US Travelers Set Sights on Morocco and Dominican Republic for Summer 2026
New data from travel search platform Kayak reveals a significant shift in summer 2026 travel trends. Morocco and the Dominican Republic are now among the top choices for U.S. travelers, moving away from traditional European hotspots. This change comes as international airfares to Europe have seen an approximate 20% year-over-year increase, and domestic airfares have risen by nearly $100 compared to the previous summer.
The surge in popularity of the Dominican Republic is attributed to new affordable routes and its value-for-money appeal. According to Kayak travel expert Kayla DeLoache, destinations “to the north or the south are typically a little bit cheaper” than European locations. In contrast, Orlando, Las Vegas, and London remain the most-searched summer destinations overall. The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup is also driving interest in host cities like Kansas City and San Francisco.
The trend towards more budget-conscious travel is reshaping vacation planning. A survey by Talker Research found that 4 in 10 Americans will forgo travel this summer due to high costs. Those who do travel are opting for shorter trips and more affordable destinations. Research from eSim marketplace Airalo indicates that Americans are rethinking crowded European staples. Interest in less-visited countries like the Czech Republic has risen a staggering 149% year-over-year.
For those seeking deals, travel experts recommend San Juan (Puerto Rico), Puerto Vallarta, Guatemala City, Costa Rica, Mexico City, and Punta Cana as the most affordable international options this season.
Source: Axios – US Travel Trends: Summer 2026’s Hot Destinations