Americans Adapt Travel Plans This Summer Amid Rising Airfare and Gas Prices

Rising fuel and airfare costs are reshaping summer travel plans in the U.S., with lower-income households cutting back more than wealthier ones. According to a Bank of America Institute report, 38% of lower-income families have no summer travel plans, compared to just 8% of higher-income households. The disparity reflects broader economic trends, where higher earners maintain spending while lower earners pull back. The increase in travel costs is tied to global oil supply disruptions, with regular gas now averaging $4.51 per gallon—up from $2.98 before the conflict in late February. Jet fuel prices have risen 62% since then, pushing airlines to raise fares and baggage fees. April airfares were 21% higher than the previous year, and further disruptions are expected if fuel costs remain elevated, according to the Airports Council International. Early bookings have helped some travelers avoid the worst of the price hikes, with 47% of survey respondents already having secured summer trips by early April, up from 38% in 2025. Larger tax refunds from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act also provided extra spending power for some households, which was directed toward travel. Florida remains the top domestic destination in 2026, surpassing California, followed by Texas and New York. Internationally, Mexico leads, with Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy rounding out the top spots. The FIFA World Cup is also drawing interest, with 40% of surveyed travelers planning trips to host cities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Despite some spending, Americans are not splurging on travel. Only 4% of respondents reported plans to spend more than $1,000 on a single trip, and 24% are heading to Europe this summer, up from 14% in 2024. The divide in travel behavior underscores the economic strain on lower-income families amid rising costs.