSCOPE ADVENTURES

With a former educator as its CEO, Kaleidoscope Adventures has become known as a leader in the student travel planning industry with an eye for crafting trips that are uniquely their own. Specializing in trips that are distinctively educational as well as ones focused on performance, sports and festivals, Kaleidoscope Adventures makes student safety a priority with a clearly communicated safety plan included in the process.

Treat your students to an outdoor adventure with a visit to a private working Colorado dude ranch where guided hikes, horseback riding, wellness programs and art workshops are all part of the journey. Or venture to a city where the past co-exists beautifully with the present with a trip to Boston that includes historical adventures (Bunker Hill, Boston Tea Party Ship, Freedom Walking Tour) as well as more contemporary ones (Museum of Science, Blue Man Group).

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Start by notifying your study abroad office of your interest in IES Abroad and ask if there's an internal application process at your school. Next, check the application deadline and review the application requirements for your program of interest. Finally, submit the online application and submit the supplemental requirements from your MyIESabroad  account after your application is processed.  

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With just one (yes, one!) single application , you can apply for all our scholarship and aid opportunities at once. That's millions of dollars! Better yet, after you submit our Scholarships & Aid Application, we’ll tell you all of the aid you’re eligible for. It’s that easy! 

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Housing varies by destination and program. Look under the Housing section on the program you’re interested in to find more information about housing options available to you.  

Additionally, after you’ve applied, detailed housing information will be made available to you in your Predeparture Guide. 

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Our Representatives help you before you apply, our Advisors help you after you apply, and our Center staff help you once you’re on-site. 

Wherever you are and whatever step in the journey you’re at, someone at IES Abroad is there to help you. 

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Once you arrive on-site, our Center staff are there to help. The Center is where our highly trained local staff provide on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad. 

Each destination has a Center. You can learn more about our global Centers – including highlights and the surrounding area – on the About the IES Abroad Center section on a program’s webpage. 

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After we've accepted your application, you’ll gain access to your Predeparture Guide, which provides detailed information about everything you need to know before you go abroad. From visa requirements and academics to local culture and packing information, our Predeparture Guides help make your study abroad transition as seamless as possible.  

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Our Student Travel Center provides students with low cost, discounted prices on airfare and other popular travel needs! We are proud to be associated with a select group of high quality companies that offer specific services to meet your travel needs. In partnership with these companies, we can offer you cheap airfare and other low cost travel options for the following programs:

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When you are traveling abroad, make sure you have the right insurance plan in place to cover things like hospitalization, evacuation, trip interuption and much more.

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To be truly mobile when you travel, purchase a sim card or mobile phone package that will travel with you and keep you connected all the time. Sim cards are available to those who already have a mobile phone and want to take it with them, or just purchase the complete package.

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Studying abroad? Here are the best international student travel insurance companies

Travel insurance can not only save students money when studying abroad, but many schools also require it..

Studying abroad is a valuable educational and cultural experience and could give you an advantage in the job market after graduation. Buying travel insurance is a way to protect yourself financially while studying abroad. 

Many international programs require travel insurance , and some offer it through a predetermined provider. But if you're on the hunt for a comprehensive travel insurance plan on your own, CNBC Select has made it a little easier. We compared dozens of top travel insurance companies for students and narrowed down the five best options that stood out for their strong coverage and affordability . (See our methodology for more information.)

Best student travel insurance

• Best overall: AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance
• Best for medical expenses: USI Affinity Travel Insurance
• Best for trip interruptions: Travel Guard Travel Insurance
• Best for customizable coverage: Allianz Travel Insurance
• Best for students on a budget: Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

Best overall

Axa assistance usa travel insurance.

The best way to estimate your costs is to request a quote

Policy highlights

AXA Assistance USA offers several travel insurance policies that include travel interruption, trip cancellation, and the option of cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage.

24/7 assistance available

• Three tiers of plans available
• Highly rated for financial strength
• Cancel for any reason only available on highest-tier coverage

AXA Assistance USA 's most basic plan, the Silver Plan, includes all of the essentials a student will likely need while studying abroad: coverage for emergency medical expenses (up to $25,000 for accident or sickness and up to $100,000 for evacuation), baggage loss (up to $750) trip interruption and trip cancellation. 

It's budget-friendly as well and is one of the most affordable yet comprehensive travel insurance plans on the market. If you're interested in higher coverage limits, AXA offers two more premium plans, one of which includes a cancel for any reason (CFAR) option. 

