The U.S. travel market is going strong despite headwinds from the economy.Skyrocketing costs, flight cancellations and growing recession concerns do not seem to be putting a damper on the travel sector yet, according to the latest research from OAG.ADVERTISINGThe research, based on data from OAG's Flightview flight-tracking app, found that 27 percent more people are traveling this summer compared to 2021. In addition, 63 percent are booking international flights, and nearly 60 percent are planning to visit a destination they haven’t visited before. Trending Now More than 50 percent of travelers are planning their trips between two and six months in advance and 11 percent are booking more than six months out.When it comes to finances, most travelers said that they are not deterred by increases in prices if those amounts are $50-$100 more. However, the research showed that consumers are extremely less likely to book with $200 and $300-plus increases (45 percent and 68 percent respectively).Business travel is also back. Eighty-nine percent of respondents said they have already traveled for business in 2022, and 90 percent report that their company is planning travel in the next 12 months. Fifty percent said that their business travel plans will return to pre-pandemic levels or increase over the next year.“After lockdowns and restrictions, travelers just want to take their long-awaited holiday, even if it means higher fares, crowded airports and service inconveniences due to shortage of staff," said John Grant, Chief Analyst at OAG. "While inflation and concerns of a recession might impact the recovery in the second half of the year, market demand and scheduled capacity for the next three months is at its strongest since 2019.”For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter. Adblock test (Why?)

It is the summer of flight delays and that means added anxiety for family travelers.Some of the most popular travel destinations also have airports with some of the worst flight delays.ADVERTISINGThe Family Vacation Guide put together research on the airports with the most delays as well as the airlines with the most delays. The data showed that Newark Liberty International in New Jersey had the most. On-time arrivals came in at 75.71 percent with delays making up 24.29 percent on average. Newark was followed by LaGuardia, Dallas/Fort Worth, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International, Palm Beach International, Boston Logan, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International, Orlando International, San Antonio International, John F. Kennedy International and San Francisco.Airlines with the most delays included Allegiant, which topped the list with an on-time average of 72.69 percent. Just over 27 percent of Allegiant flights are late or canceled.After Allegiant it's JetBlue, Frontier, Envoy Air, United Airlines, American Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Southwest, Alaska and SkyWest. Trending Now For families traveling with children, flight delays can create panic for keeping kids busy. Depending on the airport, parents can get lucky and find an indoor kids' play area like Kidport, located at Boston Logan.Kate Brassington, the co-Founder of The Family Vacation Guide, also has suggestions for parents needing to occupy younger travelers while they await flights.Pen and PaperBrassington suggests bringing basics like a pen and paper for emergency entertainment needs."As a parent it is important to be prepared for all potential situations, this includes waiting around for long periods of time without access to the internet or technology," she said. "If this happens, a trusty pen and paper could save the day, from drawing pictures to playing simple games such as tic-tac-toe and Pictionary."Guess WhoPlaying guessing games can keep kids distracted while parents figure out their next steps after a flight cancellation or delay."Many people love to do a little people-watching so why not turn it into a game-like a real-life version of Guess Who?" Brassington suggested. "Simply take it in turns to describe a person and the rest of the family guess who in the airport you are describing." Family in protective face masks at airport. (photo via ArtMarie / E+) Get CraftyParents can also pack some easy crafts."All you need is some paper to make paper airplanes and have a flying competition, this is something that can be done with the whole family," noted Brassington. "If you have some colored pencils you can also personalize them."Take a Walk and Go for a Scavenger HuntA scavenger hunt is an ideal way to keep kids entertained."The airport is a big place with plenty of space to take a walk but to make things a little more fun create a scavenger hunt of things around the airport such as an airplane, a suitcase, shorts, sun hat, etc.," said Brassington.Hide-and-SeekAnother game is hide-and-seek."Now, this is not the traditional hide and seek as that’s not wise in a busy place but you can play hide and seek with items," said Brassington. "Simply, select an item and hide it somewhere for the children to find or ask the children to hide it within a specific space for the adults to find.” Adblock test (Why?)

