Americans are traveling abroad in record numbers, with nearly 6.5 million U.S. citizens flying to international destinations in March alone. This surge in international travel marks the highest March total in over five years, indicating that the post-pandemic “revenge travel” trend is here to stay.
The trend of increased international travel is not limited to March, as every month of 2024 has seen more Americans leaving the country compared to the previous year and even 2019. This trend points towards a blockbuster summer for overseas travel, with nearly half of Americans planning to travel by air or stay in a hotel, expecting to spend an average of $3,594 on these expenses.
Despite rising travel prices causing some hesitancy among travelers, the desire to explore new destinations remains strong. The survey conducted by The Harris Poll and commissioned by NerdWallet found that 22% of those choosing not to travel this summer cite inflation making travel too expensive as a reason for staying home.
The increase in U.S. visitors to various regions around the world is significant, with Asia seeing a 33% jump, Oceania and Central America each experiencing a 30% increase in U.S. visitors. However, some regions like Canada and Oceania saw fewer visitors in March 2024 compared to 2019, indicating a shift in travel preferences post-pandemic.
As travel prices continue to rise, affordability will be a key factor influencing travel decisions. While some travelers may opt for budget-friendly destinations like Albania, others may choose to avoid crowded tourist spots like Japan, which has seen a 50% increase in U.S. tourists between March 2019 and 2024. Overall, the surge in international travel reflects a growing desire among Americans to explore new destinations and embrace the post-pandemic travel experience.