Tips for a Budget-Friendly Vacation This Summer!

Summer is just around the corner, and for many of us, that means vacation time! Who wouldn't want to save a bit on their trip? Here are our best tips for an affordable vacation!

Finding a Flight

Whether you're traveling with friends or solo, you often take a flight to guarantee good weather, especially if you've been in the Netherlands recently. Don't have a specific location in mind? Use the 'everywhere' function on flight ticket websites.

Have a specific destination in mind? Skyscanner recently introduced a great tool: the Skyscanner Savings Generator. This tool shows you exactly when to book your flight to your dream destination.

1. Go to the Skyscanner Savings Generator website.
2. Enter your departure location.
3. Choose your departure month.
4. Enter your destination.

You will see a graph showing how many weeks in advance you should book. This way, you'll know exactly when to confirm your flight.

Additionally, don't stick to one airline or website. Browse various websites, compare airlines, and choose what suits you best.

Only a Small Suitcase?

Even if you find a cheap flight, baggage costs can sneak up on you. Ensure you only need hand luggage and no checked baggage. Here are some tips to make everything fit in your hand luggage and avoid extra costs:

• Don’t bring too many clothes; mix and match outfits.
• Roll your clothes to save space.
• Use packing cubes.
• Fill shoes with small items like socks or accessories.
• Wear your thickest clothing during the flight to save space in your suitcase.
• Buy a cheap towel on location instead of bringing one.

Finding Accommodation

Besides your flight, accommodation is a significant expense. Consider alternatives like hostels, Airbnb, apartments, or even Couchsurfing. With Couchsurfing, you stay at a local's home for free, just bring some good company.

• Hostels: Cheap and social, ideal for meeting other travelers.
• Airbnb: More privacy and often cheaper than hotels.
• Apartments: Suitable for longer stays or traveling with a group.
• Couchsurfing: Free stay with a local, often a unique cultural experience.

Vacation Like a Local Instead of a Tourist

Save on food and activities by living like a local and fully experiencing the culture.

• Cook your own meals and buy food at local markets.
• Ask locals for tips and they might even invite you for a meal.
• Don’t book activities through tourist websites like TripAdvisor; find local providers and negotiate the price.

Transportation

Transportation can be a significant expense during your vacation. Here are some tips to save money:

• Use public transport like buses and metros.
• Rent a bike or scooter for short distances.
• Walk as much as possible to explore the city.
• Avoid taxis and choose ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft.

Traveling cheaply requires some research and planning, but it is certainly possible. Browse many websites, make conscious choices, and step out of your comfort zone. Negotiate on the spot, live like a local, and ask around for the best tips. Don't forget, the fun of planning is at least as enjoyable as the trip itself! Plan evenings with your friends for this and start the party early!

This vacation will cost money anyway. Finding a nice part-time job during your studies can help with that. A part-time job not only gives you extra income but also valuable work experience.

At Recruit a Student, we are happy to help you find a flexible part-time job that fits your studies and life.

Why Choose Recruit a Student?

• Flexible part-time jobs that fit your schedule.
• Various sectors to gain work experience.
• Support in finding the right match.

Visit our website for the latest job vacancies and start saving for your next adventure!