As the holiday season approaches, a new survey reveals that 52% of Americans plan to travel for leisure in the next four months, with hotels remaining the top choice for lodging.
The survey, commissioned by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and conducted by Morning Consult, highlights that hotels continue to lead as the preferred accommodation for both leisure (45%) and business travelers (59%) in the U.S.
With the holiday season around the corner, the data shows that 32% of Americans are likely to travel for Thanksgiving and 34% for Christmas—consistent with last year’s holiday travel trends.
Additionally, 66% of respondents reported being either more likely (25%) or equally as likely (41%) to stay in a hotel this fall or winter compared to a year ago, indicating stable interest in hotel stays despite economic pressures.
However, inflation remains a significant hurdle for both travelers and the hotel industry. The survey found that:
•56% of respondents said inflation may reduce their likelihood of staying in a hotel, a slight increase from 55% in the spring.
•50% noted inflation could decrease their chances of traveling overnight.
•44% stated that inflation might limit their likelihood of flying.
•42% indicated that renting a car could be impacted by inflation.
Holiday Travel Preferences: Family, Romance, and Solo Adventures
Beyond traditional family trips, Americans have varied travel plans for the upcoming months. The survey shows that:
•47% of respondents are likely to travel with family, and 36% of those travelers plan to stay in a hotel.
•37% are considering a romantic getaway, with over half (52%) opting for hotel accommodations.
•32% are likely to embark on a solo adventure during the holidays, with 44% choosing hotels for their stay.
Sustainability and Technology Influence Hotel Choices
Sustainability and technology are increasingly important factors for travelers. The survey reveals that 66% of Americans consider sustainability important when they travel, and 57% are more likely to choose a hotel with a recognized sustainability certification, such as Green Key Global.
High-speed Wi-Fi also ranks as a crucial amenity, with 63% of hotel guests identifying it as one of their top three technological priorities. The focus on eco-friendly practices and connectivity reflects evolving expectations from travelers who seek convenience and environmentally conscious options.
Business Travel Trends
Business travel is also expected to see a slight uptick, with 23% of employed adults planning a business trip within the next four months. Among those business travelers, 59% expect to stay in a hotel, reinforcing hotels as a popular choice for work-related accommodations.
Industry Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite strong demand, inflation remains a considerable obstacle. AHLA Interim President & CEO Kevin Carey emphasized the impact of economic pressures on the industry: “Despite its many positive findings, this poll also underscores how the lingering effects of inflation continue to pose significant challenges for hoteliers and other travel-related businesses. Helping America’s hotels reach their full economic potential hinges on extending and protecting pro-growth tax policies, growing the hotel workforce, and stopping onerous government regulations at every turn. That’s exactly why AHLA will continue to fight for these issues.”
With ongoing economic challenges, AHLA’s advocacy efforts remain focused on supporting the hotel industry through pro-growth policies, workforce development, and regulatory reforms. These measures aim to help hotels meet growing demand and maximize their economic potential.
As the holiday season approaches, the demand for hotels as a preferred lodging option underscores the resilience of the travel industry. Despite inflationary concerns, many Americans are eager to reconnect with family, take romantic getaways, and explore solo travel adventures. Hotels continue to stand out as a reliable choice for both leisure and business travelers, reflecting their vital role in the holiday travel landscape.
