The Rise of Micro-Trips: Bite-Sized Getaways for Busy Travelers (as seen on CBS)
- Christianne Klein
- Sep 25
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 26
Some Americans are changing the way they travel, trading in extended vacations for multiple shorter trips throughout the year, a trend known as micro-trips or micro-cations. Unlike a staycation- where travelers remain in their home city to relax- micro-trips involve traveling to a new destination, often for 2–3 nights, allowing a change of scenery and the experience of exploration without a huge time or financial commitment.
“Micro-cations are becoming increasingly popular in 2025 because they meet travelers where they are, financially, mentally, and logistically,” says Connor Smith, Senior Vice President at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Flexible schedules from remote and hybrid work allow travelers to stretch a weekend into something meaningful. “Travelers today are seeking more frequent moments of inspiration, discovery, and rest. It’s a shift toward experience-first travel, focusing on how the trip makes them feel.”
Why Micro-Trips Are Trending Now
Several factors are fueling the rise of micro-trips:
Economic factors: With inflation impacting airfare, hotels, and vacation rentals, committing to a week-long trip feels like a gamble. Micro-trips offer affordable flexibility, letting travelers enjoy luxury experiences, fine dining, or hyper-local excursions without breaking the bank.
Time constraints: Shorter getaways fit busy schedules and minimize paid time off (PTO) usage, while still providing a sense of escape.
Desire for meaningful experiences: “People are exhausted from overplanning,” notes Paul Whitten, founder of Nashville Adventures. “A 2–3 day trip lets you recharge without the stress of a two-week itinerary. Travelers are picking a couple of meaningful experiences and leaning into them.”
Destinations Perfect for Micro-Trips
Urban micro-cations: Cities like San Francisco, Atlanta, and Chicago offer compact, walkable experiences with cultural, culinary, and entertainment options easily explored in 2–3 days. Guests at IHG’s Hotel Spero in San Francisco or voco The Darwin in Atlanta can enjoy boutique dining, theaters, and museums without needing a full week.
Hidden gems and coastal retreats: For those seeking relaxation, smaller destinations offer peace and scenery. Carmel Mission Inn on the California Central Coast is a prime example- just a short drive from San Francisco or Los Angeles, it offers boutique lodging, wineries, beaches, and a charming artsy culture. Some hotels offer special seasonal offers, such as discounted Sunday or off-peak rates.
Las Vegas: While often associated with long weekends or multi-day trips, our home city of Las Vegas is a great spot for micro-trips, offering a compact, walkable city full of world-class dining, entertainment, and luxury hotels. Its accessibility via major airports makes it easy for travelers to maximize a short getaway.
Making the Most of a Micro-Trip
Plan with focus: Choose one or two signature experiences rather than trying to see it all.
Mix adventure and relaxation: Combine activities like a morning cultural tour with a food experience or spa treatment in the afternoon.
Flexibility pays off: Off-peak travel, midweek stays, and last-minute deals often yield the best value.
The Difference From Staycations
Staycations may be comfortable, but micro-trips provide a true mental reset. A new environment stimulates all five senses, giving travelers the feeling of a full vacation even over just a long weekend. Whether exploring boutique cities, coastal towns, or luxury resorts, micro-trips are all about intentional, bite-sized escapes that leave you refreshed and inspired- without the hassle of planning a two-week itinerary.
In Case You Missed It
Here is the broadcast interview about the Rise of Micro-Trips with Christianne Klein and JC Fernandez on CBS- Las Vegas Now
Christianne Klein is an Emmy® and Edward R. Murrow Award-winning TV Host, journalist, travel and lifestyle expert, and founder of FoodFamilyTravel.com.
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