Spring break is coming up, but you’re a college student and on a budget. Understandably so, we all are. Whether you want to see a beach, dine in the city, or explore a new country, you don’t have to break the bank to spend the week enjoying somewhere new. Spring break is a time for relaxation, exploration, and being a tourist. To get you all the fun without spending a fortune, I’ve compiled a list of 4 places with flights from Missoula, hotels, Airbnbs, and activities. I encourage you to travel with a group of friends and split the costs of hotels and Airbnb.
Keep scrolling to see 4 trips out of Missoula that will fit anybody’s budget.
1. Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona is beautiful and hot. Why not Spring Break here? In March, roundtrip flights from Missoula, MT to Phoenix, AZ average to about $156.
Low-priced hotels to consider:
- Days Inn by Wyndham: $76/night
- Hotel Tempe/Phoenix Arizona InnSuites Hotel & Suites: $102/night
- Choice Hotels: $110/night
- Ramada by Wyndham: $119/night
Airbnb’s including pools:
- Phoenix Oasis 3: $30/night
- Downtown Views & Vibe: $39/night
- Urban Upcycled Private Pad: $40/night
- Oasis in the Red Rocks: $48/night
There are endless activities in Phoenix. I love to look at TripAdvisor: Things to do in Phoenix to get some inspiration. My recommendation would be to visit the Desert Botanical Garden.
2. Los Angeles, California
If you want to relax on the beach, explore the city, or catch a Lakers game, Los Angeles is the place for you. In March, roundtrip flights from Missoula, MT to Los Angeles, CA average to about $198.
Low priced hotels to consider:
- Hollywood Hostel: $32/night
- Days Inn by Wyndham: $76/night
- The Canterbury Suites: $87/night
- Freehand Los Angeles: $101/night
Airbnb’s with rooftop pools:
- Private Suite in Resort-Style Condo: $45/night
- Elvis Tiki Room w/Rooftop Pool, Jacuzzi & Gym: $57/night
Beachfront Airbnb’s:
- Santa Monica Beach Front Property: $59/night
- Amazing Beach Single with Sweeping Views-C11: $71/night
Los Angeles is known for its Mediterranean climate, ethnic diversity, Hollywood, and sprawling city. TripAdvisor: Things to Do in Los Angeles lists many categories featuring outdoor activities, day trips, museums, walking & biking tours, and historic sites. I would go see the Hollywood sign.
3. Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon is one of the world’s great towns for weirdness, funky neighborhoods, beer, inexpensive good food, and outdoor activities. In March, roundtrip flights from Missoula, MT to Portland, OR average to about $196. You will not fall short of a good time if you visit Portland for Spring Break. Plus, it’s only 80 miles from the coast!
Low priced hotels to consider:
- Days Inn by Wyndham: $67/night
- McMenamins: $70/night
- The Jupiter: $77/night
- Choice Hotels: $80/night
Airbnb’s with a hot tub:
- Stylish Secluded Suite: $32/night
- Cozy Oasis w/Hot Tub & Pool: $32/night
- Great Space in Heart of Hawthorne: $42/night
For the adventurers:
I’ve been to Portland several times and all I can say is if you don’t try Salt & Straw while you are there, you are doing it wrong. If you can’t find something to do during Spring Break in Portland (which I highly doubt), check out TripAdvisor: Things to Do in Portland.
4. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Are you the type of person that is itching to get out of the United States for Spring Break? I know I am. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico might just be that place for you. Of course, when you fly anywhere out of the country flights will sky-rocket. However, in March, roundtrip flights from Missoula, MT to Puerto Vallarta, MX average to about $530.
Low priced resorts to consider:
- Blue Chairs Resort by the Sea: $67/night
- Mondavi: $100/night
- Costa Sur Resort & Spa: $109/night
- Almar Resort: $111/night
Beachfront Airbnb’s:
- Departmento limpio: $30/night
- Villa Blanca Puerto Vallarta-Case Paloma: $39/night
- Hotel El Pescador – Habitacion Estandar: $45/night
Hostel:
- Canova Hostel & Pizza, Cerca de la: $11/night
Puerto Vallarta is famous for its art and culture. There are sculptures found throughout the town, on the seaside boardwalk, and in hideaway places. If you are a beach lover, Puerto Vallarta has the second-largest bay in the world (Banderas Bay). Check out the activities TripAdvisor: Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta has to offer.
Author: Megan Erickson
Sources: Kayak.com, TripAdvisor, Airbnb, Google Hotel Finder