Solutions to Your Summer Travel Woes

Economic uncertainty is reshaping Americans’ travel plans this summer. A recent LendingTree survey revealed that more than half (53%) of Americans are cutting back on the number of trips they plan to take, while 35% have already canceled or postponed a trip in the past year due to financial concerns. 

With rising costs and global uncertainties, many travelers are seeking alternatives closer to home: 67% are now more likely to choose domestic destinations over international ones.

If you’ve decided to keep your summer vacation plans, here’s how to navigate summer’s specific travel challenges while protecting yourself and your wallet.

Solutions to conquer airport chaos

With major airports handling record numbers of travelers, having a strategy can make all the difference.

Skip the security line stress with options like TSA PreCheck ($78 for five years), CLEAR ($189 annually, though promotions are often available), or Global Entry ($100 for five years, includes PreCheck and many travel cards refund you this fee). 

Pro tip: If you haven’t gotten your TSA PreCheck yet, apply for Global Entry and check if your local airport has open appointments to complete the application. Many do!

Many airports now offer free reservation systems for security screening times and/or parking spots (often with a discount for booking ahead). Check your departure airport’s website to see if it offers these services.

This eliminates the stress of circling packed lots looking for a space when you’re already running late. Some airports even offer premium reserved spots closer to terminals for a slightly higher fee.

For drop-offs, use the arrivals terminal during peak morning hours and the departures level in the evening, when traffic patterns typically reverse. Don’t forget to check if your airport has less-used entrances or security checkpoints—these can often save you significant time during busy periods.

Solutions to transportation troubles

You could be better off using public transportation on your summer trip, if you can, rather than renting a car. Rental car companies are now using AI inspection devices to charge customers for damage they didn’t cause – it’s becoming a real hassle to rent a car these days.

If you have to use a car on your summer trip, consider alternatives like peer-to-peer car sharing services such as Turo or Getaround, which may be cheaper than traditional rentals. If you can fit in a smaller car, book it – companies often upgrade you automatically when they’re out of compact vehicles.

For airport transportation, research public transit options before your trip. Many cities have dedicated airport trains or express buses that bypass traffic congestion. Apps like Transit or Citymapper can help you navigate unfamiliar public transportation systems with ease.

Most rideshare services now offer scheduled pickups—both Uber and Lyft allow you to book rides up to 30 days in advance, so you’re not frantically searching for transportation when it’s time to leave. For longer trips from airports, check if shuttle services like SuperShuttle or GO Airport Shuttle offer more economical shared rides to your destination.

Solutions for flight disruptions

According to recent data from CBS News, flight cancellations have increased by approximately 29% this summer compared to last year, with the national cancellation rate rising from 1.4% to 1.8%. While this is still within the historical norm of 1-2%, it represents a slight increase in disruptions for summer travelers.

For detailed information on your rights during flight disruptions, check out our comprehensive guide: Freedom to Fly: These Rules Protect Your Trip in 2025. This guide explains the new DOT rules that entitle you to automatic refunds when domestic flights are delayed more than 3 hours or international flights more than 6 hours.

To handle flight disruptions in the moment, download your airline’s app before traveling for real-time updates and rebooking options. As our guide recommends, this is “how you’ll get the most timely updates and information, plus access to talk with an agent while standing in line at the gate.”

Services like FlightAware can also alert you to delays before the airline announces them, giving you a head start on alternative arrangements. As our guide suggests, always “save all your receipts for a flight delay reimbursement claim.”

Pro tip: If your flight is significantly delayed, check if your credit card or travel insurance plan offers trip delay reimbursement. Many premium travel cards cover meals, lodging, and transportation when you’re stranded.

Solutions for Scorching Temperatures

Record-breaking temperatures are becoming the norm for summer travelers, and this poses a big risk, especially for seniors, children, and those with chronic conditions.

According to our guide on traveling in scorching temperatures, extreme heat can lead to serious health risks; here’s how to avoid heat-related health issues:

• Plan outdoor activities for early morning when temperatures are coolest. As our guide suggests, “Make your tour reservations for the first one of the day – as early in the morning as possible.” This strategy not only helps avoid peak heat but often means fewer crowds and better photos.
• Embrace the siesta – Take a cue from Mediterranean cultures and rest during midday heat (typically 1-4 PM). Use this time to explore air-conditioned museums, libraries, or shopping centers. Our travel experts note: “There’s a reason for the mid-day siesta tradition: it’s too hot to get anything done outside.”
• Know the warning signs for heat exhaustion, which can quickly progress to life-threatening heatstroke. The symptoms are:
  • Temperature above 104°F
  • Hot, dry skin
  • Racing heartbeat
  • Confusion or slurred speech

Pro camping tip: If your room is too hot to sleep, try dampening the top sheet and, if you have an in-room fridge, store it in there during the day. They’ll be blissfully cool when you need them at night.

Bonus: Your Summer Heat Packing List

The following is your go-to list for summer packing: a swimsuit, broad-spectrum sunscreen, and lip balm with SPF protection.

Clothing & Protection

• Lightweight, loose-fitting shirts in light colors (linen or cotton)
• Wide-brimmed hat with ventilation
• UV-blocking sunglasses
• Lightweight scarf (doubles as sun protection and cooling when dampened)
• Breathable walking shoes with moisture-wicking socks
• Swimwear (for quick cooling dips)

Hydration & Cooling

• Insulated reusable water bottle (keeps water cold for hours)
• Electrolyte packets or tablets (to maintain mineral balance)
• Mini spray bottle (refrigerate overnight for extra cooling)
• Portable handheld fan (battery-operated or USB rechargeable)

In your travel health kit

• Digital thermometer (to monitor for heat-related illness)
• Oral rehydration salts
• Cooling gel patches for pulse points
• Reusable ice packs (keep in hotel freezer)
• Lightweight, packable umbrella (doubles as sun shade)

Remember to pack medications in temperature-controlled containers, as extreme heat can affect their efficacy.