Here's What You Need to Know About the Changing Cost of Travel as the Pandemic Drags On

Airfare

• The Consumer Price Index reported fares increased 7% between April and May and had a 3% increase in June and July.
• United Airlines plans to operate with 26% fewer flights in its third-quarter, compared to 2019.
• Southwest has experienced a decrease in booking and an increase in cancellations.
• Hopper expects a 10% decline in domestic airfare in the fall and predicts that fall leisure travel will continue as people figure out how to travel during a pandemic.

Accommodations

• Airbnb and other vacation rentals are beginning to increase by 20%, compared to 2019.
• Holiday bookings have increased by 250%.
• Hotels in popular destinations like the Florida Keys and Myrtle Beach, S.C., increased in price. The August 2019 four-week average in the Florida Keys is $239 compared to $499 this month.
• There are still deals to be found in big cities. ( Ex.— New York City is at roughly $205 on average compared to $240 in 2019)

Car rentals and ridesharing

• Due to the shortage of drivers, prices for Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare services have increased.
• Car rental rates went up 73% according to Consumer Price Index report and most likely will continue to rise.

COVID-19 is continuing to cause changes to travel rates and regulations, but we’ll keep you updated.