- 46pc of Americans plan autumn travel despite rising prices
- Domestic flights 2pc higher than summer averages
- Lodging costs surge 20pc
- Thanksgiving airfares pacing 9pc to 13pc higher
- Christmas fares tracking 12pc to 18pc higher
Nearly half of Americans plan to travel this autumn despite steep ticket costs and general economic pressures, treating vacations as a non-negotiable part of their identity and lifestyle. According to a recent Hertz survey, 46pc of US adults are moving forward with autumn travel plans even as ongoing global conflict keeps fuel prices elevated. Data from Expedia shows that average domestic flights to top US destinations are 2pc higher than in the summer while lodging costs have surged by 20pc.
Rather than cancelling trips, travelers are finding alternative ways to make their budgets work. According to financial metrics from Squaremouth, over half of surveyed travelers are trimming other areas of their budget. Specifically, 19pc are reducing retail shopping and 13pc are cutting back on dining out. Around 13pc of tourists admitted they are actively dipping into or reducing their normal contributions to savings and investments.
Travel tracking apps and data warn that Thanksgiving airfares are pacing 9pc to 13pc higher than last year while Christmas fares are tracking 12pc to 18pc higher. Because airline capacity remains tight and jet fuel prices continue to climb, experts advise consumers to book winter holiday tickets immediately.
