Preparing for an alternative spring break trip is going to require significantly more planning and preparation than a mere trip to the beach with your besties. Since you’ll be dealing with limited days, focus on minimizing the material goods and maximizing potential; here’s how:
Packing. The idea of an international trip might inspire images of large suitcases, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Pack conservatively, think of layers, bring a backpack instead of a rolling suitcase, and invest in a good pair of shoes. Leave with extra room to bring back souvenirs and presents.
Traveling. Pick an alternative spring break program that is focused on one location, so that you don’t waste valuable time in-country traveling. Also, see if it’s at all possible to head out a day earlier or leave the night before spring break starts, especially if you’re traveling a long distance. Flights can take a long time, and even more so if there are multiple connections involved!
Volunteering. Make sure that your goals can be accomplished in a mere week or two, and that your effects are larger than your carbon impact. If you want to teach English, maybe stick with helping out in a day care. If you want to learn a language, pick an alternative spring break trip with greater immersion opportunities.
Preparing. Set your watch to the new time zone a few days in advance, make sure all visas and paperwork have been completed, check your passport (one more time), and research a bit on the culture you’ll be visiting. Read the volunteer orientation packet, so then when you hit the ground, you can start running.