If the thought of spending another spring break in your dorm or nursery sounds like a missed opportunity, now is the time to plan a spring break trip that will earn its place as a core memory for decades to come.
Whether you’re putting together your first solo travel experience, planning a final beach party with a group of college friends as graduation approaches, or somewhere in between, considering the latest travel trends can be an important step in creating an unforgettable spring break experience.
Taking a cruise is often considered one of the easiest ways to visit multiple destinations in one trip, and this mode of travel is quickly gaining popularity as a one-stop shop for making the most of spring break. Instead of spending weeks putting together your itinerary, simply choose a cruise and book your flights so you can create the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation with minimal planning.
Data from AAA Travel shows that cruise reservations for March and April increased 28% compared to the previous year, along with a notable 60% increase in bookings for cruises departing from South Florida.
With most pandemic-era travel restrictions and mandates in the past, international travel is also approaching or exceeding pre-2020 levels in many top spring break destinations. The trend for international spring breaks has seen a notable increase from the previous year. According to AAA data for March and April, there has been a 20% growth in international flight reservations and a 37% increase in hotel accommodation bookings.
London, Paris, Rome, Amsterdam and several other popular European cities are especially common choices among older students who have missed international travel opportunities in high school or early college due to years of travel restrictions.
If you just want to spend a relaxing week without the classes and don’t want to prioritize something unique this time, Florida remains a proven option for having fun in the sun. From enjoying the beaches of Miami, Fort Lauderdale or Panama City Beach to going to Disney World, the Sunshine State offers several options to enjoy every minute of your spring break without spending a lot of money.
“Orlando is the top choice for Spring Break travelers, while Fort Lauderdale and Miami are the two most popular domestic cruise ports,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel. “Many travelers this time of year are looking for warm weather, pools and beaches, and outdoor adventures, and cruise vacations tick all those boxes,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel.
TOP 10 destinations predicted by travel experts
As spring approaches, the desire for a refreshing break from campus life grows. For those longing for a sun-filled getaway, the planning stage is crucial to ensuring an unforgettable spring break. Here are ten destinations that will likely be top choices for this year’s spring break:
Orlando, FL: A quintessential spring break location with iconic attractions such as Disney World, Universal Studios and Epcot. Ideal for those looking for adventure and relaxation on the beach.
Tulum and Los Cabos, Mexico: The Caribbean beaches and all-inclusive resorts of Tulum, loved for their easy-to-plan trips, along with the spas and local cuisine of Los Cabos, promise a relaxing getaway.
Maui, Hawaii: Engage service-oriented students with the opportunity to participate in local community projects, especially in the wake of wildfires.
Puerto Rico: Offers passport-free travel for US citizens, with rainforests, water sports and resorts, aimed at nature lovers.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: Offers a variety of activities suitable for family members of all ages, making it a versatile spring break spot.
Jamaica: Known for its vibrant local music and culture, which adds a unique flavor to spring break experiences.
Japan: Attracts visitors with its picturesque cherry blossoms and offers a beautiful and budget-friendly spring destination.
Tahiti: Although a bit long for a typical spring break, the tropical islands and inter-island travel discounts provide an attractive getaway with extra planning.
Europe: For those seeking cultural enrichment, cities like London, Paris and regions of Norway offer a cooler but enriching alternative to spring break.
10 spring break tips for travelers
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, consider the following travel tips tailored specifically for spring break:
- Plan ahead: Early planning cannot be overemphasized. From securing accommodations to booking flights, advance arrangements can lead to significant savings and better choices. Research your destination thoroughly to understand peak seasons and local events that may affect availability and prices.
- Budget wisely: Create a budget that covers all aspects of your trip, including accommodations, transportation, meals, activities, and unexpected expenses. Look for package deals or group discounts that can stretch your money even further.
- Travel insurance: Investing in travel insurance can give you peace of mind and cover possible trip cancellations, medical emergencies or lost luggage. Given the unpredictability of travel, this may be a wise precaution.
- Health and safety: Familiarize yourself with your destination’s health and safety guidelines, especially in light of ongoing global health concerns. If necessary, bring a travel health kit with essential medications, hand sanitizer, and masks.
- Pack it properly: Check the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly. Don’t forget to bring essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses and comfortable shoes. Packing light will save you extra baggage fees and make getting around easier.
- Stay connected: Make sure you can communicate abroad, via an international telephone subscription or a local SIM card. Staying connected is essential for coordinating with your travel group and in case of an emergency.
- Respect local customs: Take the time to learn and respect the local customs and laws of your destination. This includes dressing appropriately, understanding tipping etiquette, and being mindful of cultural sensitivities.
- To be flexible: While having a plan is important, maintaining some flexibility in your schedule can improve your travel experience. Unexpected opportunities or challenges may arise, and the ability to adapt can lead to memorable adventures.
- Secure your valuables: Keep your belongings safe by using hotel safes and taking only what you need for the day. Be careful of pickpockets, especially in busy tourist areas.
- Enjoy responsibly: While spring break is a time for relaxation and fun, responsible behavior ensures that you and others around you have a positive experience. Be aware of your alcohol consumption and the impact of your actions on the local community and environment.
