Travelers around the globe are rising above recent economic uncertainty by not only vacationing this summer, but increasing their allotted budget to do so — this according to a second round of survey findings released today by Wyndham Hotel Group.
Commissioned to better understand the vacation spending habits of Wyndham Hotel Group’s global guests, the survey polled just over 5,600 adults in key cities throughout the U.S., Brazil, Canada, China, and the U.K.
US vs. International travelers:
• 70% of travelers worldwide intend to spend the same amount or more on vacation this year as they did last year, with 35% opting to spend more. Of those who will spend more, 66% of Chinese travelers and 52% of U.S. travelers intend to use that money to take a longer vacation.
• Excluding the cost of accommodations, 37% of U.S. travelers along with 36% of Canadians and 42% of Chinese plan to spend the bulk of this year’s vacation budget on entertainment and excursions. Meanwhile, 37% of U.K. travelers put dining out at the top of their list and 40% of Brazilian travelers put shopping at the top of their list.
• When asked what hotel extras they would be most willing to pay more for while on vacation, U.S. travelers ranked a hotel in a better location as their top choice at 35%, followed by a great view at 30% and access to spa facilities at 30%. Comparatively, travelers in Brazil ranked great customer service at 40% and breakfast at 40% highest, while Chinese travelers made spa facilities at 45% their top choice.
• Of those travelers who are looking to cut back on their spending, 24% said they would give up vacationing to do so, with the vast majority opting instead to pass up activities like dining out or giving up a night out/drinks with family or friends. U.S. travelers in particular put great emphasis on the importance of vacationing, placing it last on their list of items they’d be willing to forgo.
Commonalities amongst all travelers:
• 34% of all travelers belong to a hotel loyalty program. Of those who do, 62% indicate that loyalty program membership influences their hotel choice. Loyalty program membership is highest in China with 50% of travelers belonging to at least one program, followed closely by 40% travelers in the U.S. Membership is lowest in the U.K. at 20%.
• When it comes to booking a hotel, 45% of travelers will opt for midscale accommodations over any other. Of those who travel once or less a year, 28% will opt for a budget or economy offering. Meanwhile, of those who travel four times a year or more, 39% prefer upscale accommodations.
• Asked what types of vacations they would most likely save up for and aspire to take, a visit to a major theme park ranked highest with 43% of all travelers making it their top choice. Coming in a close second and third where shopping at 40% and adventure-themed trips at 37%. Of the least interest were trips centered around mountain climbing and skiing.