Domestic trips by US residents

Domestic travel by US residents is forecast to grow by 4.0% in 2026, supported by World Cup matches scheduled across major US cities from the West Coast to the East Coast, which will encourage fans to follow their favorite teams and attend related events nationwide. Additional demand will stem from major artists returning from hiatus and launching large major nationwide concert tours, adding momentum to trip growth throughout the year. Rising interest in luxury destinations within the United States will further stimulate high-end travel, boosting spending in markets that cater to affluent consumers and reinforcing these domestic travel gains overall.

The period from 2021 to 2026 saw US domestic travel undergo dramatic fluctuation. As conditions eased, 2021 saw a 79.5% rebound, fueled by pent-up demand and the resumption of mobility. Accumulated savings and federal stimulus initiatives supported continued gains in 2022 (23.9%), although the pace moderated in subsequent years. By 2023, market normalization combined with higher transportation and accommodation costs, while Federal Reserve rate hikes curbed discretionary spending, leading to a 9.2% growth rate that slowed further to 3.6% in 2024. Across this period, recurring inflation and volatile oil prices continuously challenged consumer affordability, but persistent demand, online booking innovations, and the emergence of budget airlines helped maintain sector resilience. Digital platforms enhanced price transparency, and changing demographics—such as a higher share of Millennial travelers and aging populations with disposable income—further shaped trip frequency and destination preferences. Business travel remained subdued as virtual meeting technologies removed the need for in-person interactions for many organizations. A modest reversal in ticket prices and the growing presence of low-cost carriers facilitated travel, with the sector achieving a 7.2% compound annual growth over the five-year span and regaining ground above pre-pandemic levels.