As summer 2025 kicks off, travelers are redefining what it means to get away. From the rise of “coolcations” to smarter, AI-driven trip planning, this season is all about meaningful experiences, budget-friendly choices, and new ways to beat the crowds.
Travel Is Surging—But Travelers Are Getting Creative
After a strong rebound last year, travel demand continues to climb. According to NerdWallet’s 2025 Summer Travel Report, 44% of Americans plan to take a vacation requiring a flight or hotel stay, and 87% will leave town for at least one night. But with travel costs among the highest on record—affordability is now the top concern for 61% of Americans—many are rethinking how and where they travel.
Trending Destinations: Beaches, Coolcations, and Hidden Gems
Beach escapes remain popular, with places like Puerto Rico, Curacao, Maui, and St. Lucia topping Google’s flight searches. But there’s a new twist: “coolcations”—getaways to cooler climates—are surging. Think Iceland’s waterfalls, Alaska’s glaciers, and the breezy Canadian Rockies. These destinations offer adventure and relief from summer heat, making them top picks for 2025.
Travelers are also seeking out second cities and hidden gems to avoid crowds. About 67% want to visit less crowded places, and 63% are interested in off-the-beaten-path destinations. In Europe, affordable spots like Poland, Finland, and Austria are gaining traction, while U.S. travelers are rediscovering national parks and lakes for a digital detox.
How We’re Traveling: Group Trips, Spontaneity, and Staying Local
This summer, group travel is booming. Nearly half of Gen Z travelers are vacationing with friends, while 57% of Gen X and 54% of millennials are traveling with their kids. For many, domestic trips are the answer: 87% of Americans plan to stay in the U.S. for at least one trip, with spontaneous water adventures and local boating experiences on the rise.
Smarter Planning With AI
Nearly half of travelers are now using AI-powered tools to build personalized itineraries, discover hidden gems, and streamline everything from airport navigation to lounge access. AI is making travel planning faster, more personal, and less stressful—helping travelers unlock smoother, smarter experiences at every step.
Packing More Into Every Trip
With higher prices, travelers are maximizing every getaway. Searches for “checked bags” and “compression packing cubes” are at all-time highs, showing that people are packing more and staying longer when they travel.
The Bottom Line
Summer 2025 is all about balance—between adventure and rest, exploration and reconnection, excitement and simplicity. Whether you’re road-tripping across the country, chasing waterfalls in Iceland, or planning a spontaneous boating day close to home, travel this year is more meaningful than ever
Where will your next adventure take you? Let us know in the comments!
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