Small business owners in the U.S. tourist hotspots are witnessing a shift in how Americans choose to vacation. As soaring travel costs push families to rethink their plans, many are opting for staycations and local adventures instead. This change is significant because it not only affects individual families but also impacts local economies and businesses.

Domestic Tourism on the Rise

This summer has seen many Americans forgoing international travel in favor of trips closer to home. With higher airfare and gas prices weighing heavy on wallets, families are planning shorter road trips rather than lengthy vacations. According to estimates from the AAA, around 72.2 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from their homes during the Independence Day week this year, showing a slight increase from last year. However, most of this growth comes from those taking cruises or public transport, suggesting that driving and flying habits remain somewhat unchanged.

Interestingly, the trend of staying local could benefit small businesses. Tarik Dogru, an associate professor at Florida State University, points out that less money spent on overseas trips means more of those dollars can go directly to local eateries, attractions, and businesses like Airbnb hosts. As people prioritize budget-friendly options, it creates an opportunity for regions dependent on tourism to thrive.

Traveling by Car: A Budget-Friendly Choice

Despite rising gas prices, many tourists are still opting for car travel. AAA reported that a staggering 85% of travelers during the holiday period plan to drive to their destinations. Compared to air travel, road trips remain a more economical option for many families.

For instance, in the Lake Tahoe area, local businesses have noticed an uptick in visitors from nearby cities. Ron Williams, who rents out boats and Jet Skis, initially feared economic challenges might hurt his business. However, he has experienced a 10% increase in future bookings compared to last year, which he attributes to locals sticking close to home and enjoying what their region has to offer. Many are even opting to cook meals rather than dining out, which is evident from the increased use of kitchens and outdoor grills in rental properties.

Local Experiences Matter

Many local businesses hope for a tourism rebound after recent economic setbacks. In Asheville, North Carolina, small business owners like Aubrey Anderson have hired more staff in response to an increase in visitors. Day-trippers traveling from neighboring states are taking advantage of outdoor activities like tubing, which contributes to the local economy through additional spending on meals and attractions.

Jael Skeffington, co-founder of the French Broad Chocolate factory, observed a surge in interest in factory tours this summer. She notes that tourists are not just seeking food; they’re looking for experiences, which is promising for local business. The shift towards local activities offers communities a chance to thrive again after facing disruptions.

World Cup Boost for Local Economies

Cities hosting World Cup matches are also seeing increased tourism. In Kansas City, businesses have reported noticeable spikes in traffic due to soccer fans flocking to the area. Stores focused on selling local merchandise and café chains have benefited greatly from this event.

For instance, the affordability of Kansas City compared to larger host cities makes it a popular destination for families wishing to attend World Cup events. The combination of lower costs for food and lodging attracts visitors from neighboring states, adding to the economic boost experienced by local businesses during the tournament.

What this means for you

If you’re considering a local getaway this summer, remember that supporting small businesses helps your community thrive. Many businesses depend on travel and tourism revenue, so every trip counts. If you ever need to review contracts, such as rental agreements or ticket terms, legal-document-to-plain-english-translator/”>AI legalese decoder can help translate them into plain English quickly and easily.

Source: https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/news/business/summer-travel-tourism-small-businesses-3979187a94e7712f8d89ad3d3bf05365