Washington, D.C. – A recent poll conducted by Fox reveals that many Americans are opting out of summer vacations this year due to soaring prices.

The survey indicates that over half of respondents are choosing to stay home or modify their travel plans to make them more budget-friendly, particularly as Memorial Day Weekend approaches, marking the unofficial start of summer. High travel costs have influenced the plans of 72% of those polled to some extent or significantly.

One individual, Tiana Armstrong, expressed disappointment over having to forgo a trip to Italy with her partner due to the exorbitant expenses associated with traveling abroad. She highlighted how the cumulative effect of rising prices across various aspects of travel can make it unaffordable for many.

In response to the financial constraints, the Armstrongs are adjusting their flight arrangements to save money, while others are shifting from flying to driving to cut costs. AAA spokesperson Azia Diaz forecasts a record number of travelers hitting the roads starting this weekend, with an estimated 38.4 million people expected to embark on road trips.

Another survey participant, Larin Shepard, detailed her family’s decision to drive instead of flying for an upcoming gathering to save on expenses. The sentiment resonates with more than half of respondents who indicated that they are foregoing vacation plans altogether due to the high prices.

With travel prices skyrocketing, many individuals like Ben Fowler are reevaluating their leisure activities and opting for more cost-effective alternatives, such as attending free events instead of pricey attractions like amusement parks.

Looking ahead, travel site Hopper projects that flight prices will peak towards the end of May and early June, adding to the financial considerations that are influencing vacation decisions for many Americans this summer.