Inside America's Short-Trip Summer – And How To Make The Most Of It

Forbes

07-06-2025

Summmer vacations are getting shorter, but Americans want more from them. Here's how they're getting it.
getty
If you're thinking of taking a summer vacation, you'd better think fast.
A new survey by Generali Global Assistance (GGA) suggests travelers are planning trips averaging just 1 ½ weeks, significantly shorter than the typical 2-week summer vacation. They're also booking far in advance.
Why is this happening?
"American travelers are opting for shorter, closer-to-home trips shaped by economic realities, such as inflation and flight prices," says Chris Carnicelli, CEO of Generali Global Assistance.
So what does this trend mean for your summer vacation?
The findings, outlined in GGA's 2025 Holiday Barometer, suggest American travelers are more cautious than they've been at any time since the pandemic.
"Economic pressures appear to be shaping American travel behavior in 2025," says Carnicelli.
The shorter trips, plus more advance planning, add up to a greater emotional investment in the vacations — in other words, to ramped-up expectations. While GGA has seen a decrease in budgets, some travel suppliers say there's an explanation: Even as Americans shorten their vacations, they're sometimes spending more on a per-day basis.
"Shorter stays are dominating," says Janice Wilson, who runs a new luxury glamping resort near Washington's Olympic National Park. "Most of our guests this season are booking two- to three-night stays. And it seems they make up for brevity with indulgence. They're downright spendy when purchasing our curated add-ons like our caviar hot dogs or couples massage on their private decks."
Chris Carnicelli, CEO of Generali Global Assistance.
ADP
"Economic pressures appear to be shaping American travel behavior in 2025."
What's with the abbreviated vacations?
Alex Alioto, head of growth at Whimstay, a vacation rental site, blames the shaky economy.
"The travel industry is witnessing a notable shift this summer as Americans increasingly adjust their travel plans in response to economic pressures," he says. "The trend toward shorter stays is a direct result of that."
GGA's Carnicelli says there's also a deeper sense of uncertainty — not just economic — that's making Americans more cautious about their vacations.
"Political developments in certain international destinations may be prompting travelers to stay closer to home," he says.
Perhaps the most decisive factor is the hassle of traveling.
"This isn't driven by fear, but by practicality," notes Anthony Radchenko, CEO of AirAdvisor. "With disruptions caused by extreme weather, labor strikes, and lingering confusion around REAL ID enforcement, people are adapting. They're planning shorter, simpler trips that minimize stress and maximize control.'
"In spite of all the doom and gloom, summer is most certainly heating up — even if some travelers are still playing it cool when it comes to booking,"
Travel companies are catering to the faster vacationer this summer. You can find these travel opportunities almost anywhere.
Gondwana Ecotours, a tour operator that specializes in small-group trips to places like Alaska, Patagonia, and Tanzania, has seen an uptick in interest from travelers. Its tours are packed with activities that align with the current travel trends.
"For example, our eight-day Northern Lights Adventure in Alaska has been popular with travelers seeking a unique and manageable domestic trip with unforgettable moments such as seeing the aurora borealis, walking with reindeer, and soaking in natural hot springs," says Eric Segalstad, a vice president at Gondwana.
At the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas, the focus this summer is on events that bring in guests for just a few nights. Sin City is within driving distance of Los Angeles, San Diego, Phoenix, and Salt Lake City, making it a desirable domestic destination.
"This summer, we're seeing Americans lean into event-based travel," says Liza Costandino, a spokeswoman for the Four Seasons.
Major acts like Kendrick Lamar, Coldplay, Shakira, The Weeknd, and Beyoncé will be in town, and visitors are coming for three to four days and building a summer vacation around the event, says Costandino.
If you want to take a shorter summer vacation without overpaying, experts say there's still time.
He says average prices for July are up 9 percent from the same time last year to $320 per night. For August, they're up 12 percent from last year, to $324. But good news: They will probably come down again when summer's over.
America's summer seems to be trading sprawl for spark. Shorter stays, booked smarter and splurged harder, are blueprints for the latest vacations. Whether you're chasing auroras in Alaska or belting lyrics in Vegas, the message is clear: go small — and book soon.