LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – A new study found that the cost of travel beginning this June is on the rise, particularly compared to last year. 

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According to the study from ElitePersonalFinance, which assembled much of its data from American Automobile Association (AAA), at least 55% of adults in the USA will go on vacation, even if only for a single evening.  

“Travel demand has come roaring back this summer and we’re already seeing large crowds at popular domestic and international travel destinations,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “The recent decision to lift all international travel restrictions will only add to demand. So, we encourage travelers to do their research and work with a travel expert. They can help you find the best value on a relaxing vacation.”

Data from AAA illustrate that more than 80% of Michiganders will travel this year, with more than 50% taking a summer vacation.  

  • 40% – Lake Destinations
  • 37% – Beach Destinations
  • 32% – National/State Park
  • 30% – City/Major Metro Destination
  • 27% – Theme Park

According to the data, many elements of vacation have increased in cost from the pre-COVID days including: activities, accommodations, and destinations, and the relative length of some destinations peak and low seasons. 

Other estimates indicate that the average vacation for one person in the U.S. costs nearly $2,000 per week, while a vacation for two people costs more than $3,800 per week. 

A breakdown of the transportation costs demonstrate some options that travelers have including roughly $330 for domestic round trip flight, $810 for an international round trip flight, $72 per day rental car costs, nearly $60 in gas per day, $32.50 to $75 per day in airport parking costs, and $36 per day in public transit and rideshare services. 

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The U.S. Travel Association has published its monthly travel report and found several key findings regarding travel compared to last year. 

“Air travel demand remains strong compared to last year and was up 10% in April compared to the same month last year yet was even with 2019 levels,” it said, “Overseas arrivals also receded a bit in April and were still 27% below 2019 levels.” 

Lodging costs also were broken down by average with Double-occupancy hotel rooms at the top costing more than $200 a night, then vacation rentals costing upwards of $130 per night, followed by single-person hotel rooms averaging a little more than $100 per night, and lastly RV campsites ranging between $30 to $50 per night. 

Food costs have also increased, but overall spending could be reduced according to one source by making more meals at home. The average restaurant meal costs nearly $20 per person per day, while three meals for one person averages just below $50 a day. 

AAA also encouraged getting travel insurance as it could enable the buyer to cancel for any reason, adjust to canceled or delayed flights, and protect American travelers abroad should they need medical aid.