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Study Abroad Ready: Essential Travel Tips for Students Exploring Schengen & Beyond

Written by ESC Author on 04 Jul 2025 Posted in Blog

Studying abroad opens up a world of possibilities—new cultures, languages, friendships, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're planning to explore the seamless borders of the Schengen Area or venture into unique non-Schengen destinations, smart travel planning is key to making the most of your international journey.

Here’s your go-to guide with essential travel tips for students heading to both Schengen and non-Schengen regions of Europe.

 

Your guide to studying and exploring Schengen and beyond.

Understand the Schengen Advantage

The Schengen Zone comprises 26 European countries that have eliminated internal borders, allowing for easy, passport-free travel across member nations. This makes it incredibly convenient for students who wish to explore multiple countries during their time abroad without the hassle of repeated border checks.

Planning to hop from Paris to Prague or Amsterdam to Athens? If you're travelling within the Schengen Area, you can do so with just one visa, making it a top choice for student travellers.

Sort Out Your Visas Early

Before packing your bags, make sure you understand the visa rules for your chosen destinations:

Schengen Visa: Required for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period) across most participating countries.

National Visas: Non-Schengen countries like the UK, Ireland, or Turkey have their own visa regulations. Always check embassy websites for the most up-to-date information.

Apply early, gather all necessary documents, and ensure you have the right type of visa for both your academic stay and any planned travel.

Plan Your Budget Wisely

Budgeting is essential no matter where you go. Be aware that living costs vary across regions—Northern and Western Europe tend to be pricier than Eastern or Southern countries. When planning, include:

Rent and utilities

Transportation (metro, trains, or flights)

Meals and groceries

Entertainment and travel

Currency exchange fees (especially in non-Euro countries)

Consider using budgeting apps to track spending and keep things under control.

Get Insured and Stay Covered

Health care systems vary from country to country. Make sure you have comprehensive travel and health insurance that covers:

Emergency treatment

Repatriation

Lost luggage or delays

Accidents and theft

Also, check if your destination requires vaccinations or has specific health advisories.

Pack Smart, Travel Light

Pack for practicality, not just style. Keep the climate, cultural norms, and travel plans in mind. Essentials to bring include:

Weather-appropriate clothing

Power adaptors and travel chargers

Passport, visa, student ID, insurance card

Copies of important documents

A small medical kit

Pro tip: Make digital and physical backups of important documents in case of emergencies.

Respect Local Customs and Culture

Living and travelling in a new country means adapting to different ways of life. Take time to:

Learn key phrases in the local language

Understand dining and greeting etiquette

Follow local dress codes or religious customs

Even small efforts go a long way in building respectful relationships and enriching your experience abroad.

Stay Connected and Stay Aware

Keep in regular contact with family and friends using apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Skype. Join student WhatsApp groups and university networks to stay updated on events and alerts.

For safety:

Keep emergency contacts on hand

Avoid unfamiliar or poorly lit areas at night

Stay aware of local laws and emergency procedures

Trust your instincts—if something feels off, take precautions

Travelling through Schengen and non-Schengen regions as a student offers unmatched opportunities to grow, learn, and explore. With proper planning, cultural awareness, and an adventurous spirit, you’ll gain more than just academic credit—you’ll collect memories, build resilience, and expand your worldview.

So get ready to learn, travel, and thrive. Your international adventure starts now.

Join our network today, and keep it up!