spring break travel season

This Year's Top Spring Break Travel Trends

By Rachel Chang

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The countdown to spring break has officially begun in the US. The hotly-anticipated travel period can mean a lot of different things to different people—from classic college party-goers and ultimate family vacationers to couples and solo travelers looking to escape the winter chill. But one thing that’s certain in 2024 is that spring break is no longer limited to one type of traveler, nor just one week of the year.

Due to the various holiday schedules between schools and regions, as well as the increased flexibility of remote work, the peak periods of spring break travel have extended within the months of March and April. Meanwhile, “weather around the country has been so volatile and unpredictable, many people want to simply get away to warmer weather for spring break to soak up the sun and recharge their batteries” even if they don’t have any designated time off, American Automobile Association (AAA) Travel Senior Vice President Paula Twidale tells Condé Nast Traveler .

While this year’s spring breakers are following certain past patterns of sunny escapes, new trends have also emerged—including increased interest in cruises, international journeys, and solar eclipse trips . As always, some travelers are intentionally planning around popular destinations and dates in order to find better deals and uncharted experiences. Whether you prefer a viral or an under-the-radar vacation, here are the top spring break trends to know this year, based on data and insights from major travel companies.

AAA data shows a 28% leap in cruise bookings for March and April compared to last year.

Florida cruise vacations are on the rise

To get away from the dreary climate, Americans are dreaming of sunny getaways, paired with pools, beaches, and outdoor activities. “Cruise vacations check all those boxes,” Twidale said in a release .

AAA’s data shows a 28% leap in cruise bookings for March and April compared to 2023, including a 60% increase in sailings leaving from South Florida. In fact, many were eager to book those spring break cruises, locking in their reservations earlier than in previous years. As a result, many cruises during this time period are already sold out. Some last-minute deals may still be available, but prices tend to be higher with limited cabin choices.

“Cruising’s popularity just continues to grow," AAA’s Cruise Relations Manager Scott Campbell tells Traveler . “Travelers are recognizing the value and convenience that cruising offers.” But he cautions not to confuse “value” with “deals,” since “the day of cheap cruises is over.” With demand rising, so are prices. Still, Campbell says that in general, cruises are often more affordable than a land-based vacation.

The South Florida ports of Fort Lauderdale and Miami are increasingly popular in part because of the debut of the world’s largest cruise ship Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas in January, which can carry up to 7,600 people every week on Caribbean cruises. Port Canaveral, an hour from Orlando , remains the busiest cruise port on the globe (a title previously held by Port Miami), with more than four million people sailing from there in 2022, Campbell says.

Flight bookings to international destinations are up 20% compared to March and April of last year, according to AAA.

Americans are more willing to venture outside the US

Summer may be the time for major long-haul getaways, but that doesn’t mean that Americans are shying away from using their passports during spring break. Bookings for international flights are up 20% and for hotels are up 37% compared to March and April of last year, AAA Travel said in its spring break forecast .

“Europe has always been a popular destination for spring break, especially for educational touring and for families looking to reunite during the break,” Twidale tells Traveler . Americans are especially drawn towards the capital cities with London , Paris , Rome , Dublin , and Amsterdam , topping the list of AAA’s most popular getaways.

But not everyone is looking to cross the Atlantic Ocean. Flying south to sunnier skies is also a popular choice, particularly to the Caribbean , Barbados , Dominican Republic , and Mexico , she says.

Olivia Morelli

Stacey Lastoe

Maresa Manara

Expedia’s data echoes that, with Paris as its top European destination, but interest in Tokyo also continues to rise, showing that Americans are willing to go the distance during the shorter travel season. “Tokyo has emerged as one of the fastest-growing destinations for US travelers post-pandemic, maintaining an upward trajectory with year-over-year searches soaring by nearly 55% for the second consecutive year,” Expedia Travel Expert Christie Hudson says. The cherry blossoms remain a major draw this time of year for Japan.

The Asia-bound trend is also strong over at Priceline, with bucket-list destinations seeing tremendous search spikes. The online travel site has seen a nearly 400% rise in searches for Hong Kong for the period, as well as 361% to Taipei, Taiwan , and 149% to Bangkok . Its data also shows increased interest in Kyoto, Japan ; Manila, Philippines ; and Singapore .

Pensacola, Florida is a popular and affordable spring break destination.

Travelers are seeking out affordable alternatives

Early spring traditionally is described as one of two shoulder seasons —travel periods between the peak and off-peak seasons when prices are lower, crowds are still thin, but weather is evening out, Priceline’s Consumer Travel Expert Christina Bennett says. (The other is early fall.)

Now travelers are growing even savvier and pairing shoulder season with so-called dupe destinations, which she says is “a new term for more off-the-beaten path destinations that offer the same vibes and experiences as a peak destination.” Another trend is staying in “shoulder cities,” which she describes as a “nearby destination on the outskirts of a tourist hub.” For example, one might stay in Queens or Hoboken, New Jersey, when visiting New York City’s midtown Manhattan. More “moderately priced accommodations can be found in these neighboring locales while travelers can still enjoy easy access to the same vacation highlights,” Bennett explains.

Case in point: Priceline has seen a 20% rise in hotel searches for the shoulder city of Kissimmee, Florida, where hotel rates average $142 a night, compared to the $250 rate in Orlando proper.

By skirting both the peak times and most popular places, “this year’s spring break travelers are seeking ways to save without sacrificing experience,” Bennett says. Trending destinations that fall into this category include Pensacola, Florida; Fresno, California; and Knoxville, Tennessee, according to Priceline’s data.

US travelers are planning domestic getaways around the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024.

The solar eclipse is increasing early April demand

While spring break travel traditionally runs the entire months of March and April, this year’s peak weeks are being dictated by the sun—quite literally.

With a total solar eclipse that will be visible from the US, passing from Texas northeast into New York, on April 8, 2024, the rare event is marking the confluence of already busy periods of April 1 to 8. “Historically, this week marks the peak of spring travel activity” in part because of the Easter holiday, Hudson says.

Expedia's data shows rising travel interest in cities that are located in the eclipse’s path of totality. Flight searches for Dallas and Austin have both risen over 90% for the spring period, marking some of the greatest year-over-year growth.

That also means that the week of April 2 will be the most expensive to fly for domestic travelers—and be the busiest for both domestic and international travelers. Meanwhile, March 12 will be the most expensive for international travel, according to Expedia. Budget-conscious travelers should hone in on the week of April 23 for domestic and March 5 for international trips for the lowest prices, Hudson suggests.

The first week of March and the last week of April are more affordable and less-busy spring travel periods.

Spring travel is cheaper this year

Despite the celestial event causing a shift, overall spring travel is cheaper this year. Airfare in March is 3% less than last year, and April is 8% less, according to Kayak's spring break forecast.

In March, the cheapest domestic getaways include Baltimore with $265 average airfare, Nashville with $277, and Chicago with $288, while international ones are all on the continent: Toronto with $303 average airfare; Guadalajara, Mexico with $336; and Montreal with $361. In April, the best US deals are Denver with $286 average airfare, Chicago with $283, and Tampa with $294, and international destinations are San Salvador, El Salvador with $300; Toronto with $326; and Vancouver with $331.

On top of it, travelers aren’t being shy about their savings. “Travelers proudly showing off their deals and savings has become a craze amongst spring breakers,” Bennett says, in a trend Priceline has dubbed as “loud budgeting.”

“For those who have wiggle room, I recommend traveling the first week of March or the last week of April because it’s more affordable and half as busy,” Hudson suggests. For those with set schedules, she suggests leaving on a Tuesday instead of a weekend, which will historically save about 15%

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Spring break travel is here: These 7 tips will help you survive it

Editor's Note

There are a few sure signs that spring is on the way, and none of them have anything to do with a groundhog seeing his shadow.

Target 's clothing department swaps winter coats and snow boots for swimwear and sandals; daylight saving time buys us a few more evening daylight hours (and thoroughly confuses all of us in the process); and airports are filled to the gills with spring break travelers.

For 2024, spring break travel is expected to be even busier than it was in 2023, according to the Transportation Security Administration.

