Despite concerns around inflation and rising transportation costs, 84% of US families plan to spend the same amount or more on summer travel in 2023 as last, according to a new survey conducted by Slickdeals, the only shopping platform powered by millions of avid shoppers sharing and discovering the most up-to-date online deals and coupons.

Developed by Slickdeals and conducted via Suzy, the study of 1,000 US parents found that 42% will spend between $1,501–$3,000 on travel this summer. Fifteen percent reported plans to spend upwards of $5,000.

However, top concerns that could affect families traveling this summer include inflation (56%), the increasing cost of flights (51%), and the cost of gas (49%).

In fact, the survey found that the most important consideration while booking travel is the total cost of the trip (81%), followed by kid-friendly experiences at the destination (78%) and discounts/deals on transportation and stay (75%).

“Whether looking for luggage and travel gadgets or the best deals on flights and hotels, tapping into a community like the one at Slickdeals is a great way to find the best value,” said Vitaly Pecharsky, head of deals for Slickdeals. “With twelve million real shoppers helping other shoppers by vetting and voting up the very best deals from all your favorite retailers, you can find everything from cameras to rewards credit cards and know you’re getting the best product at the best price.”

Seventy-five percent said they typically travel domestically during the summer, with the most popular modes of transportation being by car (73%), followed by flights (57%).

US Families Reveal Travel Habits and Must-Have Essentials for Summer Travel 2023

Most respondents plan to book their tickets, hotels, and experiences for summer travel 2023 in April (20%), while 34% wait until May-June.

Hangry passengers are something parents hope to avoid, revealing that snacks are the most important thing to carry when traveling with kids (82%). Other important travel essentials include personal care items (71%), electronics (67%), medicines (62%), and toys/games (60%).

Interestingly, 42% of respondents stated that they turned around after leaving for their trip because they forgot something important at home.

Here are some interesting facts and figures about summer travel spending:

1. High Travel Demand: Summer is the peak travel season, with tourism spending spiking in June, July, and August. In many regions, this period represents up to 40% of the year’s total travel revenue.
2. Increase in Travel Budgets: In recent years, travelers have reported budgeting more for summer trips. On average, families in North America budget around $2,500 to $4,500 for a summer vacation, with many spending even more for international trips.
3. Accommodation Costs: Accommodation is the largest expense for most travelers, often comprising 40-60% of a vacation budget. With increased demand, hotel prices can surge by 20% or more during peak summer weeks, especially in popular destinations.
4. Rise of Luxury and Premium Travel: There’s been a trend toward more spending on luxury experiences and accommodations, with travelers opting for upgrades in comfort and exclusive experiences. Travel spending on luxury services and high-end stays has seen year-on-year increases, especially among millennials and Gen Z travelers.
5. Food & Dining: Dining can account for 20-30% of a traveler’s summer budget, with more travelers choosing to spend on unique culinary experiences as a central part of their vacation. This can lead to spending upwards of $500 per person for fine dining over a week.
6. Increased Spending on Experiences: Travelers, especially younger generations, are spending more on experiences over material goods. Activities like guided tours, adventure sports, and cultural events are seeing growth in spending, with many willing to pay for unique, immersive experiences.
7. Transportation Costs: Airfare costs fluctuate with the season, and summer prices are typically the highest, often 10-30% more than during the off-season. Gas prices also tend to peak in summer, impacting road trip budgets.
8. Evolving Travel Patterns: The shift towards digital booking options and comparison tools has led to more travelers opting for package deals and discounts, balancing out the overall summer spending while still securing quality experiences.
9. Travel Insurance Uptick: More travelers are investing in travel insurance, especially for international trips. This adds a layer of expense but provides security against potential disruptions, with spending on insurance growing by 20% in recent years.
10. Sustainable Travel Choices: There’s a gradual increase in spending on sustainable travel options. While eco-friendly accommodations and activities can be pricier, many travelers, especially younger ones, are willing to allocate part of their budget to support eco-conscious choices.