
How Much Money Does Spring Break Cost?
Planning your Spring Break trip? We've got tips for the first-timer and the professionals. Not sure how much to save? Here's the honest breakdown of how much spring break costs so you can budget properly and avoid going broke for one week of fun.
If you're broke or want a budget spring break. You're better off driving to a location like Panama City Beach or South Padre Island. Hotels are cheaper and so is everything else. If you're smart and plan ahead you get can early bird deals, and use payment plans to pay off little each month.
Budget Spring Break: $800-1,200 per person
Mid-Range Spring Break: $1,200-2,000 per person
Luxury Spring Break: $2,000-4,000+ per person
These 3 options budget for driving or flights, hotel, food, drinks, activities, and party packages.
Spring Break Hotels Reality Check
6 days and 5 nights in South Padre Island is around $329 per person / Based on 4 people a room.
6 days and 5 nights in Panama City Beach is around $339 per person / Based on 4 people a room.
6 days and 5 nights in Fort Lauderdale is around $473 per person / Based on 4 people a room.
5 days and 4 nights in Bahamas, Punta Cana is around $753+ per person / Based on 4 people a room.
Food & Drink Budget (Per Day)
Breakfast: $8-12 (grab coffee and pastries)
Lunch: $15-25 (beach food or casual spots)
Dinner: $25-40 (group dinners or local restaurants)
Daily Total: $50-75
Going Out Budget:
Cover charges: $30+ per venue (without VIP access)
Drinks: $8-25 per cocktail
Late night food: $15-25
Daily Party Budget: $100-200
Other ways to spend money include:
Jet skiing: $75-100 per hour
Parasailing: $65-85 per ride
Boat tours: $40-80 per person
Nightclub VIP tables: $300-1,000+ per group
Money-Saving Hacks for Spring Break 2026
1. Get a Maniac Party Package Instead of paying cover charges every night. You'll save $300+ on cover charges alone.
2. Book Group Accommodation with a Student Travel company like StudentEscape. They buy blocks of room at spring break friendly hotels and get discounts on party packages.
3. Eat Smart Mix expensive dinners with budget meals. Hit up local spots instead of hotel restaurants for every meal.
4. Pre-Game Responsibly Having drinks at your hotel before going out can save $50+ per night on bar tabs.
Spring Break Hacks! Save money and party harder.
1. Book travel with StudentEscape and use payment plan option: Many spring break companies offer payment plans starting at $20 down. This spreads the cost over several months instead of one big payment.
2. Add a Maniac VIP Party Package ranging from $80-$150 per person. These are good for 7 days, and include free entry at clubs, free drinks daily, concerts, foam & paint parties, and more. Maniac offers a no interest, no credit check payment plan option too.
3. Book Early and Save. The early booking window you pay the lowest rates on travel and party packages. Look in your travel and party package at the lowest price and start payment plan.