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Airbnb Study Shows US Travel Stays Strong With Travel Hacking Growing
Economic headwinds and geopolitical tensions might have rattled equity markets earlier in 2025, but consumers aren't letting them derail summer travel plans – they're simply adapting. According to a Priceline trend study, 27% of people would give up coffee for life than give up traveling. What?!
Peron's hand holding at Cortado coffee drink at Maison Benoit bakery in Danville, California, June ... More 4, 2025. (Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images)
New global research from Airbnb and Panterra reveals that, despite rising costs and uncertainty, people would rather cut back on dining out, shopping, and entertainment before cancelling vacations. Only 21% of consumers said they're likely to cancel or postpone travel, compared to 39% who will dine out less, 35% who will skip entertainment, and 34% who will curb discretionary shopping.
Airbnb research with Panterra.
Saving Money By Traveling In The US
Instead of abandoning travel, consumers are making it more budget-friendly. Nearly 60% plan to choose domestic over international trips to save money this year. Many are opting for cheaper destinations, off-season travel, and more affordable accommodations.
'Even in turbulent economic conditions, travel remains a priority,' said Sam Randall, Senior Spokesperson at Airbnb. 'People are simply adjusting how they travel rather than eliminating it altogether.'
Top motivations remain timeless: relaxation and quality time with family. Sam shared that Airbnb data revealed a 32% increase in short-distance travel (within 300 miles) for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday compared to previous years.
'We want to get away, and we're going to continue to get away, even if it is a little closer to home,' he explained. 'It's not necessarily an overseas trip – it could be a couple of hours away. People are maintaining these shorter, perhaps three or four-day weekend getaways, while reducing overall spend on longer vacations.'
Randall highlighted that Airbnb is well-positioned to meet these shifting demands with over 8 million listings worldwide, offering options across rural, suburban, and urban destinations. 'Whether it's closer to home, off-peak times, or tighter budgets, we really have something for everybody.'
Family travel remains strong, too. Searches for family trips over Fourth of July weekend are up nearly 30%, driven by travelers seeking value beyond just price.
'As it relates to value and family travel, Airbnb has an advantage over hotels,' Randall said. 'Families appreciate having a kitchen to prepare meals rather than dining out for every meal, additional rooms without booking adjoining hotel rooms, and larger spaces to gather. These are meaningful savings and comfort advantages.'
Top motivations remain timeless: relaxation and quality time with family. Even in turbulent economic conditions, these priorities stay firmly at the top of the list – reminding brands that travel demand doesn't disappear, it simply shifts shape.
Travel Hacking Beyond Flights
Randall also pointed to creative ways consumers maximize value through travel hacking strategies, including Airbnb's own initiatives:
'We just launched an ongoing promotion between HotelTonight and Airbnb,' he said. 'You get 10% of your HotelTonight booking amount back in Airbnb credit. It's a phenomenal promotion for frequent business travelers who often book hotels on short notice but want to bank credits for future family vacations.'
Economic headwinds and geopolitical tensions might have rattled equity markets earlies in 2025, but consumers aren't letting them derail summer travel plans – they're simply adapting.
Airbnb research with Panterra