I’m a firm believer that there is no time quite like the present. The future is something we often look forward too (or dread, if you’re like me), and the past is something we reminisce on. But when I think about the present, what comes to mind is my favorite activity – traveling.

For many of us millennials, there’s no better time than right now to grab your suitcase and get moving. At this time in our lives the world is literally at our fingertips. Sure, you probably just graduated college or are in the process of establishing yourself at that new job you just landed. No matter what your situation is, however, travel. Travel as much and as often as you can.

Think about it, even if you’re just getting started in this game we call life, there probably won’t be many other times in your life when you have as few responsibilities as you do now. The older we get the more inclined we may become to settle down, further establish ourselves in the world and what have you. That being said now is the perfect time to be irresponsible – to pack up and take the adventure of a lifetime. Push yourself outside of your comfort zone as far as you possibly can.

So, if you’ve been bitten by the travel bug as of recent, I’ve come up with a few tips and tricks help you get on the move as soon (and as affordably) as possible.

Book in advance

There’s definitely some serious novelty in being spontaneous. It can often lead to some of the most exciting and fulfilling adventures you’ve ever had. But, if you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck while traveling, being proactive can be beneficial. The earlier you book, the better deal you can get on airfare, train tickets, and lodging.

Couch surf

Couch surfing is quite possibly the best way to travel. If you’ve got friends scattered about in different cities, ask them if you can crash on their couch for the time you’re visiting. Worst case scenario, they say no and you book a hotel room. Best case scenario, they let you crash and offer to take you around their city, giving you a grand guided tour. Either way, it can’t hurt to ask.

Know where you’re going

Should be a no brainer, right? Wrong. Sure, you know where you’ve booked your ticket to, but do you have any idea what that city or final destination has to offer? A great way to keep up with local happenings, as well as keeping your budget in order, is to check local social media outlets for what’s going on in the city. Time Out magazine is a great resource for cities across the globe, as well as many city-based media outlets that tailor their content to keep locals and newcomers up to speed and entertained on unique events.

Don’t be afraid to take a new risk

Traveling can be risky business. But taking a risk while traveling to a new place can ultimately result in an amazing experience. Since we’re still young, wild and free, there’s no better time than now for us to dive head first into the unknown. The possibilities are endless.