How to Avoid Overspending During Spring Break 

#1. Rent a House

Most people would naturally opt for hotels, but statistics show that renting a house on sites like Airbnb is 21% cheaper than lodging in a hotel. You can save up to 49% if you rent a private room on Airbnb that you would have if you had booked a hotel. There are other advantages that come with renting a house, especially on Airbnb. It comes with access to a full kitchen, that means you are allowed to cook yourself, saving more in the process. You wouldn’t have to worry about extra expenses that come with booking a hotel. Things like WiFi and Parking fees wouldn’t be a bother to you either. Additionally, Airbnb apartments mostly come with access to laundry service. 

#2. Pick a Cheaper Destination

Famous resorts cost more and will cost more during that time of the year. So, if your plan is to spend less, go where others don’t. Do what they don’t. Going against the trending spots will help you save up in accommodation, feeding and relaxation. This way you both spend less and can channel your finances and energy to other relevant experiences. Also, you won’t have to spoil your holiday with lots of worries and mental stress.

Here are some places you may want to consider visiting;

• Cocoa Beach, Florida: it is situated to the east of Orlando on Florida’s Atlantic coast. It has budget friendly hotels, family run/owned inns where you can get a room that your pocket is comfortable with. There’s a list of things to do there — boogie boarding, wildlife drive, exploring the dinosaur museum, Cocoa Beach trolley which is free for children and the list goes on.

• Jamestown-Yorktown, VA: It is both budget friendly as well as educational and fun filled. You get to see the first English settlement in North America. There are movies and galleries that help to give a deeper insight into the early settlements. You can also do kayaking excursions along the James River.

• Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: If fun and budget friendly is what you are looking for, why not take your trip to the Caribbean? Beaches, clear blue ocean and white sandy beaches. You are given a free ride to the beach which is lined with many water sports to choose from. Go for a catamaran excursion or even a snorkeling tour and get a tour operator at a reasonable price.

#3. Search Out for Student Discount

Normally, students are privileged with a cheaper price rate on different platforms such as Spotify, Apple music and Amazon Prime. Students traveling to Europe during spring break can save up to 31% off train passes. There are sites that allow students better rates on flight. One of them being STATravel. Some transport companies, museums and local attractions offer students discounts. There are times when the student privilege is not laid out on the surface. So, if you find yourself in such a situation, ask for it. Also, do not forget take your student ID!

#4. Avoid Overspending

By all means, limit yourself to only the necessities. 

• Don’t over pack. This will cost you extra flight fees, which usually ranges from $25 to $50 per flight leg. Be intentional about what you need and what you don’t need. 

• Keep track of expenses. This way you will be able to keep track of your financial flow. In your budget, map out a daily spending limit.

#5. Book Early

Travel prices tend to go up as the holiday closes in. Thus it is important to book your slot a long while before, that way you would have saved up a chunk. It is best to book during the fall and early winter when everything tends to be cheaper.

#6. Travel as a Group

If you are in a group, the expenses are shared amongst yourselves. Get a room that can accommodate a number of people. If possible, avoid getting a hotel. As a bonus package, you will have friends to vacation with you.

#7. Cook Your Own Food

Of course, part of the thrill of going on a vacation is discovering, devouring and learning new recipes.  One advantage of renting a house as opposed to booking a hotel, is that you can opt to eat in as opposed to eating out for every meal. You can also go along with your own beverages.

#8. Look Out for Free/Cheaper Entertainments

Mingle with the locals and get clues from them where to find free entertainment and cheap food and drinks. 

Happy Spring Break everyone!