Survey shows vacationers are ready to spend big this summer

Gregg Stein

Thursday, May 15, 1997 | 11:59 a.m.

NEW YORK -- Vacationers plan to see more and spend more this summer, encouraged by lower gasoline prices and confidence about their finances, according to a survey released Wednesday.

Florida, California and Hawaii were picked as the favorite U.S. destinations for the fifth year in a row. Nevada and New York tied for fourth place in the top 10 ranking, followed by Colorado, Arizona, Texas, Washington, D.C., and Alaska.

Americans will take 230 million trips of at least 100 miles from June through August, up 2 percent from last year's record, the Travel Industry Association of America predicted in its annual forecast.

A quarter of those surveyed for the report said they'll travel more than last summer, compared with 11 percent who plan to travel less. Those aged 18-24 showed the most enthusiasm, with 43 percent planning more trips.

"Young people are feeling much better about their future," said William S. Norman, president of the Travel Industry Association. "They're looking forward to this vacation that they feel they've earned."

The TIA and the American Automobile Association surveyed 1,500 people on past travel habits and plans for the summer. They were also asked about their confidence in the economy and their finances.

On average, respondents expect to pay $1,112 on their longest trip, up from $1,076 last year. But the length of that trip fell to an average of 8.1 nights from 8.5 nights last year.

New York jumped from eighth place, a gain Norman attributed to increased promotional efforts by both the city and state. He said a recent drop in violent crime in the Big Apple also could be a factor.

"There is an increased perception of safety, and that's very important. It is a friendlier city now," he said.

Air travel will grow 3 percent this summer to 33.9 million trips of 100 miles or more, the survey said. Travel by car, truck or recreational vehicle will rise 1 percent to 188.6 million trips.

Gasoline costs about 7 cents per gallon less than last year, when a near record surge in prices during the spring put the national average at $1.31 a gallon, the AAA said.

Still, other travel costs such as lodging and meals will be slightly higher, especially in metropolitan areas. The AAA estimates those costs at $199 a day, up from $193 last year.

But people don't appear to be shying away from the more expensive destinations like Hawaii and New York, a sign that the strong economy is making people more willing to spend.

"They're seeking out the destinations that they want," said Graeme Clarke, a senior vice president with AAA. "And within reason, they're willing to pay for it."