About one in seven Michiganders paid more after a travel interruption, AAA survey finds

DEARBORN, Mich., (November 10, 2026) — With rising travel prices already Michiganders’ top travel concern, AAA says now is the time to prepare for delays, cancellations and severe weather as travelers plan fall and holiday trips. About one in seven (14%) Michiganders faced unexpected hotel, transportation or other costs after a travel interruption, according to a new AAA travel survey.

Overall, 54% of Michiganders reported at least one travel problem in the past two years. Flight delays and cancellations topped the list. Michiganders also reported disruptions caused by severe weather, including hurricanes, wildfires and winter storms.

What Concerns Michiganders Most About Traveling?

• Rising travel costs (37%)
• Flight delays or cancellations (32%)
• Severe weather disrupting a trip (31%)

“There can be a lot riding on a holiday trip beyond the price of the plane ticket,” said Adrienne Woodland, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “A delayed or canceled flight can create a chain reaction of added expenses, from extra hotel nights to missed tours and transportation costs. That’s why we recommend considering travel insurance and working with a trusted travel advisor to spot potential risks and build more flexibility into your travel plans.”

How Can Travelers Avoid Unexpected Travel Costs?

• Book early. Waiting to book can mean fewer choices and higher prices, especially during peak travel periods.

• Travel early. Book morning flights when possible and consider arriving a day early for important events, cruises or tours. Extra time can help limit the impact of delays and severe weather.
• Avoid tight connections. Allow extra time between connecting flights to reduce the likelihood of missed connections when delays occur.
• Compare total costs. Include baggage, parking, resort fees, transportation and other add-ons when comparing travel options.
• Consider travel insurance. Compare the cost of coverage with prepaid expenses at risk and understand what the policy covers before purchasing.
• Work with a travel advisor. An advisor can help compare travel options, identify potential risks and build flexibility into your plans.

“Do not wait until a delay, cancellation or storm changes your plans to think about the cost,” Woodland said. “Prepare before you book and visit AAA.com/Travel if you need help comparing options or planning a more complex trip.”

About the AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey

The AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey was conducted online among 400 Michigan residents from August 5–13, 2026. Results based on all respondents have a maximum margin of error of ±4.9 percentage points. Responses were weighted by age and gender to represent Tennessee’s adult population age 18 and older.

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 14 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. Its mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. Morning Consult recently ranked AAA Insurance as America’s most trusted insurance brand for 2026, reflecting the confidence consumers place in the AAA brand. For more information, download the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on social media.

Image courtesy of AAA Vacations