Memorial Day weekend is always busy, but 2025 took it to a whole new level. Americans packed their bags in record numbers, with more than 45 million people heading out for getaways and family visits.
That’s the biggest turnout in 20 years, and it says a lot about how eager people are to travel—even with money on their minds.
More People, More Nights Away
More folks than ever hit the road or the skies, and they didn’t just crash on a friend’s couch. Over half chose paid lodging like hotels and rentals, up from 48% in 2024. Clearly, after a couple of rough years, the thirst for travel is back, and people are willing to spend a bit for comfort.
Cost Still Matters—But Won’t Stop Travelers
Even though inflation and economic worries are still around, Americans decided travel wasn’t something to skip. The approach has shifted, though.
Instead of one or two long vacations, many are piecing together shorter trips they can afford—a quick beach weekend here, a few nights in the mountains there. Micro-cations (four nights or fewer) are the new norm.
The average summer vacation budget this year is around $3,470. Not a massive jump from last year, but it shows people are willing to plan and prioritize their escapes even if it means scaling back elsewhere.
Travelers are also cutting costs by booking budget hotels, staying with family, and passing on pricey tours or events.
Wealth and Worry: Who’s Still Traveling?
It’s not just families on summer break making these trips. Almost half of all travelers now come from households earning over $100,000 a year.
They’re able to keep up their travel routines despite higher prices. For households watching their wallets a bit more, there’s a clear trend: sticking closer to home. Domestic trips are winning out over big international adventures, thanks to rising costs and currency swings.
International Travel to the US Is Down
While Americans are seeing more of their own backyard, fewer international tourists are arriving in the US. Experts predict the country could lose as much as $12.5 billion in international visitor spending this year—a big hit for cities that usually count on those dollars during the summer.
The New Trend: Short & Sweet Trips
People are traveling more often but for less time. These bite-sized getaways are perfect for balancing budgets and fitting into busy schedules.
The old “one big summer trip” is fading out, replaced by several shorter, more affordable adventures.
What Does This Mean for the Travel Industry?
Hotels and travel companies are noticing the shifts. There’s more focus on flexible deals, easy booking, and helping travelers save where they can.
Even smaller hotels and local rentals are finding ways to attract guests with smarter pricing and personalized offers.
One Last Thing: Travel Smart
If you’re planning a trip this summer, remember to check travel advisories—some regions still have warnings due to safety risks, like the Philippines.
Bottom line: Americans aren’t letting economic worries hold them back from exploring. They’re just getting smarter about how, where, and how often they travel.
Memorial Day 2025 set the tone: more trips, shorter stays, and a clear love for hitting the road—no matter what.
Want more travel trends or tips? Keep an eye on this space for the latest updates and inspiration!