The weather is finally warming up, midterms are over and everyone is ready to let loose and have a good time. Yes, the long-awaited spring break is finally here! Having a fun spring break is a right of passage for many college students, whether it involves going out in your hometown, taking a group trip to Miami, or spending time with loved ones on a family trip. Whatever your spring break plans may be, there are a few rules to live by to ensure a great trip.

For your benefit, here’s HBCU Buzz’s Spring Break Do’s and Dont’s

Spring Break Do’s

1Be Aware Of Your Surroundings

Yes, we know that spring break is all about having fun, but while everyone is enjoying themselves it’s easy to let your guard down and not be aware of your surroundings. Be safe and be smart by taking mental (or physical) notes of your surroundings. Never leave drinks unattended and know where all the exits are. Trust your intuition, if you feel uneasy grab your friends and go. 

2Bring Cash & Keep Your Budget In Mind

College students are no strangers to ballin’ on a budget, so don’t blow all your money on spring break. Bring cash to limit swiping cards and set a budget for yourself before you travel. This can easily be done by creating an itinerary for yourself for the week in Excel or Google Sheets through pre-made budgeting templates.

3Stay Hydrated 

Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re going to be doing some heavy drinking (know your limits!). Also, save your money and avoid paying for ridiculously overpriced water by bringing your own bottle and carrying it with you wherever you go. 

4Be Wary of What You Post on Social Media 

Be cautious about revealing personal information and specific locations while on spring break. This doesn’t mean don’t post about your trip, just remember the “close friends” feature is your friend.  

Spring Break Don’t’s

5Don’t Go Anywhere By Yourself

When traveling with friends for spring break, it’s important to always stay with the group. Utilize safety apps like Find My Friends and Life360 to keep track of each other and carry your cell phone fully charged, with a backup charger for emergencies. 

6Don’t Wear A Hairstyle That You Don’t Want To Get Wet

Don’t let your hairstyle keep you from doing all the adventurous things your vacation has to offer. Go parasailing, water skiing, or swimming freely without worrying about messing up your lace front by planning ahead and getting a protective style that can get wet.

7Don’t Forget To Wear Sunscreen 

If you’re headed somewhere sunny remember to wear sunscreen! Staying out in the sun for long hours will increase your risk for skin cancer, so stay sun smart during your trip. You can still achieve a golden tan when wearing sunscreen 

8Don’t Do Anything Too Risky 

Yes, spring break is a time to party and have fun but don’t do anything that will put you in danger or get you arrested. Think before you act and if you’re traveling internationally do your research and make sure you know the rules of the country you’re traveling to.