8 Great Staycation Ideas for Spring Break on a Budget

[del.icio.us] [Digg] [Facebook] [Mixx] [Reddit] [StumbleUpon] [Twitter] [Email]

Spring break is a popular time to hit the slopes or bask on the beach, but not everyone can afford to take a vacation this year. It may seem like a drag to skip spring break, but you’d be surprised at how many fun and free things you can do while staying with Mom and Dad. It’s the perfect opportunity to rediscover your hometown, visit with old friends and catch up on lost sleep. Here are 8 great staycation ideas for spring break on a budget:

  1. Go to Museums: Going to museums is a wonderful way to spend your spring break staycation. Not only is it an educational experience, but it’s also a very affordable activity for college students. Many museums have free days and offer discounted admission rates for visitors with a student ID.
  2. Have a Movie Marathon: Sometimes, there’s nothing better than having a movie marathon with your old buddies. Pop some popcorn and have everyone come over to your parents’ house to watch your favorite macho action movies, chick flicks or ridiculous home videos. Make the marathon even cheaper with $1.00 movie rentals from Redbox.
  3. Attend Local Festivals and Concerts: It’s not uncommon for cities to host festivals and concerts when students are on break. If your spring break falls on the week of St. Patrick’s Day, your hometown likely has a free parade or party to celebrate the holiday. Get your friends together to check out local bars and venues for good ole’ live music.
  4. Camp in your Backyard: You don’t have to go to the Grand Canyon to get a taste of the great outdoors – just camp out in your backyard! Sure, your parents’ backyard probably lacks the kind of wildlife you’d see at most campsites, but it’s still a fun adventure to gaze at the stars and roast s’mores in the back. This way you’ll save money on gas and additional camping gear and can go to the restroom without the fear of a bear attack.
  5. Have a Pool Party: Who needs Panama City Beach when you’ve got a swimming pool and grill at your fingertips? If you’re lucky enough to get sunshine this time of year, gather up your hometown friends for an awesome and affordable pool party. Ask everyone to bring something to throw on the grill or snack on and you’ll have food covered. Buy soft drinks instead of alcohol to save money and not worry Mom and Dad.
  6. Go to Local Sports Games: While you’re home for spring break, go support your local sports teams. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to attend every high school basketball game or track meet. You might be able to catch an inexpensive D-League basketball game, a NPSL match or an AHL game in your hometown. Minor league sports games can be just as exciting as professional leagues, but don’t come with the expensive ticket price.
  7. Catch up on Reading: Why not take this week to kick back and catch up on some reading? It doesn’t matter if you curl up with your favorite Jane Austen novel or your dreaded economics textbook, at least you’re reading and making time for yourself. While you’re home, visit the nearest public library to browse the bookshelves and check out books for free. Don’t forget to return your books before you go back to school, or else you’ll end up with a not-so-sweet library fine.
  8. Volunteer: Make good use of your spring break staycation time by giving back to those less fortunate than you. Volunteering will get you off the couch and doing something productive that won’t cost you a dime. It doesn’t matter if you volunteer to walk dogs at your local animal shelter, help build a Habitat for Humanity house or mentor at-risk kids, your weeklong contribution will be much appreciated, and you’ll feel good too!

Quick Degree Finder