Rising costs push travelers to weigh options more carefully, while driving offers greater control over timing and spending

DEARBORN, Mich., (June 11, 2026) —  As cruising sets sail into its busiest season and passenger numbers approach record levels, rising travel costs are reshaping how Michiganders plan their trips. With gas prices at a four-year high and airfares up 20% from a year ago, many travelers are taking a closer look at whether to drive or fly to reach cruise ports.

A growing number are choosing to get behind the wheel. According to a AAA survey, more than two-fifths (43%) of past ocean cruisers and those planning or considering a cruise say they would consider driving to the port, compared to just 16% who prefer to fly.

“With travel costs rising across the board, people are taking a more deliberate approach to planning,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Driving gives travelers more flexibility to manage both their budget and their schedule.”

Travelers weigh driving versus flying more closely

AAA latest survey data shows Michiganders are adjusting both how and where they travel:

• 17% say they are comparing the cost of driving versus flying more closely than before
• 34% are choosing destinations where travel costs are more predictable
• 11% say they want to take a cruise with bundled lodging, meals, and transportation

These decisions reflect a broader shift toward trips that offer fewer financial surprises.

Why more travelers choose to drive

Even with higher gas prices, many travelers still see advantages in driving, especially compared to fluctuating airfare and airport delays.

AAA’s survey shows the top reasons Michigan travelers choose to drive to cruise ports include:

• 59% believe driving costs less than flying
• 37% want the flexibility to extend their trip with sightseeing
• 33% want to avoid the risk of flight delays and cancellations

“Driving may not always be the lowest-cost option, but it offers more predictability,” Haas said. “Travelers can control when they leave, where they stop, and how they spend along the way.”

For road trippers, planning ahead can also help manage costs. AAA notes that hotel discounts and member rates can help reduce overnight expenses, while roadside assistance provides peace of mind for longer drives.

Willing to go the distance

The survey shows many Michiganders are willing to spend hours on the road to avoid flying:

• 28% would drive 3 to 4 hours
• 30% would drive 5 to 8 hours
• 9% would drive 9 to 12 hours

With major cruise ports such as Miami, Port Canaveral, and Fort Lauderdale within reach, driving remains a practical option for many travelers in the South and beyond.

Managing parking costs at the port

Parking at cruise ports can add a significant expense to a trip, especially for weeklong sailings. Travelers who plan to drive may be able to reduce costs by exploring nearby hotel options that offer stay-and-park packages or extended parking for cruise passengers.

Working with a travel advisor can help identify these options, along with comparing total trip costs across transportation, lodging, and parking to find the best overall value.

Why AAA still recommends travel insurance

“Driving can help travelers avoid some of the uncertainties of flying, but it doesn’t eliminate risk,” said Adrienne Woodland, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Traffic, weather, or mechanical issues can still disrupt your plans, and missing a cruise departure can be costly.”

Travel insurance can provide added protection, particularly during hurricane season, when storms can disrupt travel plans across the Southeast and Gulf Coast.

AAA recommends travel insurance to help protect against:

• Medical emergencies during travel
• Weather-related disruptions, including hurricanes
• Trip delays or cancellations
• Lost or delayed luggage for those who do fly

Looking ahead

AAA expects more travelers to weigh their transportation options carefully as travel costs remain elevated. For many, driving offers a way to start their vacation with greater flexibility and fewer unknowns.

Travelers can also look for ways to stretch their budget by working with a travel advisor, who can help compare options, identify potential savings, and build a trip plan that balances cost, convenience, and timing.

To learn more, visit AAA.com/Travel.

About the AAA Consumer Pulse™ Surveys

The AAA Consumer Pulse™ Surveys were conducted online among 400 Michigan residents from January 26 – February 5, 2026, and April 17 – 26, 2026. Survey results asked for all respondents have a maximum margin of error of ± 4.9% points. Responses are weighted by age and gender to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the adult population (18+) in Michigan.

About AAA – The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG), named a 2026 Forbes Most Trusted Company in America, is the second-largest AAA club in North America, with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG is part of the national AAA federation, which serves more than 66 million members across the United States and Canada. AAA’s mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, download the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on social media.