Small business owners are noticing a shift in how Americans are vacationing this summer. Instead of traveling abroad, more people are opting for local road trips, shorter getaways, and home-cooked meals.

This trend emerges amid rising travel costs, including expensive airfares and gasoline. Due to events like the FIFA World Cup and the U.S. celebrating its 250th anniversary, many are finding joy in summer activities closer to home.

### Domestic Tourism on the Rise

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), over 72 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home during the July Fourth weekend. This represents a small increase from last year, but the increase mainly stems from those using buses, trains, or cruises—driving and flying numbers are predicted to remain steady.

This shift in travel patterns can be beneficial for local businesses. Tarik Dogru, an expert in hospitality, suggests that if U.S. residents spend less on international travel, they might channel more of that budget into local businesses. Restaurants, local attractions, and roadside shops stand to gain from this change, as budget-conscious travelers look for affordable activities nearby.

### Budget-Conscious Choices

As families tighten their budgets, some are cutting back on lavish vacations. For instance, Morgan Kain, a mother of three, has scaled down her usual travel routine. While she typically enjoys lengthy trips, this year her family has limited travels to just a few weekend getaways.

Even though fuel prices have increased, many families prefer driving for vacations. AAA reports that 85% of travelers during Independence Day week are expected to drive. With driving often proving cheaper than flying, many families are opting for more local adventures.

In places like Lake Tahoe, local businesses have reported a surge in visitors from nearby cities. Ron Williams, who runs boat rentals, noted a 10% increase in bookings compared to last year, demonstrating the region’s appeal for drive-in tourists.

### A Change in Spending Habits

In addition to increased foot traffic, local businesses are also witnessing a shift in how customers spend their money. Many tourists are choosing to cook their meals instead of dining out. Jerry Bindel, a manager of rental properties in Lake Tahoe, observed more guests utilizing kitchen facilities to prepare their food, likely to save money.

Other regions are experiencing similar trends. After experiencing setbacks from natural disasters, businesses in Asheville, North Carolina, are finally seeing renewed interest. Aubrey Anderson, a river tubing outfitter, noted an influx of visitors from surrounding areas. As families flock to local attractions, they often spend money on food and other experiences, benefiting the entire Asheville economy.

### The Impact of Local Events

Events like the FIFA World Cup have also sparked increased interest in local tourism. Kansas City, a host for the tournament, has reported a noticeable spike in visitors. Shops selling local goods are experiencing higher foot traffic thanks to the influx of soccer fans.

Co-owners of local cafes, like Keith Bradley, have seen an uptick in customers exploring Kansas City while attending matches or watching parties. Compared to larger cities hosting World Cup games, Kansas City offers more budget-friendly accommodations and food options, which could attract even more visitors.

### What This Means for You

For consumers, staying local can mean more than just saving money; it can also support small businesses in your community. If you ever need to review contracts related to travel or rental agreements, legal-document-to-plain-english-translator/”>AI legalese decoder can help translate them into plain English in seconds. Getting outside to enjoy local attractions not only enriches your experience but also encourages economic growth right where you live.

Source: https://abcnews.com/Business/wireStory/small-businesses-good-summer-americans-travel-closer-home-134463470