Ideas and Travel Tips for Spring Break With Kids

Whether you’re planning a big trip or a staycation, spring break with kids has lots of moving parts—but good prep can turn busy days into sweet memories. From kid-friendly getaways to creative ways to keep them entertained around the house, we’ve rounded up the best spring break activities for kids and practical spring break tipskat to keep things smooth. 

Table of Contents

• Planning Stress-Free Spring Break Trips With Kids
• Best Spring Break Travel Ideas for Families
• Tips for Traveling With Kids for Spring Break
• At Home Spring Break Ideas With Kids
• FAQs

Planning Stress-Free Spring Break Trips With Kids

Nailing spring break with kids starts with organization and realistic expectations. Whether you're looking for spring break ideas for kids or need tips on packing, travel hacks, and kid-friendly destinations, smart planning sets the tone. From road trips to resort stays, here’s the scoop on spring break trips with kids that are relaxing and full of memories—not meltdowns.

How to Choose the Best Spring Break Destination for Families

Picking the right spot can make or break your trip, so when looking for spring break ideas with kids, keep these factors in mind:

• Travel time: A short flight or road trip can save you from long-haul meltdowns.

• Kid-friendly activities: Whether it’s beaches, theme parks, or nature spots, choose a destination with built-in entertainment for all ages.

• Weather: Spring can be unpredictable, so check the forecast before committing to a destination.

• Budget: Plan for more than just flights and hotels—factor in food, activities, and those inevitable souvenirs.

• Relaxation vs. adventure: Do you want to chill by the pool or pack your itinerary? Finding the right balance is key.

The right destination makes spring break feel easy, with plenty for little ones to enjoy and parents to actually relax.

Packing Essentials for Traveling With Kids

Spring break trips with kids call for packing smart. Here are the must-haves that keep everyone happy:

• Hands-Free Carrier Set: Long travel days mean tired arms. Tushbaby’s hip seat carrier and wrap combo lets you carry your little one comfortably while keeping your hands free for snacks, suitcases, or that much-needed coffee. Whether you're boarding a plane, navigating a crowded airport, or strolling through a new city, this set makes it effortless—with built-in back support and storage that works as hard as you do.

• The Pack: A belt bag with a hideable bottle holder, locking buckle, interior strap for keys, and compartments for everything—from diapers, wipes, and passports to whatever random trinkets your kid insists on bringing. 

• Paci Pod: A tiny but mighty lifesaver. This compact pouch keeps pacifiers clean, easy to grab, and clipped to your carrier or bag for quick access when you need it most.

• Changing Pad: Proof that diaper duty can clean up nice. This sleek, vegan leather changing pad wipes down clean and folds up slim to fit in your carrier, bag, or even back pocket.

• Snacks on repeat: Pack a mix of mess-free, kid-approved options to avoid hunger meltdowns mid-flight or mid-road trip.

• Extra clothes—for everyone: Between snack spills, surprise blowouts, and sticky hands, backup outfits are non-negotiable. Pack a change for the kids and a fresh shirt for yourself. You’ll need it.

• First-aid kit: Bumps, scrapes, and sniffles don’t take vacations. Pack band-aids, baby Tylenol, and hand sanitizer in something small and portable.

The right gear keeps travel days moving and meltdowns minimal. Check out this travel packing list for a full checklist to make sure you’ve got everything covered.

Best Spring Break Travel Ideas for Families

The best spring break with kids strikes a balance—fun for them, downtime for you, and just enough structure to keep things moving. Whether you're chasing sunshine or keeping it local, here are some top travel ideas:

• Beach escapes: Sun, sand, and a natural playground that keeps kids busy for hours. Slather on sunscreen, set up camp, and enjoy the kind of relaxation that only comes with salty air and zero screen time.

• National parks: Fresh air, hiking trails, and no WiFi—aka, a digital detox. With wide paths through nature and space to roam, they’re perfect for little legs and carriers alike. 

• Theme park thrills: From Disney and Universal to your local amusement park, there’s nothing like watching your kid light up at their favorite ride. And yes, matching T-shirts are fair game.

• Staycations: Book a local hotel, play tourist in your own town, and let someone else make the beds. Low effort, high reward, and no travel logistics required. 

• Road trips: Load up on snacks, make a killer playlist, and hit the road. Whether it’s for two hours or ten, spontaneous detours and scenic pit stops are half the fun.

• All-inclusive resorts: Kid-friendly pools, built-in activities, and bottomless snacks—peak vacation mode.

No matter where you go, spring break with kids is all about enjoying the adventure and making the most of your time together.

Tips for Traveling With Kids for Spring Break

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to spring break with kids. Here are some spring break tips to keep things fun and tantrums to a minimum:

• Book early: Flights, hotels, and rental cars fill up fast during spring break. Lock in your plans before prices skyrocket.

