SC travelers should book summer vacation plans now before it’s too late, AAA says. Here’s why

Patrick McCreless
·2 min read
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If you’ve been planning that perfect summer vacation trip, you’d better book it soon to get everything you want.

More than 80% of South Carolinians plan to travel this year, 56% of which plan to take a summer vacation, a new AAA survey shows. However, only 26% of South Carolina summer travelers have booked their trips. Meanwhile, bookings for cruises, tours, hotels and flights are already up overall, AAA says.

“Travel demand has come roaring back this summer and we’re already seeing large crowds at popular domestic and international travel destinations,” Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group, said in a Wednesday press release. “The recent decision to lift all international travel restrictions will only add to demand.”

According to AAA, international travel bookings are up more than 200% compared to 2022. Also, pent-up demand from the pandemic and backlogs have led to passport processing delays in the U.S., increasing wait times from eight to 10 weeks to 10 to 13 weeks.

SC summer vacation plans

Below is a breakdown from the survey on the most popular vacations that South Carolinians are planning this summer.

  • 57% - Beach Destinations

  • 29% - City/Major Metro Destination

  • 27% - National/State Park

  • 19% - International Travel

  • 18% - Ocean/Large Cruise

SC summer travel top findings/tips

Here are the top findings from the South Carolina summer travel survey, along with travel tips from AAA.

  • Survey shows 90% of South Carolinians plan to take a road trip. AAA recommends that drivers leave early and expect congestion near beaches and attractions, particularly on weekends and holidays.

  • Survey shows 19% will not get a vehicle inspection before their road trip. AAA suggests drivers make sure their vehicle is road trip ready.

  • Survey shows 34% of South Carolinians plan to take a commercial flight. To reduce the likelihood of flight delays or cancellations, book a non-stop flight that leaves early in the morning. Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours early, AAA suggests.

  • Survey shows 16% of South Carolinians plan to take a cruise. Summertime sailings are already filling up fast and in many cases, travelers are looking at 2024 departures for the itinerary they want, AAA states.

  • Survey shows that 42% of South Carolina travelers plan to rent a car. According to AAA, while rental car availability has improved in recent years, inventory will likely still be tight at airports because of high demand. Rates are often more expensive the closer you get to your desired rental date, so book early for the best combination of availability and price, AAA states.