The Stay-Here Summer

American travelers are abandoning international trips this summer, opting for domestic vacations due to record-high fuel and airfare costs. According to Expedia’s *Unpack ’26 Summer* report, 63% of U.S. travelers plan to stay within the country, with social media discussions about domestic trips doubling. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) show airline fares surged 20.7% year-over-year, while jet fuel costs hit $6.47 billion in April 2026—a 78% increase from 2025. The average price per gallon of jet fuel rose to $4.11, up nearly 30% from the prior month, forcing airlines to raise ticket prices. This financial squeeze has redirected spending toward affordable, high-value domestic destinations. Expedia’s search data highlights a surge in interest for outdoor-focused cities, with St. George, Utah, leading at +125% growth due to its proximity to Zion National Park and red-rock hiking. Tacoma, Washington, saw a 120% increase, positioning itself as a budget-friendly gateway to Mount Rainier and Olympic National Parks. Other top destinations include Asheville, North Carolina (+80%), known for craft breweries and the Blue Ridge Mountains, and Bradenton, Florida (+75%), serving as a gateway to Anna Maria Island’s beaches. The shift reflects broader travel trends, with Americans prioritizing shorter drives or quick domestic flights over expensive international trips. The U.S. Travel Association’s Travel Price Index (TPI) shows motor fuel prices rose 40.9% year-over-year, further discouraging long-haul travel. Instead of canceling vacations, travelers are reallocating budgets toward national parks, coastal towns, and underrated urban hubs that offer outdoor recreation without the high costs of international travel. Expedia’s data reveals a clear preference for destinations offering natural attractions at lower transit costs. St. George’s appeal lies in its accessibility to Zion National Park and Snow Canyon State Park, while Tacoma’s rise reflects its role as an affordable alternative to Seattle. Asheville’s growth is tied to its craft brewery scene and mountain landscapes, while Florida’s Bradenton and Siesta Key attract beachgoers seeking powder-white sand and surf culture. Truckee, California, rounds out the list with a 40% increase, driven by its proximity to Lake Tahoe and mountain recreation. The trend underscores how economic pressures are reshaping travel patterns, with Americans seeking value without sacrificing adventure. Domestic destinations are benefiting from this shift, offering diverse experiences from hiking and surfing to brewery tours and national park exploration—all within reach of tighter travel budgets.