Spring Break 2026: Stay Alert, Travel Smart, Stay Safe

Spring Break is almost here (March 8-15, 2026), and the Baylor University Department of Public Safety is urging students, faculty and staff to travel smart. Please be aware of the heightened tensions around the world, as well as closer to home with popular destinations in Mexico experiencing political unrest. 

Safe travel abroad

Students, faculty and staff traveling abroad over Spring Break, particularly to Mexico, should closely monitor official Travel Advisories from the U.S. Department of State before and during travel, register online with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and download the Smart Traveler iPhone App that provides additional tips and information.

Additional safety precautions while traveling abroad over spring break:

• Stay alert to your surroundings, both outdoors and indoors. Notice when something may seem out of place and know where exits are in buildings.
• Stay within designated hotel zones and well-trafficked tourist areas.
• Avoid traveling at night or to secluded locations.
• Expect possible flight or road disruptions and build flexibility into plans.
• Travel in groups and use reputable transportation providers.
• Maintain digital and physical copies of important documents such as your passport.
• Know local emergency numbers and the location of your nearest consulate.

Travel smart in the U.S.

Whether you’re driving or flying across the U.S., plan ahead to make your trip smoother and safer.

• Make sure that someone knows where you are going and can get in touch with you.
• Check weather and traffic conditions before leaving. If you are driving, map out your travel routes and research any stops.
• When driving, switch drivers or take breaks often, especially when you start to feel signs of fatigue. Do most of your driving during daylight hours.
• Keep your phone fully charged and bring a portable charger.
• Make copies of important documents such as a passport, driver's license or another form of identification. Do the same with your credit and debit cards in case they are lost or stolen.
• Prepare for the unexpected, and if you see something – say something.

Staying safe on or around campus

If you are on or around campus over Spring Break, you should:

• Always be aware of your surroundings.
• Avoid texting while walking.
• Walk in groups whenever possible.
• Use one earbud with audio devices while walking.
• Avoid walking in dimly lit or isolated areas.

BUPD officers patrol campus 24/7, even over campus breaks. If you see suspicious activity on or adjacent to campus, immediately report the incident to BUPD at 254-710-2222 or 9-1-1, or by using the BU Campus Guardian smartphone app.

Protecting your personal property no matter where you are 

If you are away from campus over Spring Break, remember these important safety tips to keep your home/apartment/car/residence hall room safe while you are gone:

The simple phrase to remember is HIDE…LOCK…TAKE.

• HIDE!   HIDE any valuables. Keep all valuables out of sight or place them in your trunk whether leaving your car on campus, at your apartment or at the airport.
• LOCK!  Always LOCK your vehicle and lock and bolt all doors and windows of your residence. Keep a light on or schedule a light to turn on to make your home appear occupied.
• TAKE!  TAKE valuables with you.

Health safety

Whether students stay close to campus or travel in-state, out-of-state or internationally, incorporating health and safety measures is important. If traveling abroad, Baylor’s Office of Global Safety recommends monitoring the CDC’s Traveler's Health website to learn more about global health risks and the protective actions travelers can take to prevent adverse health effects. 

Remember to keep an eye on one another. Seeing the needs of others is a powerful way to demonstrate care and our Christian community. Check in on classmates and roommates if you sense they are troubled – before leaving and when you get back.