Spring break, Memorial Day, and summer vacations are on the horizon – and more Americans are planning to take a trip in 2025. With total U.S. Travel spending projected to grow 3.9% to $1.35 trillion in 2025, the economic impact of increased travel will be apparent (U.S. Travel Association). And with that, will come the increased impact of transit advertising! From more people on roadways viewing advertisements, to visitors taking ads into consideration for buying decisions – now is the time to include transit advertising in your next marketing campaign.
Here’s why a busy spring and summer travel season will bode well for transit advertising.
More Americans Are Prioritizing Travel
Americans are putting a greater emphasis on travel in 2025. According to a recent survey by IPX1031, 92% of Americans are planning to travel this year, either hitting the highways or taking to the skies. Additionally, 56% of Americans plan to travel more in 2025 than in 2024, while 30% plan to travel the same amount and only 14% anticipate traveling less (IPX1031). With this rise in travel enthusiasm, transit advertising will reach a larger and more engaged audience.
Advertisers should consider this increase in travel when planning their spring and summer campaigns. A Nielsen survey states that 90% of US residents 16 or older noticed out-of-home advertising in the past month, and 80% noticed advertisements in the past week. If more Americans are out of their homes and traveling during the upcoming seasons – there are more opportunities for them to take notice of the advertising that surrounds them.
Plus – traveling often means eating out or taking advantage of unique entertainment opportunities – and decisions for out-of-town travelers may be easily influenced by passing advertisements! According to the same Nielsen survey, 20% of OOH viewers have visited a business immediately after seeing a directional OOH ad, like a bus shelter or bench advertising a nearby establishment, and 74% of those visitors made a purchase.
Budget Conscious Travelers will Opt for Road Trips
Even with potential economic uncertainty, Americans are dedicated to traveling in 2025. For those who are looking to prioritize budget-friendly travel – many are opting for road trips, saving the cost of airline tickets or vehicle rental fees. According to the Vacationer, over 75% of American adults intend to take a road trip this summer, and many will take a shorter trip of less than 100 miles or 250 miles.
This shift toward road trips means more people will be spending extended time on highways, in urban centers, and stopping at roadside attractions—offering prime visibility for transit advertising. Billboards, bus ads, and other out-of-home placements along major travel routes will also reach audiences who are actively engaged with their surroundings.
Transit Advertising Targets Shopping-focused Travelers
When traveling, many Americans prioritize visiting loved ones or exploring iconic destinations. However, according to a report from the U.S. Travel Association, shopping ranks as the second most common travel activity, right behind visiting family. This makes transit advertising a powerful tool for brands looking to reach shoppers on the go. Travelers are often in a spending mindset, whether they’re browsing local boutiques, exploring outlet malls, or picking up souvenirs. With transit ads strategically placed in high-traffic areas—such as near shopping districts, transit hubs, and popular tourist attractions—brands can capture the attention of consumers right when they’re ready to make purchasing decisions.
Additionally, travel often brings exposure to new brands and products. Visitors are more likely to try something different when away from home, making transit advertising an effective way to introduce them to retailers, dining options, and entertainment venues. As travelers navigate new cities, well-placed transit ads serve as helpful guides, influencing their shopping choices and driving foot traffic to stores.
By leveraging transit advertising, businesses can tap into the shopping-focused traveler demographic, ensuring their message reaches an audience primed to spend.
Put Your Brand on the Map During the Busy Travel Season
With 2025 set to be a big year for travel, make sure your brand is capitalizing on this unique opportunity. Transit advertising can be a great option to boost your out of home presence, and reach people traveling in cars through city centers, walking through popular destinations, or even taking public transportation in a new city!
If your brand would like to leverage transit advertising during the spring and summer months, now is the time to secure your spot! Reach out to our team at https://www.adsposure.com/contact-us/, and let’s get move your message to the millions of travelers this year!