Where to Wander This Spring? My 7–10 Day Travel Picks That Actually Work

 There’s something about spring that makes me want to pack light, chase the sun, and keep moving. As someone who works remotely and lives for the outdoors, I start planning my spring break early—not for the bucket list checkmarks, but for the joy of discovering places that feel just right in that moment.

If you’ve got 7 to 10 days this spring, here are a few regions I’ve either explored or bookmarked after way too much late-night research (plus notes on what’s worth it and what’s not).

📍Northeast: For City-Hopping Without Flying

New York, Boston, Philadelphia, and DC are all close enough for a week-long trip. Pick two or three, hop on a train or bus, and soak up the early spring air while walking through brownstone neighborhoods or along cherry-blossomed National Malls. It’s not the warmest, but layers + an expandable backpack travel setup means you’re good to go.

📍Southeast: Easy Sun, Great Food, Relaxed Pace

Orlando is more than just theme parks—think Kennedy Space Center, lake kayaking, and quieter nature trails. Pair it with Tampa or Miami for a mix of coastal city vibes and national park detours like the Everglades. If you’ve got time, Savannah and Charleston are both walkable, storybook towns—picture grand oaks, pastel porches, and the slow rhythm of southern afternoons.

📍Southwest: Road Trip Ready

If you’re craving canyon views and dry air, Arizona’s got you. A Phoenix–Sedona–Scottsdale–Tempe loop gives you red rock hikes, art towns, desert bloom, and solid brunches. We did it in four days—it was a little tight, but worth every mile. Albuquerque and White Sands also make a stunning 5–6 day combo if you’re into wide skies and sci-fi landscapes.

📍West Coast: A One-Week Dream

The classic Pacific Coast Highway route is golden this time of year. Start in San Francisco and wind your way through Big Sur to LA, OC, and San Diego. Alternatively, base yourself in LA and mix beaches with nearby escapes like Joshua Tree or hot springs in Palm Springs. Yosemite or Sequoia are gorgeous too, but double-check snow status. With an expandable backpack, layering is a breeze—city mornings, mountain afternoons, beachy sunsets.

📍International but Close: Mexico & Hawaii

Mexico City plus Guanajuato makes a great week if you’re after food, museums, and colonial charm. Los Cabos? Still stunning, but a bit too polished for my taste. Hawaii’s always a solid choice—go for one or two islands max. Oahu + Big Island is a classic pair, just budget accordingly.

📍For the Overachievers: Europe or South America?

I’ve done Europe in spring, and unless you’re heading to southern Spain or Portugal, expect chilly rain. If you're eyeing Patagonia or Peru? Stunning, yes—but tricky this season. High altitude, flight delays, and sudden weather shifts make it a gamble for a short spring break.

No matter where you go, the trick is to keep it light and flexible. I travel with one expandable backpack that fits carry-on requirements but expands when I pick up too many local snacks or that one handmade mug I probably don’t need.

It’s not about doing it all—it’s about doing just enough, with space left to breathe.

👉 Click here for my extend backpack