This Is the Most Budget-friendly Spring Break Destination

• Dollar Flight Club just named San José, Costa Rica, the most budget-friendly spring break destination for families in the world.
• Roundtrip airfare from most major U.S. cities averages around $215.
• Fun nearby day trips include Arenal Volcano National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park.

Ah, the time-honored tradition of spring break. The week-long break from school, schedules, and studies can be the perfect time for families to take a quick getaway—but spring break trips can get very pricey, very quickly. Thankfully, there are some affordable options.

Dollar Flight Club, a subscription flight deal alert service, recently released its “The Most Affordable Spring Break Destinations for Families 2025” report. It considered several key factors, such as average airfare prices from major U.S. departure cities over the last two years, hotel rates, weather conditions, and the number of family-friendly attractions in the area, like parks, museums, and cultural experiences. 

After examining all the data, San José, Costa Rica, emerged as the most budget-friendly spring break destination this year, with an average roundtrip airfare of just $215.

Costa Rica was named Travel + Leisure’s “Destination of the Year” in 2024, and its capital, San José, is a must-visit stop. The city welcomes springtime travelers with mild dry-season temperatures and a thriving local culture. Several noteworthy San José sites include the National Museum of Costa Rica, the National Theater of Costa Rica, the Costa Rican Art Museum, and the bustling Central Market. To keep expenses manageable and embrace the local “pura vida” lifestyle, travelers can rely on public transportation and enjoy fresh, budget-friendly meals at local farmers' markets.

The capital's central location within the country makes it an excellent base for exploring Costa Rica’s renowned natural wonders. Popular day trips include visits to the nearby Poás Volcano National Park, Hacienda Doka coffee estate, and La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park. With just a three-hour drive, travelers can also reach the hot springs of Arenal Volcano National Park as well as Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its pristine beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife. The car-free beach town of Las Catalinas is also within easy reach.

To fully experience Costa Rica’s stunning natural beauty, travelers should hunker down in La Fortuna, a charming village in the foothills of the Arenal Volcano. The town offers a range of spacious, eco-friendly, and budget-conscious accommodations, such as Volcano Lodge & Springs and Casa Luna Hotel & Spa. But those who would like to splurge should book a stay at Nayara Tented Camp, which has made T+L’s “World’s Best Awards” four years in a row.

If Costa Rica isn't quite your speed, other sunny destinations on Dollar Flight Club's list include Montego Bay, Jamaica; Orlando; and Cancun, Mexico.