Americans Reduce International Travel Plans for 2026, Driven by Cost Concerns
Americans are entering 2026 with more caution about international travel, according to a recent YouGov report. The study reveals a shift in traveler behavior, with affordability shaping global travel decisions rather than simply the desire to explore. Economic pressures have led many to prioritize value for money over wanderlust when planning their trips.
The “US International Traveler Outlook 2026” report shows that 60 percent of Americans have never traveled abroad for leisure. Even among those who do travel internationally, 43 percent took fewer trips abroad in the last year. The decline is especially notable among Generation X and Baby Boomers, with half in these groups reporting less travel. Factors such as economic uncertainty, rising travel costs, and personal reasons contribute to this trend.
Kenton Barello, vice president of YouGov America, explained that Americans’ interest in international travel remains but manifests more selectively. Travelers now scrutinize costs closely and adjust their plans to stretch budgets. They might choose to travel during off-peak times, seek alternative lodging, or substitute trips within the United States for overseas journeys. Brands that offer clear value without reducing the quality of experience are likely to attract more travelers in 2026. Income plays a role in international travel patterns. Among higher earners, 24 percent have never traveled internationally, compared with 60 percent for the overall population. Still, the frequency of trips abroad is declining, with 40 percent of international travelers taking fewer trips this year. Among higher-income travelers, 25 percent plan to maintain their international travel schedules, while only 8 percent of lower-income travelers expect to do so.
Cost increases have affected travel choices significantly. The report found that 43 percent of international travelers said rising prices influenced their plans, impacting transportation, dining, and accommodations the most. About 41 percent indicated that higher prices in 2026 could lead to fewer trips or a shift toward domestic travel.
Perceptions of value are also shifting. Many major international destinations are seen as providing less value for money than last year. For example, 29 percent of respondents viewed the United Kingdom as offering worse value, with only 5 percent seeing improvement. Similar trends appeared for France, Italy, Germany, and Spain. Travelers also perceive the U.S. as less valuable when visiting other countries, with large majorities saying destinations like Australia, Mexico, Spain, Great Britain, and Canada have become less cost-effective.
In contrast, a separate report by Marriott International found that 91 percent of Americans plan to travel in 2026, and nearly half intend to travel more than they did in 2025. Two-thirds of those surveyed plan to prioritize travel and experiences over material purchases.
As travelers weigh their options in the coming year, affordability appears to be the key factor influencing where and how Americans will travel internationally in 2026.
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