by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 8:40 AM ET, Tue July 1, 2025
Ninety percent of American travelers plan to travel domestically this summer, despite serious concerns about personal finances and the economy, according to a new survey conducted by Enterprise Mobility.
Where are Americans Headed This Summer?
Sixty-six percent of Americans expect to take at least one overnight leisure trip this summer, with 90 percent of those planning to travel within the United States. Florida, California, Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio are among the top states people are heading to.
While summer is Europe's high tourism season, already prompting massive protests about overtourism, it appears that most Americans are traveling domestically due to economic concerns: 34 percent of Americans don't have travel plans this summer, largely because of their personal finances (39 percent) and the economy and inflation (35 percent).
Of those traveling, 62 percent expect to cut corners on their travel budget, trying not to buy new clothes, order takeout or dine out to afford their next trip. Seventy-five percent of Millennials are cutting corners elsewhere to afford their trip, as are 60 percent of Gen X-ers. Only 48 percent of Baby Boomers are doing the same.
What is the Preferred Summer Travel Method?
Enterprise Mobility's survey found that 60 percent of travelers expect to travel via their own car or a rental car. Twenty-three percent will rent a vehicle, either for a road trip or upon arrival at their destination. Gen X-ers and Baby Boomers are almost equally likely to road trip, at 65 and 63 percent, respectively.
"People are continuing to prioritize travel, and our research shows an increased interest in road trips this summer," said Bridget Long, senior vice president, North American operations, Enterprise Mobility. "The road trip is a quintessential summer experience, and our extensive network of neighborhood and airport locations makes it easy for travelers to explore and experience all this great country has to offer."
What are Americans Interested in This Summer?
Foodie experiences and cultural activities are top of mind for Americans this summer. Forty-six percent of travelers said they want to experience local food during their travels, and 33 percent reported a desire to experience culture and history, in addition to visiting friends or family.
Nearly a quarter of travelers (23 percent) plan to visit a bucket-list destination this summer, whether that be a national park or a popular city destination.
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