As much as we all would love to, whisking off to Cancun for spring break is rarely possible for the average college kid. Between airfare, accommodations, food (drinks), and the fact that some professors have the nerve to assign homework for breaks, few of us have the time or budget to hop on a plane. A week in the tropics in the middle of March sounds like a dream, but it's about that attainable. If a week of Netflix couch potato-ing is just your style, then live your dreams, but I will not settle for a mediocre break even though I'm broke.
If you can't afford a week long trip but still want to get out of town, opt for a long weekend. Two or three nights in a hotel is so much cheaper than six. Plus, only going for a few days may convince you to go somewhere closer to home. A short road trip can give you your beach fix without all the airport chaos. A beach town that doesn't get much traffic in the off-season can probably offer you a hotel room for half the price of a resort. Pack food instead of ordering and you'll save yourself even more! Basically, you're getting paid to vacation. That's a lie, but let's pretend.
If you've been dying to go to a specific place but your wallet just isn't having it, check out possible discounts or promotions. Most amusement parks offer a student or off-season discount. Disney World has been known to offer special promotions for volunteering, and going late in the day (after all the babies are asleep) can get you a cheaper ticket. Check out all the options for Disney here.
If you're happy with something a little less extravagant, get away to a National Park or outdoor activity. It might be a little chilly, but if you bundle up you're guaranteed a great time for free or a small entry fee. Get a group of friends together and go hiking. Pack a picnic and tell your weird hipster friend Jonah to bring his guitar, or hit up Mickey D's on the way home. Whatever floats your boat.
For even less planning, go away with your school! Most colleges offer alternative breaks to take students on volunteer outreach or mission trips both domestically and abroad. This may have some cost to it, depending on your school, but it's a great way to get away and it looks fantastic on your LinkedIn profile.
Okay, I know. Not all of these are super budget friendly for those out there really pinching pennies. If you would rather make money than spend it, work for a week. Ask your summer boss if you can come back for a few days, or hit up local businesses to see if they can use the short-term help. Your best bet might be businesses that work most in spring. With Easter and Mother's Day around the corner, flower and fruit arrangements are in high demand.
Finally, if you really, really, really, can't get a plan together but don't want to waste a week on the couch, schedule a spa day with the girls. Go out and get pampered or DIY at home. A mani-pedi and a rom-com might be one of the best methods for truly relaxing. To all the guys out there: nails might not be your thing, but try a massage or treat yourself as well.
Believe me, I get it. Spring break in Florida sounds amazing right now, but it's a gut-punch when you remember you have $12 to your name. Remember to take a break as you're meant to, whatever that may be. You should come back to school less stressed and ready to stick it out for the rest of the semester. You can always work on your perfect tan later.
