The countdown has officially begun! Just two weeks to go until Spring Break ’14 is in full swing. Let’s face it: at this point in the semester, we’re all desperately in need of a break. We haven’t really had a break since… since… well, WINTER for crying out loud!
Breaks are wonderful oases in a sea of midterms and other stressors. The unfortunate thing about vacations (the only caveat, really, besides incessant hangovers) is that expenses can rack up FAST. Before you know it, you’ve just spend two-months paychecks on booze, the perfect bikini + the perfect tan, and have no money left over for rent.
The good news, however, is that if you plan ahead (as in– starting NOW) you can save up all the money you’ll need to make Spring Break ’14 a memorable and college-student budget-friendly adventure. It only takes a little committment and self-discipline.
Here is your official (HC-approved) Spring Break Countdown Budgeting Calendar. 14 days, 14 ways to save. Lezzz do it.
Day 1. March 8th — Saturday.
The countdown has begun! Today, you’re going to start getting in the habit of putting all extra money in a designated “Spring Break Savings” jar. Consider setting aside $1-2 from each day of work in the next two weeks, as well as any extra money you find lying around. If you’re truly desperate, tap into the old birthday money fund.
Estimated savings: $20 — $100.
Day 2. March 9th — Sunday.
Instead of reclining on your couch all afternoon and watching Netflix, consider doing a little spring cleaning– and digging around for extra cash. Odds are, you have some spare change (at least!) lying around. Check the couch. Check your purses. Check your coat pockets, including the coat that you wore to your friend’s birthday party and swore never to wear again.
Estimated savings: $1 – $10.
Day 3. March 10th — Monday.
I know, it’s Monday morning. Today’s goal is only for the truly dedicated: skip Starbucks.
Estimated savings: $3 – $8.
Day 4. March 11th — Tuesday.
Consider working a couple extra hours at your current job. Manage your time efficiently to make this possible (obviously, if you had the time to spare, you would probably be working anyway). Cut out an hour out of your social calendar and spend your homework time just a little bit more productively so that you can make a little extra cash on the side. Remember, it’s only temporary!
Estimated earnings/savings: $30 — $80.
Day 5. March 12th — Wednesday.
Bike to class! Save your car a little wear-and-tear AND avoid gas expenses. Try to not tank up at all for the next week and a half. You can save yourself some major cash by being a little more eco-friendly.
Estimated savings: $30 — $100.
Day 6. March 13th — Thursday.
Do odd-jobs. Sure, more work is not exactly what you were hoping for at this point in the semester– but you’ll thank me later. Consider mowing lawns, baby-sitting or pet-sitting for a little extra cash. Contact friends, family, and neighbors for possible money-making opportunities. Squeeze in odd-jobs every chance you have in the upcoming week!
Estimated savings/earnings: $25 — $150.
Day 7. March 14th — Friday.
Congrats, collegiette! You’re halfway there!
Since you made it through yet ANOTHER week of college life (it just doesn’t seem to get any easier, does it? … sigh), you deserve to have a fun night, in or out, whatever you choose. Our advice? Leave your credit card at home or hidden and out of sight (not so well hidden that you won’t find it later, however). Bring a certain amount of cash with you tonight. By leaving your credit card at home, you will resist the temptation to spend any more than what you plan on before things get crazy and/or alcohol affects your budgeting judgment. It happens.
Estimated savings: $10 – $50.
Day 8. March 15th — Saturday.
You’re on the final stretch! Today’s tip is to make a budgeting plan to last you for the next week. Make it as detailed as possible. Literally, budget your life down to the last few cents. I know, it is a little stressful to micromanage your life. The good news, though, is that if you are diligent and manage to discipline yourself and cut out extravagances for the next week (late night pizza, just ONE more beer, etc.) you will have an estimated $20 – $100 to add to your official Spring Break fund.
Day 9. March 16th — Sunday.
Pack your lunch. I know, Subway is easier and probably tastes better– but just ONE pbj won’t kill you.
Estimated savings: $3 – $7.
Day 10. March 17th — Monday.
Happy St. Patty’s Day! I find that in college, every occasion to celebrate is taken full advantage of. St. Patty’s Day is not (and should not be) any different. But, instead of going downtown for Irish Whiskey or a good old-fashioned Stout, consider having a potluck with your friends. One of you can be in charge of an Irish-inspired dessert, Irish-inspired drinks, etc. Share the love and split the cost of everything!
Estimated savings: $10 — $30.
Day 11. March 18th — Tuesday.
Be wise. You know the parking situation at Boise State. So, take extra precautions against parking tickets. You know the cost of a speeding ticket. So, leave for class 3 minutes earleir than normal. The last thing you need at this stage of the game is a buzz kill from a respected law man. Play it safe.
Estimated savings: $0 – $100.
Day 12. March 19th — Wednesday.
Instead of PAYING for salon treatment, consider teaming up with your friends for DIY mani-pedis. Instead of going to a tanning salon, soak up some natural Boise rays. It will get the job done without busting the bank.
Estimated savings: $30 — $150.
Day 13. March 20th — Thursday.
So close– Spring Break is literally around the corner! You can already taste the pina coladas! Time to start packing, if you haven’t done so already. Today’s money saver tip: instead of spending your hard-earned and well-saved money on a few new tops and/or a new bathing suit, consider trading with your roommate and friends. The items will FEEL new, even if they aren’t. If you trade for keeps and happen to leave your bikini top in a strange hotel room in Central America, you will not have to feel guilty about not treating new things nicely.
Estimated savings: $20 — $200.
Day 14. March 21st — Friday. (TGIF)
Tomorrow’s the day! Instead of kicking off Spring Break in downtown Boise, consider a relaxing evening in. Make sure all of your stuff is organized and you can get out of town completely stress-free. Forego cocktails tonight. Enjoy some alone time, for the last time in a while, cuddle up with Netflix, and get some sleep — you’re going to need it!
Estimated savings: $5 — $25.
Spring Break.
Congratulations, collegiette! You did it! Now let the good times roll.