Budget-friendly ways to enjoy the holiday season in the U.S.
For international students studying abroad on a budget, the holiday season can be an expensive time of year. It might seem impossible to afford gifts and celebrations, and increased travel prices may inhibit you from flying home to see family.
In a season dedicated to community and cheer, it can feel disorienting to be disconnected from loved ones. However, there are ways to navigate this season without breaking the bank or your spirit. Here are five fun, budget-friendly holiday ideas for international students in the U.S.
International student tip: Explore free and affordable local holiday events
Though it’s hard to miss out on family traditions back home, embrace the opportunity to experience the holidays in the U.S. Many towns and cities host free and affordable holiday events like markets, tree lightings, festivals and parades. These are great places to take in the holiday spirit, try seasonal food and connect with your surrounding community on a budget.
The holiday season is also a perfect time to explore your neighborhood. Take advantage of your time out of the classroom to check out local museums, movie theaters and parks. Be sure to carry your ID with you, as many places offer student discounts.
International student tip: Volunteer
Volunteering may be the most rewarding affordable holiday activity for international students. It doesn’t cost a thing, and it’s a great opportunity to connect with others over a common cause.
This holiday season, consider volunteering at a local soup kitchen, charity or place of worship. Serving hot meals or participating in a toy drive can give you a sense of joy and gratitude in what may otherwise feel like a lonely season, helping you manage the holiday stress by centering on what’s really important.
International student tip: Hunt for holiday deals
The holiday season may be expensive, but most U.S. stores and organizations also offer great holiday deals! You can hunt for bargains at big box stores, local shops or online. Remember to plan ahead: Wisely utilizing holiday discounts can help you maintain your study abroad budget for the year.
This holiday season, MPOWER is offering a deal for students who need help financing their international education. MPOWER offers no-cosigner, no-collateral private loans for international students studying in the U.S. and Canada. Get our lowest rates of the year for the fall 2025 semester! Apply by January 31, 2025 to lock in our lowest rates of the year!*
International student tip: Connect with community
Odds are, you aren’t the only international student staying in the U.S. this holiday season. Even if you don’t observe the same holidays, consider hosting a gathering of friends. Cut costs by having everyone bring their own traditional holiday dish or beverage.
You can also connect with your school’s larger international student community. Check out the international student resources at your MPOWER-eligible school. They likely host free, culturally-specific events for students spending the holidays in the U.S.
Spending time with friends and loved ones is what the holiday season is all about. You can still find meaningful connections and support abroad.
International student tip: Create your own traditions
Throughout your academic journey, you may spend a few holiday seasons abroad. To make each season more homey than the last, check out these tips for international students looking to create their own, budget-friendly traditions:
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- Decorate your space: Add festive decorations to your living area that are meaningful to you. To avoid expense, try crafting your own.
- Maintain special rituals: Rituals connect us to our families and cultures, so try to maintain the rituals you had growing up or create new ones with local friends. If you’re missing larger cultural rituals, consider attending a local place of worship or community center.
- Give yourself something to look forward to: If you routinely struggle during the holiday season, give yourself a gift as a yearly tradition. Whether it’s a fun activity or an item you’ve been coveting all year, give yourself something exciting to help move you through the season.
If you struggle with your mental health over the holidays, remember you’re not alone. Check out your university’s health and counseling resources for support.
International student tip: Prioritize self-care
Take care of yourself this holiday season with affordable, community-oriented activities.
Spending the holidays abroad as an international student can be stressful and expensive. But, with a little intention, they can also be a time for exploration, connection and self-care.
While looking for inexpensive ways to enjoy the holiday season, don’t forget to start budgeting for the next year of your education. Apply for an MPOWER loan today to secure our lowest rates of the year!
*Rates as low as 9.99% (10.89% APR) available only for the fall 2025 semester and you must submit your application by January 31, 2025. This interest rate and APR includes a 0.25% discount for automatic recurring payments and a 0.75% discount from our limited-time early planner promotion.
