A recent survey by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and Morning Consult shows that 72% of Americans plan to maintain or increase their hotel stays in 2024 compared to 2023, with hotels being the preferred accommodation for travelers. This positive outlook for the hotel industry comes even as concerns about inflation impact travel decisions.
The survey, which gathered insights from 2,202 U.S. adults in early January 2024, indicates a robust desire for travel, with 53% of Americans planning overnight leisure trips and 32% eyeing business travel in the next four months.
Hotels are set to welcome the majority of these travelers, with 71% of business travelers and 50% of leisure travelers opting for hotel accommodations, underlining the enduring appeal of hotels for a wide range of travel purposes.
Despite the positive outlook for hoteliers, the survey also showed that inflation is preventing hotels and other travel-related businesses from reaching their full potential. It found that over the next four months:
- 56% of respondents said they are less likely to stay in a hotel because of inflation
- 53% said they are less likely to travel overnight because of inflation
- 48% said they are less likely to travel by airplane because of inflation
- 44% said they are less likely to rent a car because of inflation
The poll surveyed 2,202 U.S. adults from January 6-7, 2024. Other key findings include:
- 51% of respondents said they are likely to travel overnight for a family trip in the next four months, 39% of whom said they would likely stay in a hotel.
- 38% said they are likely to travel overnight for a romantic getaway in the next four months, 60% of whom said they would likely stay in a hotel.
- 32% said they are likely to travel overnight for Spring Break, 45% of whom said they would likely stay in a hotel.
- 35% of those surveyed ranked high-speed Wi-Fi as the top technological amenity they consider when evaluating hotels.
- 14% of those surveyed ranked keyless entry or mobile check-in as the top technological amenity they consider when evaluating hotels.
“These survey results underscore the tremendous potential 2024 holds for hoteliers and hotel employees,” said AHLA President & CEO Chip Rogers.
“The year ahead will not be without challenges, however, and these findings show that inflation is preventing hotels from reaching their full potential. Still, hoteliers are optimistic about the year ahead and excited continue providing excellent services for guests throughout 2024.”