[ Jump to more details ]

Best for medical expenses

Usi affinity travel insurance.

USI Affinity has travel medical policies in addition to trip cancellation policies. Travel medical plans include an option for frequent travelers to cover multiple trips. Trip cancellation options include coverage for road trips and group travel.

• Wide variety of plans for both trip cancellation coverage and travel medical insurance
• CFAR only covers up to 70% of non-refundable trip costs

USI Affinity is a good choice for students primarily concerned about potential medical expenses abroad. The company offers only one trip cancellation plan but offers a wide variety of travel medical plans tailored to specific situations.

Best for trip interruptions

Travel guard® travel insurance.

Travel Guard offers a variety of plans to suit travel ranging from road trips to long cruises. For air travelers, Travel Guard can help assist with tracking baggage or covering lost or delayed baggage.

• A variety of plans are available to help cover different types of trips
• Not all products are available for purchase online

Students who are concerned about trip interruptions should consider Travel Guard , which offers last-minute coverage. There are three base packages available online, with more options available through a representative. Its most basic plan includes typical coverage for travel medical expenses (up to $15,000 in medical expenses and $150,000 for evacuation), but robust coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage theft as well as per-day compensation for trip delays.

Best for customizable coverage

Allianz travel insurance.

10 travel insurance plans make it possible to customize your coverage. For families, Allianz's OneTrip Prime package covers children age 17 and younger when traveling with a parent or grandparent.

• Trip cancellation benefits can reimburse your prepaid, nonrefundable trip payments if you have to cancel your trip for one of the covered reasons stated in your plan documents. 
• Limited coverage for risky sports

Allianz offers a whopping 10 different travel insurance policies. While many premium insurers offer cancel for any reason coverage that can cover up to 75% of prepaid, non-refundable trip costs, Allianz's Cancel Anytime upgrade can reimburse up to 80% of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip payments if you have to cancel your trip for one of the covered reasons stated in your plan documents. If you're planning to be adventurous during your study abroad experience, Allianz has a variety of add-ons to cover rental cars, hazardous sports and more. 

Best for students on a budget

Berkshire hathaway travel protection.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has multiple plans to cover vacations from luxury travel to adventure travel. The brand's LuxuryCare offers the highest limits of travel insurance coverage offered by the company. Quotes and policies are available online.

• Wide variety of policies available
• Strong financial strength rating by AM Best
• Cancel for any reason only provides reimbursement for up to 50% of non-refundable trip payments

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection is a strong choice for students on a tight budget looking for strong coverage. Its most basic plan (the ExactCare Value plan) earned one of the cheapest quotes reviewed by CNBC Select and includes moderate-limit coverage for everything a student might need while studying internationally. 

More on our top travel insurance for studying abroad

AXA's travel insurance offers medical coverage for emergencies and accidents while traveling for up to $250,000. It offers three different plans for travelers starting as low as $16 according to its website.

CFAR coverage available

24/7 assistance?  

[ Return to summary ]

USI Affinity offers a number of travel plans, including travel medical plans for those traveling outside of the U.S. Its InterMedical Insurance plan has three levels of medical coverage available ranging from $50,000 to $150,000, and starts at $1.35 per day, according to the company's website.

Travel Guard Travel Insurance

Travel Guard's travel insurance could be a fit for students studying abroad with three levels of coverage. Its travel medical expense coverage can go up to $100,000 with the brand's deluxe plan.

Allianz offers several types of travel insurance for students, including its OneTrip Emergency Medical Plan with up to $50,000 in emergency medical benefits and $250,000 in evacuation benefits. Its OneTrip Prime and Premier plans offer cancellation and trip interruption benefits on top of emergency medical benefits up to $50,000.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection offers several travel insurance plans that could be a fit for student travelers, including its ExactCare Value and ExactCare plans, offering both trip cancellation and interruption coverage in addition to medical coverage.

What does travel insurance cover for studying abroad? 

Medical expenses and emergency evacuation.

Stan Sandberg, a co-founder of the online marketplace TravelInsurance.com , said medical coverage is the most important area of coverage for students studying abroad. 

Most travel insurance plans, regardless of whether they are designed for students, cover medical expenses incurred abroad. Medical expense coverage can help to cover injuries or illnesses you may incur while abroad. Emergency evacuation coverage generally includes transportation to the nearest adequate facility or transportation home.

Travel medical coverage can exclude some situations that are relevant for students studying abroad — namely, intoxication. "If the individual is either beyond a certain intoxication level or under the influence of illegal substances, those things are very often excluded from coverage," Sandberg said. "So, a student traveling to a country that doesn't have a drinking age, for instance, that would be something to keep in mind."

