AAA Shares Top Spring Break Destinations and Travel Advice

International travelers are advised to enroll in STEP, the State Department’s free notification service

Mar 10, 2026 | Travel

WASHINGTON, DC (March 10, 2026) - Spring Break isn’t a national holiday, but for many families it’s an annual tradition. As Spring Breakers prepare to travel over the next several weeks, AAA is sharing top destinations based on AAA Travel booking data and practical advice for peace of mind.

Domestic Trips

Flights to Spring Break domestic hot spots are 2% more expensive over last year, averaging about $815 for roundtrip tickets.

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.

Caribbean/International Trips

Flights to the most popular Caribbean and international destinations are slightly cheaper this year compared to 2025, averaging around $1,300 roundtrip.

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

Travelers planning to drive abroad can now 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 you can still apply in person at a AAA branch, you now have the option to use your smartphone to take a digital photo and complete the application online. Many countries require IDPs to rent a car and drive legally.

Peace of Mind

AAA has the following advice for travelers who are heading overseas for Spring Break.

  • Enroll in STEP
    Before departing for your trip, enroll in the State Department’s STEP (Safe Traveler Enrollment Program) which allows the U.S. to know where you’re going and send you security updates during your stay.
  • Consider Travel Insurance
    Consider obtaining travel insurance before an international trip but work with a trusted travel agent who can walk you through the policy details and answer questions about what is and isn’t included in case of an emergency. Acts of war are generally excluded from most travel insurance policies. This is why speaking with a travel agent is crucial before purchasing a plan.
  • Prepare for the Airport
    Before heading to the airport, check the status of your flight. Give yourself plenty of time to go through security in case of delays at TSA checkpoints. When returning to the U.S., consider downloading the Mobile Passport Control app which is free to use and helps expedite the customs process at most major U.S. airports.
  • Remain Vigilant, Stay Informed
    During your trip, always remain vigilant and monitor updates from local media and the U.S. Embassy. Social media is a great way to stay connected and watch for urgent alerts. If you’re concerned or have questions ahead of a trip, AAA travel agents can help with cancelations and changes, and offer you options for alternative destinations.

About AAA
Founded in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts advocating for better roads and safer mobility, AAA has grown into one of North America’s largest and most trusted membership organizations. Guided by our mission to Save Lives, Create Member Value, and Deliver Exceptional Experiences, AAA provides world-class roadside assistance, travel planning, exclusive discounts, and reliable financial and insurance services. Today, AAA enhances the life journey of more than 66 million members across North America, including over 58 million in the United States. Learn more or become a member at AAA.com.