Summer promises to be a scorcher, with Americans prioritizing adventure-packed vacations, according to Tripadvisor‘s 2024 Summer Travel Index.

Despite economic concerns, a whopping 95% of respondents plan to travel as much or even more than last year, with a significant portion (26%) budgeting a hefty $5,000 or more on their getaways.

Top Summer Destinations Revealed: Las Vegas & Cancun Reign Supreme

So, where’s the hottest spot for US travelers this summer? Drumroll, please…

Las Vegas takes the crown for domestic destinations, while Cancun emerges victorious for international adventures!

Adventure Reigns Supreme: Spending Soars on Experiences

American wanderlust isn’t just about ticking destinations off the list; it’s about seeking unforgettable experiences. Nearly all US respondents (92%) plan to spend the same or more on travel compared to 2023. This translates to more trips (44%), longer durations (55%), and venturing further afield (44% aiming for destinations over 7 hours away).

Overcoming Jitters: Excitement Overwhelms Travel Concerns

While cost and unpredictable weather remain anxieties for some, the Summer Travel Index paints a rosy picture overall. A significant majority (86%) harbor positive feelings about their upcoming travels, outweighing negative sentiments by a wide margin. Words like “excitement” (67%), “happiness” (65%), and “optimism” (37%) dominate the emotional landscape, driven by the desire to “make memories” (50%), “let loose” (41%), and, of course, “have an adventure” (36%).

Unveiling the Top Summer Travel Hotspots

From the dazzling lights of Las Vegas to the turquoise waters of Cancun, here’s a glimpse into the most sought-after destinations for US travelers this summer:

Top Global Summer Travel Destinations for US Travelers:

• Cancun, Yucatan Peninsula
• London, England
• Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Top Domestic Summer Travel Destinations for US Travelers:

• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
• Orlando, Florida

Where’s the Buzz? Fastest-Growing Destinations

Curious about the destinations experiencing the biggest growth in popularity? Look no further!

Fastest Growing International Destinations for US Travelers (Year-over-Year):

• Maunabo, Puerto Rico
• Puerto Rico, Spain
• Playa Avellana, Costa Rica

Fastest Growing Domestic Destinations for US Travelers (Year-over-Year):

• Yosemite National Park, California
• College Station, Texas
• Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

Beyond the Destination: Top Vacation Activities for Summer 2024

The focus isn’t just on the “where” this summer; it’s about the “what” as well. Experiences are king, with 85% of US travelers agreeing that tours and activities are a crucial part of their budget allocation. Museums and art galleries (33%), food and wine tours (33%), and amusement/water parks (32%) top the list. Interestingly, even with some pre-planning, spontaneity reigns supreme. Over half (56%) of US travelers decide at least part of their itineraries on the fly, embracing the thrill of the unexpected.

Tripadvisor Summer Travel Index: Methodology

The data for this insightful report comes from two primary sources:

• A Tripadvisor Consumer Sentiment Survey was conducted in partnership with Qualtrics, surveying over 2,400 consumers across six countries (Australia, Italy, Japan, Singapore, UK, and the US) between March 13-18, 2024.
• Site behavioral data sourced from Tripadvisor platform searches by US, UK, and Japanese travelers between February 1 – April 15, 2024, for travel occurring between June 1 – August 31, 2024.

About Tripadvisor, Inc. Summer Travel 2024

Tripadvisor, Inc. strives to be the world’s most trusted resource for travel and experiences. It operates as a family of brands connecting people with experiences worth sharing. By leveraging its brands, technology, and capabilities, Tripadvisor connects a global audience with partners through informative content, travel guidance, and two-sided marketplaces encompassing experiences, accommodations, restaurants, and other travel categories.

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