Because of cultural alienation and homesickness, studying abroad can be an emotionally difficult time for many students. If you are shopping for student travel insurance, you should consider searching for a plan that covers mental health services. Read your travel policy carefully to understand the coverage offered and any requirements for coverage.

If medical expenses are the only cost you wish to insure, then you might instead consider an international health plan, which Sandberg recommends for students on a budget . 

Trip cancellation and interruption 

If your circumstances change at the last minute, you'll be grateful to have a travel insurance plan with trip cancellation coverage, which will reimburse you for your non-refundable trip costs, like flights and hotels , for covered events. 

This coverage will not, however, cover any non-refundable costs of your study abroad program, such as tuition, room and board, which are likely to be much more expensive than the flights to and from. So to Sandberg, this coverage is slightly less important for students.

Travel assistance

It's possible that studying abroad will be a student's first time out of the country. Traveling internationally , especially in areas with a language barrier, can be confusing. Many travel insurance plans, and all five policies we chose as our top picks , offer a 24/7 helpline to assist you along your journey. 

Lost or stolen baggage

Along with travel assistance, baggage loss and baggage delay coverage are examples of post-departure benefits. Study abroad programs typically last an entire semester or a summer, so you'll likely pack a lot of luggage. 

If you're traveling with valuables, you should consider searching for a plan that includes baggage insurance. Sandberg recommends reading the fine print, though, as many plans exclude electronic items in luggage and items above a certain value. 

And of course, make sure any policy is worth your money and aligns with your coverage goals before purchasing it. Many travel insurance policies offer free look periods that include time to read over the policy and cancel coverage with a refund.

What is travel insurance for studying abroad? 

For students and adults alike, travel insurance is a flexible type of coverage designed to protect you when you're far from home. By purchasing a policy, you can prevent financial hardship related to international medical expenses or travel mishaps like interruptions, delays and lost luggage. Some premium travel insurance plans offer cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage, which allows you to recoup some of your expenses should you cancel your trip for any reason.

Is travel insurance worth it for studying abroad?

Travel insurance is a wise investment for travelers who will be abroad for a while, including students studying abroad. Most domestic medical plans do not cover international hospital bills, so in case of an emergency, having travel insurance with medical expense coverage could be crucial.

How much does travel insurance cost for students studying abroad?  

Travel insurance costs vary depending on the length of the trip, the age of the travelers and the extent of the coverage. You can expect to pay around 4% to 10% of your trip's total cost, according to travel insurance comparison site InsureMyTrip . Keep in mind though that your trip's "total cost" does not include the cost of your study abroad program itself. Most travel insurance companies are only interested in the cost of flights and non-program lodging like hotels. The best way to estimate the cost of insuring your trip is to get quotes from multiple companies.

What is international health insurance?

International health insurance is a health coverage plan that covers your medical expenses anywhere in the world. An international health insurance plan provides very similar medical coverage to that provided by a travel insurance plan.

Do I need travel insurance if my credit card has it already?

Some of the best travel credit cards on the market provide some travel protection. For example, the  Chase Sapphire Reserve®  card offers trip cancellation and interruption insurance up to $10,000 per covered person up to $20,000 per trip, travel accident insurance, emergency evacuation insurance and coverage for baggage delays and loss. Ask your issuer if your card has any travel protection benefits. If not, or if the coverage is minimal, you should consider purchasing travel insurance from a third party.

Bottom line

Not only is it a smart idea to purchase travel insurance to study abroad, but it is also required by a lot of international programs. With travel insurance, students can worry less about the unexpected and make the most of their experience abroad. If your academic program does not have a pre-existing partnership with a certain provider, then consider using one of these top travel insurance companies for students. 

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Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every travel insurance review is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of travel insurance products. While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics. See our methodology for more information on how we choose the best cheap travel insurance.

Our methodology 

To determine the best travel insurance companies for students studying abroad, CNBC Select analyzed dozens of U.S. travel insurance companies that come with a wide variety of policies and offer coverage for a number of situations. 

When narrowing down the best travel insurance companies, we focused on the coverage available, including the number of plans available, 24/7 assistance availability and cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage availability. We also considered financial strength ratings from AM Best and Better Business Bureau ratings for customer satisfaction.

