Fifty-two percent of Americans intend to travel overnight for leisure purposes within the next four months, with hotels being the preferred accommodation choice for both leisure (45%) and business travelers (59%), as indicated by a recent survey.
Furthermore, sixty-six percent of Americans are either more likely (25%) or equally likely (41%) to choose hotel stays this fall or winter compared to the previous year.
The survey also revealed that 32% of Americans are expected to travel overnight for Thanksgiving this year, while 34% plan to do so for Christmas, reflecting the same figures as last year for both holidays.
Despite this encouraging outlook, the survey highlighted that the ongoing impact of inflation poses a considerable challenge to the growth of hoteliers and other businesses within the travel sector. It noted that over the next four months:
- A total of 56% of participants indicated that inflation is expected to diminish their likelihood of staying in a hotel, representing a slight increase from 55% recorded in the spring.
- Half of the respondents, or 50%, expressed that inflation is likely to impact their ability to travel overnight.
- Furthermore, 44% of those surveyed noted that inflation may decrease their chances of flying.
- Lastly, 42% stated that inflation is likely to affect their decision to rent a car.
The survey conducted from September 30 to October 2, 2024, included 2,201 adults from the United States. Additional insights from the survey reveal:
– 47% of participants indicated they are likely to travel for a family vacation in the upcoming four months, with 36% of this group planning to stay in a hotel.
– 37% expressed intentions to travel for a romantic escape, and among them, 52% are likely to choose hotel accommodations.
– 32% are considering a solo trip during the holiday season, with 44% of these individuals likely to opt for a hotel stay.
– A significant 66% of Americans prioritize sustainability in their travel plans, and 57% are more inclined to book a hotel that possesses a sustainability certification.
– Among employed adults, 23% reported plans to undertake a business trip in the next four months, with the majority (59%) anticipating hotel stays.
– High-speed Wi-Fi emerged as the most sought-after technological amenity for hotel guests, with 63% identifying it as one of their top three priorities.
Despite its many positive findings, the poll also underscores how the lingering effects of inflation continue to pose significant challenges for hoteliers and other travel-related businesses.
