SINGAPORE, 25 April 2023: Expedia has released its Summer Travel Forecast, providing key insights to help Americans plan and save on their summer vacations.
According to Expedia data, flight searches are up 25% overall for June through August compared to last year, and interest is up triple digits for international destinations across Europe and Asia. In addition, average ticket prices dip USD125 from their peak in early July to August. *Based on Expedia flight demand as 1 April 1, 2023, for travel from June to August
“This summer, travellers are ready to dust off their passports and embrace jet lag as they set off overseas,” says Expedia Group head of brands public relations Melanie Fish. “The data shows the sweet spot for saving on summer airfare is right around the corner, but these days you can actually guarantee you’re getting a great deal by tracking flights on the Expedia app or adding Price Drop Protection to your flight, which automatically refunds you if the price drops after you book.”
Summer Destination Trends
While US travellers are returning in droves to popular destinations, including New York and Cancun, the biggest year-over-year increases are for longer-haul destinations, including Auckland, Hong Kong and Osaka. Despite average flight ticket prices sitting higher than last summer, strong demand trends indicate travellers are ready to make the most of their summer vacations.
Top five International
1. Cancun
2. London
3. Rome
4. Punta Cana
5. Paris
Trending destinations
1. Auckland, New Zealand
2. Hong Kong
3. Osaka, Japan
4. Danang, Vietnam
5. Hanoi, Vietnam
Since reopening its borders last fall, Japan continues to see incredible interest and is one of the fastest-growing international destinations year-to-date for US travellers. Flight searches for summer are up triple digits compared to the same period last year for Osaka (+592%), Tokyo (+290%) and Kyoto (+265%).
To save on airfares, travel during late August and avoid holiday weekends. Average ticket prices drop by USD125 compared to the peak in early July. Meanwhile, the 4 July holiday is the busiest and most expensive summer weekend for air travel. ATPs for the holiday weekend are 12% higher than average for the month.
According to Expedia’s 2023 Air Travel Hacks Report, departing before 1500 cuts your chance of flight cancellation in half, so take the early flight.
Demand is high, and airlines are still operating fewer flights than pre-pandemic. That means full flights are expected this summer, so arrive at the airport early and give yourself plenty of time to get through security.
Pack light and take a carry-on. That way, there’s less chance your luggage gets lost in delays or cancellations.
Check your passport expiration date and ensure it’s valid for at least six months past your travel dates.
Meanwhile, Expedia.com research shows travellers are ready to enjoy the hustle and bustle of cities and experience urban vibes. Among the world’s cultural capitals are cities rich with unforgettable experiences and celebrations.
Global data reveals must-see cultural capitals
1. Edinburgh, Scotland
2. Lisbon, Portugal
3. Tokyo, Japan
4. Dublin, Ireland
5. New York, USA
6. Sydney, Australia
7. Dubai, UAE
8. Montreal, Canada
9. Munich, Germany
10. Bangkok, Thailand
Set-Jetters turn to TV tourism
Adventure-seekers are turning to captivating TV locales for their next-big-trip inspiration. Two-thirds of global travellers have considered, and 39% have booked trips to destinations after seeing them on streamed shows or movies. Advice from friends and family topped streaming services by only 2% as the most influential source of travel inspiration.*
Top TV-inspired destinations
• Sweeping landscapes from famous fantasy thrillers inspire New Zealand adventures, though hobbit and elf sightings are unlikely.
• Travelers are ready to make their formal entrances into British society as historical TV dramas increase interest in Great Britain and its host of stately homes.
• Stunning resort sets, minus questionable hotel managers, have people eager to see Hawaii.
• Lively cosmopolitan scenes are inspiring trips to Paris and New York. Budding romances with beautiful locals are optional.
Follow Expedia on Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, Twitter and YouTube.
(Source: Expedia)
