Leisure travel is expected to increase significantly in the summer of 2024 compared to the winter of 2023. However, costs remain a key factor in decision-making, and consumers are ready to make necessary sacrifices and seek bargains to stay within budget. And with school out of session, households with kids are more likely to plan summer leisure trips. From April 26 to 28, 2024, we asked U.S. consumers about their summer travel plans.
Summer travel plans
- Many are planning a summer leisure trip, up significantly from winter (52% vs. 32%).
- Nearly all summer leisure travelers will visit a U.S. state, with the Southeast being the most popular.
- Visiting family/friends (52%) or a city (30%) are the top activities planned.
- Travelers estimate their budget at $4,410, and most will rely on debit cards/cash and credit cards to cover costs.
Factors and preparations
- Inflation and transportation costs remain key factors impacting travel decisions.
- To manage costs, travelers are cutting back on luxuries at home, looking for less expensive accommodations, staying with friends or family, and choosing destinations closer to home.
Kids in Households
- Summer leisure travel will be most prevalent among households with kids (70%).
- Households with children are setting aside a larger budget for summer travel, averaging $5,676, and are also more receptive to the idea of bargain hunting and deals.
