Summer travel is making a comeback for many Americans, but the landscape has shifted significantly, particularly due to soaring gas prices and overall higher travel costs. According to a survey conducted by our Research team, 82% of Americans are planning a summer trip, yet nearly 75% of those not traveling cite costs as the primary reason for their decision to stay home.
Key Findings
- Budget Adjustments: Almost half of the travelers surveyed have raised their travel budgets, with two-thirds adjusting their plans due to the escalating gas prices.
- Travel Concerns: High ticket prices have emerged as the biggest worry for air travelers, followed closely by concerns over flight delays and TSA lines.
- Preferred Destinations: The year 2026 sees a strong trend towards water-based vacations, with beaches (64%), lakes (60%), and nature parks (54%) leading the destination choices.
Travel Plans
Summer offers an ideal time for vacations, appealing to families with children out of school. Despite the high costs, a significant 82% of respondents are planning at least one leisure trip this summer, with most of these trips taking place at outdoor destinations.
However, 18% of respondents do not have any travel plans for the summer, and the high cost of travel is a major deterrent for nearly 74% of them. Economic uncertainty also weighs heavily, impacting 41% of those who decided to stay home.
Budgeting for Travel
Travel costs can accumulate quickly. While some remain at home due to these costs, many Americans find the expense of travel worthwhile and prepare accordingly. A large portion of respondents plan to spend between $1,000 and $3,000, and 65% have budgets set under $3,000. Additionally, 45% have raised their travel budgets this year, prompted by extended trip durations and increased fuel prices.
Managing Travel Costs
With rising airfare and gas prices, many travelers are searching for ways to cut down on expenses. Approximately 32% already canceled planned trips entirely due to costs. The choices travelers are making include prioritizing affordable accommodations over amenities, with 69% choosing hotels based on price, and 61% opting to drive rather than fly.
Impact of Gas Prices
Gas prices have increased significantly due to ongoing geopolitical issues, prompting 66% of travelers to adjust their plans this summer, including making major changes or canceling trips altogether. Only a small fraction indicated that these costs did not influence their travel decisions.
Air Travel Concerns
For those flying, high ticket prices and potential flight interruptions are the biggest concerns. To mitigate the risks, many are opting for nonstop flights, refundable tickets, and signing up for flight alerts.
Navigating Travel Realities
Travelers can prepare for potential disruptions and rising costs by:
- Planning around known issues such as flight delays.
- Booking flights in advance when possible to lock in better prices.
This summer’s travel season reflects the ever-evolving landscape shaped by economic factors, necessitating adjustments from many travelers, both in destinations and spending plans.