Choice Hotels International has released its first Choice Privileges State of the American Traveller Survey, a poll of the summer travel plans of more than 2000 US adults.

As the US grapples with inflation, cost is on the minds of the nation’s travellers. The majority (78%) typically look to spend less than $200 per night on lodging, and most (73%) prefer to splurge on experiences instead.

A key tool for saving money is loyalty programmes. 41% of Americans said they plan to use hotel/loyalty programme points to save money this summer, and 30% book using a loyalty member rate. Indeed, investing in loyalty strategies is essential for hospitality brands to maintain relevance and drive customer affinity in the competitive hotel environment.

According to the survey, the all-American road trip reigns supreme, even as international travel has boomed in 2023. More than a third of respondents (38%) report they travel to feel more connected to the US and wish to explore the country, and 65% said that three or more destinations make for an ideal summer road trip.

Many Americans (64%) said they are road-tripping this year because they want to make memories with family and friends. More than half (60%) of Americans want to road-trip with their spouse, partner or significant other.

Americans are also looking to blend work and play on their travels. Most survey respondents (76%) said when travelling for work they are likely to extend their trip to include leisure time and 86% will also stay at the same hotel.

Finally, the most desired hotel amenity that came out on top was a pool; 45% want to stay at a property which has one.

Preceding the survey, Choice Hotels signed a distribution agreement with B2B marketplace Roibos to distribute its properties portfolio on the platform.