Spring Break Travel Boom: Airlines Prepare for Record Number of Passengers
As the countdown to spring break ticks closer, airlines are bracing for an unprecedented surge in travelers, with an estimated 167 million passengers expected to fly during March and April, marking a 6% increase from last year. But finding a deal may require some flexibility, experts say.
Among the millions looking to escape the daily grind is the Ayala family, who have chosen to spend their spring break soaking in the excitement of spring training in Arizona.
"It's our spring break, and they gotta see some players, get some signatures," said Angela Ayala.
Airports are bracing for the influx, with the TSA reporting a 6% increase in checkpoint activity over last year's already record pace. United Airlines, is expecting its busiest spring break ever and is planning for a 10% increase in passengers over 2023.
For the Lancaster family of Houston, this season marks their first international spring break. They chose Cancun as the destination.
"This is our first time traveling international on spring break with our daughter … so we're in for a treat," said Samantha Lancaster.
Finding a good deal, however, requires flexibility with travel dates and destinations, advises travel expert Lindsay Schwimer. Popular warm weather spots like Orlando, Las Vegas, and Miami top the domestic charts, while international favorites include Cancun, London, and Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. Despite this, bargains are still available, such as round trip deals from New York to Cancun for $250, Chicago to Dublin for under $500, and Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale for about $140.
"If you're considering Miami, you might want to explore less crowded beach destinations like Fort Myers, Tampa, or Fort Lauderdale to save money and avoid the crowds," Schwimer suggested.
Travel expert Emily Kaufman, also known as The Travel Mom, emphasized the importance of flexibility in travel plans for saving money.
"You've gotta be flexible. You may be taking a road trip. You may be taking a cruise. It depends where the deals are," Kaufman advised.
Kaufman highlighted that "cruises are a terrific value because the closer we get to the departure time, the less the price becomes."
She also recommended exploring discounts available through memberships like AARP, AAA, teacher's unions, or deals for military personnel and first responders.
"All of them offer travel perks and benefits you might not be aware of," Kaufman added.
