It’s time to start planning your spring break getaway.
To save money and avoid fighting the crowds at hot spots like Disney World, consider traveling to a destination that’s not typically associated with the spring break and doesn’t experience the same travel surge.
SLIDESHOW: 10 Family-Friendly Destinations for Spring Break 2016
“You can really feel the effects of flights being full to places like Daytona during spring break,” says Jeff Klee, CEO of CheapAir.com “How full flights are is the most important factor influencing the price of your ticket.”
In general, you’ll save by traveling to cities this time of year, and it’s a great time to get a deal on a trip abroad. It’s also an ideal time for outdoorsy vacations spent hiking and biking, since the weather tends to be milder and the crowds thinner than during peak summer travel times.
Since school districts in different regions have spring break at different times from mid-March to mid-April, look for a destination where the local spring break doesn’t coincide with yours. That way you won’t have to contend with local crowds at family-friendly attractions in the area.
As always, scheduling flexibility can save you money. If you’re willing to let your children miss a day or two of school, traveling Monday to Monday can be significantly cheaper than flying on the weekend. Flying to or from a small airport or on a connecting flight also usually costs less, although you’ll have to decide whether the hassle of doing so with kids in tow is worth it.
Click here for 10 Great Spring Break Destinations for Families
