Travel Survey Shows Americans not Planning to Travel over the Holidays
A national survey in the United States that the American Hotel & Lodging Association commissioned shows that the overwhelming majority of Americans are not anticipating they will travel over the holidays.
The survey showed that 72% of American respondents are most likely not to travel during Thanksgiving and that 69% do not anticipate travelling over the Christmas season. The overwhelming reasoning behind their decision is the current health crisis facing America as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
Business travel also impacted
Business travel has seen a substantial decline with travel relating to business experience almost never before seen numbers. American business travellers who responded to the survey reported only 8% had taken a trip for business purposes since the COVID outbreak took hold in March. In addition, only 19% of those employed who responded to the survey believe they will travel for business over the next six months. Furthermore, the survey found that over 60% of business travellers have no expectations that they will stay at a hotel for business related reasons.
The survey, which was answered by 2,200 adults and commissioned by the AHLA, was carried out in November by Morning Consult. It concluded several key finding, including:
- During the next year, only 30% of respondents have travelled where overnight stays were required since March.
- 21% of respondents reported they plan to travel during Thanksgiving and 24% indent to travel over the Christmas holidays.
- Fewer than 35% reported they plan to travel during Spring Break.
- 44% of respondents have no plans to travel during the next 12 months.
The president and CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association, Chip Rogers stated the holiday season is expected to be especially difficult for the hotel and tourism industry. The reality is less people travelling, and business travel is almost at a standstill. Rogers added that the need for Congress to provide relief is even more important as millions are unemployed and business around the country are feeling the impact.
Rogers also commented that anyone willing to travel that the hotel industry will be there to provide them overnight stays. The AHLA has implemented a Safe Stay initiative whereby its members are taking enhanced measures to rigorously clean rooms and public areas to give the travellers the peace of mind needed during these challenging times.