Purchasing a student identity card can pay off when studying abroad.
Student travelers can save money by making small investment of either an
ISIC or
ISEC. These are international ID and discount cards, with just a few small differences between them.
ISIC stands for "International Student Identity Card" and is available to full-time students ages 12-26. The ISIC is good for discounts on airfare, lodging, museums and attractions, food, shopping, and much more. 33,000 discounts are available by using the ISIC. Students can get discounts at stores like Apple, Samsonite, and Target; train and rail passes; student exclusive airfare; discounts and specials at hotels and hostels; and even basic insurance for trips abroad. The ISIC also offers a 24-hour help line emergency service. ISIC cards cost $22 per year, but can add up to much more than that in savings.
The ISEC is a little bit different. Standing for "International Student Exchange Card," it costs a little more, $25 per year, plus $4.95 for a photo of you, but the discounts are guaranteed. Also, the ISEC offers medical and emergency evacuation benefits. Like ISIC, the ISEC has a toll-free, 24-hour emergency assistance number that students can call for help with lost passports, travel documents, and legal issues. Additionally, the ISEC offers up to $2,000 in airline bankruptcy protection, which could come in very handy if you are mid-trip and your airline goes belly-up!
Whichever card you choose, the ISIC or ISEC, you can be assured that they will more than live up to their purchase price in travel savings!