It’s no secret that travel is back.After two years of being cooped up, people are ready to get out traveling this summer, and Europe is on the hot list. It seems people are ready to take those bucket list trips now.ADVERTISING Trending Now So, if you’re looking to travel to Europe, what are some things you need to know?Book Now Before It's Too LateThe major tourist destinations in Europe are packed this summer, so there’s not many options for a last-minute vacation. With that in mind, plan two to three months out in order to secure hotels in the best locations. Waiting until just a few weeks out will result in little to no choice in accommodations.Likewise, don’t plan on showing up to the popular museum or monument without reservations. Doing so will result in a several-hour wait, or worse, tickets being completely sold out. A little advance planning this summer will save you from a lot of disappointment.Pack Your PatienceIf you know going into your trip that there will be kinks, you’ll be better able to handle them. Arrive at least 3 hours early at the airport. There will be long lines to check bags and get through security. Don’t be surprised if your flight is delayed a bit.Do you have a connecting flight? Plan to have at least two hours in between your connection. That way you won’t be forced to run through the airport only to have the gangway closed in your face. Arriving in Europe you’ll need to go through customs at your first airport, which means more long lines. Allowing yourself enough time between your flights will alleviate any stress of missing your connection.And if you do happen to miss your connection? Take a deep breath, go right to the closest customer service desk, and ask to be put on the next flight out. The agents there are pros at this and will be able to see all available options. But don’t just rely on them – while you’re waiting in line, pull up your airline’s app and try to chat with an agent there to see if they can’t help you first. After you’re scheduled on your next flight, grab a coffee, do some stretches, and go check out the shops in your terminal – you might as well make an adventure of the next few hours. A crowded airport. (photo by binbeter/iStock Editorial/Getty Images Plus) Have a Backup PlanThere have been a lot of reports of services falling through in Europe this summer. Car services that don’t turn up, or hotels that are overbooked and moving reservations at the last minute. It’s not ideal, but if you have a backup plan you’ll be able to go with the flow and minimize the stress of being served an unwelcome surprise.Download a rideshare app to your phone before you leave home, just in case you need a last-minute ride to the airport or train station. Double-check your hotel reservation before you leave home and confirm everything is set.Most importantly, realize that things happen when you travel. Being able to laugh and go with the flow will go a long way to enjoying your trip. Because even if you miss a flight, you’re still on vacation – treat it like one big adventure! For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter here. Adblock test (Why?)

As the calendar flips and the official start of summer appears smaller in the rear view, travelers are running out of time to plan those long-awaited summer trips and holiday getaways. Fret not. As COVID-19 entry protocols loosen around the world, travelers have their pick of spectacular destinations for the first time in nearly three years and top-flight travel suppliers are rolling out discounts, savings and perks to ensure that they don't miss out simply due to the price tag. Whether it's a five-star all-inclusive resort stay or the cruise of a lifetime to a region of the world few have ever ventured to, savings come in all shapes and sizes this summer. Here's a look at some of the top deals travelers won't want to miss this July.  Adblock test (Why?)

A road trip is the best way to explore the sheer beauty of Iceland...how else are you going to stop and marvel at Mother Nature's work every five minutes? The Land of Fire and Ice is a photographer's paradise; having a lightweight camera in tow to capture all that eye candy you're seeing along your route is crucial. The Nikon Z fc fits the bill quite nicely, with a cool vintage look, interchangeable lenses (28mm or 16-50mm), the option for manual shooting, and all the modern bells and whistles like an LCD display screen and timer. Its sleek, compact design makes it easy to carry around without sacrificing on quality imagery. With nonstop flights from New York, Boston, Chicago, Washington D.C., Seattle, Denver, Minneapolis, and Orlando, getting to Iceland is more accessible than ever. Grab yourself a rental car and venture to lesser-known spots in West Iceland. From the Snaefellsnes Peninsula to the Westfjords, hot springs, stunning landscape, and off-the-beaten-path gems abound. Here are some photo highlights from an adventure around West Iceland, all taken with the Nikon Z fc, as well as tips for photo opportunities and settings to snap top-notch memories of your bucket-list trip.  **Current restrictions for the United States no longer require a negative Covid test to return home, however, rules are constantly changing. If needed, the easiest, no-hassle way to get tested is virtually with Total Testing Solutions. Either use your own CDC-approved test, or they'll send you one when you register for an appointment that can be conducted with a proctor from the comfort of your hotel room. In twenty-five minutes, you'll have the results of an accepted rapid test without having to shell out a bunch of money and find an-in person testing center. Adblock test (Why?)

