Top 5 student travel hacks to make uni adventures unforgettable (and affordable!)

Top 5 student travel hacks to make uni adventures unforgettable (and affordable!)

Welcome to the wild, wonderful world of university life! It's sure to be a hectic year of lectures, late-night study sessions, and epic nights out, but there's one thing you shouldn’t forget: how to make the most of your student budget when it comes to travel. 

Whether you're planning a night out or just trying to get home for a surprise visit, these travel hacks will have you exploring more without breaking the bank.

1. Book early, save more

We know it’s tempting to procrastinate (looking at you, 11:59 PM essay submissions…), but when it comes to travel, early birds do get the worm—and by worm, we mean cheaper tickets. Book your ticket at least three days in advance, plus you'll save even more with a Young Persons Coachcard — putting more pounds back in your pocket for fun.

2. Student discount? Yes, please!

Join the thousands of students that hop on board with us every year and enjoy super affordable, high-quality coach travel around the UK. From UniDays, Student Beans, Prime Student and Totum we have all areas covered, leaving more cash in your pocket for those essential student buys. Take a look at our offers page.

3. Pack Like a Pro

Overpacking is the enemy of budget travel. Stick to the essentials, and make sure you’re packing light - unless you're using our generous luggage allowance to take your dirty washing home. 

Pro tip: roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space, and wear your bulkiest items on the journey. 

4. Be Flexible with Your Travel Days

If your schedule allows, try to be flexible with your travel dates. Travelling mid-week or at off-peak times often means cheaper tickets and less crowded coaches. Plus, mid-week trips mean you’re less likely to run into delays. 

Flexibility is key to scoring the best deals, always remember fares change depending on the demand for each service, you might find a lower fare by changing the time or day of your travel.

5. Prep your snacks before your journey

Don’t let overpriced station snacks drain your wallet—get ahead of the game and pack your own before you head out! Raid your kitchen for some next-level travel treats like a DIY trail mix, a sandwich that puts store-bought to shame, or some fresh fruit to keep things light. Plus, bringing along a reusable water bottle means you can skip the expensive drinks. Not only will your wallet thank you, but you’ll have all your favourite snacks on hand, making your journey tastier and way more fun!

Bonus tip: Discover hidden gems and explore the unexpected

Big cities are great, but sometimes the best adventures are in places you’d never consider. These under-the-radar destinations often offer cheaper travel options and unforgettable experiences that go beyond the typical tourist traps. Exploring somewhere unexpected means you’ll uncover the true essence of a place—and snag some incredible Insta-worthy shots along the way. So, why not step out of your comfort zone? You might just find your new favourite spot in a place you never imagined.

Ready, Set, Explore!

With these travel hacks up your sleeve, you’re all set to make the most of your uni adventures without blowing your budget. Whether you’re planning a quick trip home, a weekend getaway with friends, or a spontaneous solo journey, these tips will help you travel smarter, save cash, and have way more fun along the way. So pack your bags, grab those snacks, and get ready to hit the road. The next great adventure is just a coach ride away—see you out there! 🚍✨

If you know, you go National Express

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