Spring Break is just around the corner and for just about every college student, that is music to our ears. While preparing for your trip we wanted to share with you some tips of how to budget your money before and during your vacation.

One of the main things you need to do to prepare is understand the cost. Are you going in a group? Are you flying? Are you splitting the hotel cost? You need to figure out the answer to these questions to know how to budget correctly.

Tony Marin the Vice President of Student Affairs suggested that students should set aside money each week as they prepare for spring break. He also recommended that students should set aside cash, because with cash you will be able to put it somewhere in which you are not tempted to spend it. Out of sight, out of mind.

Another thing to be prepared for during spring break is the unexpected. Whether you’re flying or driving, you never know what could happen. You could have car trouble; or your flight could get delayed. Whatever it is, make sure that you have set aside emergency money.

If you drive to your destination, pack your snacks. Bring a cooler or two and pack drinks and perishables that will last the whole trip.

Marin said, “If your destination is within driving distance I would most recommend driving. Not only is it cheaper, but you can’t beat the quality time and conversations you get when you drive. During car trips you get to spend time with your friends that you will cherish.”

At some spring break venues there might be special events in which students can use their ID cards to get discounts. During spring break there may be lot of deals for students, so taking full advantage of this could help save money. Granted not every destination will have discounts, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

When preparing for the trip, trying to save money is one of the biggest struggles, but one of the most helpful ways to save is by cutting unnecessary spending. It’s always fun to have little shopping sprees and to go out to eat, but when  saving up for spring break, it would be beneficial to cook at home or limit eating out.

Planning ahead of time, and having all the necessary traveling affairs in order is extremely important when budgeting for spring break. Be prepared for the unexpected, pack snacks, and when arriving at the destination it could be helpful to go to the store and buy food instead of eating out the whole week.

All that being said, if you budget your money correctly then you may never need to use your emergency fund, and you can turn that emergency money into your discretionary money. Make sure your trip is planned to the very last detail so that you can have a stress-free week and enjoy the break.