Make the most out of your spring break this year by following these tips.
By Agi Ngie
It is almost March, which means spring break is right around the corner. The weather may be frigid, but that does not mean you cannot start thinking of ideas for a fun getaway.
Whether you want to fly off to an exotic destination, visit your family, or attend an alternative spring break trip with Student Involvement, there are helpful tips that apply to all of these fun activities during break.
To make the most out of your spring break, here are a few simple tips to help with the planning.
- Break the “Norm”
Skip Myrtle Beach for a change and choose a destination that you and your friends actually want to go to. Do not go to a well-known hotspot simply because it is the “normal” thing to do.
If getting crazy in Cancun is not your idea of fun, go for relaxation on an island, an adventure in Italy or snowboarding in Colorado. If you would rather donate your time, join a mission or community service trip through your university or favorite philanthropy.
For students wanting to gain more work experience, check if your school is offering internships while you are on break at companies that peak your interest.
If getting on a plane breaks the bank, don’t feel bad about chilling at home with family — family time is always needed, even if you are asleep or binge-watching your favorite movies/TV series.
- Plan Ahead and do Research
Doing research is essential when it comes to planning trips. A lot of complications can be avoided along the way by doing research ahead of time. Finding the perfect flight and hotel can be quite stressful. However, when done early, a lot of complications can be avoided. Also, booking flights and hotels early will save you time and money.
Regarding flights and hotels, read reviews on websites such as ChoiceHotels or TripAdvisor. This aids in finding an exquisite, yet reasonable place to stay.
If you are traveling as a group, have meetings or communicate in a group chat. This will make everyone going on the trip be on board and become aware of things that are going to take place.
- Stick to a Budget
With tourist temptations on every corner, it can be very hard to stick to a budget during a trip. It is very easy to slip up and overspend. Most of the time you end up buying things that are not needed.
That being said, try not to use your credit card. If fact, leave it behind to resist the urge of spending. Instead, take out a set amount of cash you think can last you the whole time you are on vacation. Designate some amount just for spending and the rest for emergencies only. This will hopefully resist the urge of you swiping your card in and out of stores.
4. Make a Bucket List
From the start of your planning, gather your friends and create a running list of activities and other events everyone wants to take part in. Even if you don’t end up following it and decide to go with the flow, it is a great tool to help quickly conjure up ideas.
Spring break is about creating and sharing fun memories with your family and friends. That being said, go big or go home.
Visit an aquarium, enjoy a day at a carnival, go camping, go skydiving or go paddle boating. The point is to do something out of the ordinary that will take you out of your comfort zone. All that matters is that you are having fun during the process.
- Always be Prepared and Safe
Lost luggage? Delayed flight? These are some of the things that can happen while going on a trip. Though you want everything to go smoothly, things do not always go as planned.
But, do not let these obstacles ruin your trip. Let go, and have fun. Lastly, it is important to stay safe. When traveling as a group, do your best to always stick together.
Always have your cell phone fully charged and be aware of your surroundings. When going out, it is important to decide upon a designated meeting spot where you and your friends will know to find each other.
Communicating with your friends is key to getting the most fun out of your spring break. Enjoy yourself, have fun, and make joyful memories!