How to Turn your Spring Break 'Staycation' into a Warm Weather Getaway!

It is spring break - you wanted to go somewhere, but when you checked out some different ideas, there was nothing left! And, what was left was too expensive.

It would have been easier had it just been you, or you and your spouse, but having to bring along a family can be spendy!

So, what to do now? Hop in the car and head to Wisconsin Dells? Go to the Mall of America and make the best of your 'staycation?'

At least the weather is cooperating this year!

But, instead of thinking, 'what to do now?' smart and seasoned travelers ask the question, 'what to do for next year?' moments after returning this year from their spring trips.

The well-known phrase, 'the early bird get the worm,' has never been more true than in recent years regarding travel.

With airlines not releasing as many planes or seats into the market, inventory has been down. This creates less expensive fares available only if you are able to book sooner than later.

The last-minute fares used to be driven by airlines that had seats left over and the necessity to fill them. However, with fewer planes and seats in the air, planes are more full and empty seats are few and far between.

With the recent bankruptcies of airlines internationally, and rising fuel costs, it can come as no surprise that travel has also been affected. To survive for future generations, they are hoping to find the delicate balance taught in many high-school economic courses, the point at which supply and demand is equal and at what price point.

With that said, how does one know when to book to not end up paying four times the original price due to decreasing availability?

Simple - think ahead, plan in advance and know when your children have breaks from school (if applicable).

Did you know that a family of four can get to Hawaii for $5500 - air, hotel and car - when the timing is right?

And, I'm not referring to travel in July when demand is low for such a summer state like Minnesota, I'm speaking of peak spring break time, booked almost a year in advance.

Airfare can be booked 331 days in advance. Hotels, resorts and cruisies - much earlier than that!

Spring break travel should always be looked into almost immediately after returning from a spring break trip.

Analyze where you came from. Did you like it, what would you change? Where else have you always wanted to go?

Call the schools, if needed, to see what their spring break will be next year and book, if possible, by April/May. If that is too early for you; if you do not have a budget yet, or the calendar continues to change, make sure by the end of September that you at least have a deposit on a vacation.

If you fear cancellation, trip insurance is a much better investment than waiting to watch prices rise.

Want to go abroad?

European travel is most popular from the US in the summer months. Peak season typically runs between May and September. Therefore, you have two choices; book almost a year in advance, or choose to travel during the winter months (October to April).

This year, I was able to get a couple to Paris over Valentine's Day for 7 days including air and hotel for $2500. If you looked in the summer, you may be able to get airfare for around this price ... but it's hard. Keep in mind that most popular Western countries - France, England, Spain & Italy are all touched by water, therefore temperatures tend to be more moderate than here and winters more mild. If you head to the Alps, high elevations or landlocked countries, you may find colder temperatures - but perfect weather for winter activities that require cold and snow.

How about Disney?

One of the most family favored trips! Even if it's not your regular tradition, chances are you've either gone, or have thought about it. While Disney is famous as a family/child hotspot, many adults love it as well. If you need to around your childrens' school schedule, you will find you're travelling in peak Disney season; over MEA, the wither holidays and spring/summer break.

If you can find a time not within these periods, you will find better deals.

However, keep in mind Disney is Disney and will typically come with lines and crowds.

Still, the the general rule of thumb, booking 6-7 months ahead of time should still get you better rates, more resorts to choose from and a peace of mind.

Happy Travels :)