"TSA screened a record number of passengers in 2023, and we expect that trend to continue this year," TSA administrator David Pekoske said in a press release. "So far in 2024, travel volumes are trending at nearly 6% above the same period in 2023."

Airports are already seeing this increase play out in their bustling terminals. On March 5, Tampa International Airport (TPA) reported that it is preparing to see about 3 million passengers during the busy spring break period in March and April. The airport is likely to break its single-day passenger record, with more than 100,000 passengers expected on both March 9 and 17, according to a press release.

Related: These are the 15 best places to visit for spring break this year

Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) expect 2.3 million travelers between March 7 and 18 alone . Memphis International Airport (MEM) is recommending that passengers arrive at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to accommodate for the increased crowds.

As home to popular theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando , it's no surprise that Orlando International Airport (MCO) is also anticipating record-breaking travel days this spring break season.

"We expect to set a new spring break benchmark with more than 7.6 million passengers," Kevin Thibault, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, said in a press release. This number tops last year's predictions by 300,000 passengers.

Related: These are the best (and worst) days to fly for spring break in 2024

These increased numbers mean bigger crowds, long lines and the potential for more issues to arise at the airport. Here are seven tips to help you get through the airport smoothly and start your spring break travels on a relaxing note.

Choose the right flights

Early in the morning, between 6 and 7 a.m., is an ideal time to fly because the airport is less likely to be crowded. This is partly due to less air traffic and generally calmer weather conditions at the start of the day, resulting in fewer delays and thus fewer passengers waiting around for their flights.

Related: The best spring break destination for families for an easy vacation

Minimize the time you'll spend in lines and searching for a seat at your gate by avoiding flying during peak travel times, such as Friday and Sunday afternoons. These times are when business travelers head home from their work weeks and leisure travelers leave for weekend trips.

Skip flights scheduled for midafternoon or later to decrease your odds of being hit with substantial flight delays or cancellations, which become more common as the day progresses, according to Bureau of Transportation Statistics data.

Travel with only a carry-on bag

Avoid airport chokepoints at the check-in counter and baggage claim by not checking a bag .

If there are any hiccups with your flight and you end up on a different flight than you originally planned, you won't have to worry about being separated from your baggage. Several TPG-tested carry-on bags can fit a surprising amount of clothing, toiletries and other travel necessities (especially if you are traveling somewhere warm and don't need much more than a bathing suit and sunscreen).

Ensure the bags you plan to bring on board fall within the carry-on luggage dimensions noted by your airline . For most U.S. airlines, your main carry-on bag must be no more than 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches (or 45 linear inches).

If traveling with a carry-on, remember the TSA's 3-1-1 rule for liquids . Each liquid you bring through the TSA checkpoint must be in a 3.4-ounce or smaller container ("3"). All containers must be placed inside one clear quart-size plastic bag ("1"), and each passenger is only allowed one plastic bag ("1"). Keep your liquids in an easy-to-reach spot if you are asked to remove them from your bag for inspection.

Have airline elite status

U.S. airlines offer expedited security to their frequent flyers at many of the country's busiest airports.

For example, Southwest Airlines' A-List and A-List Preferred members and passengers traveling on Business Select and Anytime fares can use express security checkpoint lines.

Other carriers offering access to expedited security lanes for select passengers include:

• Alaska Airlines : MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K and MVP Gold 100K members
• American Airlines : AAdvantage Gold, AAdvantage Platinum, AAdvantage Platinum Pro and AAdvantage Executive Platinum members
• Delta Air Lines : Gold Medallion, Platinum Medallion and Diamond Medallion members
• JetBlue : TrueBlue Mosaic, Mint and Blue Extra customers
• Spirit Airlines : Free Spirit Silver and Free Spirit Gold members
• United Airlines : Premier Silver, Premier Gold, Premier Platinum and Premier 1K members

Related: Complete guide to airline status match and challenges in 2024

Airline elite status also gets you on the plane at the top of the boarding group, which will better guarantee that precious overhead bin space will be available for your carry-on bags.

If you don't have status but buy a first- or business-class seat, know that it comes with expedited check-in, priority security (where available) and priority boarding.

Sign up for an expedited screening program

TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck gives travelers access to a separate expedited security line at more than 200 U.S. airports.

If you have kids, they can typically travel through the TSA PreCheck lane with you if you are enrolled in the program. Teenagers 17 and under may accompany enrolled parents through the TSA PreCheck screening lane when traveling on the same reservation and when the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on the teen's boarding pass. Children 12 and under can accompany an enrolled parent or guardian through the TSA PreCheck lanes anytime.

Related: Teens may now accompany parents through the PreCheck lane and more TSA tips for families

Pay the $78 fee to enroll (or enroll for free if your credit card offers free TSA PreCheck as a perk for cardholders ) in this expedited security program that 90-plus domestic and international airlines participate in. You can enjoy moving through designated security lanes without taking off items like shoes, belts and light jackets and removing laptops from carry-on bags.

Your membership expires after five years, at which time you can renew for $70.

Related: 12 key things to know about TSA PreCheck

Global Entry

This program expedites reentry into the U.S. for preapproved, low-risk travelers returning from international destinations. It's currently available at nearly 60 airports.

Global Entry is most appropriate for frequent international travelers and includes a TSA PreCheck membership. The current cost is $100, and membership is valid for five years.

You may be eligible to use the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Mobile Passport Control app if you don't have Global Entry. Before you reenter the country, you can enter your travel documents and customs declaration information into the app and use a dedicated (often shorter) customs queue upon reentry to the U.S.

Related: Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck: Which is more beneficial?

You can also pay $189 (or a special reduced rate if you have elite status with Delta or United) for a Clear membership .

This program uses biometric authentication (either a fingerprint or an eye scan) to confirm your identity, eliminating the need to wait for a TSA agent to inspect your ID. After verifying your identity, a Clear representative escorts you to the front of the security screening line.

If you're enrolled in both Clear and TSA PreCheck , you'll be taken directly to the front of the TSA PreCheck line, saving you even more time in the security screening area.

Before signing up for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or Clear, see if any of the credit cards in your wallet will reimburse you for one (or more) of the programs.

Several cards offer up to $100 for either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry (which includes TSA PreCheck membership), while The Platinum Card® from American Express provides an annual credit of up to $189 to cover a Clear Plus membership (subject to auto-renewal). Additionally, the American Express® Green Card comes with a yearly statement credit of up to $189 to apply toward the cost of a Clear Plus membership.

If you do not have a Clear membership, several airports participate in the free Clear Reserve program. Clear Reserve allows travelers to reserve a dedicated time slot in the security line for their party to go through TSA security at select airports. You can make a reservation online or via the Clear app using the home-to-gate feature.

The information for the American Express Green Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Remember these essential tips for international travel

The U.S. Department of State recently shared tips for headache-free travel abroad if you plan to travel internationally for spring break . You can view laws, customs, travel advisories and more on the State Department's website and locate the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate location nearest your destination in case of emergency. You can streamline this process by enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , a service that enrolls your trip with the nearest embassy or consulate and keeps you informed on safety conditions in your destination.

Related: How the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program could help you on your next trip abroad

For international travel, you also need to ensure your passport has at least six months of validity before it is set to expire, which is a requirement for many international destinations. The State Department also recommends you take photos of your passport and other important travel documents and store them online or with relatives for safekeeping. This could be an invaluable tool if you happen to lose your passport while traveling abroad .

Check TSA wait times

The MyTSA app , which is available for iOS and Android devices, provides estimated wait times at each airport's security lanes so you can plan and time your arrival accordingly. The app also offers helpful tips for preparing for security, including a searchable database of what you can and cannot bring in your carry-on bag.

If you aren't sure if you can bring something in your checked or carry-on bag, you can also text the TSA and ask or send a direct message to @AskTSA on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Many of the country's main airports allow you to check security wait times directly on the front pages of their websites, too.

You'll even find that some airports, such as Orlando International Airport (MCO) and San Antonio International Airport (SAT), have monitors by TSA checkpoints that display regularly updated wait times.

Related: 3 simple things to do before going through TSA screening

Dress for airport success

Carefully plan your airport wardrobe to shave off time going through security.

