A recent survey conducted by outdoor travel platform Campspot, in collaboration with Pilot, reveals a significant shift in how Americans are planning their summer getaways. The spotlight is now on the “Pop-Up Escape” — a short, spontaneous camping trip lasting one to three nights and located within easy driving distance. This approach is fast replacing the traditional, more elaborate vacation plans. For many travelers, it’s a stress-free and affordable alternative that allows them to unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy quality time outdoors through camping, glamping, or RVing.
According to the survey, nearly 90% of respondents are already organizing a Pop-Up Escape for the summer. Even more striking, 91% expressed a preference for local camping trips over international travel. This widespread shift highlights a growing cultural inclination toward more frequent, shorter trips that align better with current financial and emotional conditions.
The appeal of Pop-Up Escapes cuts across all age groups. A significant 73% of Gen Z and 75% of Millennials reported plans for more weekend getaways or short trips this summer. They are joined by 63% of Gen X and 42% of Baby Boomers, all seeking manageable travel that doesn’t break the bank. Rather than pursuing bucket-list vacations that may take years to plan and fund, Americans are increasingly drawn to flexible, accessible travel that delivers immediate relaxation and mental restoration.
Aside from being budget-friendly and easy to arrange, these escapes offer major mental health benefits. About 78% of participants noted feeling less stressed after just two nights of camping. In fact, 35% said they start feeling calmer the moment they head out for their trip. Across generations, there is a shared desire for travel that serves as a genuine break from the daily grind, not another source of anxiety.
Jeff Bettin, General Manager of Marketplace at Campspot, emphasized this broader narrative. “The headlines might be focused on rising costs, but the underlying story is much deeper,” he said. “Time, energy, money, and even certainty all feel more limited, but people aren’t just looking for cheaper travel. They’re looking for something that resets them, even briefly, without adding more stress to their lives. That is what Pop-Up Escapes offer.”
To support the surge in demand, Campspot has announced its Summer Escape Sale, which will run from June 16 through June 22. Travelers can save up to 40% at select campgrounds, RV resorts, and glamping sites across North America. The platform provides an easy-to-use search tool to help travelers discover discounted options close to home.
“Sometimes you just need to get away,” Bettin added. “Not far, and not even for long. Just enough to sleep under the stars, feel something real, and come home feeling like yourself again.”
As 2025 unfolds, it’s clear that Pop-Up Escapes are more than a trend — they represent a new era of travel that balances affordability, spontaneity, and well-being.
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