The outlook for family summer travel is bright, according to a new national survey by Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) and FamilyFun magazine. With the economy improving, more than four out of five respondents (83 percent) said they plan to take an overnight leisure trip of more than 100 miles roundtrip this summer, up from last year’s survey (78 percent). In fact, the majority of these travelers (53 percent) expect to take two or more leisure trips this summer.
Shrinking regional air routes and rising airline fees may drive a return of the classic American road trip. Fully nine in 10 respondents (90 percent) planning summer holiday trips will make the journey by car, the survey found.
“The great American road trip is back,” says Steve Joyce, president and CEO, Choice Hotels. “I believe people are becoming more confident about their jobs, and they’re planning to hit the road this summer. At the same time, travelers are looking for value, like free breakfast and free Wi-Fi, so they can spend that extra money on theme park tickets or an additional meal out with families and friends.”
“Road trips have always been a great way for families to create memories together,” says Ann Hallock, editor-in-chief, FamilyFun magazine. “The editors of FamilyFun are excited to see families are making the most of this precious time together with great ideas, from the latest apps and mobile devices to tried-and-true car trip pastimes that are fun for the whole family.”
Here is a snapshot of this summer’s family traveler, according to the survey.
