U.S. Travelers Embrace Meaningful Local Getaways This Summer in 2025
In a significant shift, the latest
2025 Holiday Barometer—a comprehensive survey conducted by
Generali Global Assistance (GGA)—reveals that American travelers are opting for more thoughtful travel experiences this summer. The findings are based on responses from 1,000 U.S. residents and showcase a growing interest in domestic travel, reflecting the evolving economic landscape and a desire for more meaningful escapades.
Key Insights from the Survey
The survey highlights some intriguing trends among U.S. travelers:
- - Shorter Trips: On average, Americans plan vacations lasting approximately 1.5 weeks, often in smaller groups, averaging around 2.4 people per trip.
- - Domestic Preferences: A substantial 53% of respondents indicated a preference for domestic travel this summer, while only 25% intended to venture abroad.
- - Advance Planning: Travelers are adopting a more strategic approach, with 71% stating they would book their trips at least two months ahead—indicating a shift towards intentionality in their planning.
- - Accommodation Choices: Hotels lead the way as the most favored lodging option, chosen by 58% of participants, followed by 24% opting for vacation rentals.
- - Motivations Behind Travel: The key motivations driving travel this summer include a yearning for time in nature, a desire to reconnect with family, and the quest for cultural exploration.
- - Emerging Trends: There’s a noticeable lean towards slow tourism, favoring event-based trips and less touristy destinations that offer a more authentic experience.
Technology's Role in Travel Planning
The influence of technology continues to reshape travel planning. According to the survey:
- - AI Utilization: 22% of American travelers have already employed AI tools in trip planning, with another 25% intending to utilize them in future vacations. The biggest application of AI is in activity recommendations and sourcing travel information.
The Importance of Travel Protection
In light of the uncertainty prevailing in the travel landscape, the survey reveals:
- - Travel Protection Plans: 41% of Americans plan to invest in travel protection for their trips in 2025. The leading concerns for these travelers include the possibility of losing important belongings, being stranded, or falling prey to travel scams.
- - AI in Protection Decisions: Interestingly, the influence of AI extends to travel protection as well—with 19% having used AI to guide their choice of travel protection products, and 26% planning to do so in the future.
Conclusion
Chris Carnicelli, CEO of Generali Global Assistance, sums up the essence of these findings, stating, “American travelers exhibit a strong desire to explore, doing so in a more thoughtful manner in 2025. They are opting for shorter trips shaped by economic realities and a quest for low-stress, meaningful experiences. This trend presents an exceptional opportunity for the travel industry to guide these travelers effectively.”
As the travel landscape continues to evolve, these insights reveal a nation adjusting its travel preferences—favoring local experiences and finding solace in the familiar. With careful planning and the support of technology, Americans are ready to embark on fulfilling journeys this summer.