Data: Americans’ top summer vacation choices (and where they’re spending big)

Summer travel is officially around the corner, but this year, Americans are packing something extra—caution. According to our recent data, 90% of travelers are heading abroad this coming season, with the #1 policy add-on being Cancel For Any Reason coverage.

Whether it’s chasing bucket-list experiences or simply soaking up Europe’s charm, this summer’s all about playing it smart.

Where are travelers going—and spending—the most this summer?

Europe is still the star of the show. From Italy’s cultural celebrations, to France’s romantic appeal, to the UK’s royal events, travelers will be flying in left and right. Italy’s allure includes the Venice Biennale and iconic spots like Rome’s Colosseum. France is basking in the glow of the Rugby World Cup, Paris’s magic, and Bordeaux’s vineyards. Meanwhile, the UK is serving up pageantry and must-see festivals.

veniceinthesummer 1

The top 10 2025 summer destinations are:
  1. Italy
  2. France
  3. UK
  4. Germany
  5. Canada
  6. Greece
  7. Spain
  8. Switzerland
  9. The Netherlands
  10. The US

     

With the economy top of mind, it’s important to note that trips have indeed become a bit more expensive this year, if you compare this summer’s average vacation cost to last summer’s.

2024 summer trips (June 20, 2024 – Sept 22, 2024) cost an average of $3,207/person, and 2025 summer trips (June 21, 2025-Sept 22, 2025) cost an average of $5,759/personThat’s a 79.57% increase from year to year.

With that said, some are spending above average this coming season.

 

The 10 destinations travelers are splurging on the most this summer are: 
  1. Rwanda: $18,190 per traveler
  2. Botswana: $16,116 per traveler
  3. Kenya: $14,877 per traveler
  4. Zambia: $14,852 per traveler
  5. Namibia: $14,314 per traveler

     

It’s no surprise Greenland is having a moment. With new direct flights from the U.S. to Nuuk, and heightened interest following U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent visit in January 2025, and Vice President JD Vance’s trip in March 2025, suddenly all eyes are on the Arctic. Travelers are adding it to their must-see list and ready to splurge on experiences like iceberg cruises and whale-watching.

Glaciers in Greenland 

Why travelers are booking cautiously

Travelers are hitting ‘book’—but with a side of caution. 

Travel insurance sales have jumped 15% month-over-month since January. This could be attributed to overall global volatility (international tensions), as well as uncertainty about one’s personal finances (job security, etc). 

This is likely why Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage is the #1 supplemental coverage Faye travelers are adding on to their base policies. With this add-on, travelers can get up to 75% back on non-refundable trip costs if they cancel their trip 48 hours before departure.

Wherever this summer takes you, Faye’s here to help

From the vineyards of Bordeaux to Greenland’s icy shores—bring Faye along for the adventure. Travelers trust us to turn unexpected hiccups into smooth sailing, thanks to flexible coverage, lightning-fast reimbursements on approved claims, and genuinely helpful humans on standby, 24-7. 

Ready to jet off stress-free? Check your coverage options now, or chat with our team—we’re here to help your summer dreams take flight.

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