Spring break is around the corner, and the kids will be home from school for the week. Plenty of families use that week off from school as an excuse to head off on a cruise or to visit a luxurious beachside resort. But what if an expensive cruise or pricey resort isn't in your family's budget this year? Don't worry. There are plenty of ways to enjoy a memorable, affordable spring break. The trick is to let your creativity and imagination run wild.  

Enjoy a Staycation

When was the last time you took advantage of all the fun, potentially free, things there are to do in your city or town? You don't have to head to a far-flung destination to have a thrilling spring break. It's likely that there's plenty for you and the kids to do, all within an hour or so drive of your home. Think of what your family enjoyed the most on past trips together. Did you spend hours admiring the exhibitions at museums? If so, head to the museum that's closest to your home. To save even more money, check to see if there are days when the museum offers free or pay-what-you-can admission. 

If you and your family love voluntourism or going off on service trips, it's likely that there's an organization close to you that needs your help. Contact local animal shelters, food banks, or other non-profits to see if they need volunteers over your spring break.

If your family loves nature, check out a nearby state or national park. You might be able to spend a day hiking on the trails, cycling along a path, or fishing in a stream.

Go Camping…In Your Backyard

Another way to celebrate your family's love of nature during spring break is to plan a camping trip to your backyard. Instead of packing up the car and heading to a local campground, set up a tent or two in the backyard. If you have a fire pit, you can roast marshmallows over it while telling each other ghost stories. If you already have a tent, sleeping bags, and basic camping gear, a backyard camping trip can be a fun way to enjoy spring break for practically free.

Choose a Theme for the Week

So, a trip to Mexico, Italy, or the Caribbean isn't in your family's budget this year. Instead of traveling to another country, celebrate that country by making it your theme for the week. For example, if you and your family love Italy, celebrate by trying to prepare Italian food for dinner during the week. You can watch movies filmed or set in Italy, try to learn a few Italian phrases or visit the library and read a book about the country together. The same is true for Mexico, the Caribbean, France, or any other dream destination that's just not in the budget this year. You can also pick a different country for each day of the week.

We’re Here to Help!

Spring break is the perfect excuse to enjoy some quality time with your kids, spouse, and other family members. If you can't afford the big vacation this year, get creative, make plans together, and find ways to spend the week without breaking the bank.

If your goal is to travel this summer or even next year for spring break, a savings account or a shorter-term CD can help you get there. Putting away money now can help see you and your family vacationing beachside or hiking through National Parks sooner. 

To learn more about savings account options or CDs, stop by any branch location or give us a call at 800.336.6309.

Each individual’s financial situation is unique and readers are encouraged to contact the Credit Union when seeking financial advice on the products and services discussed. This article is for educational purposes only; the authors assume no legal responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of the contents.