College Trips for Any Budget

College is definitely a life changing experience as you learn new things that will prepare you for your career. You will also meet new people, get a taste of independence before you have to fully adult and explore new places. All of these things make college years such an exciting time, but what makes things a little less exciting is being short on cash, especially if you want to travel.

Countless students aim to travel the country, or even the world before they graduate and for some, it may seem like a fleeting dream. But fret not, there are several places in America and beyond that college students can visit on a budget. So, while you finish your business or liberal arts degree, consider broadening your worldview by visiting these budget-friendly destinations:

1. Lansing, Michigan

As the capital city of Michigan, Lansing has so much to offer in beautiful scenery, a 15-mile long water trail, great food and not to mention, it is home to a Big Ten university (Michigan State University), meaning there are plenty of activities for college students. Visit the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum, the majestic Hawk Island Park where you can rent a rowboat and the numerous breweries for a drink…or two! Actually, you can take the LAN150 challenge to see if you can visit all of the attractions!

2. New Orleans, Louisiana

Craving creole cuisine, French-style architecture and an amazing nightlife? New Orleans is the place for you! Though the city is better known for their crazy Mardi Gras, New Orleans is a great place to visit year-round! Though airfare may not be on the cheaper side, you can save a lot of money staying a little bit removed from the French Quarter. There are countless activities to keep you busy and so many sites to see. Take a streetcar ride to the many historic buildings like St. Louis Cathedral, stroll through the French Quarter and even go on a creepy ghost tour at night. And when you get hungry, you are in luck, as New Orleans has been ranked second in best foodie cities in the county.
3. Puerto Vallarta

Voted by U.S. News one of the best places to go on a cheap spring break vacation, Puerto Vallarta offers a plethora of affordable vacation packages, rentals, lodging and hotel options. Seated on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, it goes without saying that Puerto Vallarta has some truly beautiful views and beaches. Go fishing or snorkelling in the beautiful blue ocean, do some shopping, visit an art gallery, eat some amazing food and even jump out of a plane! You can do just about anything you can imagine in Puerto Vallarta and create some amazing memories.
4. Coos Bay, Oregon

If you are looking for a relaxing atmosphere, then you may want to consider visiting Coos Bay, Oregon, also known as Marshfield. The countless festivals like the Charleston Crab Feed, Shore Acres Holiday Lights, which includes over 200,000 lights, and the Blackberry Arts Festival will definitely be a treat. Also there is so much to see on the beautiful waterfront that is definitely a site for shore eyes. There is golfing, museums, hiking trails and you could even learn how to build a boat in Coos Bay!
5. Yosemite National Park, California

College is the perfect time to visit one of the most beautiful and majestic natural wonders. Yosemite National Park, California is an adventure just waiting to be explored. There are numerous campgrounds, but make sure to do some planning ahead of time as these grounds can become full very quickly. Though this is a popular destination, you may find an air of seclusion if you go backpacking through the vast trails and breathtaking mountains.