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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Tampa chapter.

It’s that time of year again!

 

The bikinis are out, sunscreen is getting put on, and beach chairs are being thrown into the trunks of our cars.

 

Safety may be one of the last things on your mind as you head out with your friends this break, but it’s so important to have a plan in case things get wonky on your vacation.

Here are some tips and tricks I always stick to in order to stay safe. 

 

1. Bring a portable charger with you everywhere (and keep it charged up!)

There’s NOTHING worse or more unsafe than being out with friends and realizing you lost them; your phone’s dead and you have no way of finding them. Just trust me on this one — a portable charger is your best friend. This also goes for finding your way home. If your phone is dead, Uber is not an option, so at the very minimum, bring your phone charger along with you so you can charge in an emergency. 

 

2. Stay with your friends. 

This is possibly the MOST important tip I can give you. Stay with your friends. I’m going to say that again… STAY WITH YOUR FRIENDS! If you travel in groups you’re less likely to have something bad happen to you. Going off by yourself is never a good idea, especially if you’re vacationing in a place that is unfamiliar to you. Please stay with your friends!

 

3. Drink Water. 

If you’re spring breaking somewhere warm, you’re definitely going to want to stay hydrated! Being in the sun all day long (and possibly having a few drinks) is the quickest way to get dehydrated. Try to drink as much water as you can to have a happy and healthy spring break!

 

4. Check your Uber.

Before you get in your Uber — ask them who they’re picking up. Don’t say your name before they do and make sure the make and model of the car matches the one on your app. If it doesn’t match up, refuse the Uber. It’s better to not take a sketchy Uber and owe $10 than to end up in a stranger’s car. 

 

5. Always have a plan.

Before going out with your friends, make a plan. Where are you going and how are you getting there and back? If you have a basic outline of your plan for the day/night you’re less likely to lose each other. Also knowing how you’re getting home is so important because drinking and driving should NEVER be your way home. 

 

Overall, have a happy, safe, and fun spring break! Make good choices and stay with your friends!

xo

Amanda Thompson is a native of Portland, Maine who is currently a Senior studying Communications at The University of Tampa. When she's not binge-watching New Girl, you can find her dancing around to Jhené Aiko, Lana Del Rey or Kehlani. If you want to keep up with Amanda, follow her on Instagram @amaandathompson
Emely is a rising junior at The University of Tampa. She studies advertising and PR with a focusing on digital marketing. When she isn't bumping to J Cole, Drake or Aventura she's reading up on anything astrological, or editing photos for her food IG. As a New York City native, she loves exploring the cities micro-neighborhoods for their cuisine, music, and fashion. If you want to know more about Emely, follow her on Instagram - @aemiliatertia - or Twitter - @ThatEmely