Allison Wilder, Magic and Witchcraft in Scotland, Summer 2026
Insights about living abroad? This one can feel a bit tricky, but it can workout in your favor immensely–budgeting. Budgeting was my best friend while traveling over the summer and, while it may seem straightforward to some people that come across this, it was one of the biggest stressors for my classmates on the trip. I started with packing everything I needed into a carry-on, even though the urge to bring more was intense, don’t be afraid to outfit repeat (I will say I was lucky enough to have 24 hour access to laundry units, which ultimately made this more feasible). I recommend packing essentials like solid colored t-shirts, a pair of jeans, a pair of dressy pants, possibly some athletic wear (depending on your program or plans), and options for layering! Don’t overdo it on the shoes either, I brought a pair of hiking shoes and a pair of shoes for going to group dinners/dressier occasions, and I honestly wore my hiking shoes every day. If you end up doing what I did and need a small bag to fit the extra things you have accumulated abroad, it is cheaper to pay for a checked bag one way rather than both there and back.
The great thing about budgeting in Scotland, I’m not sure if this is all of the UK or just Scotland, is the meal deal. Virtually any convenience or grocery store offers a meal deal where you can mix and match from a variety of drinks, sandwiches or other entrees, and sides ranging from fruit cups and cheese to chips (ahem, I mean crisps), for 3-5 pounds. The meal deal was a lifesaver for me, and was a very cost effective way to plan meals outside of eating out. Another easy way to stretch your budget in this host country is planning your excursions around free entry! Scotland has an abundance of these options–museums and art galleries don’t require a paid ticket, as well as the endless number of hikes and walks available either within the city or a bus ride away. A group of us went to Portobello Beach during one of our free days–another option for a free mini trip when the weather permits!
Circling back to that, utilize your bus pass but plan accordingly. Yes, I know, an Uber or rideshare would be faster than the bus. However, there are apps you can download that will give you the full schedule for bus times/arrivals, and your bus pass will save you lots of money! If the program you are signed up for doesn’t offer a bus pass, don’t fret–the bus system will cap you out at 5 pounds a day, so if you have several trips to make you don’t have to worry about paying every single time. If you have a class on site somewhere other than campus, another obligation like a reservation, or group activity, you will have to check the bus schedule to make sure that the bus you choose will make it in time. Another thing to pay close attention to is where exactly the bus you’re looking at the time for is stopping. There were three or four stops on campus at the university I stayed at, and I missed a couple of buses by waiting at the wrong stop with full confidence. Princes Street in particular has dozens of stops on the bus route, and you should always double check that the bus you’re getting onto is heading in the direction you’re trying to go–the bus stop signs will be marked clearly with reminders such as “To City Centre” or “From City Centre”.
One last tip for you to stretch your budget–always check charity shops first! If there is something you are missing or if (like I ended up doing) you need a small bag for your trip back home, head to the thrift store before going elsewhere. There are a plethora of options, especially in the city center, and you can make your money last longer this way. Each charity shop I went into had a whole wall of suitcases and backpacks for less than 20 pounds! These little things left me extra money for a few fun excursions and dinners out with my classmates without breaking the bank. Ultimately, if you plan accordingly, you can spend how you please–it’s your trip after all! If you’re hoping to save on expenses, I hope this was able to help you.
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