LEXINGTON, Ky. – AAA Travel bookings point to a new trend: indulgence. According to the latest data, travelers spent 35% more per trip in 2023 than in 2022, and increased the length of each stay by more than 20%.
On National Plan for Vacation Day, January 30, travelers are encouraged to plan for vacation. Each year, Americans leave more than 600 million vacation days unused. But when it comes to taking a vacation, it is the planners of the world who get the job done.
“We’re seeing an increase in travel overall, but AAA Travel bookings are also showing that people are spending more on their getaways and staying longer,” said Lori Weaver Hawkins, public affairs manager, AAA Club Alliance. “Travelers who want guided tours or the best rooms on cruises will need to book further in advance. Those types of options are selling out more quickly, with premium add-ons and upgrades increasingly popular.”
In 2022, those who booked travel through AAA spent an average of about $3,700 and traveled approximately seven and a half days. Last year, the average booking was more than $5,000 and travel time was extended to more than nine days, a significant increase.
AAA has also seen an upturn in travel items for international travel. Passport photos increased in 2023 over 2022 by 32%, while requests for international driving permits increased by 38%. When you pair that with the travel trend of Heritage Tourism, international travel continued its upward trend last year.
Heritage Tourism is defined as “traveling to experience the places, artifacts, and activities that authentically represent the stories and people of the past and present.” Heritage tours are especially popular with multi-generational family travel bookings.
“If grandparents came over as immigrants or if somewhere there is known heritage or lineage to another country, families are increasingly exploring those roots,” Weaver Hawkins adds.
Preparing for flight
In keeping with the trend toward indulgence, ease of travel is also in high demand, as evidenced by a record number of travelers attending TSA PreCheck® events at AAA Retail locations. Last year, almost 30,000 travelers visited AAA to enroll in the program that affords flyers an expedited experience through airport security. “We expect the popularity of this offering to continue this year,” said Weaver Hawkins. “More and more travelers are opting to avoid long security lines and the inconvenience of removing their shoes, while also reducing the number of contact points when passing through the airport.”
AAA is offering several TSA PreCheck® events at retail locations in Kentucky. Check AAA.com/TSA throughout the year to find a date and location near you.
AAA’s six tips for travel in 2024:
- Book early – Flights, hotels, tours, cruises and car rentals remain at a premium. The earlier you book, the better your chance to lock in favorable rates and take advantage of discounts for pre-paying.
- Work with a travel advisor – Air travel disruptions, such as flight delays or cancellations, are not uncommon. A trusted travel advisor can help you explore options, book the best deals and advocate on your behalf should any issues arise, ensuring the best possible travel experience from beginning to end. For those who prefer a DIY approach, AAA’s Trip Canvas tool allows you to explore and book travel on your own, but still provides access to AAA travel advisors should any issues arise before or during your trip.
- Protect your investment – AAA strongly recommends travel insurance. A solid policy provides a safety net should something unexpected happen ahead of or during your trip. Policies vary, so talk to your travel advisor about options. They know you, your trip, your budget and your specific needs and can easily walk you through what travel insurance policy makes the most sense.
- Protect your ID – In addition to protecting physical documents such as your passport, travelers should take extra steps to avoid identity theft, an inconvenience at any time but especially when traveling. AAA members get free Identify Theft Protection with their membership, one of AAA’s most valued offerings.
- Track your luggage – Pack peace of mind by including a tracking device in your luggage. That way, if your luggage does not arrive when you do, at least you will be able to see where it is and ensure its safe return. Trackers are available at most AAA Retail locations or online at Shop.ClubAlliance.AAA.com.
- Exchange for foreign currency in advance – AAA Retail locations offer most foreign currencies. Exchange in advance to ensure you have some money on hand as soon as you touch down in your international destination.
