Survey: Americans Plan to Spend More on Travel in 2026 While Taking Fewer Trips

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Americans are planning to spend more on travel in 2026, but they are doing so more deliberately. After years of post-pandemic price spikes, households facing persistent financial pressures are weighing vacations against competing priorities and rethinking what makes a trip worthwhile.

According to a recent Beach.com travel survey, 68% of Americans expect to spend more on travel this year than in 2025, with average per-person spending projected at $6,354. At the same time, a separate AAA and Bread Financial survey shows that 76% of travelers are planning trips around major life milestones, indicating a shift toward fewer, more meaningful trips rather than frequent getaways.

Taken together, the surveys show splurging is out, and selectivity is in. Americans are getting picky about their plans as they value experiences tied to personal connections. With spring break around the corner, financial advisors offer recommendations on ways to get the most bang for your vacation buck this year.

American travelers are seeking a middle ground between financial pressure and the urge to get away by planning trips that satisfy their wanderlust without derailing household budgets.

“People still want to travel, and after the last few years, experiences matter more than stuff. But I do think people are more cautious,” says Dr. Steven Crane, founder of Financial Legacy Builders. “Middle America feels stretched. I am seeing more planned trips and fewer spontaneous blowouts. Families are asking, ‘How do we do this responsibly?’ instead of ‘How big can we go?’”

Fiscal caution seems prudent in the current environment.

Despite pockets of resilience, broader economic sentiment remains lackluster. After a notable drop in early 2026, the Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index rose modestly to 91.2 in late February, but remains below historical norms, signaling ongoing fatigue about job prospects and inflation. This may explain why many consumers are approaching travel carefully.

“Even with economic uncertainty, people are prioritizing experiences. I don’t see reckless spending, but I do see intentional spending,” says Alex Bridges, wealth advisor at Tiverton Wealth. “My clients want the memories — they just want to make sure they’re not compromising their long-term plan to get them. Travel feels less like a luxury and more like something people value as part of living well.”

The Beach.com survey found that cost ranks as the biggest concern for travelers for the second year in a row. Almost three-quarters (72%) of respondents list it as their top travel concern, far ahead of “travel disruptions” (36%), “time constraints” (29%), and logistical issues (27%).

Bridges says flights are typically the biggest budget headache.

“Airfare can swing wildly, and it’s usually the largest upfront expense, especially for families. Once you’re at your destination, there are always ways to manage costs. You can choose casual restaurants, find free activities, and explore nature. But you can’t negotiate much with an airline ticket,” says Bridges.

Brady Lochte, founder of Axon Capital Management, agrees that price volatility can threaten the best-laid plans.

“Tours and food budgets can be managed with planning, but the unpredictability of flights and accommodations often forces travelers to accept higher prices or risk missing out,” he says.

Lochte suggests travelers set alerts on Google Flights and Hopper to find deals and book refundable options when possible.

Bridges also recommends keeping an eye on local community forums.

“Here in Houston, there’s a social media account called Escape Houston that posts discounted flights out of our airports. We’ve used it several times. I also like setting fare alerts and booking refundable tickets when possible so you can reprice if fares drop,” says Bridges.

For an even cheaper alternative, look closer to home and head to the great outdoors. Skip the flights and consider staying in a cabin or a tent. National parks saw a record 331.9 million recreation visits in 2024, breaking the previous all-time high set in 2016.

Crane sees great value in national parks. “You get memories, time with family, and fresh air for a fraction of what a resort costs,” he adds.

Bridges recommends a floating ride along the Comal River in New Braunfels.

“Tube rentals are inexpensive, and you can bring your own cooler with snacks and drinks,” he says. “And afterward, you can head to Gruene for good food and live music. It feels like a vacation without feeling like a financial event.”

In 2026, the smartest travel plans aren’t defined by how far you go, but by how deliberately you spend. As Americans balance higher costs with a renewed focus on meaningful experiences, vacations are becoming less about indulgence and more about intention. With thoughtful planning, flexible expectations, and a clear sense of priorities, travel lovers can still create lasting memories without returning home to financial regret.