Wanderlust Takes Hold in Much of North America

After more than a year in lockdown, 76 percent of consumers in North America plan to travel within the next six months. According to a new Oracle Hospitality survey, 24 percent of respondents in the U.S. and Canada plan to travel immediately, 31 percent in the next one to three months and 21 percent by the end of the year.

People are largely traveling regionally, but venturing farther from home. Domestic travel will account for 61 percent of travel plans vs. 44 percent last year, 19 percent of people will stay within driving distance vs. 47 percent last year and 20 percent will go abroad vs. 10 percent last year. Beaches (39 percent) and national parks (16 percent) are the favored destinations.

No matter the location, 77 percent noted a COVID-19 vaccination is very or somewhat important in giving them the peace of mind to travel. In terms of getting on a plane, 18 percent do not feel safe doing so until they are fully vaccinated.

Last year, travelers cared most about navigating uncertainty with flexible hotel cancellation and refund policies. This year is all about the experience.

“The pandemic has had a profound impact on the hospitality industry and continues to redefine how travel will look moving forward,” said Alex Alt, senior vice president and general manager, Oracle Hospitality. “The great news is that travel is on the rise and consumers are excited to get back out in the world. However, they have new and evolving expectations of what that experience will look like. Hoteliers are rising to the challenge to not only delight customers with a great stay, but also come up with services to boost revenue and compete with the growing short-term rental market.”