AAA says two years’ worth of pent-up demand is about to be unleashed this summer. According to a new quarterly survey from The Auto Club Group, Georgians are more comfortable traveling now, than any other time since the pandemic began. View the full survey.

Top reasons cited for increased comfort included:

• Receiving their COVID-19 vaccination (46%)
• Reports that COVID-19 cases and deaths are declining (33%)
• More knowledgeable about how the virus spreads (27%)

“We’re hearing from travelers who are eager to return to a sense of normalcy, and it appears that time is finally here,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Travel bookings are surging, with people who are tired of being home, are ready to explore new destinations and reconnect with family and friends.”

Summer Vacations in Full Swing

A recent AAA report revealed there are twice as many bookings of flights, hotels, cruises and rental cars for the 2022 Memorial Day weekend, compared to last year’s holiday.  AAA expects that momentum to carry into the summer travel season. 

Over 3 in 5 (63%) Georgians will take at least one trip in 2022. The largest share (53%) plan to travel this summer.

Most popular summer vacations:

• Beaches (53%)
• Theme Parks (34%)
• National/state parks (27%)
• Resort vacations (25%)
• City/major metro destinations (20%)
• Ocean cruise (20%)

“The summer travel season is less than a month away, yet 49% of Georgians say they haven’t booked their travel plans yet,” Haas continued. “My advice to them is to book now. Inflationary pressures and strong demand will make it harder to find a last minute deal. By booking early, you’ll have the best combination of availability and competitive pricing.” 

How Georgia Travelers are Combating Inflation

Although inflation is driving up costs, that doesn’t mean people are cancelling their trips. While a fifth of Georgians say inflation is not affecting their plans at all, 80% are making various adjustments to offset the added expense:

• Taking road trips instead of flying (30%)
• Choosing more affordable destinations (30%) – like traveling domestic instead of internationally
• Planning further ahead (27%)
• Staying in more affordable accommodations (25%) – like a cheaper hotel or sharing a rental with others

 The Effect of Rising Gas Prices on Travel

Gas prices are rising throughout much of the U.S., including in Georgia. Click here to view today's state average. Price gains are largely driven by a tightness in global fuel supply, and compounded by expectations that summer gasoline demand will be stronger than last year.

Despite higher gas prices, 85% of Georgia summer travelers still plan to take a road trip of 50 miles or more this summer. However, 74% of Georgians say they will adjust their travel habits to offset the higher price at the pump by:

• Taking fewer trips (30%)
• Taking shorter trips (26%)
• Traveling closer to home (25%)
• Budgeting more for gasoline and less on other aspects of their trip (19%)
• Staying at less expensive hotel (16%)

AAA’s Tips to Combat Higher Travel Prices

• Book early.  Prices rise as the travel date gets closer and availability diminishes.
• Be flexible with your dates and destinations. Select off-peak travel times, like when kids are in school. Prices are lower when there’s less demand.
• Participate in loyalty programs and memberships like AAA, which can provide discounted rates on hotels, dining and more.
• Use a travel agent. They have direct relationships with travel suppliers, enabling them to access travel pricing, inventory, and benefits you may not find on your own. 
• Don’t forget travel insurance. If you miss your trip for some reason, travel insurance can help recoup deposits and other expenses you may not otherwise get back. If your flight is cancelled or delayed, there are policies that can help offset additional expenses you weren’t prepared for. You could also receive financial compensation for flight delays of as little as 3 hours.

AAA Resources to Combat Higher Gas Prices

• Enroll in savings programs. AAA Members who enroll in Shell's Fuel Rewards program can save 30 cents per gallon on their first fill-up and 5 cents per gallon each additional trip to the pump. Click here for more information.
• Get a tune-up. Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained to optimize its fuel economy. Visit AAA.com/AutoRepair to find a certified repair shop.
• Find the lowest gas prices in your area by using the free AAA mobile app.
• Determine anticipated fuel costs for your trip by using the AAA's Gas Cost Calculator.