Dearborn, Michigan (January 11, 2018) – As the Mitten State takes a brief break from the wicked winter weather, all signs point to a busy year for vacationers and the travel industry. According to the attached AAA Consumer Pulse™ survey, 71% of Michiganders are planning to take a vacation in 2018 – with most planning trips to warm weather destinations in the U.S. and abroad.

“Strong economic growth led to a record number of holiday travelers last year and we expect that momentum to carry into 2018,” said Vicky Evans, Assistant Vice President, Travel Sales Development, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Some of the harsh winter weather we have experienced could be the catalyst that drives more travelers to seek warm weather destinations in the coming months.

“Looking ahead at trends this year, travel to Europe looks strong, thanks to a favorable exchange rate for Americans. Also, domestic travel continues to grow. Destinations like Florida and California are always popular. Meanwhile, Hawaii and Alaska are experiencing more advanced bookings than what we normally see this time of year.”

Beaches top the list of travel destinations for Michiganders. 

The spring and summer months continue to be the top time periods for Michigan travelers.

Although January and February are usually slower months for travel, things begin to pick up in March for spring break. Nearly half (43%) of Michigan travelers plan to take a spring break vacation of 3 days or more. That number is even larger among Millennials (65%).

“Spring Break has a reputation of being a time for students to go party with friends,” Evans continued. “While that is certainly true, more than half of millennials (54%) say they will travel with family. This is the time of year when cruises and beach hotels are booked solid, and things can get costly as a result. So spring travelers should make their plans now, to get the best options and price.”

Traveling during the summer is even more popular than spring. The Great Lake State remains a popular summer travel destination for many. More than three-quarters (79%) of Michiganders will take at least one summer vacation (requiring overnight accommodations), sometime between the Memorial and Labor Day holidays.

• 42% – 1 summer vacation
• 33% – 2-3 summer vacations
• 4% – 4-5 summer vacations
• 15% – unsure

• Book early – Booking early provides both the luxury of selecting the best cruise cabin or preferred flight seating at a more competitive rate.  As hotels, cruises, and flights fill-up, prices usually rise due to lower availability.
• Use a travel agent – The expert advice of a trusted travel advisor can provide personalized service, first-hand destination knowledge to create a memorable vacation experience, exclusive upgrades and access to competitive pricing.
• Consider travel insurance – When the unexpected happens, travel insurance can provide a good safety net. Weather conditions, flight cancellations and even illness while overseas can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. While travel insurance can vary in both coverage and price, policies are available that reimburse for health emergencies and/or out-of-pocket expenses due to a delayed/cancelled flight.
• Know your destination – Traveling abroad? Bringing a pet? Refer to the U.S. Department of State to find information regarding visa requirements, restrictions, guidelines, detailed travel alerts and warnings.
• Download the free AAA Mobile app – The app can be used to map a route, find the lowest gas prices, access exclusive member discounts, find AAA Approved and Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants, request roadside assistance and more. For more information or to begin planning a trip, visit AAA.com/Travel.