Traveler trends are always in focus and fairly predictable. But in this era of rising costs, climate uncertainty, and nonsensical political turbulence, one might expect Americans to retreat from traveling and, indeed, tightening their budgets and staying closer to home. However, while international inbound travel to the US is down and dropping due to crazy new US policies and decrees, the opposite is happening for American travelers. According to the latest Portrait of American Travelers® report by MMGY, 2025 is on track to be the most travel-heavy year in half a decade — with Americans planning more trips, spending more money, and redefining what it means to explore the world.
The study, which surveyed 4,500 leisure travelers, reveals a nation that refuses to let financial anxieties curb its appetite for discovery. Instead, travelers are adapting—prioritizing meaningful experiences, leveraging technology, and rethinking traditional vacation habits.
“Travel is no longer just a luxury—it’s an essential part of Americans’ lives,” says Simon Moriarty, VP of Syndicated Research at MMGY Travel Intelligence. “People see it as an investment in well-being, connection, and personal fulfillment. Even when budgets are tight, they find ways to make it happen.”
So how exactly are Americans navigating this new landscape? What destinations are rising and falling in popularity? And what does the future of travel look like in an age of AI, climate concerns, and economic strain?
Traveler Trends: Resilience in an Uncertain Economy
Despite inflation and fluctuating airfare prices, the average American traveler plans to spend $5,138 on leisure trips this year—the highest amount since 2020. They’re also taking more vacations, averaging 4.2 getaways in the next twelve months.
These traveler trends aren’t driven by reckless spending but by strategic choices. Travelers are stretching their budgets through off-season trips, alternative accommodations, and a focus on value. Many are opting for short-term rentals over hotels, choosing midweek flights to save money, and even embracing “slow travel”—staying longer in one place to reduce transportation costs.
“People aren’t just traveling more—they’re traveling smarter,” says Moriarty. “They’re willing to cut back on other expenses to prioritize experiences that matter to them.”
Traveler Trends: Where Americans Are (and Are Not) Going
Traditional vacation hotspots like Hawaii, Florida, and California still draw crowds, but extreme weather is starting to reshape preferences. Wildfires, hurricanes, and record-breaking heatwaves have made some travelers hesitant to book trips to regions prone to climate disruptions.
Meanwhile, Washington, D.C. has seen an unexpected surge in popularity according to the MMGY report on 2025 traveler trends. Analysts attribute this to heightened media attention following the recent presidential election, as well as a growing interest in historical and political tourism.
Smaller cities are also benefiting from the shift. Places like Asheville, Santa Fe, and Burlington—once considered secondary destinations—are now attracting travelers seeking authenticity over overcrowded tourist traps.
Traveler Trends: The Sustainability Dilemma
Eco-conscious travel is more important than ever—but only if it doesn’t cost extra.
A majority of travelers (58%) say concerns about overtourism will influence their destination choices over the next decade. Many are opting for off-season travel not just for affordability but to reduce their environmental impact. Yet when it comes to booking green hotels or carbon-offset flights, price remains the deciding factor.
“Sustainability is now a baseline expectation, not a premium add-on,” says Moriarty. “Travelers want to do the right thing, but they won’t pay a premium for it. The industry needs to make eco-friendly options the default, not the exception.”
Traveler Trends: The AI Revolution
Artificial intelligence has quietly transformed the way trips are planned—but not everyone has embraced it equally.
Younger travelers, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, rely heavily on AI-powered tools for everything from itinerary suggestions to real-time price tracking. Chatbots scour the web for deals, while algorithms recommend hidden-gem restaurants based on past preferences.
Older generations, however, still prefer the human touch. Boomers continue to favor traditional travel agents and review platforms like TripAdvisor, valuing personalized service over algorithmic recommendations.
Still, AI’s influence is undeniable. Thirty-four percent of travelers now use AI for trip planning—up from 31% just a year ago. As the technology improves, that number will only grow.
Traveler Trends: International Outbound Travel
After years of “revenge travel” focused on domestic trips, Americans are once again looking abroad. But will they be welcomed? It may be too soon to tell but attacks (possibly one-offs) have already been cited.
Meanwhile, Europe remains the top international destination, according to recent traveler trends reports, and particularly for older travelers. The Caribbean continues to lure those seeking all-inclusive ease, while Canada and Mexico offer quick getaways without the hassle of long flights.
But the real surprise is Asia’s resurgence. Younger travelers, drawn by affordability and adventure, are flocking to countries like Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam, possibly due to what some media are calling “The While Lotus Effect.”
“International travel is back in a big way,” says Moriarty. “People are done with the ‘play it safe’ mentality. They want to explore again.”
Traveler Trends: What It All Means for the Future of Travel
The 2025 traveler is more intentional, more adaptable, and more resourceful than ever. They’re balancing tradition with innovation—combining old-school travel wisdom with cutting-edge tools.
As Moriarty puts it: “Travel isn’t just about where you go—it’s about how you go. And right now, Americans are rewriting the rules.”
For those planning their next trip, the lessons are clear: Book early but stay flexible. Consider off-season travel for better prices and fewer crowds. Mix classic destinations with emerging alternatives, and go farther. But keep an eye on the mainstream international news purveyors because travel, like the weather, is changing fast.
Get Social