Planning a vacation this year? You’re not alone — and you’re also not wrong if it feels like travel is getting more expensive. According to recent data, the average cost of a vacation for Americans in 2025 is projected to reach $7,321. That’s nearly $1,460 more than in 2024, and more than double what Americans were spending back in 2022.
While inflation, demand, and rising fuel and labor costs all play a role, there are still savvy ways to travel smart without breaking the bank. Let’s explore what’s driving vacation prices up, how different budgets compare, and what you can do to get the most value from your next trip.
Why Are Vacation Costs Rising in 2025?
Travel has bounced back in a big way post-pandemic — and so have prices. From hotels to airfare to meals, nearly every travel category has seen year-over-year price hikes. Factors driving these increases include:
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High demand: Americans are prioritizing experiences and travel after years of limitations.
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Inflation: General price increases across the economy are hitting leisure spending too.
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Fuel and labor costs: Airlines and hotels are paying more for staff and operations, and passing those costs on to consumers.
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Luxury travel growth: Many travelers are now opting for premium experiences, pushing the “average” up.
2025 Vacation Spending Snapshot
According to SquareMouth, here’s how average vacation spending has trended in recent years:
| Year | Avg. Vacation Cost | Avg. International Vacation Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $7,321 | $10,021 |
| 2024 | $5,920 | $9,028 |
| 2023 | $4,440 | $7,783 |
| 2022 | $3,610 | $5,896 |
Traveling internationally now costs Americans over $10,000 on average, largely due to expensive airfare and longer trip durations.
Breaking Down Daily Costs
Based on data from BudgetYourTrip.com, here’s how much you can expect to spend each day in 2025 depending on your travel style:
| Budget Type | Avg. Daily Cost |
|---|---|
| Budget | $122 |
| Mid-Range | $327 |
| Luxury | $932 |
A mid-range daily budget now sits above $325 — that includes lodging, food, transport, and entertainment. Luxury travelers can easily cross the $900/day mark.
Where Does All the Money Go?
The most expensive part of any trip is lodging, followed closely by food and entertainment. Here’s how daily expenses break down:
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lodging | $51 | $132 | $362 |
| Local Transport | $18 | $47 | $122 |
| Food | $38 | $97 | $256 |
| Entertainment | $18 | $56 | $193 |
| Alcohol | $5–16 | $13–41 | $36–106 |
| Daily Total | $122 | $327 | $932 |
Tip: Consider mixing budget and mid-range options. For instance, splurge on one luxury hotel night, then book more affordable accommodations the rest of your trip.
Airfare: A Major Vacation Cost
One of the most dramatic price jumps has come from air travel. Here’s what 2024 data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics shows:
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Average domestic round-trip fare: $382
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Average international fare: $1,229
That’s a hefty portion of your vacation budget before you even reach your destination. And unlike food or lodging, airfare has fewer flexible options once you’re committed.
Tip: Use price tracking tools like Google Flights, Hopper, or Skyscanner to find the best times to book.
Who’s Traveling the Most in 2025?
The boomers are back — and they’re traveling more than any other group. Here’s how traveler demographics stack up this year:
| Generation | % of Travelers (2025) |
|---|---|
| Baby Boomers | 53.5% |
| Gen X | 21.2% |
| Millennials | 11.1% |
| Silent Gen | 6.1% |
| Gen Z | 6.1% |
| Gen Alpha | 3.1% |
Boomers and Gen X, especially those nearing retirement or with grown children, are taking advantage of travel flexibility — and income.
Tip: If you’re younger, seek group tours, loyalty discounts, or bundle deals to keep costs down.
Money-Saving Travel Tips for 2025
Travel might be more expensive, but that doesn’t mean it has to feel out of reach. Here are top strategies for saving money without sacrificing the joy of the experience:
Use a Travel Rewards Credit Card
Earn points or miles on everyday purchases and redeem them for flights, hotels, and rental cars. Some cards even offer free travel insurance and airport lounge access.
Travel Off-Peak
Avoid summer, spring break, and holiday weekends. Instead, travel mid-week or in shoulder seasons like early May or late September.
Book in Advance (But Not Too Early)
The best airfare prices typically appear 1–3 months in advance for domestic trips, and 3–6 months for international ones.
Mix Up Accommodations
Try combining hotels with vacation rentals, hostels, or boutique stays. In some cities, business hotels are cheaper on weekends.
Bundle and Save
Use package deals that include flights + hotels, or book through travel platforms that offer loyalty perks.
Final Thoughts
While the cost of a vacation in 2025 has climbed to historic highs, Americans are still eager to explore — and with good reason. Travel opens doors, creates memories, and offers a break from the daily grind.
If you’re strategic about when you go, how you pay, and where you stay, you can still travel in style — or at least without stress — while keeping your budget in check.
So whether you’re planning a two-week trip to Europe or a long weekend at a national park, use the data, book smart, and enjoy the journey.
