Dreaming of a summer getaway in 2026? You might want to hold onto your hats, because many Americans are hitting the pause button on their travel plans. A recent U.S. News survey reveals that a significant number of people are changing or outright canceling their trips, and the reasons might hit close to home.
The High Cost of Travel
The biggest buzzkill for travelers this summer? You guessed it: rising costs. A whopping 65% of Americans reported that increased travel expenses have impacted their summer itineraries. Of those, a substantial 31% have either changed their destination or canceled trips altogether.
This surge in prices is hitting specific destinations hard. According to Adriana Ocañas, Consumer Credit Cards Analyst and author of the report, popular spots like New York City, Hawaii, Washington D.C., Las Vegas, and national parks are seeing a rise in cancellations. Las Vegas, in particular, is feeling the pinch, with 24% of consumers canceling trips there due to escalating prices.
Beyond the Price Tag: Other Concerns
It’s not just about the money, though. The current political climate is also playing a role. Over half of Americans (51%) are worried about how they’ll be received abroad, a figure that has increased from the previous year. Interestingly, women tourists (55%) seem more anxious about this than men (49%). In total, 37% of participants cited the political climate as a reason for altering their travel plans.
And let’s not forget the impact of gas prices. A significant 42% of Americans specifically mentioned that higher gas prices are affecting their summer travel plans, likely making those road trips a lot less appealing.
What Can Travelers Do?
Feeling the pinch and worried about losing money on canceled plans? Ocañas offers some practical advice. She recommends looking into travel insurance, often available through credit card issuers or at the point of purchasing airline tickets. “Trip cancellation/interruption” coverage can be a lifesaver, allowing you to get reimbursed if you need to cancel, but be sure to check the covered reasons – unfortunately, simply deciding “things are too expensive now” isn’t typically a valid claim.
- Check your credit card benefits for travel insurance.
- Consider purchasing separate travel insurance for added protection.
- Understand the terms and conditions of your insurance policy.
- Look for flexible booking options when planning trips.
While 67% of respondents still plan to take up to two domestic trips and 44% are still aiming for international adventures, it’s clear that 2026 is shaping up to be a year of careful planning and budget-conscious travel for many.
Have your travel plans changed for 2026? What destinations are you still hoping to visit, or which ones have you had to cancel? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below!