Travel Trends: Spring Break and Easter Plans Remain Strong

AAA says travelers are adjusting budgets but not canceling trips despite economic shifts.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:21am

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According to AAA Public Affairs Specialist Brian Ortner, spring break and Easter travel numbers show that trips remain a major priority for people in 2026, despite noticeable shifts in energy markets and gas prices. Ortner says travelers are adjusting their budgets to save money in other areas but are not slowing down their travel plans. He recommends travelers purchase travel insurance to help protect against unexpected changes that might disrupt a trip.

Why it matters

Travel trends during major holiday periods like spring break and Easter provide insight into consumer behavior and spending priorities, especially as the economy faces various pressures. AAA's analysis suggests that travel remains a top consumer focus despite economic headwinds, which has implications for the broader tourism industry.

The details

Ortner says there has been a noticeable shift in energy markets, particularly in gas prices. However, based on what he's seeing so far, those changes are not slowing travelers down. People are still planning trips and are instead adjusting their budgets to save money in other areas. Ortner also recommends that travelers purchase travel insurance, which can help protect against unexpected changes that might disrupt a trip.

  • As of Monday, security wait times at major airports have largely returned to normal after Transportation Security Administration officers were informed they would begin receiving back pay following the Department of Homeland Security shutdown.

The players

Brian Ortner

A AAA Public Affairs Specialist who provided analysis on spring break and Easter travel trends.

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What they’re saying

“There has been a noticeable shift in energy markets, particularly in gas prices. However, based on what he's seeing so far, those changes are not slowing travelers down. People are still planning trips and are instead adjusting their budgets to save money in other areas.”

— Brian Ortner, AAA Public Affairs Specialist

“Travelers can take extra precautions to keep their plans running smoothly. One recommendation is purchasing travel insurance, which can help protect against unexpected changes that might disrupt a trip.”

— Brian Ortner, AAA Public Affairs Specialist

The takeaway

Despite economic pressures, travel remains a top priority for many consumers, who are adjusting their budgets to accommodate rising costs rather than canceling trips. This resilience in the travel sector suggests the industry may be poised for continued growth, though travelers would be wise to consider purchasing travel insurance to protect against potential disruptions.