If you're like me, you have a passion to explore every part of the globe, but it certainly isn't easy to jet across the world when you're drowning in student debt. Whether it's a weekend up north with friends, a spring break trip to the beach or a month-long tour of Europe, here's how to make your dreams a reality on a budget. The only thing left is to decide where to go!

Getting there

Low-cost airlines

After hearing horror story after horror story, I told myself I would never fly on Spirit, but when the opportunity presented itself to fly roundtrip to Vegas for about $100, I just couldn't say no. If you're looking for a cozy seat, complimentary meals and stress-free traveling, I'd suggest coughing up the extra cash for a flight elsewhere, but if you're on a tight budget, give it a try. Spirit has deals nearly every day that don't show up on congregate sites like Travelocity or Expedia. (Simply click "deals" on the upper menu bar.) If you can go on the dates they offer, you're in for a treat. I'm talking about $70 roundtrip.

Greyhound buses

If you're looking to go somewhere without an ocean in between, check out Greyhound buses. Busing is not quite as fast as flying, but you can go on a cross-country trip for under $100. If you're a student, you can purchase a discount card to get 20 percent off your future travels.

Take a road trip

If you're trying to spring break with your whole squad, consider a road trip. Sure, gas isn't cheap, but the more people you've got, the more the cost divides. Plus, getting there is half of the fun, am I right?

Work for an airline

This one might take a little bit of dedication, but if you're looking to travel frequently, consider applying for an airline. Most airlines let their employees fly standby on flights for free. That's right. Free. Not only do you get the benefits, but many times your family (parents, spouses, children) is also included in the deal. You don't have to be a pilot or even a flight attendant. There are many jobs available at your local airport where you don't have to be in the air all the time. Not to mention, you get paid for it, too. If you're a student, check out Southwest's Campus Reach internship.

Staying there

Tent it out

If you're feeling adventurous, you can save some big bucks by camping instead of getting a hotel room. Some parks and recreation areas will let you camp for free, but most camp fees at state and national parks cost about $10-$30/site/night. Falling asleep under the stars is a better view than the motel ceiling anyway.

Hotwire

I gave this one a try when I made a trip to Chicago a few years ago. Hotwire's Hot Rate deals let you book a hotel at a deep discount. The catch? You don't get to know the name of your hotel until after you book. But have no fear, when I booked my Chicago trip, we ended up at a Hilton on the lake, which was pretty dang fancy for a couple of college girls on a budget.

Air BnB

Air BnB lets owners rent out their homes, rooms or apartments to travelers stopping by for the night or staying for a couple weeks. Many times these options are a lot cheaper than getting a hotel and you can use it to hook you up with a room anywhere in the world. You won't be able to sleep in a treehouse at your hotel, anyway.

Hostel

Hostels are a cheap alternative to a hotel. Depending on the experience you want, you'll get a bed, but you might be sharing a room with strangers. Just a few more friends to go out on adventures with, right?

Having fun

Groupon

People often get into "vacation mode" once they reach their destination and are willing to splurge, which makes for a fun weekend, but a rough couple months trying to pay off the credit card bill. Check out your favorite discount sites like Groupon or Living Social for your destination. You'll also discover places and activities you didn't even know existed. Can you believe my family went to Orlando and didn't even touch Disney or Universal? We did, however, swim with hundreds of manatees in a river for less than half the price of Disney, thanks to Groupon. Yeah, you can actually do that, and it's freakin' awesome.

Grab some pamphlets

You know those pamphlets right next to the check-in desks at the hotel? Not only are they fun to look at, but many times, they'll have a coupon on the back. Also, keep an eye out for coupon books, which can score you discounts on food and fun.

Ticket booths

Are you dying to see Cirque de Soleil? If you're going to a popular destination for shows and concerts, check out a street ticket booth such as Tix4Tonight in Las Vegas. While you should always be cautious of scams, most booths are legit places to buy tickets at a sweet discount. While you're there, check out the dinner deals. Think 50 percent off casino buffets. You were going to eat anyway, so might as well get it cheap.

Become one with nature or the community

Take a day or two explore what your destination has to offer. Hike up a mountain, swim at the beach or shop for souvenirs in town. Don't worry about having your itinerary locked down and spend a day wandering. You're in a whole new place and the best part is; there's so much to see for free. If you're not sure what to do, check out Yelp for popular ideas.