2025 Summer Trend Outlook
ThePop-Up Escape
Pop-Up Escapes are the new wave of travel.
Campspot and Pilot surveyed nearly 2,000 travelers to uncover the next big summer travel trend: the Pop-Up Escape—a 1-3 night trip within easy driving distance. Whether it’s the beach, the mountains, or the open road calling your name, these flexible and affordable escapes are the perfect antidote to the everyday hustle. Designed for those who want to travel light and live large, Pop-Up Escapes are all about making the most of your miles this summer.
Heading out on your own Pop-Up Escape is easy with Campspot and Pilot. Campspot makes it simple to find and instantly book over 300,000 campsites, RV parks, and glamping options, and Pilot keeps road-trippers fueled up, filled up, and lifted up with nearly 900 travel centers across North America.
Short, Sweet, and Seriously Trending
53%More than half of travelers surveyed are planning more short trips or weekend getaways this summer.
By Generation
65%of respondents prefer camping as their trip of choice this summer.
By Gender
90%of travelers report interest in taking a “Pop-Up Escape” this summer.
88%of respondents are already planning a 1-3 night camping trip within driving distance.
No Flights, No Fuss
91%9 in 10 respondents say they are likely to choose a local camping trip OVER an international vacation this year.
By Type
(no children) 89%
<200 Mi200 miles or less is the sweet spot for most (57%) travelers when it comes to weekend getaways.
<$500The majority (76%) of campers will spend less than $500 on a summer Pop-Up Escape.
Camping as the Cure
82%of travelers admit to feeling stressed or overwhelmed regularly 2025.
By Generation
Leading factors influencing travel plans for summer:
#1Increased desire to spend time outdoors
#2Getting away from the stress and burnout of the daily grind
#3Rising costs or economic uncertainty
Top 3 Reported Benefits of Camping:
-
1.Relaxation & Mental Clarity =
Better sleep, reduced anxiety, calm -
2.Escape & Freedom =
Break from routine, digital detox, fewer crowds -
3.Adventure & Exploration =
Physical activity, accomplishment, new experiences
78%of campers report feeling less stressed within just 2 nights of camping.
1 in 3(35%) report they already feel more calm as soon as they leave for their trip.
The (Nearby) Great Escape
For their ideal short getaway, travelers most often head to:
58%A lake or beach
51%Mountains or national parks
48%Charming small towns
When hitting the road, travelers most enjoy:
66%Stumbling upon hidden gems
62%Making memories with family or friends
61%Soaking in the scenic views
What’s Driving the Road Trip?
The How = The Where
46%of travelers are driven by budget friendly travel options as their primary motivator for a short getaway.
54%of travelers are motivated most by the destination.
Experience > Posting
For most travelers, it’s about living in the moment, not posting it.
80%prefer to take photos and plan to share later
12%prefer to in post real time.
No Plan, No Problem
69%of road trippers prefer to embrace the freedom of a loose (or no!) plan, going with the flow and letting the adventure unfold.
Who’s Along for the Ride?
60%of road-trippers go with just one buddy
29%roll with a small group (3-4)
6%prefer a solo adventure on the open road.
Legendary Journey Makers
27%of travelers would hit the road with a legendary musician for the tunes.
25%of travelers would choose a historical figure for the stories.
Ready, Set, Snack: Road Trip Essentials
Travel Center Convenience:84%of travelers most value the one-stop convenience of fuel, food, and restrooms all in one place.
In-Car Essentials:56%swear by the perfect playlist to set the tone, while 54% enjoy meaningful conversations with their travel crew to make the most of every mile.
Snack Obsession
57%of road-trippers go for a sweet/savory mix as their top choice in snacks
24%salty favorites like chips and jerky (24%) come in second
8%followed by sweets like candy and donuts (8%) to satisfy cravings
Pilot is a registered trademark of Pilot Travel Centers LLC
*Methodology:
A survey was collaboratively developed by Pilot and Campspot, and distributed by Campspot to its users between April 3–11, 2025, targeting Campspot customers across North America. A total of 1,829 respondents participated in the survey.
Book Your Pop-Up Escape on the Free Campspot App
Whether you’re on the go and looking to book a last minute getaway, or just daydreaming about your next outdoor adventure, choose from over 300,000 campsites perfect for your next trip.