Survey after survey suggests travel is back, but there is one generation that is ready to travel more than others, and that is Gen-Z.Gen Zs are projected to account for 34 percent of the U.S. workforce and make up 40 percent of the consumer market by 2030, according to a recent YouGov survey, and they are also ready to see and experience the world, seeking out new things and new experiences.ADVERTISING Trending Now In fact, Gen-Z is leading the way in spending more on travel this year. Overall, 21 percent of global travelers are planning to spend more on travel this year than last year. When it comes to Gen-Z, that number jumps to 26 percent. Gen-Z travelers from the U.K. are leading the way by a lot. Forty-four percent say that they intend to spend more on travel products and services over the next 12 months. In comparison, U.S. Gen-Z travelers come in at 18 percent.Apart from just taking more trips over the next year, Gen-Z travelers have some specific interests. They are more open to unique accommodations. They are more price-sensitive than other generations, and they are excited to travel overseas.Their top brands include Airbnb, easyJet, British Airways, Booking.com, Premier Inn, Ryanair, Travelodge, Jet2.com, TUI and Trivago.When they travel, they are looking to make a connection to the world and the people around them. They are interested in voluntourism and ecotourism, music festivals and events, adventure travel, winter sports, food and drink festivals and shopping holidays. They also like activities such as sailing, hiking and cycling as well as camping and caravanning.Forty-five percent of Gen-Z travelers are interested in authentic experiences, and 38 percent enjoy eco-friendly, green accommodation options. Young travelers riding bikes in the city taking a selfie. (photo vgajic / Getty Images) Thirty-seven percent prioritize spending money with local people and businesses, and 34 percent search for sustainable travel offers. Twenty-two percent look for ways to offset their carbon footprint, and 21 percent prioritize flights with lower CO2 emissions.When planning, Gen-Z is looking to reviews from peers versus the opinions of experts. Fifty percent rely on recommendations from friends and family. Just 16 percent consider recommendations from a travel advisor.Trying to reach Gen-Z? Social media is one way to start. Four in 10 Gen-Z travelers plan to engage more on social media over the next 12 months. It's the top source for news and is the primary source for information.Influencers are another major source of engagement. Nineteen percent of Gen-Z travelers get travel information from influencers. PHOTO: Gen-Z (photo courtesy Tempura/iStock/Getty Images Plus) If advertising is targeting Gen-Z, it needs to be entertaining to be successful. Fifty-three percent expect advertisements to entertain them. Gen-Z doesn't trust the ads they see on television (47 percent), and 34 percent say that they are more likely to engage in ads on social media or regular websites.The metaverse could be significant in connecting brands with the future traveler, especially with Gen-Z travelers in the U.S. and U.K. where 64 percent and 66 percent have an awareness of the metaverse, respectively.In the U.K., 24 percent of Gen-Z travelers said that they were interested in visiting destinations they would like to visit in real life in the metaverse. In the U.S., that number was 18 percent.In order to successfully engage with this generation, it's important to keep some key things in mind: They are social; they want to be entertained; they expect personalization; and they want experiences that are unique. Adblock test (Why?)

According to a recent study conducted by ASTA, the American Society of Travel Advisors, the three main concerns that Americans are prioritizing as we continue recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic are more experiential travel offerings, more customer service and a return to their favorite destinations.ADVERTISINGExperience Is KeyForty-six percent of respondents reported that they want their travel to provide more unique experiences. Unique experiences can range from booking tours to lesser-known destinations or excursions to places not many know about, to taking part in voluntourism activities or being immersed in local culture. A tour group has tea and pastries at Association Tawesna as part of an Intrepid impact initiative experience. (photo via Shu Lin / Intrepid Travel) Kim Cook, owner of Love To Travel, has seen an increase in unique travel experiences, especially among her clients who are planning their honeymoons, explaining that the post-pandemic wedding boom is causing more newlyweds to seek out more atypical honeymoon experiences than their friends in the past have.“The honeymoon market has been requesting unique destinations and experiences,” commented Cook. “They want to book something different than all their friends. Many are at the age that they know five to ten couples getting married this year, so they are looking for ways to personalize their honeymoon experience.”Improved and Expanded Customer ServiceThe report found that 49 percent of American travelers want more customer service. This can range from customer support during flight delays to in-destination help from travel advisors.Travel advisors can help improve customer service for travelers since they typically help a traveler with everything from the planning stages to questions that may arise during travel. Lindsey Epperly, CEO of Jetset World Travel, identifies customer service as one of the biggest priorities among her own clients. A family working with a travel advisor. (photo via South_agency / getty images) “We've noticed that travelers' expectations seem to be higher than ever, especially regarding customer service - whether that is on the advisor side or once on the ground,” said Epperly. “This can create a tension point considering how much is still outside of an advisor's hands, despite the rolled back restrictions.”“We are working to set these expectations in a realistic manner, whether that's level-setting regarding turnaround times or in-destination staffing concerns. The key to travel remains flexibility, but when travelers are paying top-dollar for an experience they have been waiting for two plus years, there is often an unspoken demand for perfection,” she finished. Trending Now Good Memories Drive Return TripsForty-eight percent of American travelers want to return to a destination they’ve visited in the past.The desire to return to a previously visited destination could be from the sense of familiarity and comfort that comes with it. If a traveler is returning to traveling abroad for the first time this year after the pandemic, they might be more comfortable with planning a shorter trip to a destination they know and love, rather than taking a deep dive into an unfamiliar place.“My guess as to why this is happening is that, during the pandemic and shutdown, clients quickly understood that they could lose access to any place at any time,” said Epperly. “Flights can be grounded, borders can be closed, whether to one isolated destination or to the entire globe.”“For that reason, if they have experienced a destination they know they love, I believe they have more motivation to return to it. Additionally, they are removing the unknown piece of the planning puzzle – the big question of, ‘Will I love this place as much as I loved my favorite place?’ which can provide some sense of being in control and reducing the number of uncertain elements on any given trip,” Epperly added. A pristine beach in Quintana Roo, Mexico. (photo courtesy of Quintana Roo Tourism Board) Laurence Pinckney, CEO of Zenbiz Travel, LLC, echoes Epperly’s thoughts, citing destinations like Mexico, the Caribbean and Brazil as the top destinations his clients have returned to this year. “It is familiar and quick,” he said.While these three priorities are by no means an exhaustive list of travel concerns shared among Americans this year, they should shed some light on how a large portion of our population thinks about traveling.For the latest travel news, updates and deals, be sure to subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter here. Adblock test (Why?)

