Two-thirds of Americans are hot on the idea of summer travel

The weather is not the only thing warming up. According to TripAdvisor’s 2021 Summer Travel Index, summer vacations will also be hot this year.

As Americans slowly navigate out of the COVID-19 pandemic, the idea of traveling beyond staycations and local trips is making a comeback. A recent TripAdvisor survey of over 2,500 consumers showed that nearly half of Americans (43%) believe travel activity will rebound within three months, and over two-thirds (67%) are planning to travel this summer (June 1 – Aug. 31) — a 17% increase from those who traveled this spring (March 1 – May 31).

The survey conducted by the world’s largest travel guidance platform also revealed that Millennials (ages 25-40) are the most excited to resume traveling with 72% of that demographic planning trips, although 43% of those enthusiastic travelers still plan to drive to their destination and only 19% plan to fly.

The TripAdvisor Summer Travel Index also reported that 74% of the Americans who are planning to travel will take domestic trips, while only 13% will travel internationally. However, Americans are eager to splurge on their 2021 summer vacations, with 53% saying they plan to spend more on trips this year vs. last summer (rising to 66% for Millennials).

The biggest takeaway is that most Americans are ready to hit the road — or beach — this summer, which is reflected by the fact that hotel searches are up 65% and searches for experiences, attractions, and tours increased by 78% (compared to the first week of January).

Top 10 Destinations for this summer according to TripAdvisor’s 2021 Summer Travel Index:

1. Cancun, Mexico
2. Orlando, Fla.
3. Myrtle Beach, S.C.
4. Key West, Fla.
5. Miami Beach, Fla.
6. Las Vegas, Nev.
7. Playa del Carmen, Mexico
8. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
9. Tulum, Mexico
10. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic