Holiday road: Americans plan on traveling over 600 miles during the holidays

NEW YORK — ​​After a year where the pandemic cancelled many holiday plans across the United States, a new poll finds Americans are using this season to catch up with their loved ones. Out of all the Americans hitting the road this holiday season, three in five are doing so specifically to visit friends and family.

Holiday travel takes on new importance in 2021

holiday travelThe study of more than 2,000 Americans with holiday travel plans finds that one in three (32%) stayed home last year. Now in 2021, a whopping 82 percent believe it’s important to share the holiday festivities with loved ones. In particular, they’re most excited to reconnect with their siblings (46%), parents (45%), and extended family (42%) this year.

The study, carried out by OnePoll and commissioned by Motel 6, found that between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, the average American will travel over 600 miles. Seven in 10 will be using a car to reach their destination.

Almost two-thirds of survey respondents are planning to travel with their immediate family this holiday season, while 38 percent will be bringing along their pets. American holiday travelers are hopeful for a more peaceful experience this year, with two in three people anticipating that their holiday trips will be more relaxing in 2021 compared to last year.

“We are thrilled to see the continued resurgence in travel across North America,” says Rob Palleschi, CEO of G6 Hospitality, in a statement. “Those looking for a place to rest this holiday season can count on Motel 6 to provide a clean and comfortable room at an affordable rate, whether we are part of their journey or their destination.”

Getting the band back together

Once they reach their destination, travelers are looking forward to indulging in classic holiday traditions with loved ones. In fact, the most eagerly anticipated traditions this year include baking cookies (51%), watching holiday movies (50%), and decorating the home (43%). One in four plan on volunteering with or donating to a non-profit organization (26%).

Out of those who changed their holiday up a bit in 2020, 88 percent admit that last year’s newly minted traditions will be following them into this holiday season. For example, one in three (35%) still consider Zoom holiday calls with extended family as their favorite new holiday activity.

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