How Americans are hacking summer travel costs amid inflation

Inflation and energy and grocery price spikes are reshaping how Americans plan and pay for summer travel, according to a Hotels.com report that frames travelers as “deal strategists.” The article links higher airfare to a wider jet-fuel shortage tied to the Trump administration’s war in Iran, pushing trips further out of reach for some consumers. To avoid cancellations, many Americans are shifting booking tactics, using points and perks, adjusting timing, and choosing bundled packages to stretch budgets. Hotels.com says travelers can save up to 23% by booking closer in and by starting stays on Sundays. Other findings include budget-filter searches up more than 1,800%, rewards usage up 820%, and Sunday hotel check-ins 15% cheaper than Friday stays in the U.S.