More than Two-Fifths of Michiganders Delayed Booking a Trip and Later Paid More, AAA Survey Finds
Summary
AAA encourages travelers to start planning their holiday trips now. A new AAA travel survey indicates that many travelers delay booking due to budget concerns or the hope of securing lower prices, yet over 40% ultimately end up paying more than if they had booked earlier. By planning ahead, travelers can enjoy more choices and flexibility for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s travel.
Key Takeaways
- 21% of Michiganders begin their holiday trip planning in September or October.
- 42% delayed booking and ended up paying more.
- 47% cited budget as their primary concern.
- 35% were waiting for lower prices.
- The most common regret among travelers is overspending.
NEWS RELEASE
DEARBORN, Mich. (September 15, 2026) — As Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer, AAA emphasizes that now is the ideal moment for travelers to begin planning their Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s vacations. The survey reveals that while only 8% of Michiganders wait until November or December to book trips, many delay their plans for financial reasons.
The reasons travelers delay booking include:
- 47% cite budget concerns.
- 35% are hoping for lower prices.
- 18% await family or friends to confirm.
- 18% worry about weather or travel disruptions.
However, 42% of Michiganders reported paying more due to delayed bookings, with 13% paying significantly more and 29% paying somewhat more.
“Many travelers hope for better deals by waiting,” said Adrienne Woodland, AAA spokeswoman. “Unfortunately, our survey shows this strategy often backfires. While it’s crucial not to jump at the first option, now is the perfect time to start exploring different possibilities.”
Why Do Travelers Wait to Book Trips?
- 47% cite budget concerns.
- 35% are waiting for lower prices.
- 18% are waiting for family or friends’ commitments.
- 18% have concerns about weather or travel disruptions.
Benefits of Early Booking
Starting to plan early offers travelers:
- More flight options
- Greater hotel availability
- More vacation package choices
- Flexibility if plans change
- Ample time to compare destinations and prices
- The ability to optimize complex vacations
Tips for Saving Money on Holiday Travel
- Avoid peak holiday travel times.
- 55% prefer traveling before or after holidays for fewer crowds.
- 47% mention lower prices during off-peak times.
- 33% report less travel stress.
Best Holiday Travel Planning Tips
- Establish a budget before booking.
- Compare multiple travel dates.
- Consider traveling before or after peak holiday weeks.
- Set price alerts to monitor fare changes.
- Book when your itinerary aligns with your budget.
When to Work with a Travel Agent
Travelers planning complex vacations, cruises, or international trips may benefit from professional assistance. AAA’s survey highlights that complicated itineraries are the most likely scenarios for seeking a travel advisor’s help.
“In today’s travel planning, balancing price, flexibility, and peace of mind is crucial,” Woodland said. “A travel agent can assist in comparing options and maximizing value, especially for more intricate trips.”
About the AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey
The survey was conducted online among 400 Michigan residents from August 5–13, 2026, with a margin of error of ±4.9 percentage points. Responses are weighted by age and gender to ensure a reliable representation of Michigan’s adult population (18+).
