Spring Break Statistics
– 1.5 million students go on Spring Break every year
– Panama City Beach hosts approximately 500,000 tourists each year
– 2,500 American citizens are arrested abroad
– College students spend more than $1 billion every year
– 95% of travelers will share hotel rooms with friends, 12% with more than seven to a room
– Over 40% of travelers admit to going over 24 hours without sleep
– 50% of students will choose to drive rather than fly
– The average cost of a trip for two, including airfares and seven nights in a hotel is between $2,000 and $3,000
– Every year, at least one spring breaker dies from falling off a balcony
Tips for a SAFE SPRING BREAK
IN THE CAB buckle up, take turns driving, keep the driver awake, don’t drink and drive.
IN THE HOTEL book a room above the first floor to prevent break-ins, lock all doors, including sliding doors.
ON THE BEACH pace yourself, stay well hydrated, know your limits.
Top Spring Break Destinations of 2016
Cancun, Mexico
Nassau, Bahamas
Panama City Beach, Florida
South Padre Island, Texas
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
The Ultimate Spring Break Playlist
Whether you’re road tripping to Florida or flying to Cancun, mix together some new artists with the ones that made middle school life worth living!
Spring Break Alternatives
Many colleges and organizations offer volunteer oriented spring break trips! Gustavus offers two through Gustavus Habitat for Humanity and Students Today Leaders Forever. These trips encourage community, compassion, service, faith and teamwork.
15 things You Actually Need to Pack for Spring Break
No matter where you’re headed, make sure to put these easy-to-forget items in your suitcase!
1. Sunscreen with more than 15 SPF
2. Dry Shampoo
3. Copy of Passport
4. Extra Money
5. Reusable water bottle
6. Antibacterial gel
7. Sunglasses
8. Pepper spray
9. Advil
10. Portable Charger
11. Chapstick
12. List of emergency numbers and fellow travelers’ numbers
13. Ziploc bags (for makeup, sunscreen, lotions, or wet bathing suits)
14. First-aid kit
15. Insect repellent
Staying Safe and Smart
Nothing says spring break quite like heading to the beach. Remember to tan safely, apply sunscreen, be aware of the ocean’s swimming conditions, drink plenty of water, create a safe word between friends, and stay near friends.