The most expensive destinations for international travel are both Europe and Asia, with prices expected to rise to a five-year high.
According to a report from travel app Hopper, a combination of lower supply, strong demand and high fuel prices – which primarily affect long-haul routes – is driving the price increase. In fact, Delta Air Lines reported last month that 75% of its summer flights overseas are already full.
Currently, a flight to Asia is 60% more expensive than before the pandemic (with a “good deal” costing more than $1,600), while a flight to Europe is 24% more expensive than before the pandemic (with a “good deal” still costing more than $1,000).
“International travelers are in for some sticker shock this year,” according to Hopper’s report. “High demand and lower supply on international routes is driving airfare to the highest levels in at least [five] years.”
In addition, the rise in airfares in the United States is also making itself felt domestically to a somewhat lesser extent.
According to Hopper’s analysis, domestic flights currently cost an average of $285 per ticket. That’s 15% less than the same period last year, but still a 1.4% increase over April 2019. In addition, prices are expected to continue rising, peaking in June, when the average ticket will cost $328.
This summer, travelers should be prepared to spend more money on lodging, as prices are on the rise. Recent figures show that hotel prices have climbed by an average of 29% since April 2022. In addition, for those who want additional amenities such as the ability to bring their pets, prices can be even higher, ranging from 30% to 51% more per night.
The report suggests car rentals will be cheaper this summer, with a 21 percent drop from last year. On average, rental cars will cost $38 per day, while gas prices are about 10 percent lower than last year. This is good news for travelers looking for affordable options for their trips.