Cutting Back Today to Say “WOW” on Vacation in 2026
If you’ve felt a little more intentional about where your money goes lately, you’re not alone. Across the U.S., Americans are making thoughtful choices—cutting back on everyday spending so they can keep doing what they love most: traveling.
And here’s the encouraging news: this shift isn’t about giving up joy. It’s about redirecting it toward experiences that truly matter.
Travel Is Still a Priority—Even in a Tighter Economy
According to the inaugural Modern Traveler Report from travel technology company iSeatz, 63% of U.S. travelers are cutting back on recreational spending in order to afford travel. That includes:
Dining out less (35%)
Spending less on shopping (31%)
Scaling back leisure activities (24%)
Rather than canceling trips altogether, Americans are choosing to skip the extra dinners out or impulse purchases so they can say yes to meaningful vacations. That’s powerful—and inspiring.
Travel isn’t being pushed aside. It’s being protected.
Smaller Sacrifices, Bigger Memories
The report also shows that while trip budgets are still growing, they’re doing so more thoughtfully. What was once projected as a 21% year-over-year increase in travel spending has adjusted to 13%. The average American now has about $1,745 earmarked for leisure travel, with millennials setting aside even more at$1,899.
What does that tell us?
People are planning ahead. They’re being realistic. And they’re still committed to making travel happen—just with intention.
This kind of mindset is exactly what makes a WOW vacation in 2026 not only possible, but achievable.
Dream Trips Aren’t Gone—They’re Just Being Planned Smarter
One of the most hopeful insights from the report is how travelers are handling dream vacations that feel just out of reach right now:
28% say they would wait and save until they can afford it
26% would look for a more affordable version of their dream trip
19% are willing to cut costs elsewhere to make it happen
14% would even splurge and go over budget to fulfill that dream
The takeaway? The dream is still alive.
Whether it’s a European river cruise, an escorted tour through Africa, or that once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list journey, Americans are finding creative—and realistic—ways to make it happen.
Why 2026 Is the Sweet Spot
Planning a year or two ahead gives you something incredibly valuable: time.
Time to:
Save gradually instead of stressing
Lock in better values
Choose the right destination and experience
Spread out payments
Design a trip that feels exciting, not rushed
Cutting back a little today—fewer takeout meals, fewer impulse buys—can quietly build the foundation for a vacation that makes you say “That was SO worth it.”
This Is Where Smart Planning Makes All the Difference
For travelers looking for more affordable versions of their dream trips, this is also where working with a travel advisor truly shines. A WOW vacation doesn’t always mean “more expensive”—it often meansbetter planned.
With the right guidance, you can:
Find destinations that deliver the same magic at a better value
Choose the right time of year to travel
Select experiences that feel luxurious without being over-the-top
Avoid costly mistakes and hidden expenses
Travel doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Sometimes it’s about finding the right version of your dream.
The Bottom Line: Travel Is Worth It
Americans are sending a clear message: travel matters. Even in times of financial stress, people are choosing experiences, connection, and memories over things.
If you’ve been dreaming about a WOW vacation—especially one you’d love to take in 2026—this is your sign. Small adjustments now can lead to unforgettable moments later.
Because cutting back doesn’t mean missing out.
It means planning for something amazing.
And that? That’s always worth it.
Your Globetrotting Friend,
Joy