Wear travel shoes that are easy to take off and put back on. Additionally, bring a jacket with pockets or a personal item that you can use to quickly stow important items like your phone , wallet and passport when going through the X-ray machine and retrieving your carry-on items.

If you don't have TSA PreCheck, be proactive by removing your laptop or tablet, 3-1-1 liquids bag, jacket and shoes before you get to the conveyor belt.

Ensure your belt and metal jewelry are off and that there are no coins in your pockets, as these can set off the alarm and waste precious minutes.

Related: What not to pack in your carry-on bag

Bottom line

Spring break is one of those peak travel times that can try the patience of even the most experienced road warriors. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to reduce time in long lines.

Follow these tips, and you'll become a pro at navigating the scrum with ease while avoiding any unnecessary delays.

Ready for spring break? So is everyone else. Here's what to expect.

Ready for spring break? So is everyone else. 

And that's the problem.

"My phone is ringing off the hook," said Shane Mahoney, CEO of Lugo's Travel. "There's such a pent-up demand for travel and people can finally travel wherever they want without restrictions."

Experts predict this spring break – typically from late February to the end of March – will be busier than last year's and maybe busier than 2019. But this won't be your typical travel season. Not even close.

Passport wait times are down: Here's what to know about getting a US passport

Learn more: Best travel insurance

New theme park: Universal just announced a whole new theme park for families with young kids, in Texas

The holiday air travel meltdowns and this week's FAA computer outages have cast a long shadow across the spring break travel season. And there are other uncertainties: inflation, a soft economy and wars. Travelers are not sure what to do.

So what does that mean? Well, there are places everyone wants to go, which you might consider avoiding this spring break. And there are mistakes travelers will make, but you can avoid these, too.

Check out  Elliott Confidential , the newsletter the travel industry doesn't want you to read. Each issue is filled with breaking news, deep insights, and exclusive strategies for becoming a better traveler. But don't tell anyone!

Where's everyone going this spring break?

When it comes to popular destinations, think warm. Many travelers want to head south to catch a few rays – and maybe waves. Here are Priceline's most popular domestic destinations for Spring Break 2022 : 

• Orlando, Florida 
• New York City
• New Orleans
• Nashville, Tennessee
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida  

But this year, for the first time since 2019, Americans are also considering traveling internationally for spring break. 

"The strength of the dollar, coupled with lifted or lessened COVID restrictions, is leading to an uptick in searches for international travel destinations throughout Europe and even Asia," said Priceline spokeswoman Christina Bennett. "So while inflation is driving up costs overall, your dollars are going further with current conversion rates."

Travel insurance company World Nomads reports that for 2023, 52% of Americans' top destinations are European regions and 19% for South America and Asia respectively. The rest are domestic trips.

"Travelers are seeing 2023 as the year to take the big trips they had postponed due to COVID-19 and border restrictions," said Christina Tunnah, general manager of marketing and brands for World Nomads.

Story continues below.

What are some spring break travel trends?

The new travel trends driving travel spring break 2023 focus on outdoor activities, fuel efficiency and predictability, according to experts. 

► Spring camping 

The Dyrt's 2022 Camping Report , which surveyed thousands of campers and members of the general public, found that spring is one of the fastest-growing camping seasons. "Spring camping is up 27% from pre-pandemic levels," said Sarah Smith, founder of the camping information app. "Spring break can be an excellent time to snag more competitive campsites before the summer season gets into full swing." But she said don't wait too long to book, or you might not find a site for your RV or tent. 

► Closecations 

Booking patterns for spring break suggest Americans prefer a "closecation" – traveling to a region within three to four hours of driving distance from home. A softer economy is driving this trend, according to Noël Russell, chief experience officer for Whimstay, a vacation rental platform. "These closecations will be an increasing trend for travelers who want to experience the joy of a vacation while staying within their budget and maintaining more control over their experiences," she said. 

► Return to "normal"

Christopher Falvey, co-founder of Unique NOLA Tours, a ghost tour company in New Orleans, has been analyzing the bookings for spring break. His conclusion: It's looking a lot like 2019.

"Our seasonal ebb and flow has come back to normal," he said. "Finally, predictability!" But that means all the travel tricks you learned during the pandemic, like waiting until the last minute to find a deal, will no longer work.

Expert advice for your spring break trip

What's different about this spring break? Experts say this year, everyone is pushing the boundaries a little. They're waiting until the last minute, trying to squeeze more time into their vacation and taking more risks. Here's my free guide to holiday travel:

• Don't wait until the last minute: "Book early," advised Melanie Fish, a travel expert at Expedia. "Last-minute deals are becoming exceedingly rare." When is the best time to book? At least a month before domestic flights and six months before international flights will save you about 10%, according to Expedia's latest research. To find out if it's a good time to buy, Fish recommends setting up a fare alert online. Expedia uses machine learning to identify patterns in historical data and forecast price changes.
• Give yourself plenty of time to get there and back:  "Spring break is a pretty tight window, usually one week with a weekend on each end to get to your destination and back," said Michael Rust, a professor at Western New England University. Rust helps plan educational trips during spring, and knows there isn't a lot of margin for error. "It doesn't leave much time for changing travel plans if something unexpected happens," he said.
• Understand the risks: Spring break can be dangerous. After all, you're headed to the beach with thousands of other people. If you have travel insurance – and you probably should – take a few minutes to read the exclusions related to high-risk behaviors. "It's especially important to understand the alcohol-related exclusions of your insurance policy," said Narendra Khatri, principal of Insubuy, a travel insurance company. Put differently, if you overindulge during spring break and get into a moped accident on the way back to your hotel, you might not be covered.

I've never understood the spring break travel phenomenon. School districts give their students a week during spring; everybody drives to Florida or flies to Cancun. High prices and chaos follow. That's no way to spend your vacation. And this year, with all the air travel problems we've had, you might not even get to your destination.

So what will happen this spring break? It's too early to know for sure. And it may be impossible to predict, say experts.

 "The unpredictability of travel, including flight cancellations, labor shortages, the impact of inflation, and potential illness, is unlikely to let up by springtime," said Angela Borden, a product strategist for travel insurance company Seven Corners.

So for spring break 2022, the only thing we know with absolute certainty is that we know nothing.

Christopher Elliott  is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded  Elliott Advocacy , a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes  Elliott Confidential , a travel newsletter, and the  Elliott Report , a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can  reach him here  or email him at  [email protected] .

Spring break preview: What to expect and how to have a smooth trip

Ready for spring break? So is everyone else. 

And that’s the problem.

“My phone is ringing off the hook,” says Shane Mahoney, CEO of Lugos Travel . “There’s such a pent-up demand for travel and people can finally travel wherever they want without restrictions.”

Experts predict this spring break — typically from late February to the end of March — will be busier than last year’s and maybe busier than 2019. But this won’t be your typical travel season. Not even close. 

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“Many economists are anticipating a full recession as well as a potential energy crisis,” says Tim Hentschel, CEO of HotelPlanner . “And lingering labor and supply challenges across the board will still affect prices.”

So what does that mean for you? Well, there are places everyone wants to go, which you might consider avoiding this spring break. And there are mistakes travelers will make, but you can avoid these.

I’ve never understood the spring break travel phenomenon. School districts give their students a week during spring; everybody drives to Florida or flies to Cancún, Mexico. High prices and chaos follow. That’s no way to spend your vacation.

Where’s everyone going this spring break?

When it comes to popular destinations, think warm. Many travelers want to head south to catch a few rays — and maybe waves. Here are Priceline’s most popular domestic destinations, along with the percent increase in searches from last year, for dramatic effect:

•  St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands (+299%)
•  Kailua-Kona, Hawaii (+235%)
•  Sacramento, California (+173%)
•  Gulf Shores, Alabama (+152%)
•  San Diego (+135%)
•  Colorado Springs, Colorado (+120%)
•  Galveston, Texas (+112%)
•  Phoenix (+112%)

But this year, for the first time since 2019, Americans are also considering traveling internationally for spring break. 

“The strength of the dollar, coupled with lifted or lessened COVID-19 restrictions, is leading to an uptick in searches for international travel destinations throughout Europe and even Asia,” says Priceline spokesperson Christina Bennett. “So while inflation is driving up costs overall, your dollars are going further with current conversion rates.”

