Surviving Spring Break

We love spring break! 

March is the unofficial start of the spring break season for most schools. There will be many family and friends going on vacation this month. Are you one of them?

For us travel agents, most of our work throughout the year has led up to this moment. Spring break to us means that we've almost made it through our busiest travel season each the year. It means several clients will finally be going on their anticipated trip. It means more groups traveling together. It means we hope and pray and stress that nobody has any travel issues. It means summer is on the horizon.

*The M Family in Disney World March 2022

Have an upcoming trip booked during spring break? Here's a few travel tips.

1. Busier crowds - No matter where you are traveling (Florida, Mexico, Europe, Disney, cruising, road trips, etc...) there's going to be several other people also traveling. If you go into the trip already knowing that there will be longer wait times, you'll be able to manage your expectations and not get as easily frustrated.
2. Weather - Just because it's called "spring break" doesn't mean you'll have spring weather. We've seen blizzards in the past that have disrupted travel all the way into April. There could also be strong winds, rainstorms, or any other type of natural disaster that affects what you're doing. It's always a good idea to keep track of the weather during your travel dates.
3. Be aware of your surroundings - This is something you should already be doing even in your local town, but be especially cautious when traveling in an unfamiliar location. Prioritize safety for yourself and your travel companions, monitor alcohol consumption, don't wander off with strangers, and listen to your gut instincts.
4. Plan ahead - Dining reservations, excursions, a ticketed event...anything that can be booked in advance should be done before you travel. Having those advance reservations will guarantee your spot to avoid disappointment upon arrival. This is especially important during the busy travel dates.
5. Important documents - Don't forget any important documents you'll need to bring with you. Also bring photos or copies of passports, IDs, and tickets. 

 

Maybe you don't have a spring break trip booked this year, but you wish you did.

There are a few things you can do to plan ahead for next year.

1. Book well in advance - This is a very important step to take if you want the best value and the most availability. It's never too early to start planning. All-inclusive resorts in particular will sell out several months before travel begins. Those who wait to book until the last minute will have less inventory to choose from at much higher prices. Flight prices will only increase with demand too.
2. Choose unique destinations to avoid crowds - You may always hear that "everyone" goes to Florida or Cancun for spring break. I think there's nothing wrong with those locations. However, the world is huge. Even if it's not the most budget friendly option, there are several other places to go outside of the stereotypical spring break hot spots.
3. Start saving now - Spring break is most likely not going to be cheaper than traveling during other random times of the year. Start putting away some money a little bit each day or week or month to save up for the trip. Most packages booked through Mode Travel offer payment plans.
4. Say "Yes" to travel insurance - We can't predict the future, but we can prepare for it. Especially when booking several months in advance for a busy travel timeframe.
5. Contact your favorite Mode travel agent ASAP - We have the expertise to create the perfect trip tailored to YOU! It's great to get suggestions from family and friends, but their preferences might not 100% align with your own. If you use a professional to cut your hair or do your taxes, then why not use a Mode travel agent to plan your next spring break trip?

*The S Family in Maui, Hawaii March 2024