Every year, seniors embark on trips across the country — or even the world — to celebrate the beginning of the next chapter of their lives. Trips to many popular destinations like Hawaii, Mexico and Europe can be costly, and many seniors spend a lot of their second semester saving money. However, there are plenty of other trips you can take with friends that don’t cost quite as much and will undoubtedly make memories you will never forget. Here are the top three best getaway trips for post-graduation.
Highway 1 California Trip
An excellent trip for those leaving California to commemorate the state is the road trip down the famous Highway 1. With breathtaking coastal views, iconic stops like Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls and opportunities for camping under the stars in Big Sur, this trip is bound to be unforgettable. Stops can also be made in Santa Cruz, Monterrey or many other towns on the coast. For a three-night trip, taking the Highway 1 trip could cost anywhere from $140 to $200 per person when considering gas, campsite fees, food and activities. This trip is perfect for those who want to hike, lay on the beach or explore.
Backpacking in the Sierra Nevadas
Going away for a few peaceful yet exciting days with friends in the Sierra Nevada Mountains is an excellent plan for the end of finals week. The area is filled with beautiful alpine lakes, expansive forests and some of the most picturesque mountains you have ever seen. It also offers hike trails like Desolation Wilderness near Lake Tahoe or the John Muir Wilderness. After paying for gas, a wilderness permit, food and supplies, the trip could cost only $80 to $120 per person for about three days. If you love to be with nature, this is a great option.
Road Trip To Montana
A Montana road trip is perfect for those looking to explore outside of California. I recommend planning an extended trip of at least a week, starting with a visit to Glacier National Park, where you can enjoy hiking, stunning mountain views and clear turquoise lakes. You can also stop at beautiful locations like Yellowstone National Park or Bend, Oregon, on your way back, depending on your route. For a week-long trip, expect to spend between $210 to $300, covering gas, campsite fees, food and the National Park entry fee. This is an excellent and affordable way to experience the Rocky Mountains and the great outdoors.
As the senior class approaches graduation, it’s important to remember that many affordable trips are available to celebrate this significant achievement. These trips can be a lot of fun and provide the perfect opportunity to create new memories with old friends.
