With SB2k16 less than one, two, or three weeks away, depending on what college you attend, it’s important to know the do's and don’ts of spring break, especially if you’re traveling out of the country. With the help of the following list, your spring break can be more “Baywatch” and less “Jersey Shore."
1. Hydrate
Although this seems like common sense, a lot of people forget that you can’t fuel your body with a fruity mixed drink (even if it is served in a pineapple). Alternate one alcoholic drink with one cup of water. It might seem like a pain at the time, but your body will thank you for it in the long run.
2. Remember Sunscreen
The sun is stronger the closer you are the equator, so places like the Bahamas, Cancun, or even Florida will leave you looking like a lobster if you’re not careful. If possible, try to get a base tan before you go. Or, if you attend school in a state that doesn’t reach above 30 degrees before mid-May, make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen.
3. Make a Plan
Making a plan doesn’t necessarily mean you need to map out every single minute of your trip. But it is important that you and your group set up at least a few meeting times throughout the day to make sure no one’s drunkenly wandered into the ocean or is turning the color of a ginger’s hair because they passed out on the beach. Scheduling a time to eat lunch or dinner together is a delicious and easy way to keep track of everyone.
4. Go With the Flow
That being said, it’s important not to stress the small stuff. If you planned to be on the beach by 11 and you’re still hungover in bed at 1, don’t freak out (although you might want to consider revisiting number one on this list). If things aren’t going exactly as planned, just remember that you’re on vacation and you’re supposed to be relaxing.
5. Stay on the Resort
This one is especially important if you’re traveling outside of the country and aren’t familiar with the local rules and laws. Staying on the resort you booked (not including some well-planned outings) is a good way to keep yourself from getting into trouble. And remember, weed is still illegal in most Caribbean countries, even if the locals might try to convince you otherwise.
6. Set a Budget
Most people are already paying hundreds of dollars for their hotels, cruises, and flights. If you want to keep yourself from completely depleting your bank account in one week, try to use only cash. Withdrawing money from your bank ahead of time will ensure that you only spend a set amount, and it’ll save you from oversea transaction fees if you’re traveling out of the country. That being said, don’t carry around all of your money at once. A lot of hotel rooms have safes, so try to keep most of it in there and only take out what you really need for the day.
7. Know Your Limits
No one wants to take care of the lightweight that thinks they have the tolerance of a 300-pound Irish man, so don’t be that girl/guy. Spring Break is a marathon, not a sprint. If you run yourself into the ground the first day because you thought you could keep up with Mr. Frat Star, you won’t be able to capitalize on the rest of your vacation.
8. Schedule Downtime
This kind of goes hand-in-hand with number seven on the list. Even if you’re just relaxing on the beach or by the pool, taking a break from drinking for a few hours (other than when you’re sleeping) will help give you the energy to last the whole week. Again, this is a marathon, not a sprint, and contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be drinking 24/7 to get the most out of your spring break.
9. Don't Forget: You're Still in College
If you’re as unlucky as I am, you have midterms the week you return from spring break. Even though you may forget about the papers, tests, and assignments while sitting on a sunny beach, it’s important to remember that even though classes aren’t in session, you’re still accountable for your grades when you return. Studying on the drive/flight to and from your destination is a good way to make sure that you’re not completely screwed without cutting into your beach time.
10. Have Fun!
Spring break is our opportunity to take a break from the fast-paced and stressful atmosphere that is college life. So drink a few (or a lot of) cocktails, get some sun, and have an awesome time. You deserve it.
