What is motiving travel in 2024? As part of our Travel Trend Report, here are our findings:
Americans are Craving Relaxation in 2024
While 86% of travelers plan to take at least as many trips in 2024 as they did this year, the types of trips they will be planning will differ in several key ways as Americans look to reclaim a sense of peace and relaxation during their travels. In RVshare’s 2023 Travel Trend Report, travelers were split down the middle on their 2023 travel plans, however with the majority of travelers most excited about taking relaxing trips to destinations away from tourist attractions and large crowds, just 38% are looking forward to planning more “bucket list” trips in 2024.
Interest in Quality Time Has Made a Comeback
While 49% of travelers are planning laid-back trips focused on relaxation this year, there are 43% of travelers are looking forward to planning annual trips with family or friends, and just 26% who are planning big trips to bucket list destinations. After the peak of big trips this past summer, instead of spending time with the crowds of tourists in 2024, people are looking forward to more quality time with family.
- 57% are looking to spend quality time with family, a 7-point spike over last year
- 48% are looking for peace and quiet
- 49% are looking to enjoy nature and wildlife
- 46% are looking to explore and discover new places
According to RVshare’s insights, travelers admit that being around family and friends is something that more than half of travelers say helps them feel relaxed while traveling.
Ready to Relax
We all want to return from vacation feeling rested and refreshed, but RVshare insights reveal that this is not always the case, particularly for women. According to traveler data, just 54% of women often or always return from vacation feeling relaxed, compared to 75% of their male counterparts. 2024 may be the year this changes though, as many women seek a more relaxing experience.
- 73% of women are looking to relax and unwind compared to 55% of men
- 52% of women are looking to enjoy peace and quiet compared to 43% of men
- and 51% are looking to clear their minds and escape compared to 43% of men
Connecting On-the-Go
While many Americans are looking at travel as an opportunity to reconnect with family and friends, many admit that they’re in search of a different type of connection. Even in the great outdoors, RVshare insights reveal that WiFi still matters to most travelers.
57% are more likely to choose a campground with a strong WiFi connection. Likely not a surprise, 64% of Millennials, 63% of Gen Z and 58% of Gen X share this opinion, while just 43% of Boomers are less likely to prioritize their ability to connect digitally. Just 19% of travelers are more likely to book a campground without WiFi, reflecting the sentiment that the whole point of getting into nature is to disconnect.
Celestial Seekers Gather for the 2024 Solar Eclipse
2024 Solar Eclipse Draws Crowds
This astronomical phenomenon is set to unfold on April 8, 2024 and is already casting quite the shadow on the travel landscape. Only set to unveil in a certain amount of states at a specific time, the majority are considering travel for the rare natural event.
According to RVshare’s Travel Trend Report insights, 78% are planning to view the Eclipse this coming April, and 53% are considering travel to do so. 52% of travelers claimed they are very likely to rent an RV for a long weekend to experience a rare natural event, which is an ideal option for the majority of travelers who are looking to avoid crowds in 2024. For those planning to view the Eclipse, 49% are considering travel to a remote destination for a less crowded experience, while 35% are considering travel to a city along the path to view it with a crowd of others
Internal booking insights from RVshare also already reveals a +324% increase in bookings for the Solar Eclipse weekend next April compared to Memorial Day Weekend 2024, which is historically a very popular time for RV travelers and the traditional kickoff to the camping season.
The data indicates that there is still plenty of availability, but RVshare expects a near full occupancy surrounding the 2024 Eclipse and encourages renters to book soon to maximize their options.
If you’re planning to travel to the United States for the eclipse, one of the best ways to experience it is by taking an RV trip. Not only will you have total freedom and flexibility, but you’ll also be able to avoid crowded hotels and congestion on the roads. Plus, an RV trip will allow you to see other landmarks and national parks along the way, making your eclipse trip even more unforgettable. An RV puts you out in nature with the most optimal views, with your bed, kitchen and bathroom all along for the ride.
To witness the 2024 total solar eclipse, you’ll need to be within the 115-mile-wide path of totality that arches from Mexico to Texas to Maine. The closer you are to the center of that path, the longer totality will last. Keep in mind, though, that most towns in the US aren’t on the path, and RV rentals, hotels and campsites usually book up months in advance. So, make sure you plan ahead if you want to experience the eclipse in the path of totality.
