Spring Break Travel Is Back And More Expensive Than Ever, Here’s How Much You’ll Have To Pay
An increase in demand and fuel costs coupled with inflation have caused spring break prices to soar, but you can still save money by booking through websites like TripSavvy or looking for all-inclusive package deals.
On March 20, 2023, the equinox will usher in the spring season. Along with fresh rains and budding flowers, this salubrious season also brings with it the much-anticipated spring break. In the coming weeks and months, many Americans will be spreading their towels out on the warm sands of a beach somewhere.
Along with your sunscreen, stylish Ray-Bans, and beach umbrellas, you should also be ready to bring more money than you usually do on spring break this year. According to a recent CNBC report, spring break costs are on the rise as travelers return to their pre-pandemic booking patterns. From flights to hotels and vacation rentals, prices are going up.
So, what’s going on? How can you still save? Or perhaps an even more apt question, can you still save?
First, if you intend to fly, be prepared to pay more than in recent years. As travel is returning to pre-pandemic levels, more people are getting back into traveling, and when demand is high, airlines are able to charge more for tickets. Next, there is the issue of increased fuel costs. Airlines frequently pass on the increased costs to customers in the form of higher ticket prices.
Due to inflation, the cost of spring break accommodations has also risen. As with airfare, many hotels and vacation rentals are in high demand, driving up rates.
With that in mind, you may want to find a place off the beaten track or a less popular spring break destination—Alabama, anyone? But if you plan on going to any of the destinations below, be prepared to pay a little extra as these places are expected to get a record number of travelers, only driving up demand and resulting in you paying more money.
According to Thrillest.com, these are the trending travel destinations for spring 2023:
- Bahamas
- Mexico
- Florida
- Arizona
How to Save Money on Spring Break Travel
Despite the fact that spring break travel is more expensive than ever, there are still ways to save money. Here are some suggestions to help you save money:
Book early: The earlier you book your travel and lodging, the more likely you are to find good bargains. Need help booking a cheap flight? Check out the best booking sites at TripSavvy.com.
Be flexible with your travel dates: Prices tend to be lower throughout the week than on weekends.
Check for package vacation and cruise deals: Several travel businesses offer package deals that include inexpensive airfare, hotel accommodations, and activities. Carnival Cruises is offering some hot deals now, with almost 40% off on most cruises.
Think about using reward points from your credit card or airline miles to pay for some or all of your trip costs. If you are shopping for the best credit card to pay for this year’s spring break, JohnnyJet.com recommends the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.
Travel in a group: Sharing the cost of lodging and transportation with friends or family can help you save money.
And while spring break is coming in hot and becoming more expensive than ever, with enough forethought and imagination, you can still have a fantastic break without breaking the bank.
