Celestial

How to Survive a Semester Abroad Without Going Broke

The Holy Cross study abroad program is an excellent opportunity for students to gain broader cultural experience while picking from a diverse selection of classes that differ from anything offered at Holy Cross. The opportunities should be taken advantage of, however, studying abroad provides some financial challenges that can be minimized with a few strategies.

Pick a location

Consider what your goals are. Are you looking to completely immerse yourself in one culture, or are you interested in seeing as many new places as possible? If you are looking to be immersed, it is important to consider the costs of the things you will be doing in and around your city of residence. If you are looking to travel, consider how you will get around. Is there an airport nearby? A train station? If you are far from public transportation, taxi and rideshare fees will add up quickly.

Travel without breaking the bank

Consider how you would travel to new destinations. Ryanair is the most affordable option when it comes to traveling around Europe. For example, flights from Dublin to London can cost under 70 euros at the cheapest. Due to these especially low fees, the airline will try to make money off you in several ways. Make sure to check in 24 hours before your flight or else they will charge you 50 euros for a check in fee. If you are only traveling with a carry on, make sure that it is small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. If your bag looks even slightly oversized while you are boarding the flight, an attendant will snatch you out of line and put your bag in a measuring box, which could hardly fit a handbag. Unfortunately, I have fallen victim to both traps and either can double the cost of a single flight. Not good! Traveling with a group can also cut expenses significantly for things like rideshares and temporary housing. Airbnbs and hostels are the best places to stay depending on how many people you’re traveling with. Hostel World is a great app for researching hostels to stay in.

Compare the cost of living in the city you choose

The cost of living can make a big difference in the amount of money spent in certain cities. Even cities that are close in proximity to each other, such as Cork and Dublin, can have different expenses. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Dublin might cost 20 euros whereas in Cork, the same meal could cost you 15 euros. Are you an Asian Studies major? Then maybe studying in Asia is the place for you as a Big Mac at a Japanese Mcdonald’s is almost 50% cheaper than in the United States.

Consider the difference in food options

Study abroad programs could include on campus dining halls as food options, but an immersion program might provide home cooked meals from a billet family. Some study abroad programs might not include a food plan at all, but being aware of the food options is a must when planning the trip financially.

Get a foreign credit card plan

Foreign exchange fees can reach as high as 14% which makes it crucial to have a credit card that accommodates foreign purchases. Bank of America has a great plan that offers points for international purchases. When given the option for a purchase, choose to pay in Euros over USD because USD gives the worst exchange rate from the merchant.

Safe travels. Your experience will be priceless.

By Christopher Hatem