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Spring break is right around the corner, and you'll probably be tempted to get out of the house and spend more money. Check out these tips for saving money this spring break; plan ahead, and you can have serious fun on a small budget. 

Road trip with friends

It’s been a long semester and you need a break, but you’re short on cash. What can you do? There's nothing more iconic than the American road trip. 

Colorado is in the heart of the American West, and there are many iconic road trips out of Denver. Pile in the car with some friends and go somewhere new! Places such as Arizona and Southern California provide a nice escape from the Colorado cold.

To save on travel costs: Split gas money, camp or stay with friends, and shop for groceries and cook to avoid eating out. All of this can add up to adventure, fun and an affordable way to vacation.

Camp out

Speaking of camping—make it the highlight of your break! Don't have your own gear? 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.

Stay in a hostel

Already planning to go somewhere exotic or travel 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, though, as hostels tend to have a lively atmosphere.

Staycation: All you ever wanted

Go home. Relax. Sleep in, watch movies, catch up with some old friends. Yeah, it’s not Mexico, but your friends putting their spring break shenanigans spending on a credit card will be paying for it for years; meanwhile you’ll be relaxed, rested and in good financial standing.

Live in Boulder? Hang at your apartment or house. Catch up on house chores. Get ahead on 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!

Last but not least, make a budget

Whether you're staycationing or traveling abroad, the key to any 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. In that case, it's best to go home to Mom and Dad or stay put and live within your means. As you can see, there are plenty of ways to have fun on a budget!