2025 School Holidays: Best Travel Times for Families

Family vacations are more than just fun they’re memory-makers. But timing is everything, especially when your plans revolve around the school calendar. Knowing when to book that trip can mean the difference between smooth travel and long queues, peak rates, or unavailable bookings.

In this guide, we break down the 2025 school holidays Singapore schedule and share the best times to travel with your kids whether you’re planning a local staycation or a week abroad.

Understanding the 2025 School Holidays Singapore Calendar

Here’s a quick look at the official 2025 school holidays Singapore schedule released by the Ministry of Education (MOE). These apply to primary and secondary schools:

Term Holidays (for Primary & Secondary Schools)

March Holidays: 15 – 23 March 2025 (1 week)
June Holidays: 31 May – 29 June 2025 (4 weeks)
September Holidays: 6 – 14 September 2025 (1 week)
Year-End Holidays: 15 November – 31 December 2025 (6+ weeks)

These dates are your golden windows for planning trips without worrying about missed classes.

Best Times to Travel With Kids in 2025

Now, not all holiday periods are equal when it comes to travel. While every school break offers a chance to recharge, some holidays are better suited for quick getaways, while others are perfect for long-haul family vacations. The key is knowing which breaks align best with public holidays, flight deals, and weather patterns especially if you’re planning a trip abroad or a local staycation.

Here’s our breakdown of each holiday period and how to make the most of it for travel planning:

1. March Holidays (15–23 March 2025) – Quick Getaways

Best for: Short trips to nearby destinations
Recommended Destinations:

Langkawi or Penang (3D2N beach trips)
Desaru Coast, Malaysia
Batam or Bintan (easy ferry ride)

Why it’s great:
The March break is short but sweet. It’s perfect for a refreshing getaway without the hassle of peak-season crowds. Flight and hotel prices are relatively stable, and the weather in Southeast Asia is generally dry and pleasant.

2. June Holidays (31 May–29 June 2025) – The Big One

Best for: Longer vacations, overseas family trips
Recommended Destinations:

Japan (theme parks + nature)
Australia (winter activities)
UK or Europe (summer weather + educational sites)
Legoland Malaysia or Universal Studios Singapore (if staying local)

Why it’s great:
The June holidays are the most flexible for families. You get a full four weeks to plan longer and more adventurous trips. It’s a popular time for family travel, so booking early is essential to avoid high prices and sold-out accommodations.

3. September Holidays (6–14 Sept 2025) – Underrated Gem

Best for: Mid-year recharge with fewer crowds
Recommended Destinations:

Northern Thailand or Vietnam
Staycations at Sentosa or Orchard Road
Eco-resorts or glamping options in Johor

Why it’s great:
This short break often flies under the radar, meaning fewer crowds and better deals. It’s ideal for quick nature escapes or an unplugged family weekend.

4. Year-End Holidays (15 Nov–31 Dec 2025) – Peak Travel Time

Best for: Festive travel, winter destinations
Recommended Destinations:

Korea or Japan (snow season)
Finland or Lapland (if you’re going big!)
Maldives or Bali (beach lovers)
Cruise holidays from Singapore

Why it’s great:
With six full weeks, the year-end break is the ultimate travel window. Many families combine holidays with Christmas and New Year celebrations abroad. However, this is also peak season, so flights and hotels book out early and get expensive. The earlier you plan, the better.

Tips for Traveling With Kids During School Holidays

Book early: Flights and hotels fill up fast especially in June and December.
Go off-peak within the holidays: Traveling mid-week or early in the school break can help you avoid the rush.
Keep it age-appropriate: Choose destinations that offer kid-friendly activities or child care services.
Pack smart: Include games, snacks, and backup clothes for the journey.
Check passports: Make sure all passports have at least 6 months’ validity.

FAQs About 2025 School Holidays Singapore & Family Travel

1. When are the 2025 school holidays in Singapore?

March: 15–23 March
June: 31 May – 29 June
September: 6–14 September
Year-End: 15 November – 31 December

2. What’s the best month to travel with kids in 2025?

June and December offer the longest breaks, ideal for overseas travel. March and September are better for short, nearby trips.

3. Is it safe to travel during school holidays?

Yes, but expect busier airports, tourist spots, and higher prices. Always book early and consider travel insurance.

4. Where can I travel without a long flight from Singapore?

Malaysia (Desaru, KL, Langkawi)
Indonesia (Bintan, Batam, Bali)
Thailand (Phuket, Krabi)
Vietnam (Da Nang, Hanoi)

5. What should I pack for traveling with kids?

Essentials include:

Extra clothes
Snacks
First aid kit
Travel games or books
Chargers & power banks
Wet wipes and hand sanitizer

6. Are there family packages during school holidays?

Yes. Many hotels, cruise lines, and theme parks offer family or school holiday specials. Look out for “Kids Stay Free” promotions.

7. Is travel more expensive during the school holidays in Singapore?

Generally, yes especially for flights and accommodations. To save, book at least 3–6 months in advance and look for off-peak dates within the break.

8. Are passports required for kids traveling to Malaysia or Indonesia?

Yes. All travelers, regardless of age, must carry valid passports with at least 6 months’ validity from the date of travel.

9. What’s a good local alternative if I can’t travel overseas?

Staycation at Sentosa
Visit Science Centre or Singapore Zoo
Day trip to Pulau Ubin
Beach day at East Coast Park
Explore new hawker centers and local tours

10. What should I avoid when traveling with young kids?

Overpacked itineraries
Destinations with extreme climates (unless well-prepared)
Long transit times or layovers
Skipping naps or mealtimes

11. Can we take kids out of school outside the official holidays?

It’s generally discouraged. Schools in Singapore expect students to attend classes during term time unless there’s a valid reason (e.g., family emergencies or special permission).

12. What are some educational travel ideas during the holidays?