GOLDSBORO, N.C. —- As millions of Americans prepare to celebrate summer and the Fourth of July with vacations and getaways, travel industry professionals are observing striking shifts in traveler preferences. Mallory Dumond, a travel agent with Travelmation, sat down to discuss what’s trending in 2025’s summer travel season — from cruise deals and domestic trips to the surprising surge in last-minute bookings.

Economic Factors Drive Summer Travel Choices

When asked about the forces shaping this year’s summer travel decisions, Dumond pointed to the economy as the central factor.

“Clients are being more budget-conscious,” said Dumond. “They want to preserve the quality of their vacation without overspending.”

Rather than cutting travel altogether, families and individuals are seeking greater value through inclusive and flexible packages.

Top 2025 Summer Travel Trends

Despite inflation and economic uncertainty, Dumond confirmed that summer travel remains strong. What’s changing is how and where people are going:

• Cruises: Offering all-in-one pricing and a variety of experiences, cruises continue to be a budget-friendly favorite. “They give people the feel of a luxury trip at a lower price point,” Dumond explained.
• All-Inclusive Resorts: Popular for their predictable costs, these resorts allow travelers to pay upfront and avoid surprise food and drink expenses.
• Domestic Travel: Travelers are opting for closer-to-home adventures, from national parks to popular theme parks in the U.S. “Domestic travel is really seeing an uptick,” Dumond said.

Tailoring Travel for Every Demographic

Whether you’re flying solo or traveling with a family, there are distinct trends emerging for each group:

• Solo Travelers: Often prefer small group tours or cruises for the social element and safety.
• Families: Choose cruises, Disney vacations, and all-inclusive resorts to manage costs while maximizing experience.
• Adventure Seekers: National parks and self-guided road trips remain high on their list.

Recommendations for First-Time or Hesitant Travelers

For travelers uncertain about going abroad, Dumond suggested domestic or “closed-loop” cruises, which don’t require a passport and provide an international feel with less logistical stress.

“If someone’s uneasy, we pivot,” she emphasized. “There are plenty of safer, closer options that still deliver a great vacation.”

Advice for Experienced Travelers: Plan Smart and Insure

Even seasoned travelers benefit from expert support.

“Unexpected things happen — delayed flights, resort mix-ups — and in those moments, having someone like me to handle it makes all the difference,” said Dumond.

She recommends always booking through a trusted travel advisor and purchasing travel insurance, noting that she offers both annual and trip-specific plans through preferred partners.

Last-Minute Bookings Surge in Popularity

Perhaps the most surprising trend this summer? The rise of spontaneous travel.

“I’ve had clients reach out and say, ‘I want to leave tomorrow,’ and we make it happen,” Dumond revealed.

While flexibility is key in these scenarios — as certain rooms or destinations may be limited — she assures that even last-minute planners can still enjoy high-quality vacations with the right guidance.

Planning Ahead: Theme Parks & Popular Destinations

Dumond emphasized the importance of early planning, particularly for popular destinations like Universal Studios Epic Universe in Orlando, which opened earlier this year and sold out quickly for summer dates.

“If you’re thinking about Epic Universe or Disney World, start planning for fall or winter,” she advised.

Her agency handles everything from resort bookings and tickets to dining plans for major theme parks.

Client Support & Personalized Service

Operating fully remotely, Dumond provides support via phone, Zoom, and email — and even offers in-person meetings for local clients in Wayne County, Michigan. Her approach to service is proactive and responsive.

“Whether it’s a gate issue at the airport or a resort room problem, I either guide my clients through the process or handle it directly,” she said. “Sometimes I’m literally on the phone with the front desk.”

Final Thoughts: Always Travel with an Advocate

Dumond closed the interview with a heartfelt reminder:

“No matter how big or small your trip is, having a travel advisor gives you peace of mind. You don’t always think you need one — until you do.”

For those ready to start planning, Dumond encourages travelers to visit her website: MalloryTravels.net.

Contact Info:
Mallory Dumond, Travel Agent
Travelmation: MalloryTravels.net