If there’s ever a time to really “live a little,” it’s on vacation. Whether it’s indulging in epicurean adventures or once-in-a-lifetime experiences, Americans are reveling in the idea that travel isn’t always just about the destination. In fact, 75% of travelers are likely to splurge on travel in 2025 for various reasons – from upping the enjoyment factor to creating more memories and opportunities to bond with family and friends. Americans ranked dining, attractions, shopping and outdoor adventure as the categories they are most likely to spend top dollar for – outranking accommodations and events.
Top categories for splurging include:
Microtrend: Why are Travelers Willing to Spend Top Dollar? Enjoyment.
For nearly 70% of travelers, splurging is a way to make the trip more enjoyable. Other common reasons include
- Adding memory-making opportunities (51%)
- Greater bonding with family and friends (50%)
- Having a once-in-a-lifetime experience (49%)
- Providing the comforts I’m used to at home (30%)
- Providing greater safety while traveling (27%)
- Capturing enviable photos to share on social media (26%)
- Celebrating a major life event (23%)
Microtrend: The Effects on Work Life
While travelers are keen to spend and splurge on their travels next year, how does this affect Americans’ working lives? It seems that the majority of travelers are willing to work while vacationing to make it all happen. Nearly 80% of people who can work remotely plan to work on their vacations next year. Of those who don’t have the option to work while traveling, nearly half would love to if they could. In fact, 53% of employees who are not allowed to work from personal trips are likely to do so anyway by sneaking in a remote vacation without telling their employer.
To 69% of employed Americans, working remotely while traveling and being discreet about their whereabouts seems like a great way to enjoy travel without wasting their paid time off, as opposed to the other cautious 31% who fear repercussions if any issues were to arise.
