While it’s natural to want to get away over your break, spring break for college students find that their strict budgets don’t allow the typical spring break destination.
Even if Punta Cana is not a destination option for you this year, budget constraints shouldn’t stop you from a much needed escape. There are plenty spring break destinations here in the United States. You can still have fun with your friends and save money!
Here are seven budget friendly spring break ideas to try, which can all be planned at the last minute:
1. Road Trips
Road trips are a great way to get out of town on a budget, especially while in college. Consider planning a spur-of-the-moment road trip with your besties. You can save money by splitting gas costs.
Another tip: Save on accommodations by planning a visit to see old friends and staying with them. If that's not an option, check out vacation rental Websites like
Vacation Rentals By Owners. You can search by the town you're visiting, AND by your budget.
Road trips are fun way bond with your friends while saving money. Don't forget to create your road trip playlist, OR let Spotify do it for you. They have
new, road trip playlists or your can go old school
with this road trip playlist. Have a fun break without the expensive frills!
Remember, it’s not where you end up that’s the fun part; it’s the journey it takes to get there. Stop places that look fun or interesting and be spontaneous! It’s a great way to make memories you’ll never forget.
2. Rent a Place with Friends
With affordable options on websites like
Airbnb, you and some friends can split the cost of renting a place. Whether it’s a cabin that’s a few hours away or somewhere a little further, splitting the cost of a rental home or cabin will be much more affordable than any hotel accommodations.
Plus, you’ll be able to grocery shop on a budget. Cook fun meals together rather than going out to eat (that can get expensive real quick). Check out fun food Websites like
Spoon University,
Delish or
Tasty to plan some easy but yummy meals. All you need are some friends and food--this combination pretty much guarantees a great time!
3. Visit a Friend’s Hometown
If you have a friend that’s going home for spring break, think about joining them! Surely, you have a friend who lives somewhere you’ve never been – and bunking with them will allow you to stay on budget. Ask them to show you around town as if they’re your tour guide.
Who knows, you may get some good laughs in when they begin to share stories about their
old stomping grounds. Try their favorite local restaurant or rent a throwback movie they enjoyed in high school. You'll learn a lot about your friend and may find some new favorite things yourself.
Sometimes, a simple get-away, no matter where you go, is all it takes to return to college or high school refreshed and ready to finish out the semester STRONG.
4. Visit Friends at Another College or Location
While you’re in college, you have the advantage of visiting friends at other schools and couch-surfing. Plan a drive or look for low airfare – you just need to get there. Staying with friends takes care of the rest of the cost so it’s a quick, easy way to get out of town on a budget.
5. Plan Some Day Trips
No matter where you live, there are sure to be some attractions within a day’s drive. Whether it’s going to the nearest city to visit museums, exploring local tourist attractions you’ve never been to, hiking some nearby trails or driving to a nearby theme park, there are options for pretty much any location.
According to
MentalFloss, "The allure of foreign countries and far-off places is tempting, but sometimes when you want to get away, the best adventures can be found right in your backyard." We couldn't agree more. Their travel article highlights the
best day trips for all 50 states. See what your state has to offer; you may be only a few hours away from a geological wonder. Get out there and start exploring!
The best news? You won’t have to pay for any lodging since you’re not traveling too far from home.
6. Plan a “Staycation”
A surefire way to escape the monotony of daily life – without the expensive costs – is to plan a “staycation” with friends. Have fun and do things you might not ever have the time for such as: reading a
classic book, giving yourself a pedicure, playing a board game, creating a mini herb garden for your window...the list goes on.
Pick out a few movies from
Rotten Tomatoes Top 100 Movies list you have not seen, make some popcorn and have a movie marathon night. Whether you all chip in and split a hotel room for one night or camp in someone’s backyard, you can have a great time without ever leaving town.
7. Utilize Family & Friends
Your family or a friend’s family may own a cabin, cottage or perhaps even a timeshare somewhere. Talk to your friends or family about planning trips that utilize places they have and may not be using over your spring break. Maybe you offer to deep clean the camper or cabin as a thank you for allowing you to use it? They’ll likely be happy that someone is taking advantage of the property and, of course, it won’t cost you a dime to stay there!
