Upcoming travel trends in the US for 2025: expenditures that are likely to occur, yet potential for reduced social shares online
In 2025, a shift towards authentic, affordable, and experience-driven travel is becoming increasingly popular among Americans. A survey of 3,000 travelers revealed the top travel trends Americans are investing in, with a focus on low-season travel, solo travel, destination dupes, sports tourism, human rewilding, the benefits of boredom, heritage/DNA travel, regenerative tourism, and skillcations.
Despite some travelers viewing these trends as overrated, 33% of respondents are using travel advisors this year, relying on their expertise for destination suggestions, insider tips and perks, timing suggestions, group travel coordination, documentation help, and even 24/7 support for non-emergencies.
One interesting finding is the rise in less conventional travel choices. Many Americans are favoring road trips over air travel due to rising flight costs, seeking more flexible, local experiences such as visiting national parks (Yellowstone, Glacier, Yosemite, Zion) and scenic drives like the Pacific Coast Highway and Great River Road. Small-town and regional escapes to places like Cape May (NJ), Portland (ME), and Lake George (NY) are also trending, as travelers seek charming, less touristy spots.
The desire for "cowboy culture" and Western-themed destinations (Nashville, Reno, Denver) is gaining interest, while the pursuit of "dark skies" tourism—seeking out remote natural spots for stargazing and northern lights—also fits within this niche, less conventionally glamorous travel trend.
These patterns reflect a growing preference for authentic, affordable, and experience-driven travel among Americans, even if some individuals feel reluctant to openly admit enjoying such "unconventional" or "non-luxury" pursuits.
Other notable trends include a rise in wellness escapes featuring cryotherapy, red light therapy, and even stem cell treatments, as well as a growing interest in multi-generational trips and luxury pet travel. However, 24% of travelers express concern about being judged, with 24% planning to keep at least one of their trips a secret.
It is recommended that all travelers invest in whole-trip travel insurance and 23% of respondents rely on travel advisors for travel insurance. Additionally, 11% of luxury pet travelers are spending over $10,000 per person, while 19% of travelers are hesitant to disclose their travel expenditures.
In conclusion, the travel landscape in 2025 is shifting towards more affordable, authentic, and experience-driven options, with Americans embracing a variety of unconventional travel trends that cater to their unique interests and preferences.
- Americans are heavily invested in low-season travel as part of the trend towards authentic, affordable, and experience-driven trips in 2025.
- Solo travel is a popular trend among travelers in 2025, with many seeking unique travel experiences.
- The itinerary for a traveler's vacation may now include suggestions for destination dupes, providing similar experiences at a lower cost.
- The rise in sports tourism is a notable trend in 2025, with travelers planning trips around sports events like the Champions League, NFL, soccer, WNBA, baseball, hockey, European leagues, basketball, NCAABasketball, MLB, Premier League, American football, NBA, Serie A, LaLiga, and NCAA football.
- Human rewilding is a new travel trend that focuses on immersive, nature-based experiences, promoting personal growth and development.
- The benefits of boredom are being recognized as a travel trend, with some travelers seeking out quieter, less-touristy destinations to disconnect and reflect.
- Heritage/DNA travel is gaining traction, as travelers delve into their family history and roots while exploring new destinations.
- Regenerative tourism is a growing trend, with travelers seeking out sustainable travel options and supporting local communities.
- Skillcations are a new travel trend, with travelers seeking out educational and self-improvement opportunities such as learning cooking, art, or language while on vacation.
- Road trips are becoming increasingly popular due to rising flight costs, with many Americans preferring flexible, local experiences over air travel.
- The Pacific Coast Highway and Great River Road are trending scenic drives among travelers looking for local experiences.
- Small-town and regional escapes, such as Cape May (NJ), Portland (ME), and Lake George (NY), are gaining popularity among travelers seeking charming, less touristy spots.
- The cowboy culture and Western-themed destinations like Nashville, Reno, and Denver are experiencing a resurgence in interest.
- Dark skies tourism is a growing trend, with travelers seeking out remote natural spots for stargazing and northern lights.
- The rise in wellness escapes features treatments such as cryotherapy and red light therapy, as well as stem cell treatments.
- Multi-generational trips are becoming more popular, with families opting to travel together and create shared memories.
- Luxury pet travel is a growing trend, with some travelers spendingOver $10,000 per person on their pets' travel expenses.
- It is highly recommended that travelers invest in whole-trip travel insurance to protect themselves from unexpected incidents.
- Many travelers rely on travel advisors for travel insurance recommendations.
- The entertainment industry is seeing a rise in celebrity endorsements for travel, with many celebrities promoting their personal travel experiences.
- Blackjack, big wins, and casino culture are increasingly popular among travelers, with many seeking out casinos and gambling opportunities.
- The online casino market is booming, with travelers able to play popular casino games like slots, roulette, and poker from the comfort of their homes.
- It is essential to understand the myths and history of Las Vegas, which has a rich and unique culture rooted in gambling, entertainment, and pop culture.
- Vegas-myths and culture are pervasive in the casino industry, with many fascinating tales and legends surrounding the city's history.
- Gambling trends are always evolving, with technology and social media playing a growing role in shaping the industry.
- Casinos are diving headfirst into the world of social media, using platforms like Instagram and TikTok to attract new audiences and showcase their offerings.
- The online lottery market is rapidly expanding, with many players taking advantage of the convenience and accessibility offered by online platforms.
- It is essential to be mindful of the gambling trends and better understand responsible gambling practices to avoid financial difficulties.
- Skills training and education in responsible gambling are becoming increasingly important, with many organizations offering resources and guidance.
- The sports industry is a significant driver of tourism, with major events like the Olympics and World Cup attracting millions of spectators and fans.
- Football, basketball, and hockey are some of the most popular sports among American travelers seeking sports tourism opportunities.
