Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

These are the most popular summer travel destinations, according to Google Flights

Know the hot summer travel spots so you know where you want to go for vacation - or where you want to skip

Once that weather warms up, we can’t wait to race to the most amazing vacation spots. Whether we like that everyone else on the planet also is going there or not, there are specific summer destinations that we will go to, no matter what. Google Flights did the work and tracked where the summer travel is likely going to happen. From solo travelers to couple’s retreats, look at where the crowds want to flock to.

A view of a theme park in Orlando.

The most checked-out places

Make sure your passport is up-to-date, book that flight, and see if you’ll join other vacation-goers to these popular spots. With a group of friends or the whole family, these are where most people have their eyes pointed.

In the US

  • New York City
  • Orlando

We really don’t think of hot, sweltering New York City as the premier summer destination, but other people certainly do. But Orlando being on the list isn’t a surprise. The theme parks couldn’t hold an extra person during the summer months if they wanted to, and the beaches are just as crowded.

Outside the US

  • Rome
  • London
  • Cancun

Oh, how beautiful a holiday to Rome or London would be. Especially for those in the US, visiting those places would require a longer stay, so they make perfect summer vacation hangouts.

When isn’t Cancun a destination spot, though?

Not the most popular, but still high on the list

In the US

  • Seattle
  • Boston

Boston is stunning in the fall, but everyone should visit when they are able to. Seattle has a lot of festivals and plenty to do to fill your schedule.

Outside the US

  • Tokyo
  • Dublin
  • Barcelona

These destinations are a bit interesting. A little all over the place, but we would take an extended trip to any of them.

Where couples want to go

Ready to cuddle up with your partner this summer? Then see where other couples might be doing that, so you know if you also want to go there or try somewhere else.

  • Turks and Caicos
  • Bora, Bora
  • Jamaica
A crowded beach in the summer.
Federico Giampieri/Unsplash

The solo traveler

Maybe you want to eat, pray, and travel by yourself this year. There are a few places where you could do that with other solo adventurers. Don’t worry about if you should book that trip and just do it. Google Flights reported that searches for travel destinations for singles jumped 120% over last year. So don’t wait, just book your ticket.

  • Mexico City
  • New Orleans

As a friendly reminder — if you plan on going overseas anywhere, get those passport applications in now. With increased travel means the usual waiting period for a passport gets stretched out by a few weeks, and you don’t want to miss that flight out.

From June, when most kids get out of school, until August, when they go back, if you, your family, or a group of friends are booking a flight to make the most of your summer vacation, know the spots that are likely to be busy.

Editors' Recommendations

Dannielle Beardsley
Dannielle has written for various websites, online magazines, and blogs. She loves everything celebrity and her favorite…
The new rules to know if you visit one of Tulum’s most popular attractions
Pay attention to these new rules for visiting Tulum
Tulum

Located along the sun-kissed shores of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Tulum is one of the most popular vacation spots for travelers looking to enjoy crystal clear waters and ancient ruins. With its beautiful beaches, laid-back vibe, and rich cultural heritage, this once-hidden gem is now a bucket list destination for many. With popular attractions like Tulum National Park and the Mayan Ruins, travelers can enjoy a relaxing beach vacation while also stepping back into history.

As the allure of Tulum spreads far and wide, the challenge of overtourism becomes greater. What was once a tranquil retreat has turned into a bustling hotspot, causing overcrowded beaches and litter-strewn streets. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, local authorities have taken decisive action to safeguard Tulum’s natural beauty and cultural integrity. In an effort to mitigate the impacts of overtourism, a new set of rules has been implemented, urging travelers to find a balance between exploration and preservation. 
The new rules for travelers heading to Tulum

Read more
Don’t pack these 9 TSA-prohibited items in your checked baggage
Some of the items may surprise you
Baggage Inspection

As travelers, we are accustomed to meticulously planning what we can and cannot bring in our carry-on luggage, ensuring compliance with airline regulations and security protocols. However, amidst the focus on carry-on restrictions, it’s easy to overlook the limitations imposed on checked baggage. Surprisingly, there is a long list of TSA prohibited items that are strictly banned from being stowed away in the checked compartment of a plane. So, before you zip up your suitcase and bid farewell to your checked bag, let’s explore what items must remain out of sight during your journey. 

What can you take on a plane? TSA prohibited items
When it comes to packing for a flight, we are often well-versed in the restrictions placed on carry-on items, particularly the infamous 3-1-1 liquid rule. Yet, as we organize our carry-ons, it is crucial not to ignore the contents of our checked baggage. While it may seem like a convenient place to store bulkier or less essential items, several objects should never be put in your checked baggage. From flammable materials to certain liquids to popular foods, the restrictions are broad and varied. These are just a few of TSA prohibited items to consider before packing your suitcase.
1. Wrapped presents
Wrapped presents always run the risk of being flagged by security. These wrapped gifts can trigger suspicion or require additional screening, leading to delays and potential damage to your wrapped items. Additionally, if security officials cannot identify the contents of a wrapped gift, they may need to unwrap it entirely.
2. An abundance of cash
Packing an abundance of cash in your checked baggage is ill-advised for several reasons, particularly concerning security and potential legal complications. While no specific TSA regulations limit the amount of cash you can carry domestically, travelers entering the U.S. must declare amounts exceeding $10,000 to customs officials. However, regardless of the amount, carrying a significant sum of cash can attract attention from TSA agents, who have the authority to question you about the source and purpose of the money.

Read more
Why travel experts think you should expect airline tickets to get more expensive
You will likely see an increase in airline prices this summer
Plane

Amid the fallout from the Boeing 737 MAX crisis, there is a looming possibility of airline tickets becoming more expensive. Incidents like the door of an Alaskan Airlines 737 MAX detaching mid-flight have prompted Boeing to slow down the production of this aircraft.

With airlines facing potential delays in receiving their ordered Boeing planes and some carriers like United even halting orders for certain models altogether, the industry braces for a reduction in available aircraft. These delays, compounded by intensive federal investigations into Boeing’s manufacturing processes, may limit the number of planes available to American carriers. Consequently, this reduction in aircraft availability poses a risk of driving up airline prices for travelers.

Read more