HAMILTON – Travel plans are being made as families across the country eagerly await the beginning of summer, according to a recent AAA survey. More than one-third of Americans are planning to take a family vacation 50 miles or more away from home involving two or more immediate family members.
New Jersey is home to 130 miles of beaches along the Atlantic Ocean and scores of vacationers flock to enjoy the sun and surf. Both local residents and travelers from neighboring states like Pennsylvania and New York delight in the beach and boardwalk, invigorating local economies. “With gas prices lower than normal this year, we’re going to see a lot more people on the roads this summer,” says Tracy Noble, spokesperson for AAA Mid-Atlantic. AAA estimates that U.S. drivers have saved nearly $12 billion on gas so far this year compared to 2015. Drivers this summer should pay the lowest gas prices in 12 years, prompting many families to take road trips.
Road trips, national parks, and theme parks are the most popular types of vacations for families planning to travel. Trips to international destinations and cruises round out the top five most popular vacation options for traveling families.
“Two-thirds of Americans say spending quality time as a family is the most important part of a family vacation,” says Noble. “Whether it’s renting a house at the Jersey shore, or a dream vacation to a far-off destination, travel offers busy families an excellent opportunity to share experiences and connect with each other in meaningful ways.”
AAA Travel experts offer tips for families planning vacations this year:
Road Trips – AAA recommends travelers map out a route in advance to make the most of their road trip. Drivers should plan frequent stops, about every 100 miles or two hours, to remain alert. Tools such as AAA’s TripTik Travel Planner, in desktop and app versions, can help families find AAA Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants, gas prices and plan fun stops along the way.
National Parks – The National Park Service celebrates its centennial anniversary in 2016, making it a great year for travelers to discover the parks. The most popular national parks, such as Great Smoky Mountains, Grand Canyon, and Yosemite may reach capacity during peak travel times, so plan ahead. For families on a budget, national parks are waiving entrance fees this year April 16-24, Aug. 25-28, Sept. 24, and Nov. 11.
Theme Parks – Theme parks in Orlando and Southern California are expected to continue growing in popularity with families this summer, as new attractions debut at theme parks coast-to-coast. For families with flexible travel schedules, early May and September are great times to visit theme parks, when travelers can experience lighter crowds and shorter lines.
International Vacations – Favorable exchange rates and discounted pricing are helping many families plan trips to international destinations this year. The current strength of the dollar makes international travel especially affordable right now and Americans will get more for their money when visiting destinations around the world.
Cruises – Cruises offer a variety of activities for all ages, with children’s programs that give parents a chance to relax and unwind. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) forecasts 24 million vacationers will cruise the world’s waterways in 2016, one million more than last year. Experienced travel agents can help first-time cruisers identify the cruise line, ship and itinerary that best suits their family.
Before setting out on a family vacation, download the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. Travelers can use the app to map a route, find the lowest gas prices, access exclusive member discounts, find more than 58,000 AAA Approved and Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants, request AAA roadside assistance and more. For in-person travel planning, seek the expert advice of a trusted travel advisor, who can provide personalized service and first-hand destination knowledge to create a memorable family vacation. For more information and to plan a vacation visit AAA.com/Travel or www.AAA.com.