Soaring gas prices won’t stop spring break travelers; AAA says Central Oregon is still the region’s top destination
PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Spring break is almost here, and despite fast-rising gas prices, thousands of travelers will be flocking to places where they can get some sun and have some fun. And that means Bend and Central Oregon remain the region's top travel destination, AAA Oregon/Idaho reports.
AAA Travel booking data reveals top destinations and trends as spring breakers prepare to travel throughout March and April. AAA says beaches, warm weather destinations, theme parks and cruising are the most popular for spring break 2026. AAA also offers tips to keep the vacation worry-free.
“Travel is a very personal choice, and for many, it’s vital to their overall quality of life. By taking some precautions, everyone can feel more at ease throughout the journey,” says Marie Dodds, public affairs director for AAA Oregon/Idaho.
Theme parks in Southern California and Florida are perennial favorites for families during spring break. The Disneyland Resort in Anaheim and Knotts Berry Farm are popular in the Los Angeles area. Disneyland is celebrating its 70th anniversary with special shows and new additions to attractions. And in Florida, The Walt Disney World Resort and the Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando are top destinations.
Cruising continues to set records this year. AAA projects 21.7 million Americans will take cruise vacations in 2026. Many families book cruises over Spring Break to get the most out of the week, with Caribbean itineraries departing from Florida, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas being the most popular.
Top international destinations for members of AAA Oregon/Idaho include Paris, Rome, Tokyo, London and Barcelona. These cities appeal to families looking for history and entertainment.
Good news for travelers planning to drive abroad: you can now apply for International Driving Permits online! AAA is one of only two official organizations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue IDPs. While you can still apply in person at a AAA branch, you now have the option to use your smartphone to take a digital photo and complete the application online. Many countries require IDPs to rent a car and drive legally.
Many will take a road trip this Spring Break. Oregonians will be visiting Central Oregon, the Oregon Coast, Portland, Seattle, Eugene, Southern Oregon, and Boise. La Verkin, Utah is popular for its proximity to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. The busiest car rental destinations are Orlando, Los Angeles and Phoenix, according to AAA rental car partner Hertz.
AAA offers many other tips on how to save on fuel here: https://gasprices.aaa.com/news/fuel-saving-tips/
Costs to fly for Spring Break in the U.S. are up 2% this year, compared to 2025. AAA says the average price for a roundtrip domestic ticket is $815. International flights are slightly cheaper this year, with the average price for a roundtrip ticket at $1,300.
“Spring break is a perfect time to chase the sun and shake off the winter doldrums. Sandy beaches, inviting pools and sunny skies are among the most popular escapes this time of year. International cities are popular for culture, sightseeing and great restaurants, often with mild spring weather,” says Doreen Loofburrow, Senior Vice President of Travel at AAA Oregon/Idaho.
Gas prices on the rise for spring break:
This is the time of year that we typically see seasonal increases in gas prices - and this year, the conflict in Iran and the Middle East is causing gas prices to soar due to skyrocketing crude oil prices. Anytime crude oil prices spike, gas prices go up as well.
Other factors that cause prices to rise this time of year include refinery maintenance, the switch to summer-blend fuel, and an increase in demand for gas.
Gas prices are more expensive this year for spring break, compared to last year. Last year in mid-March, the national average for regular gas was $3.08 and the Oregon average was $3.72.
Find current fuel prices at GasPrices.AAA.com.
