Spring Break: 4 Tips For Planning Your Trip

As February comes to a close, spring break is right around the corner and it’s time to start planning that trip you’ve talked about for the past four years. How can you do it in a smart, fiscally friendly but fun way? Follow these steps:

Plan Ahead

Too many people wait until the last minute to go on a trip. Sometimes this works in your favor but more often than not waiting until the last minute is your downfall and here’s why. The closer you get to spring break the higher the costs tend to be. Why? Because it’s prime time for travelers which means businesses don’t have to cut costs or worry about discounted sales. As a result, airfare can be twice the cost of a regular trip taken a month earlier, hotels can charge an arm and a leg, and package deals go up as it’s less of a commodity. In business terms, it’s a sure thing. By planning ahead, you can avoid all of the necessary costs, take time to weigh and measure vacation destination options, and plan accordingly.

Think Outside the Box

Sometimes the best spring break trips aren’t the most common. Most people think Miami is the hot spot for spring break vacationers and, while that may be true, it’s also one of the most expensive with the least amount of variety. Consider looking into resort deals through Groupon or a local travel agency. You get the benefits of a package deal – think “all inclusive” – without the annoyance of a crowded bar and sticky tables. Even a cruise, it may be a short trip, but you experience a great deal more in a smaller amount of time.

Budget, Budget, Budget

The biggest reason why most spring break trips never end up happening: the cost. Spring break has a tendency of breaking the bank. Even if it’s a family trip, spring break tends to be a week-long party. Eating out every night, souvenirs, drinks, snacks, airfare or gas money, hotels, maybe even a pet sitter, the costs add up. That’s why budgeting is essential. This goes hand-in-hand with planning ahead. The earlier you plan the more time you have to set aside some money every month for the trip. Don’t wait until the last minute.

Always Be Prepared

It’s inevitable, if something can go wrong, it will. Be prepared. In terms of packing or planning, always have a contingency plan. This may mean, ensuring that should you need to cancel, you can. It could also mean, make sure you pack double the amount of sun screen and Tylenol. In reality, it means make sure all your affairs are in order. Make sure your insurance is up-to-date. Chances are, you may need to rent a car and while the agency may offer their own insurance, it only covers minimal damage. If you have someone coming in to take care of your pets or housesit, make sure your homeowners or renters insurance is up-to-date. Though you may not be home, you are responsible should something happen.

Ultimately, your goal is to have a great spring break. To lessen the stress and eradicate all worry, plan ahead, consider your options, budget and be prepared. As the old saying goes, it is always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.