Best Student Deals in the UK for Travel Packages
Introduction
Traveling as a student is an incredibly enriching experience. It provides an opportunity to explore new places, meet different people, and broaden horizons, all while on a budget. Fortunately, many companies offer fantastic deals tailored specifically for students. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best student travel deals available in the UK, covering various destinations and travel packages that are both affordable and memorable.
- Why Traveling as a Student is Beneficial
Before diving into the deals, let’s discuss why traveling as a student is important. As a student, you have a unique window of opportunity to travel freely, often with fewer responsibilities and more flexibility than in later years. Here are a few reasons why students should take advantage of travel opportunities:
- Personal Growth: Traveling helps build confidence, independence, and resilience.
- Cultural Exposure: Students can experience different cultures, languages, and traditions, enriching their worldview.
- Networking Opportunities: Meeting people from around the world can lead to lifelong friendships and professional connections.
- Educational Value: Traveling can complement formal education by providing real-world experiences that enhance understanding of global issues.
With that in mind, let’s look at the best travel deals for students currently available in the UK.
- Top Student Travel Packages in the UK
- a) Student Travel Deals by STA Travel
STA Travel has long been a go-to for students looking for affordable travel packages. While the company itself went into administration, its legacy remains through various travel agencies that have adopted its student-friendly approach. Some key offers include:
- Discounted Flights: STA’s partnerships with major airlines allow for exclusive discounts for students. Look for deals on one-way and round-trip tickets, especially to popular destinations such as the USA, Australia, and Europe.
- Flexible Travel Passes: Offers such as Eurail or Interrail passes, which provide unlimited train travel across Europe, are often discounted for students. These passes offer great flexibility and can help save significant amounts on intercity travel.
- Student Adventure Tours: STA’s adventure tours are ideal for students looking for guided experiences, whether it’s backpacking through Asia, exploring the Outback in Australia, or island-hopping in Greece.
- b) ISIC Card Offers (International Student Identity Card)
The ISIC card is the only internationally accepted proof of student status, and it opens the door to over 150,000 discounts in more than 130 countries. Here are some travel-related benefits:
- Discounted Flights and Accommodation: Several airlines and hostels offer special rates to ISIC cardholders. For instance, ISIC partners with airlines like British Airways, Emirates, and Lufthansa to offer exclusive fares.
- Bus and Train Discounts: Students can enjoy discounts on buses and trains in the UK and abroad, making it easier to travel between cities and countries on a budget.
- Free or Reduced Entry to Attractions: Many museums, galleries, and historic sites around the world offer free or reduced admission to ISIC holders.
- c) StudentUniverse Travel Packages
StudentUniverse is a popular travel booking site offering exclusive discounts for students. It’s a great resource for finding cheap flights, hotels, and tours. Some notable deals include:
- Cheap Flights: StudentUniverse provides a wide selection of discounted flights from the UK to destinations like New York, Sydney, Bangkok, and Barcelona. Their price comparison tools help ensure you’re getting the best rate.
- Budget-Friendly Hotels and Hostels: Find affordable accommodation options ranging from hostels to budget hotels, with discounts available exclusively to students.
- Discounted Group Tours: Ideal for students looking to travel with friends, StudentUniverse offers discounts on group tours to popular destinations like Peru’s Machu Picchu, Iceland’s Golden Circle, and Morocco’s Sahara Desert.
- d) Contiki Tours for Students
Contiki is known for its youth-focused tours, designed for travelers aged 18-35. Contiki offers various student discounts and packages that provide great value:
- Europe on a Budget: Contiki’s “Europe on a Budget” tours allow students to explore multiple European cities at an affordable price, with transportation, accommodation, and several meals included.
- Local Payment Discounts: By opting for local payment deals, students can save on tours across destinations in Asia, South America, and beyond.
- Flexible Payment Plans: Contiki offers flexible payment options, allowing students to pay for their trips in installments, making it easier to manage finances.
- e) Eurail Pass for European Adventures
If Europe is on your travel bucket list, the Eurail Pass is a must-have. The Eurail Pass provides unlimited travel across 33 European countries. Students under 28 receive up to 25% off on their passes, making it a fantastic deal for budget-conscious travelers.
- Unlimited Train Travel: Enjoy unlimited train travel within a set number of days or months, perfect for students wanting to explore multiple European countries.
- Free and Discounted Perks: Eurail Pass holders can enjoy free or discounted entry to attractions, ferry crossings, and public transportation.
- Customizable Travel Options: Students can choose from various passes based on their travel plans, from a few days to several months.
- Tips for Finding the Best Student Travel Deals
While there are many deals available, finding the best one can still be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your travel budget:
- Book in Advance: Flights, train passes, and accommodation are usually cheaper when booked well in advance. Start planning your trip early to take advantage of early-bird discounts.
- Be Flexible with Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, you can often find cheaper deals. Traveling during off-peak times can significantly reduce costs.
- Use Student Discounts: Always check for student discounts before booking any travel-related services. Many companies offer special rates for students.
- Compare Prices: Use comparison websites and apps to compare prices for flights, accommodation, and tours. Websites like Kayak, Skyscanner, and StudentUniverse are excellent tools for this.
- Sign Up for Alerts: Many travel companies offer exclusive discounts to subscribers. Signing up for newsletters or alerts can help you stay informed about the latest deals.
- Conclusion
Traveling as a student doesn’t have to be expensive. With numerous deals and discounts tailored specifically for students, it’s possible to explore new destinations without breaking the bank. Whether it’s discounted flights through StudentUniverse, flexible travel passes like Eurail, or guided tours with Contiki, there are plenty of options available to suit every traveler’s needs and budget.
So, get your bags packed, grab your student ID, and start planning your next adventure. The world is waiting for you, and with these fantastic student deals, there’s no better time to explore!
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Looking for more tips and travel advice? Visit our blog at IamStudent.co.uk to discover the best student deals, advice on budgeting for your travels, and much more! Don’t forget to share your travel stories with us and tag us on social media for a chance to be featured!