To consider costs, we gathered quotes from the top travel insurance companies for four sample trips, which included:

1. A semester-long (January 15 to June 15) study-abroad trip to the United Kingdom:

• $3,000 per person (flights to and from JFK and non-program hotels)
• New York residents
• Traveler aged 20

2. A summer (June 15-August 15) study-abroad trip to Italy:

• $2,000 per person (flights to and from JFK and non-program hotels)

Sample quotes assumed that payments were made on the date of quoting.

Note that the premiums and policy structures advertised for travel insurance companies are subject to fluctuate in accordance with the company's policies.

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The Complete Guide to Student Hotel Deals

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Generally, student life provides the unique opportunity to travel more freely. A common hurdle that students encounter while traveling is cost. This is particularly true for big-ticket expenses, like lodging.

If you’re eager to find affordable accommodations, here are sites where you can find student discount hotels and hostels on a budget.

Best websites for hostels and hotels at student discounts

Major travel platforms, such as Kayak and Expedia , can generally be a good starting point to find cheap hotels. However, there are sites designed specifically for students’ lifestyle, schedules and wallets that might land you a room more suited to your needs.

1. CheapOair

Although its name might suggest it offers cheap airfare only, students might also uncover hotel savings on CheapOair , too. It features lodging of all types, including affordable hotels and budget motels. It also has a dedicated page for last-minute hotel deals for a spontaneous weekend getaway.

You can browse available accommodations on the CheapOair website or on its mobile app. You also can call an agent at 845-848-0154 to explore your options and book your room.

UNiDAYS is a site dedicated to offering various student discounts from hotels, clothing stores, grocers, gyms and more.

To access these deals, you must be a current student and sign up to be a member online. Membership is free, but UNiDAYS might accept commissions on hotel bookings you make through its platform.

It partners with popular hotel and vacation rental sites to offer student members additional discounts. For example, if using UNiDAYS to book a room on Hotels.com, you might receive up to 40% off and an extra 8% off on hotels.

» Learn more: Are Airbnbs cheaper than hotels?

Hostelz gathers data from other booking sites so you can easily run price comparisons for your preferred room.

It pulls rates and traveler reviews from Hostelworld.com, Booking.com and Hostelclub.com. The platform offers the largest worldwide database of hostels, giving its customers access to a comprehensive list of available rooms around the world.

Searching its database is free, and according to the site, it offers an average savings of 10.6%, and up to 60% for some bookings. Its reviews show full transparency and aren’t guided by Hostelz’s commissions or screened by the hostels.

4. StudentUniverse

StudentUniverse is a site devoted to students and travelers under 30 years old that are from the U.S., the U.K., Australia and Canada. Its hotel database has more than 200,000 hotel and vacation properties worldwide, and students can access discounts of up to 60% off on hotel reservations.

The deals on StudentUniverse are exclusive for its members. To sign up, you’ll need to provide your name, date of birth, email address, and your school and expected graduation year.

When browsing available stays, keep in mind that the prices shown don’t include taxes and fees. Make sure you account for these added costs before finalizing your reservation.

Tips for finding student discount hotels

With so many details to work out, planning a trip on a shoestring budget might feel chaotic and costly. Taking some extra steps while sorting out logistics for your next stay can help you keep both to a minimum.

Stay flexible

If you’re on a tight budget or need a last-minute reservation, you’ll find more options by keeping an open mind. This includes check-in or checkout dates and room features.

The least glamorous room type at a hotel is likely its cheapest option. This might mean accepting a room with a tight square footage, a view of a parking structure or one that is close to a noisy elevator or staircase.

Call the hotel or hostel directly

Student hotel deal websites are a solid place to start your search for cheap stays; however, as a third-party aggregator (or online travel agency), these sites often tack on additional fees that add up.

Once you’ve found a room you like on a deals site, call the hotel or hostel directly to compare its rate for that room type.

You might be able to secure a reservation with the agent on the phone, or through the lodging’s website, at a lower total price.

Look up promos before checkout

Sometimes the hotel’s rates are about the same as the hotel’s student discount price. See if you can find extra discounts for the deal site you’re booking through.

If you’re booking the reservation around a major holiday, or are a new customer on the platform, you might find a promo code for an extra discount.

Book with a credit card

Using a credit card to pay for your stay offers additional benefits during and beyond your trip. Some will let you earn an unlimited 5% cash back for hotel reservations made in certain online travel booking portals.

Booking your hotel or hostel lodgings through a credit card also builds your credit history. Just ensure that you can afford repaying any purchases placed on the account to avoid accumulating debt. Before reserving your next accommodations, compare the best college student credit cards .

