Travel bookings to warm weather destinations spike as cabin fever sets in for Americans \n
Mar 7, 2022 | Travel
ORLANDO, Fla. (Mar. 7, 2022) – Travelers, wanting to escape a cold and snowy winter, are booking trips to warmer destinations in record numbers according to new booking data from AAA. Flights, tours, car rentals and hotels booked for March, April and May to places like Florida, Mexico and Hawaii are up 211% over last year and 10% over 2019. AAA finds the top trending destinations for a spring vacation include sandy beaches, blue water, clear skies and something everyone is ready to leave behind – freezing temperatures.
“People taking tropical and beach vacations this time of year isn’t new,” said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel. “It’s the number of bookings we’re seeing, with increases in the triple digits over last year and even beating pre-pandemic volumes. The moral of the story is that people, more than ever, want to get away and enjoy a little taste of paradise.”
AAA data reveals reservations for places with warmer temperatures, beaches and outdoor activities increased 27% from December to January.
Beaches mostly top the list of where travelers plan to go this spring but some popular family vacation spots like Orlando or big cities like Las Vegas also made the cut. These destinations represent bookings for flights, tours, car rentals and hotels.
For those travelers looking to stay a little closer to home, road trips are still a popular choice. These are the top TripTik destinations as of January.
Travelers who want to make the most of their warm weather holiday need the right vacation planning tools and should be mindful of any COVID-19-related travel safety guidance. To find the best a destination has to offer for both activities, attractions, accommodations and dining, check out AAA’s TourBooks and Diamond Ratings.
“Plan, plan and plan some more,” added Twidale. “Traveling in 2022 is absolutely possible but doing your research, working with a trusted travel agent and purchasing travel insurance are all a must. Make reservations early as space is limited and prices are going up.”
Once the planning is done, keep these other tips in mind as you head out on your tropical vacation:
To check out these and other hot spots, visit AAA Vacations or our digital TourBooks.
About AAA:
Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America’s largest membership organizations. Today, AAA provides roadside assistance, travel, discounts, financial and insurance services to enhance the life journey of 62 million members across North America, including 56 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA has to offer or to become a member, visit AAA.com.