Why Couples Skip Summer Vacations In 2025

Have you ever dreamed of a perfect summer getaway with your partner, only to watch those plans fizzle out under the weight of bills and stress? You’re not alone. In 2025, fewer couples are packing their bags for summer adventures, and it’s not just about the price of plane tickets. There’s a shift happening—couples are rethinking what makes a vacation worth it, balancing their relationship goals with the realities of everyday life. Let’s dive into why this is happening and how you and your partner can navigate these choppy waters without sacrificing your connection.

The Big Picture: Why Couples Are Staying Home

It’s no secret that planning a vacation can feel like a second job. From picking a destination to juggling budgets, the process can strain even the strongest relationships. But this year, something’s different. A recent survey revealed that only 46% of Americans are planning summer trips in 2025, down from 53% last year. For couples, this dip isn’t just about wanderlust fading—it’s about real-world pressures creeping in.

Money Talks, But It’s Not Just Travel Costs

When you think about skipping a vacation, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? For most, it’s the cost. But here’s the kicker: it’s not just the price of hotels or flights keeping couples grounded. According to experts, 68% of people say the cost of everyday life—think rent, groceries, and utilities—is a bigger barrier than vacation expenses (64%).

I’ve seen this in my own life. My partner and I once spent weeks dreaming of a beach escape, only to realize our monthly bills were eating up our savings faster than we could say “all-inclusive.” It’s a tough pill to swallow when you’re trying to keep the spark alive while staying financially afloat.

The cost of living is squeezing couples’ budgets, making even a short getaway feel like a luxury they can’t afford.

– Financial wellness coach

This financial strain is forcing couples to prioritize. Do you splurge on a trip and risk stress later, or stay home and invest in your day-to-day life? For many, the answer is clear: stability comes first.

The Wait-and-See Approach

Another factor keeping couples home? Uncertainty. With talk of tariffs and whispers of a possible recession, many are adopting a wait-and-see mindset. A whopping 23% of people surveyed said they’re “not sure” about their summer plans, up from 18% last year.

This hesitation isn’t just about money—it’s about trust. When headlines scream about economic uncertainty, it’s hard to commit to a non-refunded booking. For couples, this can spark tension. One partner might be ready to book that cabin in the mountains, while the other’s worried about job security. Sound familiar?

• Economic fears: Tariffs and recession rumors make couples cautious.
• Job instability: Layoffs and corporate changes add to the uncertainty.
• Consumer sentiment: A recent dip in confidence is making people rethink big purchases like travel.

The Hassle Factor: Is Travel Worth It?

Let’s be real—travel can be a headache. From navigating crowded airports to dealing with delayed flights, the logistics can test even the most patient couples. In 2025, 16% of people cited the hassle of travel as a reason to stay home, up from 11% last year.

Then there’s the work-life balance struggle. With companies pushing for more in-office time, getting time off is harder than ever. The same survey found that 16% of respondents struggled to take vacation days, compared to just 10% in 2024. For couples, this means less time to connect and more stress when planning a trip.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect is how these hassles can expose cracks in a relationship. Planning a trip requires teamwork, and if you’re already stretched thin, those long discussions about itineraries can turn into arguments. I’ve been there—trying to agree on a destination while juggling work deadlines is no one’s idea of fun.

Safety Concerns and the Travel Blues

It’s not just logistics keeping couples grounded—safety is a growing concern. About 15% of people surveyed said they’re worried about flight safety, and it’s no wonder why. High-profile aviation incidents have made headlines, from near-misses to mechanical issues. For couples, this adds another layer of anxiety to an already complex decision.

Imagine this: you’re excited about a romantic getaway, but one of you can’t stop picturing turbulence or worse. It’s enough to make anyone second-guess their plans. This fear, combined with economic and logistical hurdles, is creating a perfect storm for couples rethinking their summer escapes.

How Couples Can Navigate These Challenges

So, what’s a couple to do when the world seems determined to keep you home? The good news is that skipping a big trip doesn’t mean sacrificing your connection. Here are some practical ways to keep the spark alive, whether you’re jetting off or staying put.

Rethink What “Vacation” Means

A vacation doesn’t have to mean a far-flung destination. Sometimes, the best memories are made closer to home. Consider a staycation—a weekend where you unplug, explore local spots, or just binge a new series together.

1. Plan a local adventure: Visit a nearby town or park you’ve never explored.
2. Create a no-work zone: Set boundaries to make your time together feel special.
3. Try something new: Take a cooking class or go hiking to shake things up.

My partner and I once turned a rainy weekend into a “staycation” by cooking a fancy dinner and pretending we were at a five-star restaurant. It cost a fraction of a real trip and left us feeling closer than ever.

Budget Smart, Travel Light

If you’re set on traveling, get creative with your budget. Look for deals on off-peak destinations or consider road trips over flights. The key is to align your plans with your financial reality without letting money stress sour your time together.

Pro tip: Sit down with your partner and make a travel budget together. It’s not the most romantic date night, but it builds trust and keeps you on the same page.

Prioritize Connection Over Destination

At the end of the day, a vacation is about strengthening your bond, not checking a box. Focus on what brings you closer—whether it’s a shared laugh over a campfire or a quiet night at home.

A strong relationship thrives on shared experiences, not expensive plane tickets.

– Relationship therapist

Maybe the most overlooked part of vacation planning is communication. Talk openly about what you both want from your time off. Is it adventure? Relaxation? A mix of both? These conversations can prevent resentment and make even a simple weekend feel like a getaway.

The Silver Lining: Less Travel, More Bonding?

Here’s a thought: could skipping that big trip actually be good for your relationship? When you’re not stressing about budgets or flight delays, you have more energy to focus on each other. In 2025, couples are finding creative ways to connect without leaving home.

Think about it—when was the last time you and your partner had a deep, uninterrupted conversation? Or tried something new together, like a hobby or a home project? These moments can be just as meaningful as a week in Paris.

Relationship Boost Formula:
  50% Quality Time
  30% Open Communication
  20% Shared Goals

Of course, it’s not all rosy. Staying home can feel like a letdown if you’re craving adventure. That’s why it’s crucial to approach this with intention. Plan activities that excite you both, and don’t let routine suck the joy out of your summer.

Looking Ahead: Will Travel Bounce Back?

Despite the current slowdown, there’s hope on the horizon. Domestic travel spending is still higher than it was in 2019, and many couples are still eager to explore when the time is right. The key is patience and planning.

For now, focus on what you can control: your budget, your time, and your connection. Whether you’re sipping cocktails on a beach or cuddling on the couch, the goal is the same—to build memories that strengthen your relationship.

So, what’s your plan for summer 2025? Will you brave the uncertainties and book that trip, or find magic in the moments closer to home? Whatever you choose, make it about you and your partner. That’s the real destination.