» Learn more: The best hotel credit cards right now

Don’t forget about safety

Finding cheap lodging can have the biggest impact on your travel budget, but cost savings should never compromise your personal safety. Do your due diligence by checking whether the building has secured entry during late hours and whether there’s on-site security personnel or cameras in common areas, like lobbies and hallways.

Also, read reviews of each hotel or hostel under consideration and what other students have to say about the surrounding area.

Hotels with student discounts, recapped

When you’re on a student budget, taking advantage of ways to travel affordably is essential. Using deal websites for student discount hotels is a good way to uncover a low-cost yet comfortable haven to return to during your trip.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

I'm a college student studying abroad. I'm shocked at how many luxury trips my classmates take.

• I was excited to study abroad in Florence and to take small, cheap trips while abroad.
• My classmates are not traveling cheaply; they are flying to luxury places like Dubai and the Alps.
• I wonder if they are just doing it for social media, but I'm still enjoying my time abroad.

As a third-year college student attending Colorado State University in Fort Collins, I jumped at the chance to study abroad . Trading in a semester of snow and freezing temperatures for beautiful architecture and centuries-old art was a no-brainer.

I was so excited that I filled out the application to study in Florence nearly a year before the day I would depart. Four months in Florence, Italy, was comparable to the cost of a semester at my state school . After talking to my parents and counselor, I believed the cultural experience and travel opportunities were worth it.

I knew that when I arrived, I would have to budget when traveling —doing so through communal hostel stays and low-cost airlines. I was prepared for overstuffed backpacks and bus tickets; upon arrival, though, it became clear that pinching pennies was not on everyone's agenda.

The other students are jet-setting every weekend to expensive locations

The first few days in Florence were comparable to a freshman welcome week. The time was full of activities, including hikes, dinners, and other various ventures to get students to meet one another. My roommates and I attended one of the dinners to make connections before classes began.

Standing among groups of strangers , I expected to converse about majors and hometowns; however, I witnessed a quiet competition between students on who would be going to the most places in the coming months.

Comments such as "I have every weekend planned and booked" or "I would go, but I've already been" were stacked on top of one another as my peers attempted to one-up each other. At this time, I had a total of zero trips planned. When caught in these conversations, I felt oddly pressured to also fill my calendar each weekend, accompanied by the feeling of stress due to not being able to afford travel every five days. I feared I would be left behind.

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I've been here for over two months, and this conversation hasn't ended. Every Monday, I hear whispers about where my peers had jet-setted to days before. Places like Dubai and Morocco have been mentioned, leaving me just as shocked as that first dinner. I knew studying abroad was a privilege before getting here, but "a weekend in Dubai " was not what I expected.

Nobody is 'roughing it' like I thought they would be

My spring break was only three weeks into the start of the semester, and this was when I decided to take my first trip. When booking, I scoured sites, such as KAYAK and Skyscanner, but plane tickets and hotels were still extremely pricey. Eventually, my roommates and I decided to spend five days in Prague after finding affordable tickets on Ryanair. One of the greatest appeals of Prague was it was walkable, cheap, and had a good nightlife — my top three requirements as a traveling college student.

My three roommates and I booked a studio apartment for around $100 each for a total of five nights. It took us two trains, one bus, a plane, and some walking to get there, but the price was right. I was excited for the following week and felt satisfied with our trip and housing accommodations.

That was until I scrolled through Instagram to see my peers skiing in the Alps and skydiving in Copenhagen. It was almost unbelievable that the people I attend classes with could afford this style of travel while my school backpack was stuffed with a week's worth of clothes cause I opted out of the carry-on baggage fee Ryanair required.

I thought everyone at this stage made sacrifices when traveling, but I was mostly wrong.

I'm convinced people are traveling for the sake of their Instagram

I have a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that anyone can experience a new country in the span of 48 hours.

I do know, however, that people are really good at making their time away look like the best time ever on my Instagram feed . It's as if they're collecting comments like postcards or putting another notch in their belts by showing one another how many stamps they have accumulated in their passports.

Traveling while studying abroad is a competitive sport with a large price tag that no one told me to train for.

I've learned that such comparisons defeat the purpose of traveling. Maybe I haven't flown on the best airlines or stayed in an oceanfront villa, but my experiences abroad have been enriching and allowed me to engage with other cultures. Best of all? I didn't have to spend much money, and my Instagram still looks good.

Watch: Marriott International's Tina Edmundson tells Insider that the travel mindset has changed since the pandemic

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