Summer travel is predicted to continue its upward trend both nationally and locally after a record-breaking Memorial Day weekend.
According to an article by Travel Pulse, 271 million Americans are expected to fly this summer, which would break the 255 million current record. Though official numbers have not been produced for Memorial Day weekend, the Houston Airport System anticipated approximately 1.3 million holiday travelers through Bush and Hobby airports between May 23 and May 29th, of which over 1 million travelers were expected to board domestic flights and another 300,000 on international flights.
The Transportation Security Administration said that it’s prepared for its “busiest summer travel season ever.” But even with increased volume at airports, travelers didn’t experience major delays or cancelations during Memorial Day weekend.
Hotel stays are also expected to increase this summer after a recent poll commissioned by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) showed that 31% of Americans plan to book a hotel or resort getaway.
According to recent TravelClick data analyzed by Houston First Corporation, the local market is showing significant growth in leisure bookings in June through August. While June and July will see, on average, an approximate 10% year-over-year growth in leisure visitation volume, the market is likely to see its most significant gain in bookings in August and is currently outpacing August 2023 volume by 40%--that won’t necessarily translate to as big an increase in occupancy but does suggest strong growth.
Summer Travel Data
This summer is showing a surge in American confidence for summer travel—one that favors domestic family vacations.
- 62 % of Americans plan on taking at least a week-long summer trip according to an Allianz Partners USA recent report.
- 65 % of respondents to the Allianz survey said that they would vacation within the continental United States.
- 42 % of respondents to that same survey said their vacation would be spent with loved ones.
- 93 % of travelers plan to travel within the next 6 months according to Longwoods International.
By Norma Salcedo and Megan Henson
