Rising Travel Costs Prompt Americans to Embrace Home Swapping This Summer

Embracing Change: How Rising Costs are Transforming Summer Travel

As inflation and rising costs threaten to constrain summer travel plans for many Americans, an interesting trend is emerging: travelers are not canceling their vacations, but rather adapting to the new financial landscape. According to the latest findings by Kindred, a global home-swapping community, a shift towards more thoughtful and innovative travel choices is underway.

The 2025 Summer Travel Report, released by Kindred, indicates that travel is not being abandoned; instead, it is undergoing a transformation to become smarter and more community-driven. This year, the average getaway price has increased by over $259 per person, leading to a growing sense of frustration with traditional accommodations such as hotels and rental properties. Notably, 84% of hotel guests and short-term rental users reported experiencing various pain points during their stays.

In response to these increasing pressures, 90% of travelers are actively searching for ways to cut back on their summer spending without sacrificing their wanderlust. Among the most popular strategies are staying with family or friends (41%) and choosing more affordable accommodations (40%). Remarkably, 12% of respondents are now opting for home swapping, a practice that has gained popularity in the United States as a cost-effective alternative to conventional tourist lodging.

The drivers behind this shift in attitudes are primarily linked to economic factors, with Americans identifying inflation and increasing living costs (49%), ballooning travel expenses (45%), and economic uncertainty (28%) as the major motivators behind their changing travel plans. Justine Palefsky, CEO and Co-Founder of Kindred, remarked, "What was once considered acceptable in the realm of travel no longer meets the mark. As people become more discerning with their spending, a notable trend towards value-driven travel emerges, manifesting a desire for greater connection, flexibility, and authenticity."

Furthermore, the dissatisfaction with traditional accommodation options is palpable. Common complaints from hotel guests include high extra costs (30%), noise disturbances (27%), pricey dining options (26%), and restricted kitchen facilities (22%). Short-term rentals also face criticism, with high cleaning and service fees (18%), increasing prices (19%), and a perceived lack of personal touch (13%) causing frustration among users.

In contrast, Kindred members present an optimistic perspective. For 90% of these travelers, saving money is the primary motivation for their decision to participate in the home-swapping community, where the average getaway costs roughly one-tenth of a traditional short-term rental. Many members also express a desire to immerse themselves in their chosen destinations like a local (52%), travel more frequently (51%), and engage in more sustainable, values-driven tourism (44%). In fact, 26% of Kindred members report that they now travel significantly more frequently since joining the community.

Access to dream destinations at a fraction of the cost is a cornerstone of Kindred's appeal, as it allows travelers to allocate their financial resources more effectively. Popular summer destinations for U.S. Kindred members this year include iconic cities like London, Paris, and Barcelona, alongside cultural hubs such as San Francisco and New York City. With average nightly stays costing between $15 and $30, the platform aims to empower members to explore, experience, and stay longer – all while prioritizing community-driven connections.

As the summer travel season approaches, the dynamics of hospitality are undoubtedly shifting. While traditional hotels may struggle to meet the evolving needs and expectations of travelers, home swapping is poised to offer a solution that aligns with modern-day values and necessities. As more travelers journey towards meaningful experiences that foster authenticity and community, the impact of this paradigm shift may redefine the future of how we travel.

For travelers looking for cost-effective and enriching vacation opportunities, Kindred stands out as an innovative solution that bridges the gap between affordability and authenticity. To discover more about how home swapping can enhance your travel experiences, visit livekindred.com.