Home > Articles > Tips for Planning a Summer Trip

Tips for Planning a Summer Trip

With the summer season upon us, according to AAA, more than 45 million Americans are expected to travel domestically for the Memorial Day holiday. The number counts people who will travel at least 50 miles from home from Thursday, May 22, to Monday, May 26.

AAA's projection of 45.1 million travelers would set a new Memorial Day record, surpassing the previous high of 44 million in 2005.

According to Bankrate’s 2025 Summer Travel information, about half (53%) of Americans are planning some type of summer getaway, whether domestic, international, or a relaxing stay at home vacation. 

Here are some helpful tips when planning your trip:


  • In order to save some money, first consider your budget.  Know the amount you allocated—then plan. Flights, lodging, food, extras should all be considered. This keeps you from impulse splurges later.

  • Be Flexible with Dates and Destinations if you have that capability.  Prices drop midweek and for lesser-known spots.

  • Use Travel Sites for the Best deals.  Sites such as AAA, Expedia, Priceline, Trip Advisor will allow you to compare airlines hotels, and car rentals, for reviews and  the best prices and deals.

  • Travel Light.  Some airlines charge fees for carryon luggage as well as checked bags.  Check your airline, train or cruise carriers for their baggage regulations. Use packing cubes and plan mix-and-match outfits to reduce luggage needed.

  • Book Accommodation with Kitchens.  Airbnb, Vrbo, or extended-stay hotels help you save on food by cooking in.

  • Join Rewards Programs.  Sign up for hotel or travel credit card programs to earn points, perks, or free nights.

  • Skip the Rental Car (If Possible).  Use public transit, walk, or ride-share. If you must rent, book early and avoid airport pickup fees.

  • Map Out Free Parking & Tolls.  Check sites and apps like Parking.com., Parkopedia, ParkMe, or Spot Angels to avoid expensive parking.

  • Look for Free or Low-Cost Attractions.  Museums, hikes, local events, free tours. Many cities have tourist passes that offer discounts.

  • Limit Restaurant Meals.  Grab breakfast at your lodging, picnic for lunch, and pick one great dinner spot per day.

  •       Buy Groceries and Snacks Locally. Convenience stores are overpriced. Hit a grocery store early on and stock up.

  •      Use a Travel Rewards Credit Card. Earn miles or cash back. Some also cover travel insurance or car rental protection.

  • Track Spending Daily. Use a budgeting app to avoid surprise overspending.

  • Avoid Airport and Hotel Markups. Bring your own water bottle, snacks, and charger. Hotel “convenience” comes at a premium.

  • Consider camping as a popular option. Especially since the advent of Covid, camping has increased in popularity.  Programs such as Harvest Hosts offers RVers options such as farms, wineries, breweries and distilleries for members to stay.

  • No matter if you are planning a long weekend excursion or a longer vacation trip, enjoy your travels!