No one probably appreciates vacations like students. Most students practically plan their entire school year around their breaks, and spring break is the most popular time for travel among students. Most students' only concern while on vacation is running out of beer, but there are a few other very important factors to consider for the traveling student. For example, students who are choosing to study abroad may have never flown or traveled internationally before. This makes traveling for a student slightly more complex than the average population.

For a student planning to travel abroad, it is important to obtain a visa or passport as early in advance as possible. A student who will be spending a semester or more in a foreign country will usually need to obtain a visa prior to attending school in that country. Usually, the professor in charge of coordinating the student's international study trip will know whether or not a visa is needed. It's always a good idea to check with the laws and regulations of the country you are visiting regarding international students.

Students traveling abroad should always know where the nearest U.S Embassy is located in the country they are visiting. In the event of an emergency, the student can receive messages via advocates available at the U.S Embassy. This service is also available through the Consular Section, an organization dedicated to serving foreign visitors in the event of an emergency. Research the Consular Section of the country you are visiting prior to your arrival to obtain information about registering. Additionally, students should have a valid health insurance policy that provides coverage overseas.

Finally, a student planning to study abroad should thoroughly research the curriculum of the foreign school's degree program. While most programs are legitimate, some are not accredited or require work much different than what the student was used to in the United States. Knowing in advance the requirements of the curriculum will help the traveling student achieve their goals in a timely and easy manner.

However, not all students travel for the purpose of studying abroad. As described earlier, spring break is a time of rest and relaxation for college students. While fun and freedom remain the top priorities, safety should always remain a prime concern. The student should carry some form of identification on them at all times, as well as contact information in case of an emergency. This should be someone who lives with the student or is familiar with them, such as a parent or a roommate.

Last but not least, a student should have enough money to cover an emergency or unforeseen expense, such as low fuel, first aid, or food. This money should be cash and kept only for these purposes, not spent on souvenirs or alcohol. Students can experience a safe and enjoyable time while away by playing it safe and pre-planning the details of their trip.