Top Student Travel Trends For 2026

Top Student Travel Trends For 2026

Travelling the world is a great way to explore, grow, and create memories during your studies. And as we head towards a new year, you might be looking for some 2026 travel inspiration. That’s why we’ve put together these budget-friendly student travel trends, including top city breaks and adventure trips.

Trending Student Destinations for 2026

Lisbon Portugal

With its affordable food, picturesque streets, and buzzing nightlife, the Portuguese capital is a popular choice for adventures on a student-budget. Whether you’re indulging in Portuguese custard tarts between exams or sampling local seafood on a post-graduation trip, you can explore one of Europe’s most vibrant cities without breaking the bank.

Budapest, Hungary

Known for its iconic thermal baths and beautiful sights, Budapest delivers culture and fun at student-friendly prices. Hop on the iconic Danube River Cruise, visit the landmark St. Stephen's Basilica, or stroll around the Great Market Hall whilst saving on hotels, flights, and attractions.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona continues to be a top student travel trend for 2026 thanks to its unbeatable mix of culture, nightlife, and coastal living. From lounging on Barceloneta Beach, to exploring architecture like the Sagrada Família, to enjoying local tapas bars, students with a discount card can make travelling to Barcelona even cheaper.

Tokyo, Japan

From neon-lit districts and capsule hotels to serene temples and sushi spots, Tokyo offers the perfect experience for students who want to travel further afield. You can make long-haul flights more affordable with a discount card, allowing you to explore the unique city and its cutting-edge technology.

Edinburgh, Scotland

If you fancy somewhere closer to home, Edinburgh’s historic streets and Scottish Highlands make the perfect combination of city trip and nature break in one! From visiting the annual Fringe Festival to shopping trips to exploring the great outdoors, you can do it all whilst cutting down on costs.

Sustainable Travel Discounts

If you’re keen on eco-friendly travel, student discounts can help you save on train journeys, accommodation, and even earth-conscious accessories:

• 15% off full-priced equipment from Blacks

• Earn cashback on responsible trips with Intrepid Travel

• 20% off travel insurance from One Tree Travel

City Break Discounts

Quick getaways to Europe’s buzzing cities are still accessible even on a tight budget when you have a student ID card:

• 10% off at Hotels.com

• 10% off at Expedia

• 12% off airport transfers with Holiday Extras

Outdoor Escapes Discounts

From hiking the great British outdoors to enjoying the sights of Europe, adventure travel will still be huge for students in 2026:

• 10% off full-priced equipment at Go Outdoors

• 10% off advanced train train travel with CrossCountry

• 25% off Railcards for first-time users and 10% off for existing with Trip.com

Group Travel Discounts

Travelling with mates can not only make trips more fun, but also cheaper! From road trips to your first holiday with friends abroad, booking with fellow students can also help cut costs:

• Save up to 7% at Parkdean Resorts

• Earn cashback at Rabbie's Tours

• Up to 25% off at National Express

How Students Can Travel Smarter in 2026

Here are our top 5 tips to help you travel smarter in 2026, no matter your plans:

• Check TOTUM Travel offers before booking: From flights to hotels, you could make a tasty saving before you pay up.

• Use cashback rewards towards your trips: Earn money back on bookings to go towards travel costs or fund your next adventure.

• Travel smarter: Look out for discounts on efficient luggage options and travel accessories to make your trips more comfortable.

• Take your student ID card: Many museums, tours, and attractions accept student ID for reduced entry fees, even outside the UK.

• Go TOTUM+ for worldwide deals: Perfect for students planning trips outside the UK, a TOTUM+ membership comes with an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) for free!

Everyday Student Travel Hacks

Here are a few of our favourite student hacks to make your travel budget stretch further:

• Book mid-week for cheaper flights and train tickets

• Use cashback offers towards extras like luggage fees

• Always ask if your student ID card unlocks discounts when abroad

• Share group bookings with your friends for bigger savings and shared memories

• Stay up to date with our hottest travel offers by downloading the TOTUM app!

Join TOTUM+ Today

With a TOTUM+ student discount card, you’ll be able to unlock cheaper flights, hotel discounts, and even cashback! Plus, with student ID (ISIC) included you can still make big savings when you’re travelling the world. TOTUM helps you to thrive and experience more, for less.

Join today from just £14.99 per year and start saving around £550 across your shopping.