Why Student Travel Organizations Exist — and Why They Matter
Student and youth travel is a massive global sector, and a range of nonprofit organizations, intergovernmental programs, and associations exist specifically to make it more accessible, affordable, and enriching for young people. Knowing which organizations to connect with can unlock discounts, funding, travel opportunities, and a global community of like-minded explorers.
ISIC — International Student Identity Card
The ISIC card is the world's most widely recognized proof of student status and one of the most practical tools a traveling student can carry. Issued by the ISIC Association, it is accepted as proof of student status in over 130 countries and provides access to thousands of discounts on:
- Museum and attraction entry
- Flights and trains (via affiliated travel agencies)
- Accommodation, including hostels and hotels
- Software, apps, and online services
- Food and retail in many cities
There are three card variants: the ISIC (full-time students), the ITIC (teachers and academic staff), and the IYTC (International Youth Travel Card, for non-students aged 12–30). The annual fee is modest, and the card typically pays for itself with a single discount.
Erasmus+ — The European Union's Flagship Exchange Program
For students within the European Union (and many partner countries), Erasmus+ is the most important program to know about. It funds student exchanges, traineeships, youth projects, and educational partnerships. Key facts:
- Provides grants to cover part of living and travel costs while studying or doing an internship in another participating country
- Open to students enrolled at higher education institutions that hold an Erasmus Charter
- Covers exchanges within EU member states and many non-EU partner countries
- Also includes youth mobility and volunteering components for young people not in formal education
Applications are made through your home institution's international office. Competition varies widely by university and destination.
WYSE Travel Confederation
The WYSE Travel Confederation is the global nonprofit organization that owns the ISIC brand and brings together the world's leading student and youth travel companies and organizations. For travelers, the most practical output is the network of affiliated travel agents and operators who offer ISIC discounts globally.
STA Travel's Legacy and Successor Services
While STA Travel, once the world's largest student travel agency, ceased global operations, many of its regional arms were acquired and continue to operate under different names in various markets. These services specialize in student and youth fares and are worth seeking out in your home country.
Hostelling International (HI)
Hostelling International is a nonprofit federation of national youth hostel associations operating in over 90 countries. Member benefits include:
- Discounted rates at over 3,000 HI-affiliated hostels worldwide
- A trusted quality standard — HI hostels are vetted for safety, cleanliness, and community
- Access to HI's global booking platform
Annual membership is available through your national hostel association and pays for itself quickly if you use HI hostels regularly.
AIESEC — Leadership and International Exchange
AIESEC is the world's largest student-run organization, operating in over 100 countries. It focuses on leadership development through international internship and volunteer exchange programs. For students interested in combining travel with professional experience or community impact, AIESEC programs offer a structured and meaningful option.
How to Get the Most From These Organizations
- Start at your university's international or study abroad office — they'll know which programs you're eligible for and have staff to guide you.
- Get your ISIC card before you travel — it's the simplest step with immediate discount benefits.
- Research Erasmus+ or equivalent exchange programs early in your degree — most exchanges happen in year 2 or 3, but planning must begin well ahead.
- Join local chapters of organizations like AIESEC to build your network before you travel.
These organizations exist to make international travel and exchange more accessible for young people. Taking advantage of them is simply smart traveling.