Spring is finally approaching! The weather is feeling nice, the sun is starting to come out, and vacations are being taken. But most of all, for college students, spring means spring break.
There are so many risks when it comes to traveling for spring break, regardless of where you are or where you are going. It’s necessary to be careful and make smart choices during this time of year!
Take turns behind the wheel. When driving a long distance, the one driver will start to get tired. It’s smart to rotate drivers to keep everyone well rested. This also gives you complete control of choosing the music and controlling the AC.
This may seem like common sense, but before leaving make sure everyone has a valid driver’s license and vehicle registration/insurance. If you ever are pulled over, this information is absolutely necessary.
Never leave valuables out in plain sight in your car. It is best to lock any items in your trunk before reaching your journey’s end.
If you are in a forgein country or an unfamiliar state, don’t be afraid to drive a little slower than usual. It’ll take some time to become aware of the basic road signs (if different than your hometown).
Safe rides, such as Uber and Lyft, are great resources when in a new place. They will take you wherever you want to go for a small fee! We suggest following along on your own phone’s navigation system to ensure they are taking you in the right direction.
Make a mental note of where the fire exits and staircases are located in case you need to evacuate the building.
In the room, check that all windows and door locks work and are secure. Keep these locked at all times, especially when you leave your room. Also, don’t forget your room keys!
Take advantage of what hotels offer. Most will have a safe in the closet for your valuables- use it!
Be responsible. You will be doing you and everyone else around you a huge favor.
Make sure you are following the liquor laws of where you are vacationing, especially if you are in a different country where the legal drinking age is below 21.
Something that should be done on spring break and any other time: watch your drink. Take it with you to the bathroom and never leave it unattended. It is so easy for a drug to be slipped in your drink when you are not looking.
As always, never drink and drive. Taxis are the safe alternative or determine a DD (designated driver) before going out and drinking.
Eat before you drink! If you drink on an empty stomach, the alcohol will affect you much quicker and can even make you sick. Pace yourself!
Make sure you’re hydrating! Drinking will dehydrate you and most of us forget to drink water while we drink. If you pace yourself and drink a glass of water in between alcoholic drinks, you will feel better and probably won’t have a hangover in the morning!
Sunscreen is your best friend! Not only can being in the sun maximize the effect of alcohol, but you will also thank yourself in the morning when you’re not as red as a lobster.
Make sure there is a lifeguard around. You do not want to put yourself at risk. These people are trained to save you if a rip current, or other event occurs.
Do you have a passport? You will need this valid documentation or else you will be stuck staying home all break- and that would be no fun!
When traveling abroad, don’t pack anything too expensive, such as jewelry and shoes. You will become a target to those who reside where you are vacationing.
Keep some cash on you, but not large quantities. If you are mugged or robbed, you won’t be losing everything. A credit/debit card is very easy to cancel where if your cash was stolen, you’ll never see it again.
Stay on well-travelled streets. Shortcuts are nice, but you don’t want to risk ending up lost and not knowing how to get yourself back to the town or to your hotel.
In the case of emergency, know your local equivalent to 911. This can ultimately save your life!
Spring break is a time for friends and travel. It’s easy to get lost in the fun and forget to stay safe, but these tips will ensure your safety. Be responsible, but always be careful!
Tags: responsibility, safety, spring break
