US summer travel spending trends

In mid‑July 2026 the American Hotel & Lodging Association reported that a majority of U.S. adults still planned summer vacations despite higher costs, with many opting for regional road trips (71%) and budget‑oriented hotels that offered free breakfast and loyalty rewards. Credit‑card products that provided fuel cash back and hotel perks were highlighted as ways to stretch limited budgets.

A week later, a PwC survey found that many Americans expected to spend more than $2,800 on summer travel, prompting wealth advisors to warn of a “summer spending creep.” Expedia’s Island Hot List showcased affordable island options such as St. Lucia, Portugal’s Porto Santo and the Seychelles’ Praslin, giving cost‑conscious travelers viable alternatives.

By the end of July, a Deloitte Summer Travel Survey showed vacation intent falling to a six‑year low, with only 45% of respondents planning a trip that includes paid lodging—the lowest share since 2020. Higher travel costs were cited as the top reason for canceling plans, especially among households earning under $100,000. Those who do travel anticipate an average spend of $4,069 on their longest summer trip, a 17% rise year‑over‑year, and are shifting toward full‑service hotels, destination resorts, and shoulder‑season travel, reflecting a smaller but more affluent traveler pool.