Travel insurance company World Nomads reports that for the 2023 spring break season, 42% of its U.S. sales are for European destinations, 15% for South America and 14% for Asia. The rest are domestic trips.

“Travelers are seeing 2023 as the year to take the big trips they had postponed due to COVID-19 and border restrictions,” says Christina Tunnah, general manager of marketing and brands for World Nomads.

What are some spring break travel trends?

The new travel trends driving spring break 2023 focus on outdoor activities, fuel efficiency and predictability, according to experts. 

Spring camping.  The Dyrt’s 2022 Camping Report , which surveyed thousands of campers and members of the general public, found that spring is one of the fastest-growing camping seasons. “Spring camping is up 27% from pre-pandemic levels,” says Sarah Smith, founder of the camping information app. “Spring break can be an excellent time to snag more competitive campsites before the summer season gets into full swing.” But she says don’t wait too long to book, or you might not find a site for your RV or tent. 

Closecations. Booking patterns for spring break suggest Americans prefer a “closecation” — traveling to a region within three to four hours’ driving distance from home. A softer economy is driving this trend, according to Noël Russell, chief experience officer for Whimstay , a vacation rental platform. “These closecations will be an increasing trend for travelers who want to experience the joy of a vacation while staying within their budget and maintaining more control over their experiences,” she says. 

A return to “normal.” Christopher Falvey, co-founder of Unique NOLA Tours , a ghost tour company in New Orleans, has been analyzing the bookings for spring break. His conclusion: It’s looking a lot like 2019. “Our seasonal ebb and flow has come back to normal,” he says. “Finally, predictability!” But that means all the travel tricks you learned during the pandemic, like waiting until the last minute to find a deal, will no longer work.

Expert advice for your spring break trip

What’s different about this spring break? Experts say this year, everyone is pushing the boundaries a little. They’re waiting until the last minute, trying to squeeze more time into their vacation and taking more risks. Here’s my free guide to holiday travel.

Don’t wait until the last minute. “Book early,” advises Melanie Fish, a travel expert at Expedia. “Last-minute deals are becoming exceedingly rare.” When is the best time to book? At least a month before domestic flights and six months before international flights will save you about 10%, according to Expedia’s latest research . To find out if it’s a good time to buy, Fish recommends setting up a fare alert online . Expedia uses machine learning to identify patterns in historical data and forecast price changes.

Give yourself plenty of time to get there and back. “Spring break is a pretty tight window, usually one week with a weekend on each end to get to your destination and back,” says Michael Rust, a professor at Western New England University . Rust helps plan educational trips during spring, and knows there isn’t a lot of margin for error. “It doesn’t leave much time for changing travel plans if something unexpected happens,” he says.

Understand the risks. Spring break can be dangerous. After all, you’re headed to the beach with thousands of other people. If you have travel insurance — and you probably should — take a few minutes to read the exclusions related to high-risk behaviors. “It’s especially important to understand the alcohol-related exclusions of your insurance policy,” says Narendra Khatri, principal of Insubuy , a travel insurance company. Put differently, if you overindulge during spring break and get into a moped accident on the way back to your hotel, you might not be covered.

So what will happen this spring break? It’s too early to know for sure. And it may be impossible to predict, say experts.

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 “The unpredictability of travel, including flight cancellations, labor shortages, the impact of inflation, and potential illness, is unlikely to let up by springtime,” says Angela Borden, a product strategist for travel insurance company Seven Corners .

So for spring break 2023, the only thing we know with absolute certainty is that we know nothing.

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story misstated the metric used for Priceline’s list of most popular spring break destinations.

The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.

Watch CBS News

Spring break 2023 may be the busiest travel season ever for the airline industry

By CBS13 Staff

March 21, 2023 / 6:56 AM PDT / CBS Sacramento

A new forecast shows that spring break 2023 may be the busiest travel season ever for the airline industry. 

According to Airlines for America, 10 major airlines, including Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue, are expected to carry a record number of passengers this season. 

One travel expert says to expect more of what we've been seeing a lot of, which is longer lines at airports and bigger crowds at popular destinations. 

Scott Keyes, Founder and Chief Flight Expert at Going, said, "I think you're seeing a re-normalization of travel in 2023, both for spring break and beyond."

Experts say spring is seen as a critical test for the airline industry, which is still working to return to pre-pandemic capacity levels despite robust demand. 

• Spring Break

The CBS13 Staff is a group of experienced journalists who bring you the content on CBSSacramento.com.

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clock This article was published more than  1 year ago

Leaving for spring break? Travelers have plenty of company this year.

Demand for travel is still strong as americans head out for a spring break that is largely free of pandemic-era restrictions.

Signs are pointing to a busy — and in some places, potentially record-breaking — spring break travel season as Americans hit beaches, slopes and all spots in between.

And for the first time since the pandemic began, those trips may seem normal.

Mask mandates and most other pandemic-era travel requirements are no longer in place. The highest-profile federal requirement — that people wear masks on most transportation modes — was struck down last April by a federal court judge in Florida. Three years into the pandemic, the most significant mandate still in place has little bearing on Americans: Most international visitors are required to show proof they have been vaccinated against the coronavirus .

“It really is going to be the first spring travel season in three years that looks and feels normal to many travelers,” said Henry Harteveldt, an aviation analyst and president of Atmosphere Research.

The trade group Airlines for America (A4A) is estimating that 158.4 million passengers will fly in March and April, or 2.6 million daily, which is slightly above 2019 levels. Airports across the country are preparing for crowds of travelers, urging people to book parking in advance and arrive hours before their flights depart. Airports in Houston and Miami are among those expecting that this will be their busiest spring break season on record.

TSA stops mask enforcement after federal judge voids mandate

Looking beyond spring break, the Transportation Security Administration is also preparing for a potentially record-breaking year. In January, TSA officers screened more people than in January 2019, and the agency expects the numbers will continue to rise.

“We fully expect to see an upward trend in travel volumes throughout 2023, including during the spring break period,” TSA Administrator David P. Pekoske said in a statement.

At Amtrak, ridership has returned to 84 percent of pre-pandemic levels and continues to improve.

“We expect to see an influx of customers in the coming weeks as travelers take off for spring break and the upcoming holidays,” Amtrak spokeswoman Kimberly Woods wrote in an email.

Most travelers will reach their spring break destination by vehicle. Drivers will find a bit of good news as they hit the road, with gas prices easing compared with the same period last year.

According to AAA , the average price for a gallon of regular gas is $3.44, down from $4.26 a year ago. Last year, the start of the spring break travel season came after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which triggered a spike in oil prices.

“Travel has basically reached normalized times,” said Scott Keyes, founder and chief flight expert at travel website Going.com . “Today looks almost exactly like it did this time four years ago.”

Travelers, too, say this year feels more like travel before the pandemic, with crowded airports and full flights. Their anxieties about coronavirus fears have largely abated and travel checklists have become shorter as testing requirements and pandemic restrictions are lifted.

Lauren Petrea said she remembers flying with her son to Korea in fall 2020. The pair took multiple coronavirus tests and were required to quarantine at a special facility before being allowed to reunite with relatives. They had to download an app that tracked their movements for contact tracing purposes. When Petrea, executive director of talent acquisition at one of the largest school districts in Texas, returned to Korea in December 2022, she didn’t even have to take a coronavirus test.

On a visit to the nation’s capital for spring break this month, Petrea and her husband and 12-year-old son enjoyed Smithsonian Institution museums and dinner. While she no longer worries about carrying masks, she said she still keeps plenty of hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes in her purse.

“Everyone is traveling now,” she said. “The airport is crazy and security lines have gotten so long.”

Petrea said she’s also noticed that the cost of traveling — everything from plane tickets to food — has gotten significantly more expensive.

Other travelers echoed similar sentiments.

In January, when the Dickerson family flew from Kansas to New York, Susanna Dickerson packed the family’s vaccination cards because they were warned some places still required them. When the family headed to D.C. this month for spring break, those cards stayed home.

To Sandra Blake and her teenage sons, Connor and Austin, the early days of the pandemic feel like a distant memory. On a day trip to Washington from Fredericksburg, Va., Connor, 17, said things seem normal now — and the days when masks and proof of vaccination were required in many places seem like long ago.

