Spring Break Without the Broke: Budget-Friendly Travel Tips

Spring is in the air, and if you’ve been dreaming of a much-needed getaway, you’re not alone. But let’s be real—travel can get expensive fast. Between flights, hotels, and all those little extras, it’s easy to blow your budget before you even pack your bags.

The good news? A little planning goes a long way in keeping costs down. At Old Ocean Federal Credit Union, we believe you can have an amazing spring break without breaking the bank. Here’s how:

1. Be Flexible with Dates and Destinations

Want to score the best travel deals? Avoid peak travel dates like spring break weekends and major holidays. Mid-week flights tend to be cheaper, and destinations that aren’t typical spring break hot spots (looking at you, Miami and Cancun) will save you some serious cash. Consider underrated gems or even a national park for a more affordable adventure.

2. Skip the Pricey Hotels—Go for Alternatives

Sure, resorts are nice, but they come with a hefty price tag. Instead, check out budget-friendly options like:
✅ Airbnb or VRBO for affordable, home-like stays
✅ Hostels (some are surprisingly nice and even have private rooms!)
✅ Camping if you love the great outdoors
✅ Staying with friends or family (just don’t forget to bring a thank-you gift)

3. Pack Light to Avoid Extra Fees

Airlines love to sneak in extra fees for checked baggage. Save money by packing light—stick to a carry-on and wear your bulkiest clothing on the plane. If you need more space, consider budget airlines that allow a free personal item and pack strategically.

4. Find Deals on Flights and Transportation

Before booking, use sites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper to track prices and snag the best deals. And if you’re traveling within the U.S., consider taking a train or bus instead of flying—it’s often cheaper and way less stressful.

5. Eat Smart (and Not Just at Restaurants)

Eating out for every meal adds up fast. Save money by:
🍽️ Booking a place with a kitchen and cooking some meals yourself
🍽️ Packing snacks and breakfast items to avoid overpriced convenience stores
🍽️ Eating like a local—food trucks and hole-in-the-wall spots are usually cheaper and tastier than touristy restaurants

6. Look for Free and Cheap Activities

Every destination has awesome things to do that don’t cost a fortune. Some ideas:
🌿 Explore national parks, hiking trails, or local beaches
🎭 Check out free museum days or walking tours
🎶 Hit up local events or festivals (spring is full of them!)
🛍️ Skip overpriced souvenirs and find unique, affordable keepsakes at flea markets or thrift stores

7. Use Rewards and Discounts

Before you book anything, check if you have credit card rewards, airline miles, or hotel points you can use. Also, don’t forget about discounts for students, military, AAA members, and, of course, credit union members!

8. Set a Travel Budget (and Stick to It)

It’s easy to get carried away on vacation, so set a budget before you go. Use cash or a prepaid travel card for daily expenses to keep spending in check. And if you need a little extra financial boost, Old Ocean FCU has low-interest personal loans to help make your dream trip happen.

Spring travel doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With a little planning and some smart spending, you can have an unforgettable adventure without the financial stress.

And if you need help planning financially, we’ve got your back! Stop by Old Ocean Federal Credit Union for savings options, travel-friendly accounts, and more.

Wherever you’re headed, safe travels and happy exploring!