Many participants choose to travel after their program ends. It’s a great way to make the most of your time in the U.S. before heading home. Different types of transportation have different price points and flexibility, so it’s worth comparing options and sketching out a rough itinerary before you book. Check out our next steps after your program resource for help planning your timeline.
Before confirming any reservation, read the fine print — cancellation policies and baggage fees can add up fast. Make sure your accident and sickness insurance is still active for the duration of your travels by contacting InterExchange, and review our document safety tips before you go. It’s also good to consider traveling with a mix of cash and prepaid travel cards.
The travel agencies below specialize in student and budget travel. Visit their websites for current pricing and availability.
Important Note: If you travel internationally during your 30-day grace period, you will not be able to re-enter the United States as a J-1 Exchange Visitor. Both your DS-2019 form and J-1 Visa will be expired.
Agencies:
Travel agencies can handle the logistics and the ‘what-ifs’ so you can focus on the memories.
Other Travel Resources
Below is a list of resources valuable for both American students traveling abroad and international participants exploring the US, with emphasis on cultural understanding, budget travel, and practical navigation tips.
Key Recommendation: Visit local libraries to browse different guidebook series before purchasing, as each has different strengths, and you can compare formats and writing styles to find what works best for your travel style and destination.
US-Specific Cultural & Practical Guides
- Lonely Planet USA
- Rough Guide USA
- Fodor’s USA guides
- Let’s Go USA
- US Travel Association
- Frommer’s Complete America
- AAA TourBooks
- Visit the USA
Navigating Within the US
- American Public Transportation Association
- Amtrak Guide
- Road Trip USA
- National Parks
- National Geographic USA
