Key Takeaways
- Expedia searches using budget filters jumped 1,265 percent year-over-year for summer travel
- Vrbo last-minute bookings are up 16 percent as more travelers wait longer to finalize trips
- Properties offering deals or discounts account for 37 percent of summer vacation rental bookings on Vrbo
Americans are still planning Fourth of July getaways, but more travelers are checking the price before they choose the destination.
Searches using budget filters on Expedia jumped 1,265 percent year-over-year for summer travel, according to new data released by the company.
The shift is also showing up on Vrbo, where bookings made within 14 days of check-in have increased by 16 percent.
More travelers are waiting longer to commit as they hunt for last-minute savings and deals.
But the good news is, they’re still traveling.
In fact, Fourth of July rental demand is running 10 percent higher than last year, according to AirDNA’s May market report.
Fourth of July travelers are waiting longer to book
“Fourth of July falls on a Saturday this year, and families are not sacrificing their chance to get away and celebrate with their loved ones,” Melanie Fish, a Vrbo travel expert, said.
“Group travel is still going strong on Vrbo, but we are seeing more travelers seeking discounts and waiting to book closer to their travel dates,” Fish added.
Related: Fourth of July short-term rental demand surges 10 percent ahead of last year
Last minute deals are capturing a sizable share of that short-term rental demand.
Vrbo says 37 percent of its summer vacation rental bookings are for properties offering discounts, including early-booking and last-minute deals.
Expedia is seeing the same focus on affordability across other parts of the trip.
Searches for all-inclusive stays rose 50 percent, interest in economy airfare increased 120 percent, and redemptions through the company’s OneKeyCash rewards program climbed 35 percent.
While beachfront properties along the North Carolina coast are bringing in upwards of $5,000 per week during the July 4 holiday week, there are still several highly rated vacation hostpots that are offering guests STR’s for less than $250 per night.
Cherokee, North Carolina — which features a large Harrah’s-owned casino and resort, scenic mountain views and outdoor recreation — led the list with searches up 40 percent year-over-year, followed by Melbourne, Florida, and Phoenix, Arizona, both up 35 percent, per Vrbo.
Meanwhile, searches increased 15 percent for Fort Myers, Florida, and 10 percent for Rochester, New York.
Featured stays ranged from a $205-per-night cottage near Florida’s Space Coast to a $244-per-night apartment in Rochester.
Vrbo said each selected property was managed by a Premier Host and had earned its Loved by Guests badge.
The numbers point to a summer travel market where families have not abandoned the holiday getaway.
They are simply taking more time to find one that fits the budget.
“America’s 250th anniversary is an opportunity for families and friends to come together and create lasting memories in communities across the country,” said Jen Condon, Executive Vice President of America250.
“Vrbo’s spotlight on accessible travel destinations helps more Americans take part in this milestone year while exploring the places, traditions, and experiences that make our nation unique.”
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