Ultimate Spring Break Cheat Sheet

Spring break is upon us and with it a multitude of questions you have about where to go, what to do, how to pack and what happens if weather delays your trip. You are not alone. There is a lot to think about, but don’t let it stress you out. With a few tips and ideas, you can have a great vacation this spring.

Avoid the crowds

The last thing you need when you are on vacation is a mad crush of people around you. Research what places are in their off-season, but still have great weather. Kyoto, Japan is beautiful in the spring, you just have to avoid cherry blossom season. Not all mountains worth skiing are in Colorado. Look to places like New Mexico and North Carolina, where the weather may still be cold enough to keep the ski lifts open. Explore cities in Europe, where the weather may be iffy, but you could get a castle all to yourself because the summer crowds haven’t rolled in yet.

Pack like a Pro

Now is not the time to over pack. At most you probably have a week of travel to take advantage of. Think about where you are going, how you will get there and what you will need when you land. If you are traveling with young kids, pack their smaller clothes in your suitcase. This may mean you have to ditch a pair of shoes, but you don’t need those anyway.

Beach trip: Less is more. If you’re planning to take something other than a tank top, pair of shorts, flip flops and swimsuit then you aren’t relaxing enough. Ladies can throw a maxi dress in there, but other than that stick to your beach basics.

Ski trip: Opt to rent your gear if you are flying. It will save you the backache of carrying ski equipment for your entire family and the headache of keeping track of it all. If you do have to pack your board and skis, make sure you invest in a good bag with padding. Add your snow pants, jackets, gloves, mittens and other layers to save space in your suitcase and give your gear some extra padding to protect your skis and boards from the baggage handlers.

Get Travel Insurance

The weather is a major "what-if" in the spring, especially if you are headed out on a cruise, to a mountain resort or to local beaches. We’ve seen a lot of extreme weather that has delayed flights, sent luggage in the wrong direction and put a damper on our dream vacations. Don’t let this happen to your Spring Break. Although travel insurance can’t stop natural disasters or lost luggage, it can ease the financial burden when plans have to be changed.

Last minute deals

Even if you haven’t booked yet, there is still time. Look to sites like SkyScanner.com to see where you can fly on your budget. Check Travelzoo, Groupon and LivingSocial for local escapes that will help you explore your area more. These sites do highlight a few international deals you may still be able to take advantage of as well.

You don’t have to go far to enjoy your spring break, but if you want to relax and take advantage of your time off, find a spot that isn’t too stressful, avoid the crowds and leave everything bothering you in life at home. Enjoy this time with your friends and family. Get recharged so you can head into the coming months before summer vacation hits.

Before leaving home also make sure to take out the appropriate travel insurance policy for you and your policy that will protect against weather delays, lost bags and other travel mishaps.

Are you planning a spring getaway? Where are you going?

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Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.