Vacation confidence remains at an all-time high in 2022, with 60 percent of Americans intending to book a summer trip, according to Allianz Partners USA's 14th Annual Vacation Confidence Index.Summer vacation confidence holds steady at a record level this year after reaching 60 percent in 2021 following a record low of 26 percent during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Allianz points out that summer vacation confidence hovered around 43 percent during the previous decade from 2010 to 2019.ADVERTISING Trending Now The same study also found that 76 percent of Americans who believe vacation is important typically travel during the summer season.Vacation confidence is impacted by both age and income, the study indicates, with younger and higher-earning travelers expressing the most confidence. Among those aged 18-34, 69 percent say they plan to vacation, followed by 64 percent of those ages 35-54 and just half of Americans ages 55 or older.More than seven out of 10 (73 percent) of those earning $100,000 or more annually expect to enjoy a summer vacation this year, compared to just 60 percent of Americans who earn between $50,000 and $100,000 and only 45 percent of those making less than $50,000 per year.The study also shows that the gender gap moved only slightly this year, with 65 percent of men and 56 percent of women anticipating a summer getaway."Our survey affirms that summer vacation is a quintessential part of the American lifestyle," Daniel Durazo, director of external communications at Allianz Partners USA, said in a statement. "Confidence remains high as travelers rediscover the value and joy of travel this summer, primed as the season of adventure to make sun-kissed memories that last."When it comes to those not planning a summer vacation, 57 percent say that it's because they don't want to spend money. That figure is up 19 points compared to last year amid recent inflation, which was cited by 68 percent of Americans who lack confidence in any summer travel.The Vacation Confidence Index, which was conducted by national polling firm Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of Allianz Partners USA and interviewed more than 2,000 American adults from May 2-4, 2022, also shows a rise in the "micro-cation" trend this year. Adblock test (Why?)

A new study found that 81 percent of Americans say inflation will impact their summer vacation plans, but there are tips and tricks to save money and get the most bang for your buck during the busy travel season.According to a NerdWallet survey, 87 percent of Generation Z travelers and 89 percent of millennial travelers said inflation is impacting their plans, but many are using their rewards, points and miles to alleviate the pressure.ADVERTISING Trending Now With Americans accumulating a reserve of credit card credits during the pandemic, 56 percent of all respondents said they’d use the stored rewards, points and miles for summer travel expenses this year.“To make summer travel more affordable, you might have to get creative,” NerdWallet expert Sara Rathner said. “Setting a travel budget and cashing in points and miles is a great start, but you can save while you travel by adjusting your itinerary a bit.”Data shows that 62 percent of men and 50 percent of women said they would use credit card rewards to offset costs as they travel this summer. As for how generations will use credits, 71 percent of millennial travelers, 60 percent of Gen Zers, 53 percent of Gen Xers and 40 percent of baby boomers plan to use the points, rewards and miles they accrued during the pandemic to pay for travel.With inflation at a 40-year high and national average gas prices creeping toward $5 per gallon, the study found flying might be the best bet to save money, but splitting car rental costs or taking public transportation once at the destination is likely the best bet once on vacation.“Consider destinations with reliable public transportation so you can skip the expensive rental car,” Rathner continued. “If you stay at a vacation rental, or even in a hotel room with a refrigerator, you can save on food by going to the grocery store instead of dining out for every meal. Higher prices across the board mean travelers need to change things up.”As for how to save money on accommodations during the 2022 summer travel season, staying with friends or family members can cut costs on hotels and vacation rentals.Travelers can also save cash on food by taking advantage of free breakfasts or happy hours and using the hotel refrigerator or kitchen to stop by the closest grocery store and pick up snacks and drinks.For the latest travel news, updates and deals, be sure to subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter here. Adblock test (Why?)

Covid restrictions have lifted in many destinations, and the desire to travel is at an all-time high. But for parents - especially new parents - travel may look different than it did before the pandemic started. What is it that your little bundle of joy will really need on vacation? There are so many pieces of travel gear marketed to parents to make life easier while on the road, but which ones are truly necessary? Here’s our list of tried and true products.  Adblock test (Why?)