Spring break will be a test for the nation’s air carriers, particularly Southwest Airlines, whose December meltdown has drawn scrutiny from Congress and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. It also cost the Dallas-based carrier more than $1 billion in lost ticket revenue, goodwill gestures for customers and employees, and overtime.

Airlines tried to shift the blame, but they're the biggest cause of delays

At a conference hosted earlier this month by JPMorgan, Southwest chief executive Bob Jordan outlined a three-part “Tactical Action Plan” to prevent a repeat of problems that forced the carrier to cancel more than 16,700 flights over 10 days.

In addition to upgrading its information technology systems, the carrier said it is taking steps to better prepare for severe weather by purchasing more de-icing trucks and increasing its number of de-icing pads at key airports. It also will purchase additional covers and heaters for aircraft engines. A shortage of equipment was one reason the carrier experienced difficulties restarting its operations late last year at Denver International Airport — a problem that quickly expanded nationwide — as a winter storm arrived.

On earnings calls earlier this year, U.S. airline executives said they are fully staffed and, in some cases, overstaffed to ensure they are able to manage potential disruptions.

Both Delta Air Lines and United Airlines said they expect travel volumes during the spring break period to be on par with 2019 levels. United said it expects that nearly 21 million customers will fly between March 10 and April 23, nearly 15 percent more than last year and about even with 2019.

Carriers say the bulk of travelers will fly in the final week of March and the first two weeks of April. United said it expects more than 4,000 flights per day, on average, while Delta said it will operate an average of 4,500 daily flights during the same time span, carrying about 25 million customers.

American Airlines and Southwest did not offer forecasts for spring break travel.

During the spring break travel period last year, airlines still were grappling with staffing shortages while rebounding from the effects of the omicron variant of the coronavirus, which emerged in November 2021. The rapid uptick in positive cases coupled with harsh winter storms made for a chaotic end-of-year experience for travelers. By February 2022, however, as the impact of omicron began to fade, travel demand rebounded.

Still, travelers endured more cancellations and delays during the spring and summer months last year, prompting Buttigieg to hold a virtual meeting last June to press airlines on steps they were taking to improve their performance.

Buttigieg meets with airline executives amid a fresh round of delays, cancelations

According to A4A, the domestic airline industry is moving into this spring and summer with its largest workforce in more than two decades.

At the same time, other parts of the travel industry are struggling to find workers, said Geoff Freeman, chief executive of the U.S. Travel Association. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly 1.7 million jobs in the hospitality and leisure industry remain unfilled.

“These are incredible times in the travel industry, but we are not naive enough to think that these are permanent times, and we’re concerned that we’re not necessarily making the investments, the changes that need to be made to maintain as much of this demand for travel going forward,” Freeman said.

He pointed to recent troubles with the nation’s air traffic control system, delays in the processing of visas for overseas visitors and long wait times at airports for those entering the United States as issues that must be addressed.

Air travelers are also paying more to fly this year. According to a recent report by the Airlines Reporting Corp. (ARC), which analyzes travel agency ticket sales, the average price of a domestic airline ticket was $571 in February, compared with $464 last year, a 23 percent increase.

While demand for spring break travel is strong, some industry watchers cite economic concerns in saying travelers could begin to pull back. A recent report by Andrew G. Didora, an aviation analyst with BofA Global Research, found softening in airline bookings and visits to airline websites, potentially driven by headlines about troubles in the regional banking sector.

Keyes said pent-up travel demand has mostly been released, which is bringing more price sensitivity among travelers.

“Last spring and summer, you saw travelers basically saying, ‘I’ll pay any price. I’ve got the money saved up, I want to travel. I’m not putting it off,’” he said. “Well, this spring, I think you’re seeing more folks thinking they don’t have quite as much money in the bank.”

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Expert tips to book cheap spring break travel now

Going.com founder Scott Keyes explains the so-called "Goldilocks window."

While snow and frigid temps are sweeping parts of the country, travel deals for spring break are heating up.

Experts like Going.com founder Scott Keyes explained to "Good Morning America" why now may be the best time to book flights for spring travel.

Spring break travel tips: Book flights before March

"I would not be putting it off much longer if you're hoping to fly somewhere, because chances are once March rolls around, spring break flights are going to get more expensive, not less," he cautioned. "Right now we are in the Goldilocks window for cheap spring break flights."

The so-called "Goldilocks window", Keyes said, is the ideal time to book your flight -- it's not too early or too late for the price to be just right.

"If you book 11 months in advance, you don't see many cheap flights, but also, if you wait until a week or two before, your likelihood of a cheap flight at that point is gonna be very low," he explained.

Spring break travel tips: Find the cheapest destination

When it comes to booking trips for the family, Keyes said to be flexible with your destination.

For example, if a beach getaway is at the top of your vacation list, look for the one with cheapest airfare, and for bigger families, Keyes suggests booking the tickets individually.

"When you do one booking of four tickets, all four tickets have to have the same price, and if there's only 3 tickets left at the cheapest price they're gonna sell you the next most expensive one," he said. "Instead, book three tickets at once at the cheapest price -- then book the fourth ticket."

Spring break travel tips: Round trip vs. one-way flights

Keyes also advises travelers looking to book for spring break to compare round-trip and one-way fares.

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"The cheapest non-stop flight from New York to San Diego for a week in late April is $448 per person round trip. But if you book each leg separately, you can fly one-way to San Diego for $139 and back to New York for $254 -- totaling $393. That's a savings of $55 per person.

Expert's top travel tip for booking flights: Follow the 21-day rule

Keyes reminded travelers to follow his golden rule of air travel, back-timing when to book based on your departure date, in order to align with an airline's "advanced purchase requirement" found in the fine print of the fare terms and conditions.

"Pull up a calendar and circle 21 days before your travel date," he said. "That needs to be your sort of drop-dead date to get your flights booked by."

Other deals and thinking ahead to summer travel

It's also a great time to book a cruise, now that we're in what's known as the wave season -- the first three months of the year when cruise lines often offer a wide range of discounts.

AAA shows discounts between 30% to 60% off, and travelers will likely see cabin upgrades, as well as buy one, get one offers and possible onboard credits.

While most searchers are in spring break mode, experts also say now is a good time to start thinking about summer travel.

If you're looking for domestic vacations, plan to try to book them one to three months out from the travel dates, while we are still in the opposite season.

Finally, remember to turn on flight alerts via Google flights or a price tracker app.

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• Sweepstakes

This Is When Airports Will Be the Busiest for Spring Break Travel, According to the TSA

Plus, which destinations may be most popular.

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This spring break, travelers may want to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and lots of patience. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently shared guidance that they predict a six percent increase in passenger screenings for this spring break season, versus the same time in 2023. If those estimates hold true, this would be one of the busiest spring break ever.  “TSA screened a record number of passengers in 2023, and we expect that trend to continue this year,” the TSA’s Administrator David Pekoske said in a news release. For travelers navigating airports, the TSA says the busiest travel days will be between March 7 and March 25.

When it comes to the most popular spots to head to for spring break Las Vegas , New York , Orlando , Cancun , and London , come out on top according to data by booking site Trivago, shared with Travel + Leisure.

Additionally, Fort Lauderdale has surged in popularity as a spring break destination, with a 45.6 percent jump in bookings from 2023, according to the site. The TSA reminds passengers to follow safety and security protocols to ensure a fast security screening process. This includes only packing liquids under 3.4 oz in a single quart-sized bag, and not bringing firearms through checkpoints.  “Spring break travelers should give themselves plenty of time to account for traffic, parking, rental car returns, airline check-in, security screening and making any airport purchases before boarding a flight,” the TSA reminds travelers in the release.  To expedite the process, TSA PreCheck is also a helpful tool to help speed through security lines. Travelers with PreCheck don't need to remove shoes, laptops, or light jackets through the checkpoint. New enrollment in the program starts at $78 for five years, however some popular credit cards can give you a rebate on the fee .  The TSA says they aim to maintain wait times of 30 minutes or less for regular screening, and 10 minutes or less for the TSA PreCheck screening line. 

