Over 50% of Americans Plan to Travel for Leisure in Coming Months, Despite Inflation Concerns

According to a new survey conducted by Morning Consult and commissioned by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), 52% of Americans are planning overnight leisure travel in the next four months. The survey also revealed that hotels remain the favored accommodation for leisure (45%) and business travelers (59%). Compared to last year, 66% of Americans are equally or more likely to stay in a hotel this fall or winter.

The survey also found that 32% of Americans are likely to travel overnight for Thanksgiving and 34% for Christmas, mirroring last year’s figures for these holidays. However, inflation remains a concern for the travel industry, with 56% of respondents stating it might decrease their likelihood of staying in a hotel, a slight increase from 55% in spring.

Inflation is also expected to affect other aspects of travel. Half of the respondents said inflation could lower their chances of overnight travel, 44% said it might decrease airline travel, and 42% said it could affect car rental plans.

The survey, which included 2,201 U.S. adults and was conducted between September 30 and October 2, 2024, also revealed:

– 47% plan to travel for a family trip in the next four months, with 36% likely to stay in a hotel.

– 37% plan a romantic getaway, with 52% likely to choose hotel accommodation.

– 32% plan a solo adventure during the holidays, with 44% likely to stay in a hotel.

– 66% consider sustainability important when they travel, and 57% are likelier to choose a hotel with a sustainability certification.

– 23% of employed adults plan a business trip in the next four months, with 59% likely to stay in a hotel.

– 63% of respondents ranked high-speed Wi-Fi as a top priority in hotel amenities.

Despite the positive findings, the poll highlights inflation’s significant challenges for the hotel and travel industries. AHLA Interim President & CEO Kevin Carey emphasizes the importance of pro-growth tax policies, workforce growth, and prevention of onerous government regulations for the industry’s full economic potential.