Spring Break 2025: Travelers Aren’t Deterred by Higher Prices

by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 5:00 PM ET, Sat January 25, 2025

Spring break is the next big travel season to watch for, and we expect it to be a big one. While prices continue to rise, travelers are still eager to splurge on their travel experiences.

Are Spring Break Travel Prices Higher Than Last Year?

Data from travel insurer Squaremouth found that the average insured trip cost for spring break 2025 is $8,306. Compared to the average last year of $6,125, spring breakers are paying on average 26 percent more this year—either through higher prices, higher quality of service or categories, like choosing premium economy over economy airfare, or a bit of both.

Nerdwallet’s Travel Inflation Report from December 2024 analyzed different methods of travel and hotel room rates. On average, travel costs are up four percent, with airfare and hotel rates higher than December 2023.

Yet what about before the pandemic? While airfare costs are currently four percent higher than in 2019, room rates have ballooned by 19 percent, showing that some industries haven’t cooled down just yet. While it's true these numbers will change by March and April, it's likely costs will remain higher than before the pandemic.

Sarah Jane Stroupe, Founder of Globetrot Travel Concierge, noted a rise in travel costs that are no longer deterring travelers: “One thing worth noting is the rise in travel costs. Europe, in particular, seems pricier this year, and while it’s hard not to notice, this might be the new normal. Despite the increase, many travelers are embracing it as part of the overall shift toward valuing experiences. On average, people are spending around $10,000 per trip, seeing it as an investment in something meaningful.”

What’s certain is travelers are spending more this year, and travel advisors have taken note.

“I’ve noticed several clients opting for larger family spring break trips this year, going ‘all out’ compared to last year,” said Kendra Wagner, CEO & Founder of Kendra Wagner Travel. “For many, trip investment hasn’t been a limiting factor.”

Where are Spring Breakers Heading This Year?

While colder weather destinations were last year’s spring break trend, Squaremouth’s data found these destinations, like Switzerland, Iceland and Antarctica, saw interest drop as much as 60 percent.

Warmer weather destinations like Mexico and the Bahamas remain particularly popular for spring breakers wanting to warm up after a long winter. Those wanting to visit a place further abroad are now considering Japan and Italy this year, with interest in these destinations rising 8 and 6 percent from last spring break.

Faye Travel Insurance’s customers are also traveling similarly: 92 percent of its customers are planning to enjoy their spring break abroad in destinations including France, Italy, Japan, Mexico and the United Kingdom.

Tips for Travelers Planning Spring Break Vacations

Last-minute travel requests are on the rise this year, and advisors are feeling the pressure.

“This year, I’ve experienced a significant increase in last-minute travel requests,” said Kendra Wagner. “Come January, my inbox was overflowing with inquiries for spring vacations in March and April, in addition to couples getaways, whereas typically, my clients would start planning these trips in the summer or fall of the prior year.”

Travelers who want to travel for spring break but haven’t yet made their plans should remain flexible on their dates and consider traveling in April, especially if they want to travel further abroad, though availability for specific hotels or experiences are likely becoming scarcer the more they wait.

“Prices for Mexico and the Caribbean in March are comparable to last year,” said Wagner. “However, April pricing appears slightly lower, which is great news for many of my clients who are planning spring vacations during that time. I personally love April travel, and so many places in Mexico and the Caribbean, particularly Los Cabos, have fantastic weather during this time. It’s a favorite among my spring break clients, offering the perfect mix of water and land activities, great beaches, amazing cuisine, and easy access from most parts of the US.”

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