WASHINGTON, D.C., January 30, 2024 – Recent data from AAA Travel highlights a significant shift in travel habits, with individuals spending substantially more and extending their vacations in 2023 compared to the previous year. This indulgence trend is evident as travelers spent 35% more per trip in 2023 than in 2022 while also increasing the duration of each stay by over 20%.
On National Plan for Vacation Day, AAA underscores the importance of planning vacations. Americans notoriously leave over 600 million vacation days unused each year. Effective planning is key to ensuring these days are utilized. "We're seeing an increase in travel overall, but AAA Travel bookings indicate that people are spending more on their getaways and staying longer," said Ragina Cooper Ali, AAA spokesperson for Maryland and Washington, D.C. She emphasized the need for advanced bookings, especially for premium travel options like cruises or guided tours, which are selling out due to the current trend of splurging.
2022 AAA bookings averaged around $3,700, with travel periods typically lasting seven and a half days. In contrast, the average booking in 2023 exceeded $5,000, with vacations extending to over nine days. This shift highlights an increasing preference for more extended and luxurious travel experiences.
Ease of travel is another emerging trend. AAA observed a record number of travelers enrolling in TSA PreCheck® at their retail locations, indicating a desire for smoother airport experiences. Nearly 30,000 travelers enrolled in the program in 2023 through AAA. The organization anticipates the continued popularity of this service and is hosting several TSA PreCheck® events, including one next month in Frederick, MD.
International travel services have also seen a rise, with a 32% increase in requests for passport photos and a 38% jump in processing international driving permits in 2023 compared to the previous year.
AAA offers several tips for travelers in 2024:
- Book early to secure the best rates and availability for flights, hotels, tours, cruises, and car rentals.
- Utilize a travel advisor for assistance with bookings, navigating air travel disruptions, and advocating for travelers.
- Invest in travel insurance for protection against unforeseen events.
- Protect your identity by securing physical documents and being vigilant against identity theft.
- Track your luggage using tracking devices, available at AAA Retail locations or online.
- Exchange for foreign currency in advance through AAA Retail locations to ensure immediate access to funds upon arrival at the destination.
For more information on travel trends and advice, travelers can visit TheExtraMile.com or attend travel events at AAA retail stores to gain insights from experienced travel advisors. Learn more at AAA.com/events.
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