This summer, it seems a lot of Americans are staying put. A recent survey found that four in ten people won’t be going on any trips at all. Strikingly, cost is the main reason holding them back.
Out of 5,000 respondents, 37% said they won’t be traveling this summer. Among those, 52% cited being unable to afford a trip, while others are focused on saving money (25%) or paying off debt (22%). A significant 21% also expressed worries about the rising costs associated with travel.
Interestingly, those who are planning to travel are doing so with their wallets in mind. A little over half (52%) have already traveled in summers past. When asked how this summer’s trips will differ from last year’s, 32% mentioned they’ll seek out different types of destinations. Others are opting to be more budget-conscious instead of splurging, with 31% planning to travel to more affordable spots.
Day trips and local adventures are becoming the new trend, with 22% of travelers opting for shorter vacations close to home. This aligns well with current travel trends, many of which emphasize practicality. For instance, staycations (32%), “quietcations” (30% – vacations that allow for some serenity), and “micro-breaks” (30% – short getaways) are all expected to be popular.
Erin Bruehl, VP of Communications at Current, notes, “The travel trends we’re seeing show how practical Americans are being with their finances. They’re finding smarter ways to travel, like opting for quieter and closer destinations.”
But it’s not just about the money. The survey also examined how social media impacts travel plans. About 17% of people admitted they traveled solely to share the experience with friends and family. Younger generations feel this pressure more acutely. A full 42% of respondents feel the need to travel frequently, while 49% sense pressure to spend during trips. This need to impress others resonates more with Gen Z (60%) and millennials (52%) compared to older generations.
Furthermore, 23% of Gen X respondents revealed they’ve gone into debt just for travel, highlighting that financial stress isn’t limited to younger adults.
Looking ahead, predicted travel trends for summer 2026 include:
- Staycations (32%)
- Quietcations (30%)
- Micro-breaks (30%)
- City-cations (21%)
- Pet-friendly travel (20%)
States showing the highest enthusiasm for summer vacations include Illinois (77%), Texas (74%), and New Jersey (73%). Each state seems to have its own unique travel culture, shaping how people plan their getaways.
This survey sheds light on a collective mindset shaped by rising costs and social expectations. Americans are finding ways to travel without breaking the bank. As Bruehl summarizes it, “They’re finding experiences that matter while keeping their finances intact.”
For more information about this survey, a detailed breakdown is available through the research conducted by Talker Research.
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Lifestyle,finance,finances,holiday travel,vacations
