There is no doubt about it: traveling is not cheap. The costs involved are what keep most people from ever seeing or doing the things they want, and one of the biggest regrets people have is that they didn’t travel more.

Today’s message is directed at students who have enough of wanderlust to put a little effort into going and staying someplace new. We encourage you to first get your academic house in order before making any concrete plans. This includes appropriately scheduling and completing outstanding coursework like essays and term papers.

If you need help getting that kind of work done ahead of time, you may want to seek the help of an essay writing service that can proofread, edit, or even write the paper for you to free up time for travel. The real question, though, is not about whether or not you can get every assignment done ahead of traveling. It is about whether or not it is even possible to visit and experience new places, people, and things without a massive bankroll in tow. The answer to that question is “yes” and we’re about to show you how.

#1 – Become a Professional House Sitter
There are many exchange programs including TrustedHousesitters.com that match homeowners with house sitters to watch homes and pets and perform a few light tasks while the owners are away. The site in the link serves a global market, so it’s just a matter of deciding where to go and apply to watch the house.

Many house sitting gigs are unpaid, but they provide a free place to stay, and it is unlikely that you’ll be required to be on the property 24/7. There will be loads of time to see the sites and take in the local color. Of course, you will have to get there first, and we’ll tackle that obstacle shortly.

#2 – Work on A Farm
There is an organization called Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) that matches travelers with work opportunities on farms all over the world. The labor is also typically unpaid, but meals and lodging are almost always complimentary for the duration of the stay. If farming isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other work exchange programs that can match the traveler with a type of work that is better suited to his or her interests and skills.

#3 – Teach
Many countries including China and India offer huge incentives for people coming into the country to teach English. While some programs provide just room and board, some also provide salaries and stipends to English language instructors.

Whether you find a position that offers one or both, that’s a huge part of your travel budget covered by way of money or accommodations. Tefl.org is an organization that certifies people to teach English as a second language and matches them with overseas teaching opportunities. Compensation varies but often involves some or all of the perks mentioned above.

#4 – Earn Free Flights
Getting and using a credit card that offers points that can be used to purchase airfare or car rentals (or both) can take care of a considerable part of the expense of traveling. Use your card everywhere and rack up the points.

Don’t fall into the trap, however, of out-spending your means. At that point, you’re just amassing debt and not saving anything. Instead of cash or a debit card, use the rewards credit card and pay as you go. This one will only work for students who are disciplined enough to put aside the money being spent on the card so if that isn’t you, figure out another way to get there.

“Oh, The Places You’ll Go…”

While there might not be a way to make the trip entirely free, it is possible to get there and stay for free using any of the methods listed above or one of the many other options that are available to travelers and students. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see the world from a new perspective. Money is essential, but it doesn’t have to be an obstacle when you’re smart and willing to give back a little to see the world from a new place and perspective.