Going on vacation can be a relaxing and well-needed activity to do over summer vacation.

It lets people take a break from the stress of their daily lives and just enjoy themselves.

As a student, it can be difficult collecting the funds needed for a costly trip. Not to mention, most students do not have cars reliable enough to drive that far or the money needed to afford plane tickets.

But what most students do not realize is that there are many vacation spots close to home.

Traverse City

Roughly three hours away from Flint, Traverse City is a fun destination that is not too far away.

There are many things to do, including attending the annual National Cherry Festival, which is July 2 to July 9.

Being right on the Lake Michigan shoreline, the view from the city is breathtaking and the beach is endless.

There are also many hiking and cycling trails, golf courses, and blue-ribbon trout streams for people to enjoy.

Between soaking up the beauty of the outdoors while kayaking and enjoying the vibrancy of restaurants and stores in the city, this trip is bound to be an enjoyable one.

To keep it cheap, students should carpool there and consider getting a campsite.

Mackinaw City

Mackinaw City is a little farther from home than Traverse City, but it is still a reasonable distance away.

With serene waterfront views, just sitting on the beach staring at Lake Huron is worth the drive.

Visiting Mackinac Island is also a fun activity to do while there.

With famous Mackinac fudge shops and horse drawn tours around the island, this is a fun way to spend a day while Up North.

Even staying on the mainland can be fun, too.

There are many clean and inexpensive hotels on the beach to choose from, so students can also make this trip affordable.

Detroit

This destination is only roughly an hour and 20 minutes away, making it a quick place to get to.

Visitors will get not only a city view, but a waterfront one as well since the city is near Lake St. Clair and borders the Detroit River.

Fun activities in Detroit include going to a baseball game, sampling different restaurants, shopping, or even exploring downtown.

Detroit does have its dangerous areas, though, so students should be cautious.

This destination offers the perfect vacation for people who do not enjoy nature as much.

Cedar Point

Although Cedar Point is all the way in Ohio, it is even closer than the three hours, 20 minutes needed in order to get to Mackinaw City.

Off the shores of Lake Erie, Cedar Point is filled with sites and thrills.

With a total of 18 roller coasters, this trip is guaranteed to keep visitors on their toes.

There are also many other attractions to enjoy while there, including a variety of shows and restaurants.

This trip can get pricey, but if students stick to a budget, it can stay reasonable.

To help keep costs down, consider dining outside of the park. The food inside is over priced, so avoid this by packing your own lunch or just leaving the park throughout the day to go to nearby restaurants.

Another good tip is to ask for a cup of water at the vendor stands rather than a bottle — a cup is free.

Kalahari

Also located in Ohio, Kalahari is for those who like to get wet. Afterall, it is the largest indoor waterpark in the United States.

Featuring 12 water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, this destination is full of things to do.

Guests can reserve a room right at the park or even go to a nearby, cheaper hotel or campsite.

Prices for meals at the resort are fairly high, so students should consider leaving the resort to eat.

Overall, this trip can remain inexpensive; just remember to stick to a budget.

Some hotels and campsites also require someone who is either 18 or 21 and over to reserve it, so those under the allotted age may need an older sibling, friend, or parent to go with them.

Just remember to be safe and have fun while on any trip.