Cautious Spending Forecast for Summer Fun

Now that the Northern Hemisphere has reached the summer solstice (June 20), what better time to look at how consumers are planning to spend their money for the season? One source of such information is the 2025 Summer Spending Survey by Trustpilot, an independent customer feedback platform.

“The data highlights a growing sense of financial caution among consumers this summer, reflecting broader concerns about affordability and economic uncertainty,” the report states.

Some key findings reflecting that situation:

• More than half (55%) of respondents report budgeting and saving for spending on summer activities, with 42% reporting they plan to spend less this summer on activities like concerts and travel than last summer, and nearly half (46%) plan to spend under $500.
• Most U.S. consumers are trying to keep this summer low-key, with 37% cutting back on summer spending and travel to save money. Meanwhile, 20% are prioritizing low-cost or free activities to stretch their budgets. Still, nearly a quarter (23%) plan on spending more on activities this summer than in past years.
• Travel plans will be impacted, with only 24% saying they are prioritizing travel and cutting back elsewhere to afford their travel plans. More than one-third (37%) said they are staying local instead of taking a long-distance trip.

“Summer fun isn’t slowing down, but with tighter budgets, consumers are becoming more intentional, cutting back on risky spending and prioritizing quality time and experiences over material goods,” said Dana Bodine, U.S. Vice President of Marketing at Trustpilot.

The survey of 1001 consumers was conducted from May 7-9, 2025. Click here for more findings from the poll.