Top FL Spring Break Destinations 2025, Travel Costs Rise, AAA Says

FLORIDA — Four of the top spring break 2025 destinations in the country are in Florida, but reaching them will cost more, so planning ahead is a must, according to AAA.

The top spring break destinations in the state are Orlando at No. 1, Lauderdale at No. 2, Miami at No. 4, and Tampa at No. 8.

Spring Break Costs

The average domestic roundtrip airfare ticket is up $820, a 7 percent increase from last year, while the average cost of flying to an international destination is $1,440, a 2 percent bump from last year, AAA said.

U.S. hotel stays are 8 percent higher, averaging $660. Hotel stays abroad are 4 percent cheaper, averaging $740.

Domestic cruises are 27 percent more expensive this year, while international cruises rose 3 percent.

The cost to rent a car domestically is about the same as last year, with rental car bookings averaging about $645. International car rentals are 5% cheaper this season, with the average booking costing around $615.

Popular Spring Break, Vacation Destinations

Other popular spots this year for spring breakers are the Los Angeles/Anaheim metro area and warmer cities like Phoenix and Las Vegas.

International flights to European cities remain popular, particularly to Rome, London, Dublin and Paris.

A AAA travel survey reveals that 86% of Floridians plan to take at least one vacation of 3 days or more in 2025. That’s 2 percentage points more than last year.

“Americans continue to make vacations a top priority,” said Debbie Haas, vice president of travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “AAA travel agents are busy planning a wide range of trips from weekend getaways to world cruises. With so much demand, it’s a good idea to lock in your plans soon. That’ll ensure you get the best combination of choices and price.”

Tips For Spring Break Travelers

For those planning to travel this spring, AAA offered these tips:

• Understand new travel requirements. European countries are expected to enforce new travel laws called ETA and ETIAS in 2025. Travelers may need to fill out an application form before entering their destination.
• Be ready for REAL ID. Travelers should be aware of the May 7, 2025, REAL ID enforcement date. Adults traveling within the United States must have a REAL ID or other acceptable form of ID to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.
• There's an app for that. Use the AAA Mobile App’s Apple Carplay features to find the lowest gas prices along your route. The app can also be used to request roadside assistance and access EV features.
• Start planning now. Whether it’s mapping out your route or planning which attractions you want to visit when you arrive, AAA offers TripTik and Trip Canvas, two free travel tools to keep you organized and prepared.
• Speak with a AAA Travel Advisor. AAA Travel Advisors can look for money-saving deals and create customized travel packages. AAA branches also offer services like passport photos and international driving permits. Members can also access exclusive travel discounts on hotels, cruises, vacation packages and more.