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TSA offers spring break preview and travel tips for passengers departing Portland International Airport

PORTLAND, Oregon - The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates steady passenger volumes through its security checkpoints at Portland International Airport (PDX) during an extended spring break travel season.

Nationally, the spring break travel season began in late February with higher than normal travel volumes at airports across the country. The spring break travel season continues and is expected to impact departing travel volumes at PDX starting later this week through early April.

The busiest days for security operations are Sundays and Mondays as well as Thursdays and Fridays. The busiest times at the security checkpoint are 4 a.m. to 7 a.m.; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. to midnight.

On peak travel days, TSA at PDX is projected to screen in excess of 25,000 departing travelers. This is a 15% increase over usual travel volumes. The busiest day for spring break travel at PDX is expected to be Friday, March 24 when more than 26,000 are projected to be screened. 

The security checkpoints at PDX open no later than 3:45 a.m. daily. Due to several flights departing early in the morning, travelers can expect to encounter large numbers of people who need to be screened first thing in the morning. However, travelers can expect to see a steady flow of travelers at the security checkpoints throughout the day.

“Spring break travel consistently brings a high number of travelers departing PDX. We have come to expect this and plan for it operationally each year,” said TSA Federal Security Director for Oregon Kathleen McDonald. “Every step of the travel will take extra time during the spring break travel period, so please be sure to arrive at the airport early and prepared to ensure smooth travels.”

TSA at PDX staffs the security checkpoints based on the number of travelers projected to depart the airport at various times during the day. Be sure to check your departure gate and ensure you are being screened through the correct security checkpoint. The BC checkpoint leads to the B and C gates; the DE checkpoint leads to the D and E gates.

TSA strives to get travelers through the general security screening process in less than 30 minutes and through TSA PreCheck® screening in less than 10 minutes. In February 2023, 90% of TSA PreCheck passengers nationwide waited less than five minutes to be screened. Another advantage of TSA PreCheck is children 12 and under are eligible to be screened with a TSA PreCheck-eligible parent or guardian on the same itinerary.

Security technologies in use at PDX TSA is using Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) to assist in the travel document checking process at PDX. CAT units are designed to scan a traveler’s photo identification, confirm the traveler’s identity and verify that the traveler is ticketed for travel that day. CAT also displays the pre-screening status (such as TSA PreCheck) the traveler is eligible for, all without the traveler presenting a boarding pass to the TSA officer. The use of CAT improves a TSA officer’s ability to accurately authenticate a traveler’s identification while addressing the vulnerabilities associated with photo identification and boarding pass fraud. CAT also provides enhanced fraudulent document detection capabilities.

TSA is also using computed tomography (CT) X-ray scanners to screen travelers’ carry-on luggage in the security checkpoints. This type of scanner provides advanced explosives detection capabilities by applying a sophisticated algorithm to generate a 3-D image of the contents of the carry-on bag. A security screening officer can manipulate the 3-D X-ray image on-screen to allow for a better view of the bag’s contents, ultimately reducing the number of bag checks that are required.

When a carry-on bag is screened through a CT scanner, travelers can leave everything in their carry-on bag, including electronics and travel-size liquids. Another requirement of the CT scanner system is every carry-on item must be placed in a bin for screening.

Travel advice TSA continues to ask travelers to arrive early and prepared for the screening experience to allow for timely completion of every step of the travel process. To help things go smoothly, please follow these tips: #1: Pack smart.   Prepare for security when packing and ensure that there are no prohibited items in carry-on luggage. Bringing prohibited item to the security checkpoint will result in a bag check, slowing the screening process for you and all travelers behind you.

#2: Empty your pockets prior to arriving in the checkpoint.   Place wallets, phones, keys and coins from your pockets inside your carry-on bag instead of placing them in a bin. This will ensure personal items are not left behind.

#3: Know the rules for traveling with liquids TSA defines a liquid as anything that can be spread, spilled, pumped or poured. If the quantity of that item exceeds 3.4 ounces (which is 100 ml), pack it in a checked bag. Any liquid over this size will result in a bag check, slowing the line for everyone. Bring an empty water bottle thru the security checkpoint so you can fill it post-security.

#4: Listen for guidance from TSA officers. Some people may not have traveled recently, so it is important to listen to the direction provided in the security checkpoint. TSA officers provide guidance on security technologies in use at PDX Listen up for a  more streamlined and convenient passenger experience! #5. Text TSA. TSA now offers assistance via text message to travelers who have with questions about security screening via text message. From any mobile device, a travel can text their request to “AskTSA” (275-872). A virtual assistant is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For more complicated questions, AskTSA staff are available daily for live assistance from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. PST. Passengers may still reach out to @AskTSA on Twitter or Facebook Messenger with questions and comments.

# 6: Download the free myTSA app. The myTSA app is a trusted source for last-minute travel questions, providing travelers with 24-hour access to the most frequently requested airport security information. It also features a searchable “Can I Bring” database where you can enter the name of an item and find out if you should pack it in your checked or carry-on bag. The app is available from the App Store or Google Play.

#7. Show gratitude to frontline workers. Thank a TSA officer, a flight attendant, a gate agent or someone who serves at the frontlines of aviation transportation. They are working hard so you are able to travel during the busy spring break travel season. Please pack an extra dose of patience, especially during higher passenger volume travel days, and show gratitude to those who are working diligently to get everyone to their destinations safely and securely.

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Spring Break Travel

CDC Respiratory Virus Guidance has been updated. The content of this page will be updated soon.

No matter where you travel for spring break, here are CDC’s top 5 tips to help you have a safer and healthier spring break.

1. Stay up to date with your routine vaccines.

Routine vaccines protect you from infectious diseases, such as COVID-19 and measles, that can spread quickly in groups of unvaccinated people. Many diseases prevented by routine vaccination are no longer common in the United States but are still common in other countries.

2. Check the travel requirements and recommendations for your spring break destination.

Check CDC’s webpage for your  destination  to see what destination-specific vaccines or medicines you may need and what diseases or health risks are a concern at your destination.

3. Visit your healthcare provider.

If you are traveling internationally, make an appointment with your healthcare provider or a travel health specialist at least one month before you leave. They can help you get destination-specific vaccines, medicines, and information. Discussing health concerns as well as your itinerary and planned activities with your provider allows them to give more specific advice and recommendations.

4. Plan for unexpected issues.

It is important to plan for unexpected events as much as possible. Doing so can help you get quality health care or avoid being stranded at a destination. A few steps you can take to plan for unexpected events are to get travel insurance , learn where to get health care during travel , pack a travel health kit , and enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .

5. Protect yourself during travel.

Travelers should continue to practice usual precautions during travel, including washing your hands often with soap and water or using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze, and avoiding contact with people who are sick.

A few other ways you can protect yourself include practicing road safety , wearing sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, avoiding bug bites by using insect repellent, and choosing safer foods and drinks . Practice safer sex and use condoms to protect yourself against sexually transmitted diseases . Avoid drinking too much alcohol and using illicit substances, as these can put you in dangerous situations.

Do not travel if you are sick or if you tested positive for COVID-19 and are recommended to isolate. Learn more about isolation guidance for COVID-19 .

If you feel sick or have a fever after your trip , contact a healthcare provider immediately and make sure to tell them about any areas you recently traveled to. Avoid contact with other people while you are sick.

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• Stand Up for Free Enterprise

How Spring Break Is Brought to You by American Business 

Spring break, a travel season marked by picturesque getaways and family vacations, is an economic powerhouse for businesses throughout the United States.

Nicholas Molinari Associate Manager, Tax and Economic Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Rachel Ledbetter Senior Manager, Communications and Strategy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce

April 02, 2024

As families hit the roads and the skies this spring break, American businesses from coast to coast are gearing up to create memorable experiences for travelers. From ski towns to campgrounds to school trips to Washington, D.C., businesses across the country create memorable spring break experiences that last a lifetime.

As eager travelers reserve hotels, plan a staycation, or create last-minute trip itineraries, American businesses have been preparing for spring break months in advance. The preparation behind this travel season also serves as a seasonal economic boost for a variety of businesses across the United States.

