USA | New data suggested that 38 percent of Americans haven't booked summer travel as of yet, but plan to before the holidays.
Summer travel is still on for many, even though 38 percent of US travellers haven't booked their summer vacations this year but are actively looking, with getting the best price (20 percent) emerging as one of the biggest summer planning hurdles. Skyscanner is here to help travellers plan smarter with more confidence and options. Skyscanner's 2026 Smarter Summer report is here to help travellers plan smarter with more confidence and options.
For many travellers, summer travel planning isn't just about inspiration. It's about navigating real hurdles, working around fixed dates, coordinating with others, avoiding crowds, and trying not to overpay in the busiest travel season of the year. In today's more complex travel environment, thoughtful planning matters more than ever. This year's report aims to help travellers solve these hurdles with practical solutions, powered by Skyscanner data.
Cost remains a primary concern for many travellers. American travellers are expecting to spend USD 331 on flights on average for their summer vacation abroad. Nearly two in three (61 percent) US travellers have the ability to outsmart summer, with flexibility being key. That matters because being open on timing or destination can make a real difference to what summer vacation costs.
Skyscanner's top flexible travel hacks include travelling in a cheaper week, trying cheaper alternative destinations, and checking live fares, with return flights currently available from the US for under USD 250, including to San Juan from New York, to São Paulo from Miami, and to Orlando from Los Angeles.
With nearly 25 percent of Americans unsure which part of the summer offers the cheapest flights, the year's report reveals the week of August 17, 2026, offers the best value for summer flights. For many travellers, summer dates are not fully flexible. With 16 percent saying their travel plans are restricted by school holidays or other commitments, the report highlights where better value can still be found. Tokyo remains one of the most popular summer destinations for Americans, but even here, timing can make a real difference. The week commencing August 31, 2026, offers the best value for flights. Overall, this will save American travellers USD 130 this summer by identifying the cheapest week to fly to the summer's most popular destinations.
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