Spring Break isn’t a national holiday, but for many families it’s an annual tradition. AAA Travel booking data reveals top destinations and trends as Spring Breakers prepare to travel throughout March and April. Flights to Spring Break domestic hot spots are 2% more expensive over last year, averaging about $815 for roundtrip tickets, and slightly cheaper than last year for international destinations at $1,300 roundtrip.
“Heading to warmer climates has become an annual Spring Break tradition for many families,” said Jim Garrity, director of public affairs, AAA East Central. “After a very rough winter for a large portion of the country, Spring Break provides a welcome opportunity to get away, relax, and enjoy.”
Top Spring Break Destinations
Domestic
1. Orlando
2. Fort Lauderdale
3. Miami
4. Anaheim/Los Angeles
5. Tampa
6. Honolulu
7. Las Vegas
8. New York
9. Atlanta
10. Chicago
International/Caribbean
1. Rome, Italy
2. Paris, France
3. Cancun, Mexico
4. Amsterdam, Netherlands
5. London, England
6. Barcelona, Spain
7. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
8. San Juan, Puerto Rico
9. Oranjestad, Aruba
10. Dublin, Ireland
Flocking to Florida
Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Tampa are among the top 10 most popular domestic Spring Break destinations. The Sunshine State dominates this time of year as travelers seek a reliably warm climate to spend time at the beach or enjoy theme parks.
Hitting the Road
Many travelers prefer to hit the road for Spring Break. AAA rental car partner Hertz says Orlando, Los Angeles, and Phoenix are the most popular rental destinations, and the top bookings by state are Florida, California, Texas, Hawaii, and Arizona.
Saving on Gas
AAA members can save at the pump over Spring Break by signing up for Shell Fuel Rewards®. Members who register now through April 30 will get 35¢/gallon off their first fill at participating Shell stations, and all AAA Fuel Rewards members will save 10¢/gallon during that time period, which is an additional 5¢/gallon compared to the standard Fuel Rewards discount.
Cruising the Caribbean
Ocean cruising continues to set records this year as AAA projects 21.7 million Americans will take cruise vacations in 2026. Many families book cruises over Spring Break to get the most out of the week, with Caribbean itineraries departing from Florida, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas being the most popular.
European Holiday
Top international destinations include Rome, Paris, Amsterdam, London, Barcelona, and London. Spring Break in Europe appeals to families looking for history and entertainment. AAA Travel data shows Rome is the most popular European city for booking a tour package and immersing in the culture.
Driving Abroad?
Good news for travelers planning to drive abroad: it is now possible to apply for International Driving Permits online! AAA is one of only two official organizations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue IDPs. While applying in person at a AAA branch is still an option, travelers now have the option to use their smartphone to take a digital photo and complete the application online. Many countries require IDPs to rent a car and drive legally.
AAA East Central is a not-for-profit association with 69 local offices in Kentucky, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia serving 2.7 million members. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. AAA East Central provides services to its members including Automotive, Insurance, Discounts & Rewards, Financial, and Travel. Find out more about AAA Membership and current savings here.
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