If sandy beaches and warm weather are not part of your spring break plan, don’t fret; there are plenty of other exciting activities you can do that don’t involve an expensive plane ticket! Consider one of these five thrifty ways that will make your sunless spring break warmer and brighter! The best part is, they’re perfect for a tight college student budget.
1. Spa Day
To start, I’m going to suggest one of my favorite places to go whenever I’m stressed and need a pick-me-up: the spa! Go get a facial, a manicure or a massage — anything that will help you de-stress after all the late nights studying for midterms. Most spas offer basic massages or facials that start at around $20. Not feeling like leaving the house? Have your own spa day at home. Pinterest is the perfect place to look for homemade facial recipes and relaxing spa day tips. Treat yourself to a day free of stress, and do it without draining half of your bank account.
2. Road Trip
A road trip is another inexpensive way to spend your spring break. Go with a huge group of friends or just a small handful of them. Driving in the car with your friends is always a good time. Whether it’s an hour-long road trip to an amusement park or a four-hour ride to a different state, try to take a road trip to somewhere you’ve never been for an exciting, unforgettable adventure! Stock up on all your favorite snacks and goodies at your local grocery before you go. Also, don’t forget about the music; jam sessions are way more fun in the car. Make a road trip playlist to listen to during the car ride, and you’re set. All you need is a car, some gas and some good friends to make this spring break one you will be talking about for years to come!
3. Concert
Another way to make the most of your non-island spring break trip is to go to a concert. Start searching online for general admission tickets to artists and bands coming near you this month. Once you find something you like, click “buy now”! General admission tickets are usually pretty cheap; if you look into it, you can even find some free concerts happening during spring break in your local area. Nothing is more enjoyable than belting out — or messing up — all of the lyrics to you and your friends’ favorite songs. Who doesn’t love live music, especially at a low price? Feeling even more adventurous? Look into going to a music festival in your area for spring break. Instead of going to only one concert, why go to 10 in a row? It will brighten your mood and make your spring break a little less quiet!
4. Volunteer
Rather than sitting on the couch watching everyone else go on vacation, go volunteer! I know that this may sound boring — maybe even a terrible idea to some — but it can actually be a better experience than you would think. Not only can you get in some volunteer hours (that looks great on a resume by the way), but you can also find joy in knowing you’ve helped someone in need. What better feeling is there than the satisfaction of giving back? Go to your local town center or just search for volunteer opportunities. Whether it’s working at a soup kitchen or helping out for a marathon run, the best part is that it’s all free!
5. Connect with People in Your Life
Last but not least, the most important thing you should do on a stay-cation is to connect with the family and friends you’ve missed while you’ve been away. This spring break, make it a priority to go out of your way to see all the people you’ve missed while you’ve been at college. Sometimes we take for granted those who supported us as we grew up; spring break is the perfect time to get back in touch with these people. Call your grandma you haven’t seen in forever; ask her to get lunch, if you please. The only cost: a couple hours of your time.
Palm trees and fruity drinks have nothing on you this spring break. These five ideas can help you plan the best spring break ever — without even having to dig deep into your pockets.