• Plan travel around naps: If you can, schedule flights or long drives during your child’s sleep windows. A well-timed nap is a game-changer.

• Prioritize kid-friendly activities: A mix of relaxation for you and fun for them keeps everything happy—think playgrounds, pools, museums, and easy attractions.

• Have a backup plan: Rainy weather, long lines, and snack emergencies can happen. A solid Plan B (and C) saves the day.

• Always have entertainment on hand: A bored kid is a cranky kid. Keep them busy with travel-friendly toys like The Teether for babies, or the Toy Tushbaby for toddlers to tote their stuffies, dolls, and tiny treasures. 

• Know what to expect when flying: Air travel with little ones can be unpredictable, but a few key strategies can make it easier. Check out this guide to flying with a baby for tips on smooth takeoffs, in-flight entertainment, and keeping the whole family comfortable.

Spring break with kids doesn’t have to be flawless to be unforgettable. A little prep goes a long way in making memories that last.

At Home Spring Break Ideas With Kids

Spring break doesn’t have to mean travel—there’s plenty of fun to be had right at home. Whether you're looking for creative projects, outdoor adventures, or ways to keep boredom at bay, these spring break ideas with kids make it exciting without packing a suitcase.

Spring Break Activities at Home

No travel? No problem. You can definitely have a fun spring break without leaving the house. Here are some easy ways to keep the kids entertained all week long:

• Backyard adventures: Set up an obstacle course, have a picnic, or go on a scavenger hunt in nature. Fresh air does wonders for little moods—and grown-up ones, too.

• DIY craft days: Break out the paint, glue, and glitter for some hands-on creativity. Think paper crowns, handmade cards for grandparents, and macaroni art you’ll pretend not to throw away later.

• Kitchen fun: Let the kids play chef with a make-your-own pizza night, Taco Tuesday, or a cupcake decorating competition. 

• Indoor or backyard camping: Build a fort, grab some flashlights, and tell stories. S'mores optional, but highly encouraged.

• Movie marathons: Pick a theme, make some popcorn, and turn your living room into a DIY movie theater. Pajamas required.

• Themed dress-up days: Superheroes, princesses, or crazy hair day—get the whole family involved for some silly fun and host a living room fashion show. 

For simple, screen-free ways to keep little ones entertained, check out these easy toddler activities—because seven days is a long time.

Tips For Spring Break With Kids At Home

When spring break happens at home, the days can feel long without the right rhythm. These tips help break things up, keep kids engaged, and make the week feel like a real break:

• Make a loose plan: Structure gives the day shape, but flexibility keeps it fun. Map out a few key activities, then leave space to pivot.

• Switch up the routine: Everyday moments feel fresh with a twist. Move lunch outside, add flashlights to bedtime stories, and turn chores into a timed competition with prizes or incentives.

• Get outside: Even 20 minutes in the yard or fresh air can change the tone of the whole day. Chalk, scooters, sports—it all adds up.

• Have a boredom backup: Keep a few surprise activities in your back pocket for when the whining starts, like craft kits, scavenger hunts, or a baking session.

• Let the kids take the lead: Give them choices and let them plan a day. It might get weird, but hey, that’s half the fun.

• Don’t overcomplicate it: Simple activities like blanket forts, dance parties, and movie marathons can be just as exciting as big outings.

Spring break with kids at home doesn’t have to be stressful. Keep it fun, flexible, and full of snacks, and you’ll be golden.

FAQs

How Do I Create a Spring Break Schedule for Kids at Home?

If you're thinking through what to do for spring break with kids at home, a light daily rhythm can go a long way. Start with active time in the morning—like outdoor play or a short walk—then shift to low-key activities like crafts, books, or rest in the afternoon. End the day with something fun: movie night, a talent show, or a themed dinner. Your kid will make their opinions known, so keep it flexible and stick to the vibe, not the timeline.

How Do I Keep Kids Entertained During Long Trips?

Spring break trips with kids are easier when you’ve got the right mix of entertainment and essentials. Pack a few go-to activities like coloring books, sticker sets, and a tablet with their favorite shows. Kid-friendly audiobooks and podcasts are great for screen-free stretches, while classic road trip games and a stash of surprise toys help pass the time with minimal effort.

Whether you’re hopping on international flights or keeping it cozy at home, spring break trips with kids are all about making memories and enjoying the time together. With a few smart spring break tips, a little planning, and the right gear, you’ll be set up for a week that’s equal parts fun and manageable.

For everything from airport lines to on-the-go naps, the Tushbaby Travel Bundle has you covered—with comfort, storage, and flexibility built in.