With spring break right around the corner, many college and university students are planning getaways. Similarly, people around the world are making plans for a springtime trip to escape the winter doldrums, and maybe enjoy some fun in the sun. After all, spring break just isn’t reserved for those who are enrolled in classes.

However, planning the ideal spring break trip involves more than just picking a destination and booking. To get the most from your springtime getaway without spending more than you have to, it pays to follow these five tips:

1. Consider Currency Exchange Rates

If you’re traveling internationally, the exchange rate can go a long way in determining whether your trip is a good deal or not. For international trips, it’s a smart idea to look up the exchange rate for different destinations to determine where your local currency will go the farthest.

If you’re an American, a few countries with the most advantageous exchange rates for the US dollar as of this writing include Argentina, Japan, Thailand, and the UK.

2. Clear your Cookies

And your search history; at least when you’re booking flights. Once you start searching online for deals on flights, your browsing history can result in you being shown ads for higher rates on airfare, as it’s obviously something you’ve shown interest in before.

Therefore, it can be a good idea to clear your search history and cookies prior to booking. This way, you’re more likely to be shown the cheapest available fares when you start your search.

3. Don’t Overdo the Hotel

It’s natural to want to go a bit overboard on your hotel room for your well-deserved spring getaway. But take the time to consider whether you really need to spend all that money on an ocean-view suite with a jacuzzi. 

If you’re going to spend the majority of your time at the beach or out sightseeing, is it really that important for your room to be the best of the best? You can save a significant chunk of money by opting for a more basic room that’s still clean, comfortable, and close to all of the things you want to see and do.

4. Buy Travel Insurance

All the money you save on booking, currency exchange, and a reasonable room can be wiped out – and then some – if you run into an unexpected travel mishap. Luckily, you can prevent unplanned travel turbulence from affecting your pocketbook with the right insurance.

If your trip is taking you to another country, you should consider travel medical insurance. As your domestic health insurance is unlikely to be accepted abroad, it’s important to have coverage for unexpected injuries or illnesses. A travel medical insurance plan can allow you to get quality care at international providers for a predictable price.

If you’re traveling domestically in the US or from the US to an international destination, consider travel insurance. A travel insurance plan primarily focuses on insuring your prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs through trip cancellation coverage, but can also provide coverage for emergency medical care.

5. Pack a Carryon Only

Rising fuel costs and packed flights have made the post-COVID travel landscape more expensive, and at least part of this is due to airline fees. Carriers that once allowed checked bags to fly for free are now charging for them, or charging even more for them. The result is a significant fee tacked on to that great deal for airfare you worked so hard to find.

You can avoid these charges by packing everything into a carryon bag. Most spring break trips are short enough that you can fit your essentials into one. And as a bonus, you won’t have to waste time waiting at the baggage carousel once your flight lands. However, do be careful that your carryon big fits into the maximum dimensions allowed by the airline, as many have reduced the allowed size over the past couple of years.