Travel Tips Spring Break Travel on a Budget

With college tuition costs up nearly six percent from last year and school and living expenses continually rising, students are looking for inexpensive ways to get away this spring.

Whether you are headed to Key West to soak up the sights and sounds of Duval Street or planning to catch a cruise to the Caribbean, here are a few travel-friendly tips students should keep in mind when booking the "ultimate" Spring Break getaway.

Plan it.

Being young is, by definition, being spontaneous. But, even the smallest amount of preparation can make this year's Spring Break the best one ever -- without breaking the bank. Our advice, start with a check list of questions:

+ What is your total budget? What are the cost parameters for air and lodging? How much do you have to spend on food, beverages and other entertainment?

+ Is this year's getaway domestic or international?

+ Will you need a passport, a copy of your birth certificate and a state driver's license for identification to gain entry into a country?

+ Would my friends consider an all-inclusive resort?

+ Do I have the sea legs for a cruise across the Caribbean?

Pick it

Spring Break is the one time of the year for students to travel with friends and explore the world before they graduate and go into the workforce. There are many options that are fun, easy to get to and won't break the bank, including historically popular destinations such as South Padre Island, Texas, Miami, Fla., and Jamaica. When traveling internationally, it's usually safer to choose a popular Spring Break destination with resorts to ensure a safe and enjoyable time.

Pack It

Make sure to pack one change of clothes, a swimsuit, toiletries and all of your valuables in a carry-on bag. This way if your luggage is misplaced, you will have everything you need to get through the first couple of days. Marita Hudson, a member of CheapTickets.com's Cheap Squad, also suggests that travelers pack as little as possible just in case luggage has to be carried longer than expected due to travel delays and so that there is room for souvenirs and gifts. Also, think about bringing one nice outfit for dinner out with the special someone you meet in paradise.

Serve it

Consider avoiding the party scene by taking a volunteer vacation. You might be surprised to know that giving back to others is exactly the break you needed away from campus and much more fulfilling than bar hopping in South Beach. Check out organizations like Habitat for Humanity (www.habitat.org) and the National Park Service (www.nps.gov/volunteer/) for volunteer opportunities across America.

If you'd like to combine your two passions of partying and service, help be a part of rebuilding New Orleans. After a long day of working to help rebuild the city where jazz was born, relax on Bourbon Street with friends and experience N'awlins at its best!

SAFETY FIRST

Our final and most important suggestion for the ultimate Spring Break getaway is to be safe. Spring Break is a time to create fun, not tragic, memories. When traveling internationally, choose popular resorts. Prior to leaving, be sure to supply your parents with a full travel itinerary that includes flight dates and times, hotel name and telephone number. Parents should also have the cell phone numbers of friends you are traveling with in case of an emergency. Once you get to your destination always stay with a friend or let them know where you are going and call them if your plans change.

Regardless of how you plan it, pick it, pack it or serve it this Spring Break - make sure to use Internet sites like CheapTickets.com when you take a break from the books and head out on that budget friendly trip!

Courtesy of ARA Content