Summer vacation feels out of reach for many Americans. Here's how to save

A Deloitte survey shows summer vacations are increasingly out of reach for many Americans, with only 45% planning trips with paid lodging this year—the lowest in six years—and 35% saying they can’t afford it. Experts say rising costs are reshaping travel, especially gas and hotel prices. Trae Bodge of TrueTrae.com notes road trips remain popular, but travelers should compare costs and book in advance to stretch budgets. Arizona resident Micheal Bozman hopes to explore nearby destinations like Sedona if possible. To save, Bodge recommends road trips when feasible, using price alerts, loyalty programs, and cashback cards; others emphasize planning ahead and packing snacks to cut expenses.