by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 7:35 PM ET, Tue July 22, 2025
While travel to the United States from other countries is slowing, Americans are busy globetrotting themselves and some are doing so with a new mindset.
A growing number of Americans are focused on indulging in luxury, wellness and bleisure (extending business trips to include a personal escape), according to the latest Vacation Confidence Index from travel insurance provider Allianz.
"Three quarters of Americans say vacations are important to them so it's no surprise that they are seeking out opportunities to make the most of their time off, and the trend is clear – travelers are prioritizing quality experiences, personal well-being, and greater flexibility," says Emily Hartman, General Manager at Allianz Partners USA.
When it comes to the growing penchant for bleisure travel, it seems that whether it's tacking on a weekend after a conference or arriving early to explore a new city, there’s a marked shift in how professionals are maximizing travel, according to the Vacation Confidence Index, which is based on an Ipsos poll that was conducted in April and involved 2,004 Americans.
“Fueled by flexible work policies and a desire to make the most of time away from home, bleisure trips offer a balance of productivity and relaxation, turning business travel into an opportunity for both connection and recharge,” according to the new report.
It’s not just any kind of bleisure that’s gaining popularity, however. Travelers are specifically seeking upgraded experiences.
More than 3 in 10 Americans or about 31 percent (up four points from 2024) are investing in luxury travel experiences, with interest especially high among Gen Z and Millennials, according to the report.
These numbers apparently reflect a broader prioritization and focus among American travelers on comfort, exclusiveness, and personalized experiences – whether that means upgraded accommodations, bespoke itineraries, or five-star wellness retreats.
Accompanying the rise in luxury travel is a growing desire for experiences that promote well-being, rest, and renewal, says the new report. The intensifying interest in self-care and wellness is also driving an increase in travel with 39 percent of survey participants saying that they plan to travel more specifically because of a commitment to self-care.
The trend is most prevalent among men and younger travelers aged 18 to 34.
“As Americans continue to navigate economic uncertainty and shifting work dynamics, they're redefining what travel means, and what it's worth,” suggests Allianz. “Whether blending business and leisure through bleisure trips, investing in luxury escapes, or prioritizing wellness-focused getaways, today's travelers are seeking more intentional, enriching experiences."
Those elevated travel choices reflect a deeper desire for balance, personalization, and meaningful time away.
“In a world where time feels scarce and unpredictability remains, Americans are showing they're willing to spend smarter, and not just more, on travel that delivers lasting value,” says Allianz.
The Vacation Confidence Index has been conducted each summer since 2009 by national polling firm Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of Allianz Partners USA. A vacation is defined as a leisure trip of at least one week to a place that is 100 miles or more from home.
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