2025 Spring Travel Takeoff

2025-03-17

Spring is just around the corner– time to pack your bags and prepare for takeoff! The travel industry is poised for a surge, with a record-breaking 5.2 billion passengers expected to take flight in 2025 and U.S. travel spending projected to reach $1.35 trillion, according to the U.S. Travel Association. After summer, spring ranks as the second most popular travel season for Americans, with 55% planning a trip. Gen Z, the youngest generation, is quickly becoming the fastest-growing consumer group in the travel industry, and according to a TravelAge West survey, is the only generation to demonstrate year-over-year growth in travel spending from 2023-2024. This trend is particularly evident in the spring, when Gen Zers eagerly splurge on activities like spring break.

Spring Break’s Travel Bloom

With ideal weather, fewer crowds, and more deals, it’s no surprise travelers are taking full advantage of this season. After a 26% increase in spring break travel in 2024, the industry is prepared for another successful season, as TravelPulse reports that Americans are undeterred by inflation and continue to view spring break travels as an investment. In fact, approximately 80 million Americans take part in spring break trips each year, with beach cities gaining the most tourism.

Top spring break destinations according to Travel + Leisure:

  • Destin, Florida

  • Palm Springs, California

  • Hilton Head, South Carolina

  • Cannon Beach, Oregon

2025 Travel Trends

Recent data reveals a strong preference among U.S. travelers for domestic destinations, while international travel is experiencing lower participation, highlighting a growing focus on convenience and affordability. Niche experiences, such as adventure holidays and cruises, are also gaining popularity, reflecting an increasing demand for unique travel experiences. However, package holidays and long-haul trips continue to be less common, emphasizing a trend toward shorter, more personalized trips.

Key Traveler Insights

When selecting a destination, 64% of travelers consider favorable weather a top priority, with culinary experiences (61%) and attractions (57%) following closely behind. Cost is another crucial factor, as flights (51%) and accommodations (50%) significantly influence vacation decisions. Travel inspiration primarily comes from word of mouth (49%), while social media (41%) and online media (31%) also play important roles.

Ad Strategies for Brands to Consider

  • Ongoing Insights: Stay connected with your target audience by regularly analyzing location data to identify emerging travel trends early.
  • Unique Experience Messaging: Advertisers should tailor their campaigns to align with consumers’ growing demand for unique experiences and value over cost. Reaching the right audience with personalized packages for events, cultural immersion, or niche interests will be highly effective.
  • Leveraging Artificial Intelligence: Utilize AI and data-driven targeting to deliver hyper-personalized offers and itineraries based on your audience preferences.
  • Event Tourism: Position campaigns around major events to tap into heightened traveler interest and maximize spending opportunities.

As consumers increasingly prioritize experiences over material goods, brands can capitalize on this shift by emphasizing value and exclusivity to capture a growing share of this revitalized market.

Count on Causal to Maximize Your Brand

As travelers start planning their spring trips, it’s crucial for brands to promote the strengths that set them apart, fostering trust and loyalty among consumers. Causal’s Travel Intelligence offers a comprehensive report, providing insights from ad impressions to visitation and other key metrics. By utilizing Causal’s consumer targeted technology, your brand can gain a competitive advantage, connecting with travelers from the planning stage through booking, ultimately boosting market share and maximizing ROI.

Sources

SkyScanner: US Travel Trends 2025
Travel Age West: Everything to Know About Spring Travel Trends for 2025
Travel Age West: With Rising Trip Intention and Spending, Gen Z Is Becoming Travel’s Fastest-Growing Consumer Segment
Travel and Leisure: 10 Best Spring Break Destinations in the U.S.
U.S. Travel Association: Travel Forecast 2025

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