STA Travel has been a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers for years. However, they recently announced that they were closing their doors due to the impact of COVID-19 on the travel industry. If you’re looking for alternative options for your next adventure, we’ve got you covered. Here are some affordable travel alternatives to consider:
1. StudentUniverse
StudentUniverse is a travel booking site that specializes in discounted flights, hotels, and tours for students and young adults. They offer exclusive deals and promo codes for various destinations around the world. If you’re under 26 or a student, this is a great option to consider.
2. Skyscanner
Skyscanner is a popular travel search engine that allows you to compare prices from different airlines, hotels, and rental car companies. You can set up alerts for price drops and track the cheapest dates to fly to your desired destination. It’s a great tool for finding the best deals on your travel itinerary.
3. Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a tour company that offers small group adventures in over 120 countries. They focus on sustainable and responsible travel practices, and their tours often include unique experiences like homestays and cooking classes. If you’re looking for an immersive travel experience, Intrepid Travel is a great choice.
4. G Adventures
G Adventures is another tour company that offers small group adventures for budget-conscious travelers. They have a wide range of tours that cater to different travel styles and interests, and they offer a “lifetime deposit” policy that allows you to rebook a tour at any time, for any reason. If you’re looking for flexibility and adventure, G Adventures is a great option.
5. Hostelworld
Hostelworld is a booking site that specializes in budget accommodations like hostels and guesthouses. They have a wide range of options around the world, and their user reviews and ratings can help you find the best place to stay for your budget and preferences. If you’re looking for affordable accommodations, Hostelworld is a great resource.
6. Workaway
Workaway is a platform that connects travelers with hosts who need help with various projects, from teaching English to working on a farm. In exchange for a few hours of work per day, hosts offer free accommodations and meals. It’s a great way to save money on travel expenses while also immersing yourself in the local culture.
7. Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing is a social network that connects travelers with local hosts who offer free accommodations. It’s a great way to meet locals and get insider tips on the best things to see and do in a destination. However, it’s important to exercise caution and read reviews before choosing a host to stay with.
8. House Sitting
House sitting is another way to travel for free or at a low cost. It involves taking care of someone’s home and pets while they’re away, in exchange for free accommodations. Sites like TrustedHousesitters and MindMyHouse can help you find house sitting opportunities around the world.
9. Volunteer Abroad
Volunteering abroad is a great way to give back while also experiencing a new culture. Organizations like International Volunteer HQ offer affordable volunteer programs in various destinations around the world. You can choose to volunteer in areas like education, community development, and conservation.
10. Road Trips
Finally, road trips are a great way to explore a destination on a budget. You can rent a car or camper van and hit the open road, stopping at various attractions along the way. Sites like Roadtrippers can help you plan your route and find the best stops along the way.
FAQ
Q: Are there any other travel booking sites like STA Travel? | A: Yes, there are many other travel booking sites that offer similar services. Some popular options include StudentUniverse, Skyscanner, and Expedia. |
Q: What are some ways to save money on travel? | A: Some ways to save money on travel include booking in advance, traveling during off-peak seasons, staying in budget accommodations like hostels, and using credit card rewards and travel points. |
Q: Is it safe to use platforms like Couchsurfing and Workaway? | A: While these platforms can be a great way to save money on travel, it’s important to exercise caution and read reviews before choosing a host to stay with. Make sure to also have a backup plan in case things don’t go as expected. |
Q: What are some affordable destinations to travel to? | A: Some affordable destinations to consider include Southeast Asia, Central and South America, Eastern Europe, and parts of Africa and the Middle East. |
Q: How can I find the best deals on flights? | A: Using a travel search engine like Skyscanner, setting up price alerts, being flexible with your travel dates, and booking in advance can help you find the best deals on flights. |