While we encourage U.S. citizens to explore new places and cultures we also understand that travel costs can add up. Here’s what we do to try and make extended, meaningful travel experiences more accessible.
Flexible booking
Not only are InterExchange programs priced to meet various budgets but we also offer flexible bookings. For most programs there is no fee at the time of signing up. We only charge a program fee if we accept you onto a program and after that we have flexible refund policies.
Image courtesy of Teach English Spain participant Natalie E.
Stipends, wages, and other benefits on your program
InterExchange Work & Travel programs in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand offer the chance to earn money working seasonal jobs while you travel. Most think of this as a way to help fund their travels, but some ambitious participants even save some money in the process. Au Pair programs offer a stipend, housing, meals, and in some cases other benefits. Most of our other programs, such as our Language Homestays, include housing and meals so you can keep your in-country costs to a minimum.
Image courtesy of Sara S.
FundMyTravel
We’ve teamed up with FundMyTravel to provide a dedicated platform for fundraising. Create a campaign, add content, and invite friends to learn about your travel goals. Support staff are available to help you along the way.
Crowdfunding creates a connection that will leave contributors wanting to know more about how your travels go!https://www.fundmytravel.com/developer/button.php?code=5cb4adcd4e51a&button=white
When I started to research campaign platforms, I sought out platforms that supported those embarking on a volunteer/service based project. I stumbled upon FundMyTravel and knew it was going to be the perfect fit. Although there wasn’t a customer service number, the team was able to respond to my emails and helped to add a few additional touches to my page. Looking forward to launching another in the near future!
— Yesmeen S.
Discounts
As a non-profit, InterExchange aims to keep program fees as low as possible but we also offer discounts. For example, most programs have discounts available for friends or groups and we sometimes offer scholarships and more. Ask us about any upcoming or ongoing promotions!
Image courtesy of Tara B.
Here are some other ideas on making travel affordable:
Grants and scholarships
- Residents of select metropolitan areas may be eligible for one of Hosteling International’s Explore the World Travel Scholarships.
- Travel Access Project offers Gap Year Grants each year.
- AllPeopleBeHappy Volunteer Service Award enables volunteers to do service projects in the developing world.
- InterExchange offers a Christianson Fellowship for service projects abroad of 6+ months.
Experiment with flight dates
Discouraged by flight costs? Check again in a few days. They tend to fluctuate. You might also find that pushing your departure date by a few days makes a huge difference. Experiment with flight search engines like Skyscanner and if you’re a student or young adult you might find a discount on websites like STA Travel and Student Universe.
Image courtesy of Pixabay
Up your travel money game with tips from The Financial Diet
A lot of financial publications out there offer tips better suited to a previous generation, lack attention to the emotional element involved in finances, or they just aren’t fun. The Financial Diet responds to this with a fresh new take on money talk, and has a great section on travel!
