Spring break is right around the corner, and you’re ready to make it amazing—but when you’re on a budget, what’s a broke college student to do? Visit one of these cheap spring break destinations, of course! If you’re on a ramen noodle budget but still need some major R&R during your spring break this year, escape to one of the budget spring break destinations. With cheap flights, affordable accommodations and plenty of free things to do, each of these cities makes for an amazing and budget-friendly spring break trip!
1. Miami
There’s no doubt that Miami is one of the best spring break destinations—but thankfully, it’s also one of the cheapest spring break destinations! With cheap flights from a number of US cities, tons of accommodation options (from resorts to hostels) and lots of free things to do, heading to Miami is a great way to plan spring break on a budget. Spend a week soaking up the sun and getting some R&R on the beach or immerse yourself in some of Miami’s best food and entertainment, day or night! From beachside cafes and restaurants to downtown art districts and shopping, there’s no shortage of things to explore in Miami, even if you’re on a budget.
Flights to Miami from $79* roundtrip
Hotels in Miami from $91*/night
2. Las Vegas
You know what they say: what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas—but we can guarantee that a spring break in Vegas will give you plenty of memories to bring home with you. Between the cheap flights, affordable (and plentiful) accommodation options, delicious food and non-stop entertainment, Las Vegas makes for one of the best destinations to have an amazing spring break on a budget. Pro-tip: staying on the Strip is actually a great way to explore Vegas on a budget—you can usually find some really affordable hotels and everything will be within walking distance, so you can avoid paying for a rental car or racking up a ton of Uber fees.
Flights to Las Vegas from $62* roundtrip
4-star hotels in Las Vegas from $15*/night (special students-only rate!)
3. San Juan
Looking for some Caribbean vibes for your spring break? San Juan is the perfect budget spring break destination for island-seekers. Park yourself on the miles of beaches along the Isla Verde strip for some major R&R, or explore the colorful and culture-rich Old San Juan, featuring fortresses, colorful downtown streets, colonial architecture and more. Good food? Check. Cheap flights? Check. A spring break that’ll be more unique than everyone else running to the nearest beach? Check.
Flights to San Juan from $108* roundtrip
Hotels in San Juan from $117*/night
4. Daytona Beach
For a budget spring break destination that won’t disappoint, Daytona Beach, Florida is a great choice. In fact, Daytona Beach is one of the most popular spring break destinations in the US! If you’re down for an exciting and energetic spring break, head to Daytona Beach, where you can find plenty to do, day or night. From pool parties to surfing, parasailing to zip lining to jet skiing, there’s so much to do besides just lounging on the miles-long beaches. You can even buy a spring break card to get discounts on all the best activities, restaurants and more!
Flights to Daytona Beach from $161* roundtrip
Hotels in Daytona Beach from $85*/night
Spring break on a budget pro-tip: here’s the best time to book your spring break flights for the cheapest deals →
5. Denver
Outdoor adventure on a budget? There’s almost no better place for an adventurous spring break than Colorado. Flying into Denver is pretty affordable—and you can find direct flights from most other US cities. Not to mention that it has some amazing skiing, food, art, concerts, hiking and more. If it’s sunny during your spring break, check out the Red Rocks Amphitheater, visit the Garden of the Gods, go hiking or head out on one of Denver’s many scenic drives. If it’s snowy, skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing are all calling your name. There’s also free museums and plenty of delicious food if you’d rather just chill.
Flights to Denver from $88*/roundtrip
Hotels in Denver from $62*/night
6. New York
Surprised to see New York on this list? It’s certainly an expensive place to live, but that doesn’t mean it’s an expensive place to visit! With flights to New York being so cheap this spring—from almost anywhere in the US—and an abundance of free and cheap things to do in New York, visiting the Big Apple on a budget is easier than you may think! Pro tip: don’t overlook alternate accommodations like a hostel, Airbnb or bed & breakfast! New York has some really nice hostels that are nothing like your college dorm—and will save you a TON of money.
Flights to New York from $56* roundtrip
Hotels in New York from $76*/night
7. Cancun
Where better to bliss out for a week of spring break than in Cancun? If you’re looking for a budget spring break destination, Cancun is a great option. The accommodations are very affordable, and the flights are much cheaper than many other destinations within Mexico and the Caribbean. Not to mention you can find amazing food at great prices and the best things to do (read: hang out on the beaches!) are totally free.
Flights to Cancun from $182* roundtrip
Hotels in Cancun from $28*/night
Ready to book some cheap spring break flights? We’ve got student flight deals to Miami, New York, Las Vegas and more. Sign up for a free membership with StudentUniverse and see how much you can save.