When you’re scrolling through Instagram or procrastinating on Facebook, sometimes it looks like everyone is living their best life except for you. While they’re all having a fabulous time, you’re stuck here staring at a phone with little going on and less to look forward to.
Of course, it doesn’t have to be this way. Yes, your bank account may look scary, and it’s tough to be a baller on a budget. However, there are some fantastic vacation adventures out there for you if you do a little bit of planning and make the most out of some killer deals.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: No way. Well … Yes way! Check out the following ideas and you’ll be able to put something special on your calendar in 2020.
1. Spring Break Blowout
There’s no match for spring break when it comes to partying in a sunny location among a horde of like-minded friends and soon-to-be friends from other schools. And, fortunately, there are so many possibilities at decent rates given how eager different locations are to attract college kids.
From Mexico to Florida, there is no shortage of exciting, and cheap, destinations. Of course, the places that cater to spring breakers do come with a certain atmosphere. While some love that raucous environment, it may not be for you. If this is your outlook, go off the grid and look to class it up a bit with a few friends.
Skip the cliché vacation and instead figure out a better plan (like those listed below) that will make the most out of your time off — minus the margaritas.
2. Graduation and End-of-Year Vacation
Many people find they can have a much greater experience if they devote their budget to something a bit more memorable than partying and getting a tan for a few days. That’s one reason why graduation trips (or end-of-year trips for those with years left) have become so popular.
Whether you keep it local or pick something a bit more ambitious and adventurous, planning ahead to give yourself something to look forward to will help make this one of the most memorable trips of your life. Think about doing something outdoors like a multi-day hiking excursion or a trip to a national park. Maybe a big city you’ve always dreamed about is the way to go. Or perhaps, best of all, think about a cruise.
Though the Caribbean often comes to mind when they think about this option, an increasingly popular getaway is an amazing Alaska cruise vacation. Not only are there reasonable rates to be found, but this destination also offers a range of idyllic landscapes and excursions in a unique setting that you simply cannot experience anywhere else. If unforgettable is you goal, move this to the top of the list.
3. Shorter Low-Key Getaways
If distance and time really do create strict constraints, don’t settle for nothing. Sure, you might not be able to celebrate the end of the year (maybe you start a job or internship immediately) or go wild for spring break (too much schoolwork during the semester). But you can definitely at least find a long weekend to enjoy.
It doesn’t matter where you go to school. It doesn’t matter how tight your budget is. There must be a body of water, theme park, campground, big city/cultural hub, music festival or national/state park within driving distance. So, find a friend or four, lock up a cheap Airbnb or other accommodation, and make it happen before time slips away.
Adventure 2020
When you’re in school, education of course must be your No. 1 priority. But reading books and writing papers can’t be the only thing you get out of this life-changing phase of your life.
You have to enjoy yourself! This can take many forms: a trip to the beach for spring break, an amazing Alaska cruise vacation to see nature’s wonders, or heading off-campus to see some great live music for a long weekend.
No matter which you pick, don’t just say you’re going to go. Actually do it! And be sure to start the planning now to hold yourself accountable and make sure it comes to fruition. Because once you look back after school is over, you’re not going to remember the homework and class time. But you will never forget your big 2020 adventure.
