Planning a Spring Break trip? Let us help you plan how to get there

Are you a college student about to experience your first spring break getaway?

Have you decided where you want to go, but haven’t made up your mind how you’re going to get there?

If this if this is you we have some suggestions to help you pick which mode of travel will work best for you:

Car Travel

Pros: Offers the most flexibility, more economical, unscheduled detours won’t be a problem

Cons: Most tiring means of travel, getting slowed down by traffic mishaps and congestion, bad weather can cause delays

Car Travel Tips

1. Make sure you and anyone else you plan on having to drive has a valid driver’s license.
2. Designate someone to always hang onto a spare set of car keys.
3. Place the car registration and proof of insurance documents in an easily accessible location inside the car.
4. Have a gasoline credit card.
5. Equip the car with a reliable spare tire.
6. Make sure all the car’s maintenance needs are up-to-date.
7. Even if the car has a GPS, bring along a road map too.
8. You’ll need plenty of snacks.
9. Bring along a box of baby wipes.
10. Pack a cooler with everyone’s favorite beverages.
11. Pick up a gas can to bring along.
12. Don’t completely rule out all of you chipping in and sharing a rental car.

Plane Travel

Pros: Quickest way to travel, more companies to choose from, more opportunities to compare rates

Cons: More customer service-related hassles, potential weather delays, potential overbooked flights

Plane Travel Tips

1. Don’t overindulge on items from the bar cart.
2. Try to be tolerant of any fellow passengers who are annoying or obnoxious, and keep in mind how your actions affect others.
3. Travel light and only bring items you’ll need.
4. Purchase a flight-friendly carry-on bag.
5. The following items can go in your carry-on: Small tools, nonflammable liquids, gels and aerosols, certain lighters and matches, batteries, wrapped gifts that will pass a security screening, laptop computer and over-the-counter medications.
6. The following items need to be checked: Sharp objects, sporting goods, self-defense items, snow globes, shoe inserts, gel-type candles, alcohol, liquids, gel-like foods and fire arms.
7. The following items can’t go in your carry-on: Flammable items, explosive materials and batteries that can be spilled.

More questions about what can and can't go into your baggage? Check out the U.S. Department of Transportation's site for more information.

Train Travel

Pros: Cheaper than flying, seats are more comfortable and spacious, no baggage fees

Cons: Takes longer to get to your destination than flying, having to travel to a major city to reach a train station

Train Travel Tips

1. Bring an extra suitcase.
2. Get a luggage lock.
3. Buy a pair of binoculars.
4. Always have a camera on hand.
5. Bring a cell phone charger.
6. Don’t forget to pack your favorite pair of slippers.

If you're using AMTRAK, be sure to check out their website for more tips.

Bus Travel

Pros: Groups can book seats together, short check-in times, more baggage allowances

Cons: Most time consuming mode of travel, most amount of delays and layovers, only one restroom available

Bus Travel Tips

1. Have your favorite playlist already downloaded to your phone.
2. Have a deck of cards or book handy to help you pass the time during any lengthy layovers.
3. Keep some change for vending machines handy.
4. Every chance you get stand up and stretch your legs.
5. Pack some anti-bacterial wipes.
6. Be prepared to endure one of the many late-night stops the bus will make.
7. Always keep a close eye on your valuables.
8. If you’re traveling with a group of friends take turns watching over everyone’s belongings.
9. Be prepared not to get a good night’s sleep.
10. Be ready to get stuck having lengthy conversations with fellow passengers who don’t really interest you.

Regardless of which means of travel you choose, it’s a good idea to have the following items with you at all times:

1. Bring a backup picture ID.
2. Make sure you have your medical insurance card.
3. Put a list of your emergency contacts in your wallet/purse.
4. Have both a credit and debit card.
5. Pack a cell phone charging cable and wall charger.
6. Bring a reliever.
7. You’ll need a pair of sunglasses.
8. Get a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.
9. Purchase a rolling suitcase.
10. Pack a first aid kit.
11. Bring an extra pair of towels.
12. Keep an umbrella handy.
13. Don’t forget your favorite backpack.
14. Have at least one traveling companion.