Consumer Preferences for Spring Break: Family and Self-Discovery

With schools on break, Americans seemingly cannot wait to relax and create new memories with their families. Family-centered vacations take centerstage in 2024, with 36% of travelers seeking opportunities to embark on trips with loved ones.

• With Gen Z and Millennials highlighted as the most likely age demographics to travel for spring break ( at 58% and 48% , respectively), vacations in 2024 are prioritized around unplugging and disconnecting ( 31% ) or taking inspiring/fulfilling trips ( 28% ). 

Solar Eclipse Contributing to Spring Break Travel Season

Americans are also intent on traveling to experience the solar eclipse on April 8, with Longwoods International estimating 14% of the millions of “eclipse travelers” planning to travel at least 50 miles from home to view the solar phenomenon.

• AAA reports a 3,000% increase over last year in advance bookings for U.S. cities in the solar eclipse path.

In spring 2024, U.S. travelers are inclined to bond with family or disconnect and unwind to find a sense of discovery. Whichever the inclination, the American business community provides the opportunity to pursue the ideal trip by offering family-friendly opportunities to unwind, relax, and connect with loved ones.

Spring Break 2024: Revitalized and Record-Breaking

Travel is a big business for the U.S. economy, supporting communities across the country. According to U.S. Travel, the impact of travel on the U.S. economy in 2023 contributed to $1.3 trillion in spending and $2.8 trillion in economic output for the year.

This year, industry experts and projections estimate the spring travel season is projected to be one for the record books.

• Airlines for America estimates that 167.1 million travelers (or 2.7 million each day) will be served by the U.S. airline industry during the Spring 2024 travel period. This marks a 6% increase from the 2023 Spring travel season. 
• The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reports that Boston Logan International Airport, a reliable barometer of nationwide travel trends, the travel hub has seen a robust 6.4% increase from 2023, with nearly 400,000 travelers expected to pass through its bustling terminals during the spring travel season.

Cruises are also hot tickets for American travelers, with the industry seeing a resurgence for spring break in 2024.

• AAA data shows a 28% increase in cruise bookings for March and April compared to last year and a 60% percent increase for cruises departing from South Florida.

As of January 2024, hotels across the United States have seen a 7% increase in bookings for this year’s spring break season. This figure is expected to climb to a total increase of 10% to 15% compared to 2023. According to Hopper’s 2024 Spring Break Travel Outlook , 45% of all spring break travelers plan on booking hotel accommodations for their trip.

Josh Friedlander, Vice President of Research at the U.S. Travel Association, emphasizes the American travel industry’s strong performance during spring break and how this rising demand must be met in the future.  “We see strong performance in the domestic leisure travel segment – at spring break and beyond – but meeting this level of rising demand also points to the need for greater federal investment in a modern, reliable, and efficient travel system for travelers,” said Friedlander.

How Waggin’ Tails Pet Ranch Creates a Spring Break Getaway for Pets

Economic trends: an affordable and flexible spring break.

With 55% of Americans planning a 2024 Spring Break excursion, affordability can be front of mind. The U.S. business community delivers accessible price points and a litany of domestic travel options.

• According to Hotel Management Network, 76% of spring break itineraries feature domestic travel.  

While inflation remains a top concern for families and businesses, industries have been able to maintain competitive pricing for travelers.

• Airfare: Airfare for vacations in March and April is averaging $256 per round-trip domestic ticket, down 2% from this time in 2023 and 11% lower than 2019 prices. 
• Lodging: Hotel rates nationwide are projected to be up 2% - 3% , despite an estimated 15% increase in hotel bookings this year.  
• Rental cars: According to Hopper’s Travel Report, average rates for rental cars is $41 per day nationally with rental car services across the U.S. having dropped 36% from this time last year. Additionally, AAA tells the Chamber domestic rental car bookings are up 35% compared to last year with international bookings up 6%. 

Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of Travel at AAA, highlights the versatility American businesses bring to spring break through flexible travel accommodations.  “Spring Break is a bustling time for AAA Travel because our members are eager to get away with their families, whether by air, land, or sea. AAA travel agents are the best resource during this vacation period to find the best deals and create memorable itineraries,” said Twidale. “This year, we’re seeing strong demand for cruises and international travel, and of course, the top domestic destination: Florida!"

The business community continues to maintain competitive pricing and a diverse range of options, ensuring American travelers can fully embrace and enjoy their spring break adventures without breaking the bank or compromising on their desired experiences.

Bottom Line

With the 2024 Spring Break travel season in full swing, businesses of all sizes across the United States are working around the clock to ensure that travelers can enjoy their vacations to the fullest while also generating a significant upswing for the U.S. economy.

From pet boarders to ski instructors and everything in between, American businesses are pivotal to creating spring break memories for families across the country. As vacationers eagerly anticipate their getaways with friends and family, they can rest assured that the business community stands ready to make their experiences both memorable and fulfilling. 

Brought to You by American Business

About the authors, nicholas molinari.

Nicholas Molinari is an associate manager for the Tax and Economic policy teams at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Rachel Ledbetter

Rachel Ledbetter is a senior manager for communications and strategy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

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FAA Ready for Spring Break Peak Travel and ‘The Great North American Eclipse’

WASHINGTON — As families across the U.S. continue their spring break travel, the Federal Aviation Administration predicts next week will be the busiest of the season, with most fliers taking off on Thursday, April 4.

While most travelers are heading to their favorite vacation destinations, a significant number of travelers are heading to various states to witness ‘The Great North American Eclipse’ on Monday, April 8. Travelers flying along the eclipse path may encounter limited parking and potential delays at airports due to the high volume of aircraft and drones attempting to witness the total solar eclipse. 

Whether you are headed to the sun or headed to the solar eclipse, the FAA is working to make sure you get to your destinations safely. The FAA wants pilots to be aware of possible impacts to air traffic and airports along the eclipse path and is offering guidance to commercial planes and private aircraft ahead of their flights to witness the phenomenon.   

The FAA reminds spring break travelers to be patient, give themselves extra time at the airport, and pack safely.   

• Be Patient: Federal law prohibits interfering with aircraft crew or physically assaulting or threatening to physically assault aircraft crew or anyone else on an aircraft. Follow all crewmember instructions. Failing to do so can result in civil penalties, criminal fines and imprisonment. The FAA has zero tolerance for unruly behavior.  
• Pay close attention to what’s in your bag. Some common toiletries that passengers pack could be hazardous. Check your bags for aerosol cans that may contain hair spray, deodorant, tanning spray or animal repellant, nail polish, artist paints and glues.  
• E-cigarettes, vaping devices, and spare lithium batteries are not authorized to be packed in checked luggage. Spare lithium batteries – the kind that are found in personal electronic devices and back-up charging devices – can only travel in carry-on baggage.  
• Electronic devices powered by lithium batteries can catch fire if they are damaged or have exposed electrical terminals. The FAA recommends that passengers keep cell phones and other devices nearby in the cabin to quickly access them if necessary.   

For more information about unruly passengers, please visit our Unruly Passenger  page on the FAA website. 

For detailed information about materials that should not fly, check out our Pack Safe: When in Doubt, Leave it Out video , the FAA's PackSafe website , and the FAA’s Hazardous Materials Safety website .  

Despite a major increase in flights last year,  delays  and cancellations  remain lower than even pre-pandemic levels.  

While delays and cancellations are low, they do happen. Check the status of your flight and get important travel tips before heading to the airport on the FAA travel web page . 

The FAA Air Traffic Report , which outlines potential weather impacts, is updated daily. You can also follow the FAA weather squad on X .

Spring break travelers pack LAX during busy season

S pring break is here and travelers are flocking to LAX to make it to their destinations. The airport says they expect millions of visitors this spring break.

In a press release, LAX says they anticipate hundreds of thousands of passengers to pass through the airport daily and more than 80,000 vehicles to visit during this time.

TSA expects to screen 47 million passengers across the country between March 7 and next Monday. United Airlines specifically says this is the busiest spring break in the history of the company.

They're expecting 21 million travelers this holiday season and that's a nearly 10% increase from last year. On average, more than 200,000 people will fly United daily, which is why the company installed a new feature to get bags checked quicker.

"Over the last month we've made it even better by adding the TSA PreCheck touchless ID, which literally is going to scan your face as you arrive and print your bag tag within 20 seconds or less," said David Terry, the managing director for United Airlines at LAX.

