The following resources and tips can get you started. Come to the Learning Abroad Center in 230 Heller Hall (map) to look through the travel library and talk to peer advisers.

Rail Passes
Learning Abroad Center offers European railpasses at the lowest prices available and sends them via FedEx for free!

Travel Agencies

Campus Travel Center 2506 Riverside Avenue 612.338.6705 STA Travel 101 Coffman 612.624.8978 and 317 14th Avenue SE 612.615.1800

University Travel Services 1421 Washington Avenue S 612.339.9278 Village Travel 542 S. Snelling Avenue 651.690.1571

Online Travel Agencies
Although somewhat less predictable than using a travel agent, booking online may save travelers a considerable amount of money. Online agencies may offer less customer support than the personal service given by a travel agent, so remember to read the fine print. Check out these sites:

Travelocity Extensive site with search option QIXO Combines searches from numerous sites Priceline Name your own price for flights Skyauction Great deals if you are flexible

Smarter Travel Great student deals Fare Chase A great site to start a search Icelandair Consistently good prices for certain European destinations

Ticketing Tips
Certain factors should be kept in mind when purchasing airfare tickets.

Timing

• Flight prices are highly contingent on the season—consider going during off-peak season.
• Flights are usually cheaper during mid-week travel.
• If possible, check alternative itineraries by altering the leave and return dates; Monday–Wednesday are usually the best departure days.

Travel Agents

• Make sure to contact at least three agencies or websites to assure yourself of the best fare. STA travel is one travel agencies geared specifically toward students.
• The greatest advantage in using a travel agent is the 'customer service' aspect. These travel agents will be able to advise you not only on the best or alternative travel options, but on visa issues that may save you time and money in the end.
• When using a travel agency, ask the agent to check the published fares, the consolidated fares, and the student fares.

Other Considerations

• When buying tickets for extended travel, look into buying an open-ended ticket or thoroughly evaluate the airline's policies regarding changing ticket return dates.
• When flying into large cities, check flights coming into different airports for cheaper alternatives.
• If you are considering buying specific country flight passes (such as the Boomerang pass in Australia), keep in mind that often they can only be bought from the United States.
• Check airline hubs for cheaper flights, however, sometimes non-local airlines offer deals to entice potential customers.
• Consider a stop-over in another country on the way over to your final destination. While this may be a more expensive ticketing option, you gain an opportunity to take in yet another cultural experience.

Last modified on February 19, 2008

Last modified on May 13, 2008