Spring break is fast approaching! The kids are out of school, and it's time to plan the perfect family getaway. But every parent knows the challenge: how do you find a destination that makes everyone happy?
The good news: you have options and plenty of them. Whether your family craves sun-soaked beaches, wide-open wilderness, or the energy of a great American city, there's a spring break destination with your name on it. Here's our guide to the best spring break destinations for families, plus tips on how to pack and prepare for an unforgettable trip.
Tips for Planning the Best Family Spring Break Trip
Before locking in your destination, a little upfront planning goes a long way. Keep these tips in mind:
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Budget first. There are plenty of affordable spring break destinations, but knowing your spending limit early will help narrow your choices, whether that means a weekend road trip or an international adventure.
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Involve everyone. Family travel is about compromise. Float destination ideas with the whole group before committing. You might be surprised by what the kids vote for.
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Gear up. Make sure everyone has the right bag for the trip. Planning a beach day or a hike? Browse our travel bags for everyday carry, or grab Flex luggage if you're planning to bring home souvenirs.
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Stay informed. Check for local events, seasonal closures, and any travel advisories before you go, especially if you're heading to a national park or popular tourist area during peak season.
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Plan, but stay flexible. Build an itinerary, but leave breathing room. Some of the best travel memories happen when you go off-script.
Best Spring Break Beach Destinations for Families
Sometimes, the classic option really is the best one. White sand, warm water, and sunshine are synonymous with spring break and for good reason. These beach destinations are especially family-friendly, and a perfect excuse to pack our Active Collection.
Destin, Florida
Known as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," Destin sits on Florida's Emerald Coast and lives up to every bit of that nickname. Rent a boat and explore the turquoise waters around the city. The famous Crab Island is a must. Even if you don't catch anything, the seafood restaurants ashore more than make up for it.
Not into fishing? The beaches themselves are among the most stunning in the country. The powdery white sand and brilliant blue water make Destin one of the best spring break destinations for families who just want to unwind.
Maui, Hawaii
Hawaii's culture is unlike anywhere else in the United States, and Maui is one of its most captivating islands. Between its black sand beaches, lush mountains, and spectacular waterfalls like Waimoku Falls, there is no shortage of wonder here. Sample fresh fish and tropical fruit from local vendors, or base yourselves at an all-inclusive resort so every family member can enjoy the island at their own pace.
San Diego, California
San Diego is one of the most convenient family spring break destinations on the West Coast. Fly directly into San Diego International Airport (SAN), and you're practically already there. Beyond its legendary beaches, the city offers world-class attractions, including the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park's 17 museums, and USS Midway Museum. It's the rare city that genuinely has something for every age group.
Adventure & National Parks for Spring Break
If your family prefers trails over towels, the U.S. is home to 63 national parks, each extraordinary in its own way. Spring is one of the best times to visit; crowds are manageable, and the landscape is coming alive. Our travel accessories are built for this kind of adventure, so you can bring a little comfort wherever the trail leads.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most-visited national park in the country, and it's completely free to enter. Young adventurers will love the scenic trails, misty ridgelines, and wildlife watching (keep your eyes open for deer, black bears, and hundreds of bird species). The park's Cades Cove loop is especially popular with families.
With no entrance fee and incredible scenery, it's one of the best spring break destinations for families on a budget.
Yellowstone National Park
The first national park in the United States and arguably the world, Yellowstone, is in a category of its own. The park's geothermal features, including the iconic Old Faithful, are unlike anything you'll see anywhere else on Earth. Add in vast forests, the Yellowstone River, and some of the best wildlife viewing in North America, and it's easy to see why families return year after year.
Note: Spring conditions in Yellowstone can be variable. Check the NPS website for road and facility opening schedules before you go.
Best City Escapes for Spring Break
Spring break doesn't have to mean the great outdoors. America's cities are packed with museums, theme parks, incredible food, and enough entertainment to fill a week with ease. The best part? You can travel light; our Featherlight Bags are perfect for city adventures where you're on the move all day.
Orlando, Florida
Two words: Disney World. With four theme parks, two water parks, and a resort ecosystem designed to make every moment feel magical, Orlando is tailor-made for families. Stay in a themed resort for full immersion, or balance the Disney experience with a day at SeaWorld or Universal Studios' Wizarding World of Harry Potter. There's enough here to fill two spring breaks, let alone one.
Washington, D.C.
For families who want to mix fun with a little learning, Washington, D.C. is hard to beat. Visit the White House, walk to the Lincoln Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and take a tour of the U.S. Capitol. Then spend an afternoon (or two) at the Smithsonian Institution, which is free and covers everything from natural history to air and space. The city's excellent Metro system makes getting around effortless, even with kids in tow.
New York City
The biggest of big cities always delivers. Science lovers will gravitate toward the American Museum of Natural History. Thrill-seekers can head up to the Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building for jaw-dropping skyline views. Art enthusiasts have their pick of world-class museums. And for the sweet tooths in the family, the M&Ms and Hershey stores on 48th Street are just one block apart. Getting around is easy by subway, taxi, or even on foot; New York City is endlessly walkable for curious families.
How to Prepare for Spring Break
The weeks leading up to any trip are equal parts exciting and logistically intense. Here's how to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
Spring Break Safety Tips
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Keep health a priority. Make sure all vaccinations are up to date before traveling, especially for international destinations. Pack a small health kit with any prescription medications, pain relievers, and a thermometer.
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Secure your luggage. Our suitcases come with built-in TSA-approved combination locks, a simple way to keep your belongings safe. Need help setting up your lock? Check out our guide: Set Your Lock.
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Stay connected as a group. Whether it's a shared family location in a maps app or a simple check-in system, make sure everyone knows where everyone else is, especially in crowded cities or theme parks.
Spring Break Packing Essentials
What you pack will depend on where you're headed, but these are the items that almost always come in handy:
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The right bag. We has you covered, no matter how much (or how little) you're bringing. Flying? Carry-on luggage keeps things simple and stress-free. For daily exploring, the Featherlight Crossbody or Mini Crossbody are ideal companion.
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Layered clothing. Spring weather is unpredictable, pack a mix of light layers, a rain jacket, and one warmer option, regardless of your destination.
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Sunscreen. The sun's intensity picks up significantly in spring. Pack SPF 30 or higher for the whole family, especially if you're spending time near water or at elevation.
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A basic first aid kit. Bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any prescription medication. This is especially important if you're exploring national parks or hiking with young children.
Get Ready to Get Away This Spring Break
Whatever kind of spring break your family is after, lazy beach days, epic national park hikes, or the buzz of a great city, there's a destination out there that checks every box. The hardest part is choosing.
Once you do, we have everything you need to travel in comfort and style. From lightweight carry-ons to checked luggage that can take a beating, every bag is designed by travelers, for travelers, durable, spacious, and TSA-approved.
Find the perfect spring break travel bag for every member of your family at Away.