More than one-third of Americans will take a family vacation this year
Aug 9, 2016 | Travel
School is out for summer and 35 percent of Americans are planning to travel 50 miles or more through the remainder of 2016, according to a new AAA survey.
AAA Travel experts offer tips for the top five most popular vacation options for traveling families:
Life is a highway – 69 percent of travelers will hit the road. Drivers this summer should pay the lowest gas prices in 12 years, motivating Americans to drive at record levels. Fifty-five percent of Americans say they are more likely to take a road trip this year due to lower gas prices. Tools such as AAA’s TripTik Travel Planner, in desktop and app versions, can help families find AAA Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants, gas prices and plan fun stops along the way.
Explore the parks – 49 percent will take it outside. The National Park Service (NPS) celebrates its centennial anniversary in 2016, making it a great year for travelers to discover the parks. Plan on starting a trip through the Grand Canyon around sunrise, as popular parks may reach capacity during peak travel times. To celebrate, NPS is offering fee-free days on April 16-24, Aug. 25-28, Sept. 24 and Nov. 11.
Thrill ride – 42 percent of families will seek adventure. Take a trip to Orlando to explore the most popular theme parks this summer. For families with flexible travel schedules, early May and September are great times to visit theme parks, when travelers can experience lighter crowds, cooler weather and shorter lines. AAA members can experience savings and extra member benefits when visiting theme parks in Orlando. See discount tickets.
Passports ready – 26 percent of families are picking international destinations. Thanks to favorable exchange rates and discounted pricing, many families will plan trips to international destinations this year. The current strength of the dollar makes international travel especially affordable right now and Americans will get more for their money when visiting destinations around the world.
Set sail – 16 percent are taking to the water. Cruises offer a variety of activities for all ages, plus children’s programs that give parents a chance to relax and unwind. Cruise Lines International Association forecasts 24 million vacationers will cruise the world’s waterways in 2016, one million more than last year. AAA travel agents can help cruisers identify the cruise line, ship and itinerary that best suit their family.
Before setting out on a family vacation, download the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. Travelers can use the app to map a route, find the lowest gas prices, access exclusive member discounts, find more than 58,000 AAA Approved and Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants, request AAA roadside assistance and more.
AAA is a full-service travel agency. For more information, visit www.AAA.com/travel.