What You Need to Know About Summer Travel

When Americans were polled in early 2025, more than 80% said they were planning to take summer vacations. A recent poll revealed the number of Americans planning to travel this summer has dropped to less than 50%. What has changed?

What You Need to Know About Summer Travel

I believe the ‘uncertain’ economy is to blame. Many of us are wondering if we should be taking an expensive vacation right now or holding onto our money. Some of us just don’t see how we can afford it. More than a few of us are scared of long customs lines if we take international trips. The average wait time is three hours for most major U.S. airports due to stricter immigration protocols.

Three Ways to Save Big $$$:

How you go is key. Flights generally cost more than traveling by bus or train or car. Amtrak is offering some great rail trips and deals this summer. And they offer full refunds and no cancellations fees if cancelled prior to departure. By the way, there are NO middle seats on Amtrak! Check out these national park “trails and rails” trips! If you must fly, try low cost airlines that are underdogs for cost and service include Avelo and Alligent. You’ll be pleasantly surprised how many destinations are offered, as well as special deals and vacation packages.

When you go is nearly as important. Early (June 1-21) and late (August 8-28) summer is going to be less crowded and much cheaper than the dead of summer. Obviously, avoid Memorial Day week, July 4th week and Labor Day week if you want to save money.

Where you go is also a critical cost component. Popular beaches, national parks, and theme parks are going to be top dollar (not to mention very crowded). Go with good alternatives, such as smaller beaches, state parks or lesser known national parks and unique (lesser known) attractions. Check out Recreation.gov and the National Park Service to learn more. Another reason to look for less crowded parks is that you won’t need reservations.

FYI: Due to overcrowding, many national parks are now requiring reservations to enter the parks.

Two Things That Will Blow Your Budget!

The thing that blows a vacation budget is not getting there or lodging. You have planned for those costs. What you have to be watch out for is eating and activities/attractions. Feeding a family and paying admission fees can really add up. Take your own snacks & drinks and plan meals carefully. One savings option for major cities is Entertainment Coupon books that include discounts on restaurants, shopping, activities and attractions. You can also find coupons at visitors’ and welcome centers.

If you are thinking about a road trip this summer, some places offer lots of great FREE things to do, such as Washington, DC (100+ free attractions), San Antonio (100 free things to do including The Alamo and San Antonio Missions National Historic Park), Las Vegas (including lots of fun stuff for kids), Charleston (SC), Philadelphia, and more.

Also, I have always promoted City Passes, such as the Atlanta CityPASS, which combines fees to five major attractions into one discounted fee. One pass gains admission to the Coca Cola World, Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta Zoo, Museum of Natural History, College Football Hall of Fame and National Center for Human and Civil Rights. For those 13+, the cost would be $194 if bought separately. However, the CityPASS reduces the cost to $99. That’s a savings of nearly $100pp! Click here to find CityPASSes to all major U.S. cities!