New Research Shows Travelers Are Spending a Quarter of Their Travel Budget on Non-Travel Items
A new wave of travel research is reshaping how we think about vacation spending, and it turns out flights and hotels are only part of the story. According to a recent study highlighted by Expedia Group, travelers are dedicating a significant portion of their budgets to purchases that go beyond traditional travel expenses. In fact, the findings reveal that travelers spend roughly 25% of their total trip budget on non-travel items, averaging about $500 per trip.
Research and Methodology
The study surveyed 3,500 travel decision-makers across seven global markets, making it one of the more comprehensive looks at traveler behavior in recent years. The respondents represented a range of demographics, helping researchers understand not only how much people spend, but also when and why they make purchases beyond flights, accommodations, and transportation.
One key insight is that these purchases aren't random; they are closely tied to the travel experience itself. From the moment travelers begin planning their trips to the time they return home, spending extends into categories that support, enhance, or commemorate the journey.
The methodology also highlights a broader shift in consumer behavior. Travel is no longer a standalone expense; it now triggers additional spending across industries such as retail, beauty, electronics, and financial services.
What Travelers Are Spending On
So what exactly counts as "non-travel" spending? The research points to several key categories:
- Clothing and accessories: Many travelers shop for new outfits specifically for their trips. Whether it's beachwear, hiking gear, or city-friendly fashion, these purchases are often justified as part of the experience.
- Beauty and personal care products: Travel-sized toiletries, skincare, and cosmetics frequently make the list, especially for longer or international trips.
- Electronics: Items like headphones, portable chargers, cameras, and even new phones are common pre-trip purchases.
- Experiential add-ons: While technically tied to travel, things like guided tours, event tickets, or special dining experiences may fall outside core travel bookings.
- Souvenirs and gifts: Spending doesn't stop during the trip; many travelers allocate money for keepsakes or gifts for friends and family.
Interestingly, younger travelers are even more likely to make these purchases, with higher participation rates among Gen Z and Millennials. This reflects a growing trend where travel is seen as an "all-in" lifestyle experience rather than just transportation and lodging.
Related: The New ‘Silent Travel' Trend: Why Some Travelers Are Choosing Destinations With No Wi-Fi
Why This Trend Matters
This shift has important implications for both travelers and the broader economy. For travelers, it means the true cost of a trip is often underestimated. Many people budget for airfare and hotels but overlook the additional $500 (or more) they're likely to spend elsewhere.
It also reflects a psychological trend: people are increasingly willing to spend money to enhance their experiences. Even as budgets tighten, travel remains a priority, and spending is simply redistributed across categories.
Budgeting Tips for Smarter Travel
If you want to stay in control of your finances while still enjoying your trip, a few smart strategies can make a big difference:
1. Build a "hidden costs" category: When planning your budget, explicitly set aside money for non-travel purchases. Treat it as a fixed category rather than an afterthought.
2. Add a buffer: Experts recommend adding a 10–15% cushion to your overall travel budget to cover unexpected expenses. This can help absorb impulse purchases without causing financial stress.
3. Plan purchases in advance: Instead of buying everything last minute, make a checklist of what you'll need, clothes, gear, or accessories, and shop strategically to avoid overspending.
4. Set daily spending limits: Breaking your budget into daily allowances can help you stay on track, especially for things like shopping, dining, and activities.
5. Prioritize experiences over impulse buys: Ask yourself whether a purchase will genuinely enhance your trip or just add clutter. This mindset can help you spend more intentionally.
6. Track spending in real time: Use a budgeting app or simple notes on your phone to keep tabs on your expenses throughout the trip.
This new research makes one thing clear: travel spending extends far beyond flights and hotels. With a quarter of budgets going toward non-travel items, understanding these hidden costs is essential for better planning. By recognizing where your money is really going and budgeting accordingly, you can enjoy your trip without the post-vacation financial hangover.
Copyright 2026 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
This story was originally published April 29, 2026 at 7:41 AM.