Summer Vacation Destinations of Americans (Revealed Along with Their Expensive Spots)
Summer Travel Trends in 2025: A Mix of Iconic Destinations and Affordable Luxury
Interest in summer travel has surged in 2025, with destinations ranging from luxury hotspots to off-the-beaten-path gems.
In the United States, the most expensive summer destinations are Aspen, Colorado, Santa Monica, California, and Charleston, South Carolina. These locations offer premium amenities and experiences, but come with a hefty price tag. For instance, a week-long trip for a family of four in Santa Monica can cost around $9,928.86 [1].
However, not all U.S. destinations break the bank. Places like Lava Hot Springs, Idaho, and Dauphin Island, Alabama, are emerging as "bougie-on-a-budget" options, providing a luxury feel without the high price tag of more popular spots [2].
Internationally, Italy, Greece, and Switzerland are drawing strong interest this summer. Italy, especially Rome, Milan, and Sorrento, is experiencing a 40% spike in June bookings [3]. Greece, particularly Mykonos, is renowned for its luxury beach vacations, while Switzerland's mountain towns like Zermatt and Grindelwald are gaining popularity due to "coolcations" — cooler climate escapes in summer [3].
Other global destinations on the rise include Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Vietnam, and Croatia, each offering unique attractions and bucket-list appeal [4].
As for Europe, it remains the most popular destination for travelers this summer. France, basking in the glow of the Rugby World Cup, and the vineyards of Paris and Bordeaux are particularly popular [5].
The increase in travel insurance sales, up by 15% month-over-month since January, can be attributed to global volatility and uncertainty about personal finances [6]. This trend is evident in the #1 policy add-on being purchased: Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage [7].
With travelers seeking stress-free journeys, a website offering flexible coverage, fast reimbursements on approved claims, and 24/7 support from helpful humans is proving to be a trusted resource [8]. New direct flights from the U.S. to Nuuk, Greenland, have also contributed to the increased interest in travel to the region, following recent visits by U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance [9].
As the summer season approaches, 90% of travelers are heading abroad, with the average cost of a 2025 summer vacation being $5,759 per person, a 79.57% increase from the average cost in 2024 [10].
In summary, the 2025 travel trends show a balance between iconic, expensive destinations and rising interest in more affordable but luxurious alternatives.
| Destination Type | Examples | Notes | |--------------------|------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------| | Most Expensive U.S.| Aspen (CO), Santa Monica (CA), Charleston (SC)| Very high daily costs; premium amenities and experiences | | Popular U.S. Cities | Las Vegas | High summer demand, especially holiday weekends | | Top International | Italy (Rome, Milan, Sorrento), Greece (Mykonos), Switzerland (Zermatt, Grindelwald) | High demand, mix of cultural and seaside mountain spots | | Affordable Luxury U.S. | Lava Hot Springs (ID), Dauphin Island (AL) | Luxury feel with lower costs, off-the-beaten-path |
- As the summer travel season approaches, many are opting for a mix of iconic destinations and affordable luxury options to cater to their lifestyles and budgets.
- For those considering insurance for their summer travel plans, a surge in travel insurance sales is observed, with Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage being the most popular add-on, due to global volatility and economic uncertainty.
- To ensure stress-free journeys, travelers are drawn to websites offering flexible coverage, fast reimbursements on approved claims, and 24/7 support from attentive human representatives.
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