Gas prices are another concern especially for those traveling by car this spring break. For the first time since November, the average price of gas is over $5 a gallon. It's risen for the seventh time in eight days. Eyewitness News spoke with some travelers about gas prices. While it concerns some, others are resigned to the reality.

"That's a big concern for me because I travel a lot by car for work, and it puts a hurtin' on me," said Michael Waddell.

Looking for a last-minute spring break getaway? Here are 11 inexpensive options, according to a recent report.

• Published: Apr. 04, 2024, 10:10 a.m.

Using a seasonal average cost for each trip, U.S. News and World Report recently ranked the best inexpensive spring break destinations as voted on by the publication’s readers and editors. (NJ.com/Patti Sapone) Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media

• Mike Matteo | [email protected]

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.-- Even though are in the height of spring break season, with NYC public schools off for the week beginning April 22 , there’s still time to plan a last-minute getaway that won’t break the bank.

Using a seasonal average cost for each trip, U.S. News and World Report recently ranked the best inexpensive spring break destinations as voted on by the publication’s readers and editors.

The cutoff for inexpensive destinations is any place with an average cost of $150 or less per night.

The rankings are based on categories such as culture, food, nightlife, adventure, value and accessibility.

Here are the 11 best inexpensive spring break destinations, according to U.S. News and World Report.

• Key West, Florida
• Panama City Beach, Florida
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• South Padre Island, Texas
• Playa del Carmen, Mexico
• Outer Banks, North Carolina
• Daytona Beach, Florida
• Key Largo, Florida
• San Diego, California
• Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

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Miami Beach doesn't want spring breakers, but they don't want Miami Beach either. Here are the new top 3 spring break destinations.

• Miami Beach announced it's "breaking up" with spring break tourism.
• But data shows that Miami Beach wasn't among the three trending destinations this March anyway.
• Las Vegas, New York City, and Orlando snagged the highest spots. 

Miami Beach is done with spring break tourists. But those tourists were already looking elsewhere.

The City of Miami Beach announced that it's "breaking up" with spring breakers after "unruly crowds, lawless behavior, and a string of violent acts in recent years," a press release in February said.

Hey Spring Break, we're over. 👋 #SpringBreakUp https://t.co/CjCyrLwkPD pic.twitter.com/vxmVtxd7MO — City of Miami Beach (@MiamiBeachNews) March 1, 2024

Young revelers typically flock to Miami Beach in March for weeklong vacations. Some residents have complained about the behavior of those tourists . As a result, this year, local officials implemented "tough" new measures, including bag checks, DUI checkpoints, restricted beach access, license plate readers, and a heightened police force to dissuade rowdy conduct.

But Miami Beach wasn't at the top of tourists' minds this year anyway, according to travel company Booking.com.

Data shared by Booking.com showed the top 10 trending travel destinations for Americans from March 2 to March 30. Here's the breakdown.

Las Vegas scored the No. 1 spot for most of March, followed by Orlando and New York City

The Nevada city — known for its lavish tourism sector — ranked No. 1 for three out of the four weeks, specifically between March 2 and 23.

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The only time Las Vegas slipped to the No. 2 spot was from March 23 to March 30.

Las Vegas might be attracting travelers' attention for several reasons, including the Sphere concert venue and the return of F1 racing to the city late last year . There are also celebrity residencies , casinos , lush resorts , and other attractions.

Orlando, located in central Florida, snagged the No. 2 spot from March 2 to March 23. It sailed into the top trending destination spot from March 23 to March 30.

Like Las Vegas, Orlando is a popular American tourist spot for several reasons. The city is near amusement parks like Disney World and Universal Studios, as well as other attractions like the John F. Kennedy Space Center . Although Orlando is not coastal, it's a skip away from beaches like Daytona Beach and Cocoa Beach.

New York City consistently ranked No. 3 throughout March.

New York City is a beacon for American tourists and tourists across the globe. Local sites like Central Park and the Statue of Liberty are popular stops, while the collection of art museums and famed restaurants often draw attention. Depending on the season, there are also several sports teams to watch.

Miami Beach never ranked above No. 4

Based on Booking.com's data, Miami Beach peaked at No. 4 among trending destinations from March 2 to March 23. The city then dropped behind South Carolina's Myrtle Beach and Cancún, Mexico, to the sixth spot from March 23 to March 30.

The City of Miami didn't fare much better, ranking sixth for the first two weeks of March before peaking at No. 5 from the 16th to the 23rd.

Miami fell to the 11th most trending destination between March 23 and March 30.

Watch: Dangerous heat waves intensify across the globe from Arizona to Turkey

• Main content

The surge in travel will be felt on the roads and at Nashville International Airport, travel officials said.

Busiest travel days in March

Nashville International officials are preparing for higher-than-normal traffic in the airport and on nearby roads throughout the month.

The busiest days for airline passengers at BNA will be March 8, March 10, March 17 and March 31, according to Nashville International Airport.

"While record-breaking numbers aren’t anticipated, BNA anticipates an uptick in passenger traffic throughout March," said airport spokesperson Erin Thomas.

Airport preparations include increasing staff in parking garages and valet lots, expanding availability in Economy Lot C and coordinating with the Department of Public Safety to manage traffic flow on the busiest days. BNA also offers free parking for up to 30 minutes at terminal garages.

The Transportation Security Administration is adding 25 screening agents to manage the volume of passengers.

Nashville airport officials encourage drivers picking up travelers to use the cell-phone waiting lot at 1415 Murfreesboro Pike instead of clogging roads by circling the terminal.

Busier airlines also means more potential for delays and cancelations, so travelers are encouraged to arrive early and track their flight statuses via airlines and sites like FlightAware.com.

Where is everyone going for Spring Break?

Many Nashville-area travelers will spend their Spring Break in Florida — which, led by Orlando, has numerous Spring Break meccas that fill up in the second week of March.

"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 are looking for warm weather, pools and beaches, and outdoor adventures this time of year, and cruise vacations check all those boxes."

Gulf Coast cities of Destin, Panama City Beach and Clearwater are popular go-to beach trips.

In addition, Americans are flocking to cruise ships this year. Cruise bookings surged 28% for March and April, compared to last year, with a 60% increase in South Florida departures, according to AAA Travel.

Cruising is up and so is global travel. Thirty percent more Americans are flying internationally this year, AAA found.

"The travel season is already off to a hot start in 2024," said AAA Vice President of Travel Debbie Haas. "More AAA members are also booking tours for their international Spring Break vacations."

Sandy Mazza can be reached via email at [email protected], by calling 615-726-5962, or on Twitter @SandyMazza.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Spring Break travel is nearly here: Where Tennessee travelers go

• Grand Rapids/Muskegon
• Saginaw/Bay City
• All Michigan

FAA issues warning as travel peaks with solar eclipse, spring break traffic

• Updated: Apr. 02, 2024, 5:16 a.m. |
• Published: Apr. 01, 2024, 11:27 a.m.

David Petkiewicz, cleveland.com David Petkiewicz, cleveland.com

• Emily Bingham | [email protected]

With the peak of spring break season this week followed immediately by a surge of traffic for a historic total solar eclipse, the Federal Aviation Administration is alerting travelers to expect delays in the days ahead.

The FAA is forecasting spring break traffic will peak with 50,670 flights on Thursday, April 4 and with 48,904 flights on Friday, April 5. Additionally, a significant number of travelers will be headed to various destinations in preparation to witness the eclipse on April 8.

RELATED: How to spot unsafe solar eclipse glasses as experts warn of counterfeits and fakes

The states expected to see the biggest influx of eclipse travelers are those along the eclipse’s path of totality, where the views of this celestial phenomenon will be the most dramatic. Those states include Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, as well as parts of Tennessee and Michigan, according to NASA.

In a statement, FAA officials said travelers flying along the eclipse path may encounter limited parking and delays due to the high volume of aircraft and drones attempting to witness the eclipse, and urged travelers to be patient, give themselves extra time at the airport, and pack safely.

“Whether you are headed to the sun or headed to the solar eclipse, the FAA is working to make sure you get to your destinations safely,” the statement said.

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