Spring Break Survival Guide
You've packed the bikini, grabbed your plane ticket, and you're raring to go. Before you head out that door, read our tips on how to survive Spring Break (in no particular order). They just might keep you out of jail. Or at least help you get rid of that nasty hangover.

1. If you're heading out of the country, don't forget to bring your passport. Make two copies of the identification page; leave a copy at home, and carry one separately from your passport. You'll be glad you did if your passport gets lost or stolen.

2. While you're in a foreign country, you're subject to its laws--so acquaint yourself with them before you head out there and start wreaking havoc. For example, did you know that in Cancun, lewd behavior, littering, drinking on the street, and making obscene remarks are considered criminal activities? And once you're arrested, the U.S. government can't demand for your release, give you legal advice, or pay for your legal fees.

3. Learn a few key phrases in the local language. First of all, you don't want to look like a stereotypical obnoxious American tourist. (Well…if you're there for Spring Break, it's probably too late for that.) Secondly, phrases like "I need a doctor" or "My wallet was stolen" may come in handy should disaster strike. Phrases like "What's your sign?" or "Get your dirty paws off me" may also come in handy under different circumstances, but that's up to you.

4. Bring Advil. Lots of it. It's great for the occasional--or not-so-occasional--hangover headache. It's also a handy cure-all for various aches and pains resulting from overdoing it on the water skis, tumbling off bars while dancing, or falling down on the sidewalk.

5. You know this, but we're telling you again: Don't walk around with large wads of cash or important things. Bring some traveler's checks and store your essential stuff--passport, credit cards, plane tickets--in the hotel safe.

6. Be wary of strangers bearing drinks. When someone offers you some liquid refreshment in a bar, make sure you watch him or her buy it and bring it to you. You never know--that friendly hottie just might slip a drug into your drink while you're not looking.

7. Watch out for pickpockets and scam artists. Be on your guard when someone asks you for directions or the time, or if someone "accidentally" bumps into you. Sometimes an accomplice will create a distraction. And surprise, surprise--strangers who approach you with bargains or offer to be your guide usually don't have your best interests in mind.

8. Bring sunscreen, and use it often. The sun is probably a lot stronger wherever you're going than wherever you're coming from. And don't forget the aloe vera to soothe your skin after soaking up a few too many rays. It's also great on cuts and scrapes (see #4 for ways you may have sustained minor injuries) to help healing and prevent infection.