Panama Beach, Nashville: Great destinations for spring break 2023

Spring is in the air. 

For students, that means spring break — a week-long break that students eagerly look forward to — is around the corner. 

This year, spring break falls between March 4 to 11. 

It’s a chance to unwind and escape the stresses of the university or a time to reset after a long semester. 

College spring break travels have evolved into a tradition, mainly because of MTV and teen comedies. Some can’t wait to hit the beach, and some will enjoy visiting museums and watching shows. 

But what do you do when you are on a tight student budget? 

After all, international students in the US spend, on average, 99,417 US dollars throughout their studies, according to a report done by HSBC in 2018. 

Thankfully, there are many spring break destinations to visit, even on a student’s budget.

Five cheapest destinations for spring break 2023

Panama City is one of the most popular spring break destinations for students. Source: Julio Aguilar/AFP

Panama Beach, Florida

A spring break list would not be complete without listing the “Spring Break Capital of The World.” 

Consistently ranked as Florida’s popular destination for beachgoers, Panama City welcomes many students during spring break every year. 

While Florida offers numerous cities and beaches for those looking for a spring break getaway, Panama City is known to be one of the most affordable spots in Florida.

It was listed as one of the ten most affordable places to visit during spring break, according to Beach Price Index 2022.

Students can enjoy many water activities here, such as diving, snorkelling, kayaking, dolphin watching, boating, and fishing.

If you are looking for free activities to enjoy, spend your day strolling and enjoying the white sand beaches. Situated on the Emerald Coast, Panama City Beach has beautiful white-sandy beaches.

At the time of writing, the accommodation cost for two during spring break 2023 is around US$50 a night. 

Las Vegas, Nevada

Did you know there are plenty of cheaper accommodation and activity options you can enjoy while visiting “Sin City”? 

Vegas is one of the most popular spring destinations in the US for good reasons. 

From food, parties, swimming pools, shopping and things 

you can’t tell your parents about. It is no surprise that many students choose to spend spring break here.

Opt for a cheaper hotel to save money while travelling to Vegas this spring break. After all, you won’t be doing much sleeping.

You can also enjoy free activities such as Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, Fremont Street Experience, Fountain Show at Bellagio, Lake of Dreams at Wynn Las Vegas, The Volcano at the Mirage, a free circus show at Circus Circus and many more. 

While Airbnb’s in Las Vegas can go up to US$130 a night, there are many affordable options for less than US$50. 

Cancún, Mexico

Its 21-kilometre white sand beaches, nightlife, water sports, Mayan ruins, and many more make it the perfect getaway from university life.

The best part? There are many inexpensive activities for you to enjoy. Try sunbathing, snorkelling in the barrier reef, beach parties and water sports.

If hanging out under the sun isn’t your thing, you can visit Cancún Mayan Museum and the El Rey Maya Archaeological Site to learn about its history.  

The average price of staying in Cancún during the week of spring break can cost as low as US$20 a night for two people based on Airbnb. 

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a popular spot for tourist in Nashville. Source: Jason Kempin/AFP

Nashville, Tennesse

If your idea of spring break is visiting museums, then Nashville is the perfect place for you. 

Nashville houses many museums, including the First Art Museum, Johnny Cash Museum, and Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. 

Here, visitors can enjoy painting, drawing, printmaking, and animation at numerous art-making stations, with materials and guidance provided.

After visiting the museum, you could stroll in one of its many parks or explore its flea markets. 

The best part is that many of these activities are affordable, and some are even free. 

Visiting Nashville during spring break is ideal because it is one of the cheapest times, with many discounts on hotel rooms and airfare. 

During spring break 2023, you can find rooms as low as US$40 for two on Airbnb. 

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Are you looking to head to the beach this spring break but want to avoid the crowd?  

The weather at Outer Banks is an ideal balance between a warm and cool atmosphere, allowing you can enjoy a sunny day at the beach.  

You’ll also be able to avoid the high cost of flying as Outer Banks is located within driving distance from many east coast areas. 

That means you can rent a car with a few friends for a beach escape without breaking the bank. 

The location is known for its beautiful sunrise and is the perfect place to go shelling. There are several free activities that you can enjoy while here, including Jockey’s Ridge or visiting the Corolla wild horses and their lighthouses. 

Students can expect to book an Airbnb for two, costing as low as US$40, this spring break.