Everyone needs a vacation. To clear your mind, there's nothing like a change of scenery and discovering new places without being tied to a strict schedule. There are plenty of ways to go on a budget-friendly vacation. Here are a few tips.

Christmas holidays

Winter vacation is the perfect time to hit the slopes. While skiing can be expensive, being a student has its perks, as there are plenty of great deals available for students looking to escape the hours spent indoors and enjoy the great outdoors. So, there are ways to go on a winter vacation without breaking the bank.

In addition to each institution's student associations, which often offer discounted excursions, there are associations that allow students to travel year-round. For example, the National Union of Outdoor Sports Centers (UCPA) offers winter vacation deals with the Happy Winter program, which allows students to spend skiing or snowboarding in more than a dozen ski resorts.

There are ways to experience ski holidays on the cheap. Getting paid to ski is even better! Indeed, if you're a skilled skier or a talented activity leader, you can run a ski camp and enjoy the joys of winter at the same time.

Cheap destinations in summer and winter

To go on a budget-friendly vacation, it's best to target cities that offer plenty of activities and a low cost of living. In addition to hostels, which are always affordable, identify cities where hotels and campsites are the cheapest.

The L'Étudiant website offers a list of the ten least expensive cities in France. In Limoges, Le Mans, Perpignan, Pau, Quimper, Lourdes, Brest, Calais, Bayonne, and Rennes, you'll find affordable accommodation that will allow you to enjoy the scenery and numerous cultural activities on offer.

Can't travel? Take a vacation anyway

If it's impossible to get away for the duration of the holidays, all is not lost. It's still possible to organize an interesting vacation. Among other things, this is a good opportunity to obtain your BAFA (certificate of aptitude for the functions of an activity leader). With organization, it's possible to obtain it in a month. If you already have it, you're ready to take charge of a summer camp, a great way to have fun and experience sports and cultural activities with your group.

And it's quite possible to have a wonderful vacation with hiking or cycling while discovering the beauty of your region. Having time on your hands is a luxury these days.

As always, the internet helps you

No matter where you're interested, what sport you want to practice, or what cultural activities you're interested in during your summer vacation, there are plenty of websites that offer information on the best deals and last-minute offers. So, there are plenty of ways to travel cheaply.