Generally, the spring break season spans the middle of February to the middle of April. College students have varying schedules in terms of when the school year begins and ends, so naturally, their spring break dates vary, as well. It is a similar situation for grade and high school students. Despite when the break is, the duration is pretty consistent--generally one week off.
Most people associate spring break with rowdy college students, and while that often holds true, it has also become a family-oriented time of year for parents wanting to take advantage of their younger children's school break. Spring break is also popular with budget-conscious travelers looking to capitalize on discount rates at hotels and on flights. Spring-breakers might immediately conjure up images of partying college kids, but it all depends on the destination.
Certain areas are known for being popular spring break destinations. For instance, college students flock to the beaches of Cancun; Acapulco; Panama City, Florida.; South Padre Island, Texas; Nassau; Negril; and Puerto Vallarta. Families are more likely to go to Orlando; Washington; Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Punta Cana; and Turks and Caicos. Europe fluctuates in spring break popularity with both groups depending on currency rates and affordability.
Not all spring break vacation packages are for lounging on a beach or visiting kid-friendly attractions. Some people choose to use the spring break time to travel and do good in the world. Volunteer vacations are growing in popularity because they offer travelers the opportunity to see a new and exciting place, but also contribute to society. College kids looking to do more than drink and party, and families hoping to do something positive with each other, are jumping at the chance to partake in volunteer vacations around the world.
Safety is an important issue for anyone planning a trip during spring break. Often, popular vacation destinations are located in or near dangerous areas, so it's necessary to know where you can go and where you should avoid. Theft is a common problem during spring break, so it's important to be aware of where your belongings are at all times. Binge drinking and drug use frequently lead to injury and sexual assaults, so monitoring friends' as well as your own intake is a good idea.
