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With spring break quickly approaching at the end of the month, here are some money saving tips whether you are staying in Boulder or traveling.

1. Do a stay-cation. Live in Boulder? Hang at your apartment or house. Catch up on house chores. Get caught up with your studying and school work. Sleep in as late as you want. Connect with neglected friends and family. And find local activities in Denver/Boulder to keep you entertained. Use this week to rest and power up for the rest of the semester.
2. Road Trip! Colorado is in the heart of the American West and there are many iconic road trips out of Denver. Drive, don’t fly. Gas split four ways should be way less expensive than a plane ticket. Places like Arizona and Southern California provide a nice escape from the Colorado cold. Travel with friends and share the cost.
3. Camp out. Camping is much cheaper and more adventurous than hotels. You can . Make sure to plan ahead as camp sites in popular areas can fill up fast. Also be sure you have the correct gear for the environment and climate where you are camping. Colorado, Wyoming and Utah can still be cold and snowy in March.
4. Stay in a hostel. Going somewhere exotic or traveling internationally? Stay in hostels. Hostels are cheap. They generally cost from $5 to $20 per night and are a great way to meet other travelers and make new friends. Make sure to bring some earplugs for sleeping as hostels tend to have a lively atmosphere.
5. Make a budget. The key to a successful vacation is planning ahead and sticking to the financial plan. Many students are tempted to put their vacations on a credit card. Don’t do it! That one week in Mexico could cost you thousands of dollars more in interest and years of credit card payments. Best to go home to mom and dad or stay put and live within your means. There are plenty of ways to have fun on a budget!