The Ultimate Travel Essentials Guide for Students

The Ultimate Travel Essentials Guide for Students

Travelling as a student can be one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences of your time at university. Whether you are planning a weekend city break, a summer backpacking trip, or heading abroad for a placement, some must-have essentials can make every journey smoother, more affordable and a lot more fun!

As a student, you also have access to some of the best money-saving tools available, and your student discount card can be one of the most valuable items in your travel kit. With your TOTUM discount card, you can unlock discounts, cashback and even use your card as a verified student ID card while travelling. That means more money left over for adventures, food, and memories, without cutting corners on the things that matter.

This ultimate travel essentials guide covers everything you should think about before packing your bag. From tech gadgets to travel insurance, from budgeting hacks to the benefits of carrying a student card, TOTUM students can make travel easier, cheaper and more rewarding.

Packing Basics: The Essentials Every Student Needs

Every trip begins with your packing list. It might look different depending on where you are heading, but there are a few essentials you should never leave behind.

1. Your TOTUM+ Discount Card

Your student discount card is your golden ticket to saving money. Always keep it in a secure place, and make sure you have the TOTUM app downloaded on your phone for easy access to your digital copy.

2. Passport and ID

If you are travelling internationally, your passport is essential. Within the UK, your PASS ID card can also act as proof of identity in certain places.

3. Travel Documents

Boarding passes, tickets, booking confirmations, and insurance details should all be organised. Keep both digital and physical copies where possible.

4. Bank Cards and Cash

While card payments are widely accepted, it is always smart to carry a small amount of local currency when travelling abroad. TOTUM also partners with financial services and brands to help students make smarter money choices.

5. Tech and Chargers

Your phone, charger, portable power bank, headphones and travel adaptors are all essential. Many retailers offer discounts on tech with your student discount card, which is a huge help before you set off.

6. Toiletries and Health Items

A travel-sized wash kit, hand sanitiser, prescription medication and any personal care items you rely on daily. TOTUM partners often give you savings on health and beauty brands, making this part of packing more affordable!

Budgeting for Student Travel

One of the biggest challenges of travelling as a student is sticking to a budget. The good news is that with careful planning and with your membership in hand, you can stretch your budget further than you might think.

Here are some money-saving strategies for TOTUM students:

• Book travel in advance – trains, buses and flights are often cheaper when booked early.

• Look for student fares – many travel providers offer exclusive student pricing, which you can access with your student ID card.

• Use cashback deals – TOTUM gives students the chance to earn cashback on certain purchases, which can make your budget go further.

• Save on accommodation – hostels, hotels and booking sites often accept student discount cards for reduced rates.

• Cook your own meals – if you have access to a kitchen, buying groceries is far cheaper than eating out every day. Many supermarkets and food delivery services are part of the TOTUM network.

ISIC (International Student Identity Card)

With TOTUM you also get access to the ISIC (International Student Identity Card), which is recognised in more than 130 countries worldwide. That means your student status is verified abroad, giving you access to thousands of global discounts on travel, culture, food and experiences.

ISIC makes it even easier to save money while travelling internationally. Museums, attractions, restaurants, and transport providers worldwide accept the ISIC as proof of student status. With TOTUM, you carry both your national student discount card and your international student ID card in one.

Student-Friendly Travel Accessories

Small accessories can make a big difference on the road. These are worth adding to your travel essentials list:

• Reusable water bottle – eco-friendly, saves money and keeps you hydrated.

• Travel pillow and eye mask – perfect for overnight trips.

• Lightweight backpack – for day trips or hand luggage.

• Packing cubes – to keep your bag organised and easy to manage.

• Travel locks – to keep your belongings secure.

Using your student discount card, you can often get savings on luggage, backpacks, travel gear and more, which helps you kit yourself out for less.

Staying Safe While Travelling

Safety should always be a priority, especially for student travellers who may be exploring new places for the first time. Your student card can help here too, as it acts as official ID if you need it.

Other key safety tips:

• Keep copies of your travel documents in separate places.

• Share your itinerary with a friend or family member.

• Use secure payment methods when booking online.

• Research your destination in advance to know what areas are safe to visit.

• Make use of travel insurance for peace of mind.

Travel Insurance and Health Cover

Travel insurance might not be the most exciting thing to think about, but it is one of the most important. Many providers offer discounted policies for students, and your student discount card can help you save money here as well.

Health cover is also essential if you are travelling internationally. Make sure you have the right documents for healthcare access in your destination, and always keep a copy of your student ID in case you need proof of status.

Student Travel Hacks with TOTUM

Before you set off on your next trip, here are some final travel hacks for TOTUM students:

• Always carry your student card – physical and digital.

• Use cashback offers whenever you book travel or accommodation.

• Plan with discounts in mind – check what brands and services are included with your TOTUM card.

• Save on essentials before you go – luggage, tech, clothes and toiletries are all areas where you can find student savings.

• Stay connected – TOTUM partners with mobile providers and tech brands to help you get the best deals on data, SIM cards and accessories.

Travelling as a student is one of the best opportunities to explore, learn and create memories that last a lifetime. With the right essentials in your bag and the power of your TOTUM membership, you can enjoy new places, save money and make every trip as rewarding as possible!

TOTUM does more than save you money in the UK. With ISIC included, TOTUM students carry a globally recognised student ID card that makes travelling abroad even more rewarding. Wherever you go, you’ll have access to discounts, perks and the reassurance of verified student status.