Cashing in on Affordable Student Travel Savings

Are you planning a backpacking voyage and looking for some great global student travel deals? Keep reading to learn the three best ways to save money on your next big trip. nnThe International Student Identity Card (ISIC)nnISIC stands for an International Student Identity Card. This card is available from most STA Travel offices, Travelcuts locations and other student-affiliated travel agencies around the world. Essentially, an ISIC is your proof that you're a student, and the card is recognized by thousands of dealers, sellers and travel providers around the world. nnIf you want to save on your Eurorail pass or get a discount at the hostel in Peru, then you'll need to show your International Student Identity Card. Basically, some travel companies and providers won't recognize unknown student cards, meaning the ISIC is your key. It typically costs between $15 to $30 and is valid for one year. nnStudent Airfare RatesnnTypically, you can't access student airfares right from airlines, especially discount carriers. However, some student travel agencies offer access to youth-specific rates. These are most often sold for international or packaged flights like around-the-world tickets through networks such as Star Alliance. For more information on these deals, talk to your campus travel agency or local STA Travel. nnRemember though, most student fares are highly restricted. That means you will either be unable to make changes to the flight or will have to pay a hefty premium to do so. So, if you're planning to book a student rate airfare, make sure you have your dates solidly confirmed. nnHostelling InternationalnnHostelling International is a network of hostels all around the world. You can buy a membership to this network, and in return you'll get savings at all their member hostels along with preferred booking status. Not only can you access HI-member hostels at a cheaper rate, but you also get basic travel insurance for a year and commission free money exchange. nnYou don't have to be a member to stay at an HI hostel nnThe important thing to remember about student travel deals is they don't automatically come to you - rather, you have to hunt them out. So, don't be afraid to ask about special student pricing or preferred rates for students. You never know, that museum, national park or sightseeing tour could wind up cutting you a great deal.