As temperatures begin to rise, travelers are getting the urge to explore, and new research shows they’re acting on that spur-of-the-moment travel bug. Recent data from Motel 6 and Studio 6 reveals that 67% of Americans with travel plans this year say that the best trips are spontaneous and decided on a whim.
The study, which surveyed more than 2,000 Americans who plan to travel this year also found that almost three-quarters (73%) would be willing to visit a surprise destination.
“Taking a last-minute getaway is a great way to add some joy into your life,” said Julie Arrowsmith, president/interim CEO, G6 Hospitality, parent company of Motel 6 and Studio 6.
Traveling distances, with companions
Seven in 10 (70%) travelers report they are indulging in longer excursions by traveling more than three hours from their hometown. When asked about companions, more than three in four (78%) travelers prefer to journey with other people, while almost one in three (28%) are planning to explore with pets.
Off-season and longer trips
With impromptu trips on the rise, more than two in five (44%) vacationers admit they are switching up their travel experiences this year. Most notably, the typical “travel season” may be a thing of the past, with almost half (47%) indicating that they are just as likely to get away during the off-season or weekdays as opposed to peak times like holidays and weekends. Another 32% are taking longer vacations than ever before.
Hotel stays and prioritizing discounts
In fact, no matter the length of the trip, nearly half (49%) of American tourists plan to stay at a hotel or motel. And, when booking accommodations, two-thirds (66%) say rewards programs are important to them while on the road.
