The U.S. Travel Association predicts growth beyond this year for travel in the United States. The association forecasts a “mega-decade” of travel, with numerous high-profile events expected to attract tourists from around the world.
Landmark occasions, such as the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence — also known as the nation’s semi-quincentennial — will spark a myriad of special events across the country. Experts also anticipate an increase in international tourism in the coming years. The next decade includes the United States hosting parts of the FIFA World Cup in 2026, the Summer Olympics in 2028, the Men’s and Women’s Rugby World Cups in 2031 and 2033, and the Winter Olympics in 2034.
Specifically, U.S. Travel forecasts nearly 9% growth for both inbound international visits in 2025 and an almost 9% overall growth in 2026.
Whether attending one of these major U.S. events or taking the annual family vacation during peak seasons, experts recommend sticking to tried-and-true travel tips. These strategies include booking well in advance, avoiding popular travel days, and maintaining a flexible schedule while on vacation.
Plan Ahead For Maximum Flexibility
Experts consistently recommend that travelers plan their trips as early as possible, and this advice especially rings true during busy seasons. Alexandra Caspero, travel writer and Owner of Delish Knowledge, advises, “Start booking now, as booking early often secures better pricing and availability,” she says.
Those desirable prices require families to think outside the box and consider flights that depart at less desirable times. Caspero adds, “If you plan on flying, choosing flights at less popular times often means good deals. For weekend trips, look into late-night or early-morning flights that can often be half the price of the same flight a few hours earlier or later.” Caspero adds that mid-week flights often yield better prices and fewer crowds at the airport.
Oftentimes, families find that driving to the destination versus flying brings more savings to the vacation. “I consider the cost of the tickets, whether we will need a car at our location, and ease of getting to and from the airport,” Caspero says.
Caspero lives four hours from Chicago and Nashville, offering quick, easy flights to both destinations. That said, Caspero diversifies how her family travels to each city. “We prefer to drive to Nashville as we want a car while we are there, and fly to Chicago as it has easy public transportation to and from the airport, and we don’t need a car while we visit.”
If opting to drive during busy travel seasons, Caspero urges families to hit the roads as early as possible, especially when navigating a major city. That way, they will encounter fewer cars in the morning ahead of rush hour.
Sarah Gilliland, founder of On the Road with Sarah, also argues in favor of driving to a destination. “It gives families a lot of control over when, where, and how they vacation,” she notes. “While you do have to account for wear on the vehicle as well as fuel costs, overall, those tend to cost less than flying, and depending on other transportation at the destination.”
For highly anticipated events like the Olympics, families must also prioritize purchasing tickets and securing hotel accommodations well in advance. These tips apply to year-round popular destinations such as major cities or theme parks.
Prepare For Busy Airports
The best-laid plans will still encounter some snags on the travel day itself during peak travel times. Strategizing ways to avoid delays, long lines, and an overall anxious mindset will set any vacation off on the right foot.
Busy travel seasons, such as holidays or special events, cause inevitable crowding at the airport and on roadways. Experts urge families to consider ways to minimize wait times, as Marjolein Dilven, founder of Spark Nomad, explains.
“Smart planning makes all the difference,” Dilven states. “If you and your family are flying in, book early-morning flights to avoid delays and always opt for nonstop flights when possible.” Dilven also stresses the importance of online check-in the day before flying and of using TSA PreCheck to bypass the regular security lines.
Caspero argues that building in buffer time during peak travel seasons extends beyond the security line. She adds, “Extra time allows for time to check into a lounge, for bathroom breaks, meal purchases, and a chance to decompress before boarding.” For Caspero, preventing the chances of a frantic airport experience starts the trip on the right foot.
<p>The post Could The U.S. Be Facing Its Busiest Decade of Travel? Experts Share Their Tips For Dealing With Crowds While Traveling first appeared on Travelbinger.</p>