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The funny thing about traveling on a budget is no one seems to realize it can be done anywhere and on any scale. From Miami to Gatlinburg, students don't have to spend all their surplus scholarship money on a week-long getaway.
Many MTSU students will be relocating to various beach destinations March 5 through 10, and who could blame them? To make the 10-plus hour drive more bearable and cost-effective, bring along filling food such as sandwiches, fruit, peanut butter and crackers or trail mix.
Once the destination is reached, the cash-strapped student would be wise to stock up on far more reasonably priced food from the grocery store instead of relying on restaurants or greasy but cheap fast-food places.
A helpful resource for finding the good but inexpensive eateries is "Rachel Ray's $40 a day" Web site (http://www.foodnetwork.com). Believe it or not, the Food Network star we love to hate has been to many major cities around the country and knows how to find the deals. If that isn't appealing, just ask the locals for the best place to eat rather than falling into overpriced tourist traps. Those cheap little cafés usually end up being very tasty.
Though gas has just barley dipped to below the $2 mark, in Tennessee anyway, being conscious of mileage will save students a couple of bucks and stops along the way.
As frustrating as it is to be passed on the freeway, just take it slow. Driving between 60 to 70 mph will guarantee far better gas mileage. Keep in mind that at high speeds, having the windows rolled down will create significant enough drag to affect mileage as well. Use the air-conditioner on a low speed while driving fast, but crack the windows when driving around town.
Likewise, if the destination is a bit on the chilly side, be sure to turn off your heater while accelerating onto the freeway. This will put less stress on your engine and consume less fuel. Try to keep the heat on low, especially when driving at high speeds. It's amazing what a hat and pair of gloves will do.
It cannot be overlooked that many students use spring break as an excuse for partying and perhaps excessive drinking, but money can be saved here too. Instead of bar hopping every night and paying cover fees, minimums, over-priced drinks and tips, bring your own beer.
For beach-goers, what could be better than watching the waves at night and enjoying a six, 12 or 24-pack with some friends? It's cheaper and driving might not even be an issue. For those seeking a snowy retreat, the same rule applies. Buy a bottle and throw back a few shots before engaging passers-by in a snowball fight outside the hotel. At $20 per bottle versus $6 per shot, the value is undeniable. But be forewarned, public drunkenness is illegal.
Those who choose to venture into the city may find being frugal a bit tougher, but certainly not impossible with some planning. Nearly every bar in the world has drink specials that are listed on the Web site or menu. Seek out the good deals before going out for the night. Coupons can also be invaluable. Look in the local paper for unique restaurants that offer early-bird discounts or two-for-ones.
Whether in a city or on the beach, most major areas have public attractions such as zoos, museums and theaters. The best part about these places is most offer discounts or free days. For a generally small entry fee, one can spend a good part of the day meandering about and forgetting the stresses of school and work.
Finally, if shopping is a weakness and major source of debt, there is hope-it's called restraint. Instead of relying on a credit card, bring along an allotted amount of cash to be used exclusively for leisure spending. This will force the big spender to avoid impulse buying. Hard as it may be at the time, having money left over to pay rent will be worth it in the end.
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