As winter continues to be unrelenting in many parts of the country, many people are dreaming of escaping to a warmer climate for spring break. However, a recent survey conducted by YouGov on behalf of TPG found that these aspirations are being affected by high costs more than ever.
According to the survey, only 22% of American adults are planning to travel for spring break, with 66% of those who would have traveled stating that they were priced out of at least one of their first-choice destinations. The primary reasons cited for being priced out of their preferred destinations were expensive hotels or accommodations (32%), flights (29%), and the cost of visiting their first-choice location (25%).
To make their spring break trips happen, 70% of travelers are changing their travel plans in order to save money. This includes adjusting their destination, trip duration, mode of transportation, activities, and accommodations. Many travelers are opting to stay closer to home (35%), budgeting more for gas (33%), and driving instead of flying (32%). Some are also choosing trains over planes (22%).
However, the high costs of spring break trips this year are too prohibitive for some travelers, with 22% of respondents stating that they were not planning to travel because it was “too expensive.”
For those who still want to enjoy a spring break vacation, there are options for making it happen at a lower cost.
Camping is a great way to travel during spring break and save money in the process. Here are some ways camping can be a cheaper alternative to other forms of travel:
Accommodations: One of the biggest expenses when traveling is accommodations, but camping eliminates this cost. By bringing a tent and sleeping gear, you can save hundreds of dollars on hotel stays.
Food: Eating out can quickly add up, but with camping, you have the option to bring and prepare your own food. This not only saves money but also gives you more control over what you eat.
Transportation: If you have a car, camping eliminates the need for expensive transportation options such as flights or trains. You can simply pack your gear and hit the road, saving you money on transportation costs.
Activities: Many camping destinations offer a variety of free or low-cost activities, such as hiking, fishing, and exploring the great outdoors. This allows you to have fun and create memorable experiences without breaking the bank.
Flexibility: Camping offers a great deal of flexibility, allowing you to change your plans on the fly and stay longer in one place if you like it. This can help you save money by avoiding additional transportation costs.
Camping can be a great way to travel during spring break and save money at the same time. With a little planning and preparation, you can have a wonderful and budget-friendly adventure this spring.
Isn’t it remarkable how soaring costs are affecting spring break travel plans? Despite the challenges, there are still accessible options like road trips and budget-friendly activities. Have you considered exploring your own city or taking advantage of travel rewards programs to ease the financial impact?