Plan smart for summer fun

Kayci Combs
News Stringer

Students planning a summer vacation this year should remember to keep savings and safety at the forefront of their minds.

Summer vacations can be a time of enjoyment and freedom but with rising gas prices, students may find themselves stuck at home if they don't budget their money.

"For students heading out on summer vacations, discounted room rates can really help, especially if gasoline reaches $2 a gallon," said Toma Brashier, president of roomsaver.com.

On roomsaver.com, travelers can map out their trips and at the same time find discounts on hotel rooms throughout the United States.

According to David Neubauer, a physician at the Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, many people come back from summer vacations needing another vacation to recuperate. He said to not let a vacation become another stressor. If the intention for this summer is to relax, do not plan too many activities.

Activities cost money, a big issue when considering summer vacationing. Not only spending money, but also protecting it is an issue.

Always carry money in a different place than your identification and do not keep all money in one place.

Place a thick rubber band around wallets or money. The friction of the rubber band against the material of slacks or coat pockets will guard against pickpocketing.

If students follow these tips and use common sense, they should enjoy summer vacation and be refreshed for the fall semester.

Tips for summer safety

• Do not overexert yourself in hot weather.
• Exercise in the morning or evening hours when temperatures are not at their highest.
• Wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Keep a water bottle handy so you do not have to worry about dehydration.
• Pace yourself if you are working outside under the sun for a long time.
• Remember, overcast days are just as hot and dangerous as sunny days.
• Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or higher at least 30 minutes before going outside.
• Choose sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of ultraviolet radiation.
• Wear good walking shoes on the beach to avoid ankle injury.
• Wear a helmet and pads to keep your summer rolling and injury-free.