A Surprising Decade Is Inspiring a Viral New Travel Trend

The pressures of the modern world seem to be upping the ante lately. Sometimes it can feel like we’re stuck on a hamster wheel of reality shows about real estate, influencer marketing, and dystopian politics; it’s enough to break even the most resilient of us. So, instead of letting the dark thoughts creep in, travelers across the country are trying to turn back time in hopes of a peaceful respite.

According to a new study by Campspot, tourists in the US are seeking out nostalgia-driven outdoors travel that was specifically popular during the 1980s. The survey states that 82% of travelers are interested in or planning on embarking on nature-centric trips in 2025 in order to escape the stressors of modern life.

How exactly does one travel like it’s the 1980s? By seeking out sentimental and nature-centric getaways that remind people of simpler times and childhood memories. Specifically, the three most popular types of travel are caravan road trips, family camp outings, and overnight stays at rustic campgrounds.

The destinations most sought after for these kinds of trips include West Yellowstone in Montana, Traverse City in Michigan, Miami in Florida, and Bar Harbor in Maine. Each of these destinations offer many opportunities for digital detoxes, fuss-free lodgings, and plenty of outdoors activities from hiking and swimming to horseback riding and fishing.

What’s most evident from this study is that travelers these days don’t necessarily daydream of grandiose resorts and exorbitant amenities. Instead, the focus is on touching grass, passing down family traditions, and cosplaying with your walkman and floppy disks.

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Izzy Baskette is the New York City Staff Writer for Thrillist. Talk to her at izzy.baskette@voxmedia.com or find her on Instagram.