By Jackson Cooper, Staff Writer

Published in print Mar. 17, 2015

     

1.) Pack lightly

     Don’t bother packing five pairs of underwear for three days in Virginia. It helps to have outfits planned, but packing lightly will reduce the stress of remembering all of your clothes and back aches.

2.) Book tickets early/Don’t be afraid of buses

     My friends think I take a limo or private jet up to the City every month—False. I’d be a much less bitter person if I did that. In truth I take a $40 one-way, 10-hour bus up with many people who don’t speak the same language as me. It’s uncomfortable, sure, but it’s affordable and gets the job done. Don’t be afraid of booking a Greyhound or Amtrak for half the price and the hassle of a Delta flight. Amtrak offers student discounts that are great.

3.) Don’t be afraid to ask friends, use AirBNB

     Ask friends, that’s why they’re you’re friends. Don’t be afraid that you’re inconveniencing them; they are, nine times out of ten, happy to let you sleep on their couch.

     AirBNB is another great resource. Much safer than Craigslist, AirBNB is like Facebook for hosts. You can search by city and price ranges and stay at people’s houses. The best part is that customers review the host so that you’re not staying with a weird taxidermist who’s itching for a new… project.

4.) Put away tip          

money

     Put away a small amount of money after every shift to pay for that bus ticket. Everything adds up and after a month of doing this, you’ll find yourself able to afford food and that extra mojito on the beach or take that cute person on a date.

5.) Plan ahead

      Just do it, it’s easier. Flying by the seat of your pants is never fun so plan, plan, plan. Itineraries are your best friend, so use them to your advantage.