7 smart tips for spring break planning

Every March, families and students eagerly await the arrival of a cherished tradition—the annual spring break getaway! We’ve put together some useful tips to help you organize your week and make sure everyone has a great time.

1. Do your destination research 

You’ll want to make the most of every minute once you reach your destination. That’s why it’s smart to do your research in advance. Read up on local culture, food, and customs before you leave. Find out what kind of weather to expect. The more you learn ahead of time, the easier it is to plan accordingly.

Travel blogs and guidebooks are great for finding information on local attractions and activities. Even better, people familiar with your destination can be an invaluable source of advice and ideas well worth jotting down. Tourist destinations usually have an official travel website, too. They’re a good resource for exploring accommodation options, upcoming events, popular activities, and safety tips.

If you have Ontario Blue Cross travel insurance, our travel assistance service can also advise you on recommended vaccinations, entry and exit requirements for the country you’re visiting, and more. 

2. Avoid the temptation to try to do too much 

When you only have a week to fit in all the stuff you’d like to do, it’s easy to bite off more than you can chew. To keep things fun, keep your activity plan realistic.

One important aspect to consider is travel time. Getting to your destination is one thing, but you also need to allow for the time it takes to get from one activity to the next once you’re there.

Whether you’re lining up an action-packed week or looking for some well-earned rest, you’ll want to maximize fun time and minimize travel time.

3. Plan and book ahead 

To make the most of spring break travel, organization is crucial. Flights and accommodations for popular destinations are in high demand—and it shows in pricing and availability. So set a budget and start shopping early so you can compare different options.

Once you’ve picked your destination, check out different travel websites to make your bookings. On top of transportation and accommodation, you can also book ahead for activities you don’t want to miss out on. That way, you can avoid long lineups—a huge advantage when you want to enjoy every moment to the fullest.

To help you plan, there are plenty of useful apps available in the Google Play Store (for Android) or the App Store (for iOS) for creating itineraries, managing your budget, and more.

4. Pool your resources and save

Group bookings are a great way to save on the cost of a spring break getaway. If you’re planning a ski trip with your kids, for example, why not invite another family to join you?

You can share the cost of a large vacation rental home instead of paying for separate hotel rooms. And in addition to accommodation, you can trim back on your food budget by sharing groceries and cooking together. Plus, your kids will be thrilled to have playmates along for the ride.

If you’re a student, you could save big by sharing a hotel room with friends or booking at a youth hostel.

5. Opt for travel insurance that matches your needs 

A comprehensive, flexible travel insurance plan like the one offered by Ontario Blue Cross means you can enjoy spring break knowing you’re well protected against the unexpected.  

Whether your spring break adventure involves a car trip or a plane ride, as soon as you leave your province of residence, your travel insurance protects you in the event of injury, illness, or other unforeseen events. 

Ontario Blue Cross offers a variety of coverage options including Emergency Medical Care, Trip Cancellation or Interruption, Accidental Death or Dismemberment, and Baggage coverage, which you can tailor to your or your family’s needs.  

Our travel insurance plans can also save you money when you travel out of province, as we provide the Emergency Medical Care coverage for dependent children* free of charge.

6. Enjoy yourself - responsibly 

Counting down the days until you can relax and bask in the sun? To make the most of your break, it’s important to take precautions and put your health first.

Wear plenty of sunscreen and stay in the shade when the sun is high in the sky. Remember, too, that the effects of alcohol tend to increase when you’re out in the sun, contributing to dehydration and even heat stroke. That’s why it’s best to drink in moderation.

And there’s another good reason for that - medical expenses related to an illness or injury caused by excessive alcohol consumption aren’t covered by travel insurance. 

7. Get creative 

Sunny beaches and snowy slopes aren’t the only places to enjoy spring break. Many cities and municipalities also offer a program of family-friendly activities during the week. Check your city’s website for details.

Take the opportunity to visit museums and attend cultural and sporting events while they’re less crowded than in summer. Spring break is also a perfect time to savor local delights at sugar shacks, from Ontario to the Maritimes. And if you’re feeling in a tropical mood, why not visit an indoor water park? No airfare required!

With a little planning and imagination, you’ve got everything it takes to enjoy a memorable week. And no matter what you decide, in the end, the important thing is to make the most of it!