Key Takeaways from Destination Analysts' January 11th Update on The State of the American Traveler

The following provides NYSTIA Data Analyst Ryan Maercklein's insight and takeaways from the January 11^th State of the American Traveler webinar presented by Destination Analysts.

A wide array of topics were covered including the economic considerations of the traveler, travel sentiment, and 2023 expectations. We would like to thank Destination Analysts for their continued dedication towards informing members of the tourism industry to create a unified front through the cultivation and sharing of this data.

The most significant takeaway bullet points from the January 11^th webinar are:

1. Economics vs. Travel Morale: Facing the potential of an economic recession, financial concerns have grown leading to a larger negative impact of travel prices on the number of travelers.
   1. 49% of those surveyed claimed that high travel prices have kept them from traveling in the past month.
   2. While 77% of travelers are reducing travel expenditures due to concerns of a recession, optimism remains strong.
   3. Almost half of respondents felt they will be in a better financial position a year from now.
2. Travel Sentiment: Enthusiasm to travel remains high as consumers are eager to continue exploring travel opportunities and experiences.
   1. 80% of American travelers reported a high degree of excitement with regards to leisure travel in the upcoming year.
   2. Additionally, travel enthusiasm grew significantly in early 2022, and despite a gradual decline, remains high as we enter 2023 at 16% above the January 2022 intensity.
   3. However, certain concerns are prevalent to travelers. 64% expect price gouging to become more common while 60% think domestic travel is going to be more frustrating due to air travel breakdowns and a lack of customer service, among other factors.
3. 2023 Expectations: The environmental impact of travel is a concern at the forefront of many people’s minds as they look to reduce their own ecological footprint.
   1. Nearly 40% of American Travelers plan to be more proactive in reducing their environmental impact when traveling.
   2. Meanwhile, over 50% of people believe travel experiences will shift from commercial in essence to a more authentic adventure.