survey reveals 2025 travel expenditures among Americans, potentially undisclosed on social media platforms
In a surprising turn of events, the travel industry is witnessing a shift in trends as Americans subtly steer towards more private, authentic, and personalised experiences. A recent survey of 3000 travelers has revealed these emerging behaviours that cater to the desire for privacy, authenticity, and personal wellbeing.
Seeking Lesser-Known Destinations
There is a strong movement away from overcrowded tourist hotspots towards smaller towns and unique locations that offer authentic, tranquil experiences. Searches for hidden gems increased 150% last year, and many travelers, especially Gen Z, favour quiet escapes like Fredericksburg, VA, or Oaxaca, Mexico over well-known destinations.
Embracing the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO)
Travelers are intentionally avoiding jam-packed itineraries in favour of slower, simpler trips focused on personal well-being, relaxation, and meaningful moments rather than conventional sightseeing. This trend emphasizes doing less and feeling more, helping to reduce stress and foster connection with loved ones.
AI-Assisted Personalised Itineraries
AI-assisted personalised itineraries enable effortless and flexible trip planning, allowing travelers to adapt spontaneously without stress.
The Resurgence of All-Inclusive Vacations
All-inclusive vacations are quietly regaining favour, especially among Gen Z, due to their convenience, luxury feel, and budget certainty without the pressure of fully packaged trips.
These trends are "secret" or under-the-radar because travelers want to avoid over-tourism overcrowding and the social pressures of showcasing idealized busy travel experiences. Instead, they seek meaningful, stress-free, and authentic escapes with a degree of privacy and spontaneity.
The Top Roles Travel Agents Play
While these trends may be under the radar, the top roles travel agents play remain consistent. The majority of Americans aim to spend between $1,000-$5,000 per trip on travel trends. The top 3 trip aspects travelers rely on agents for are budget management, travel insurance, and entire itinerary booking. Additionally, 23% of travelers rely on agents for travel insurance, 19% for documentation help, and 14% for emergency support.
In summary, the travel trends Americans are quietly embracing in 2025 reflect a desire for privacy, authenticity, mental wellbeing, and individualized experiences rather than mass tourism and traditional packed trips.
Budget management is crucial for travelers as they aim to spend between $1,000 and $5,000 per trip, making it one of the top roles travel agents play.
Travelers are deliberately shunning crowded destinations and opting for lesser-known locations that offer authentic, tranquil experiences, as seen in increased searches for hidden gems.
All-inclusive vacations are experiencing a resurgence, particularly among Gen Z, due to their convenience, luxury feel, and budget certainty, bucking the trend of fully packed trips.
Personalized itineraries assisted by AI help cater to the desire for flexibility and spontaneity while reducing stress during vacation planning. Furthermore, travelers rely on agents for travel insurance, document assistance, and emergency support during their journeys.
