If you’re dreaming about lounging by the beach or craving an outdoor adventure after a long winter but don’t want to break the bank, planning Spring Break on a budget could be easier than you think. We've put together tips to help you save for your trip, as well as during your vacation!
How To Save Money for Your Spring Break Trip
Change Spending Habits
Skip your daily coffee shop run, eat your meals at home, carpool, and cancel any monthly subscriptions that you don't use. All these spending habits add up, so when you decide to change them, you'll begin to see your savings grow and be able to put more towards your vacation.
Go Where Others Don't
Try choosing places that others don't typically think of for Spring Break and discover some beautiful hidden gems for less money. Prices are typically a few hundred dollars cheaper at destinations that have similar weather, cultural appeal, beach access and restaurants but may be about 100 miles away from the popular tourist hub of the moment.
Book Early
Flights are going to be cheaper during the fall and early winter. Hotel prices will generally be lower the earlier you book, but always expect prices to go up during peak travel times, especially Spring Break. This does require some pre-planning and early commitment to where you'll be going, but it can save you money in the long run.
Monitor Fare Prices
Try using an online flight booking search service to compare fares from multiple airlines and get suggestions for when to book to get the lowest prices. Online tools can allow you to see dozens of different flight prices at a glance. Though you might be able to get last-minute deals on your spring break getaway, experts recommend booking domestic flights about six weeks in advance and international flights at least six months in advance to get the best options and prices.
Travel with a Group
Traveling with a group of friends allows you to split the cost on expenses like accommodations, transportation, meals, etc. Look into vacation home rentals that sleep a lot of people as opposed to getting a bunch of separate hotel rooms. You'd be amazed how much money you can save, and it'll allow you to all be together for the duration of your trip.
How to Save Money While on Spring Break
Set a Daily Spending Limit
Setting a daily spending limit takes some preparation beforehand and it's important to stick to the plan once your vacation has begun. Make sure to account for any meals, souvenirs, activities, and transportation expenses that you anticipate needing to spend money on. Make it clear to everyone you're traveling with that you have a budget and you're going to stick to it. That way no one is super disappointed or upset when you have to say "no". But be flexible when you're setting your budget. Account for at least one spontaneous activity so that you can have some unexpected fun during your trip. It is a vacation after all!
Use Cheaper Transportation
If you flew to your vacation destination, chances are you're either going to need to rent a car or use public transportation. Given that you need to be 25 years old to rent a car in most places, college students will likely opt for the latter. Use Uber or Lyft whenever possible, check the local bus routes to see what's nearby, or find a local bike rental shop if most places are within a few blocks of where you're staying. Always exercise precautions and stick with your group to make sure everyone stays safe and saves money with fewer fares needed to get everyone where they need to be.
Make Your Own Meals
We know that part of going on vacation is getting to eat out and have others cook for you. So we're not going to tell you to completely forgo discovering some amazing food during your trip. However, if you don't eat out during every meal, you'll save a lot of money. This works great if you're staying in a vacation home with a kitchen or a hotel room with a mini-fridge and a microwave. Some hotels may even serve free breakfast, so take advantage of those opportunities when you can. Instead of dropping $100 on one dinner, use that money to splurge on a fun excursion.
Spring Break trips can be some of the best opportunities for creating memories at all ages. By setting clear budgets, putting in extra effort to save money before and during the trip, and keeping fun a top priority, you can have a memorable Spring Break that won't break the bank!