Despite rising travel costs, Americans are determined to maintain their summer holiday plans, according to a recent survey by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA). The survey highlights that instead of cancelling vacations, travellers are opting for road trips, choosing destinations closer to home, and selecting hotels that offer perks such as complimentary breakfast and loyalty rewards to maximise value.

The survey reveals that 57% of Americans acknowledge an increase in travel costs compared to last year. Nonetheless, 56% still intend to embark on a summer trip. Among those affected by higher prices, nearly 69% emphasise the importance of taking a summer vacation. This indicates a trend where travellers are not abandoning their plans but are instead reimagining them.

Key findings from the AHLA survey include:

- Over half of Americans (56%) plan to travel this summer despite higher costs.
- For those feeling the financial pinch, 69% still prioritise a summer getaway.
- Travellers are cutting back on shopping (43%), dining out (39%), and entertainment (26%) before reducing hotel expenses (24%).
- Many are opting for regional travel, driving instead of flying, and selecting more affordable destinations.

Rosanna Maietta, President & CEO of AHLA, stated, “Summer travel isn’t slowing down. Americans are protecting and prioritising their vacations and becoming more budget conscious.” The survey underscores that hotels remain a key component of travel plans, with many travellers seeking value-added experiences to enhance their stays

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.