Start planning for spring break now
Sign up for a program
If you want to explore, learn new skills and meet new people without the hassle of planning all of the trip details, check out these programs.
Alternative Breaks
The Alternative Breaks program sends teams of college students to engage in meaningful community service during spring break. These student-led volunteer opportunities positively impact environmental and social justice issues in various communities.
The program allows students to explore the United States while making a difference through service and creating long-lasting connections with others.
This year, students have the opportunity to participate in one of four programs. Learn more about how to get involved with Alternative Breaks this spring break.
Outdoor Pursuits break trips
Students can sign up to travel with Outdoor Pursuits to explore Colorado and have an adventure over spring break. This year, students can choose from two trips.
The hut trip is March 22-24 at the Tundra Hut outside Georgetown. The trip is open to students interested in backcountry skiing, splitboarding and snowshoeing.
The climbing trip is March 23-26 at the Shelf Road climbing area. Participants camp and learn how to climb outside.
Learn more about how to sign up for these trips.
Stay in Boulder
Not all students travel for spring break. The residence halls will be open, allowing students who live on campus to stay. While staying in Boulder doesn’t require as much planning, you can still start booking day trips or signing up for other activities over break.
Be productive
While other students travel or visit home over break, you can use this time to get things done, earn extra money or volunteer.
- If you work on campus, breaks can be an opportunity to pick up extra shifts. Check out on-campus job opportunities.
- Sign up to volunteer over spring break. You can explore opportunities through the Volunteer Resource Center on .
- Use online tools available from Career Services to look for jobs or internships, work on your resume or practice for interviews.
Make it a staycation
Make a staycation out of your break. Colorado has many beautiful destinations within driving distance.
- Go skiing. Lodging at ski resorts can get expensive, but a day trip may be within your budget. You can .
- Visit Denver with your . You can go for a few hours or make a day of it. Pick activities that match your interests, like the , or cheering on one of .
- From shopping and dining to trails and shows, you can find new ways to discover Boulder. Check out .
Take a vacation
Traveling, especially with friends, can be a fun and memorable experience during college. Spring break trips can get expensive, but planning early can help you set and stick to a budget. You can also look for travel deals and group discounts.
Plan your trip
- Decide on your budget for the trip, including all expenses. Make sure everyone is comfortable with the costs.
- Work with your travel partners to pick a destination. Brainstorm locations and narrow down your choices based on your budget and interests.
- Book transportation and lodging. Research to see if you qualify for student discounts. Sometimes, booking early can help save money.
- Plan your itinerary. Explore options for activities, dining and events. Ensure everyone has a say in how they want to spend their time during the trip.
- Communicate plans with your family or roommates. It’s important that someone you trust but isn’t traveling with you knows your plans and can help in an emergency. Let them know how to reach you, where you are staying and your itinerary for the trip.
Money-saving travel tips
- Stock up on snacks and easy meals at a local grocery store instead of eating out. You can bring a sack lunch to eat while you adventure. Plan ahead by packing a foldable lunch bag and reusable containers.
- Take public transportation to save on parking, gas or rideshare fees. When exploring a city or trying to reach a local destination, search online for a city pass or other public transportation deals. Or if the distance isn’t too far, walk.
- Pack light for air travel to avoid airline fees for checked baggage. You can avoid the fee on most airlines by only taking a carry-on bag. Also, remember that bags over 50 pounds include an extra charge.
- Stay out of trouble by being aware of local laws and ordinances. You don’t want to get a ticket for underage drinking, public consumption or other local violations. Also, take care of the property where you stay so you don’t lose your security deposit.
Make the most of your spring break
Whether you want to travel, work, stay in Boulder or visit home, you can plan now to save money and avoid stress later in the semester. Remember that you don’t have to plan an expensive trip to have fun. Make the plans that work best for your interests, needs and budget.