Economic uncertainty and rising costs temper otherwise strong travel intent, according to a new AHLA survey
Oct 7, 2025
A new survey from the American Hotel & Lodging Association shows that hotels continue to dominate as the preferred lodging for U.S. holiday travelers, even as inflation and the government shutdown threaten to dampen year-end travel plans.
Key takeaways
- Strong travel intent: Half of U.S. adults plan to travel overnight for leisure before year-end, and one-third of employed adults plan business trips.
- Hotels remain dominant: 44% of leisure travelers and 63% of business travelers will choose hotels, with most opting for midscale or higher-end properties.
- Seasonal peaks: 34% expect to travel for Thanksgiving and 37% for Christmas, with family trips leading overall.
- Economic headwinds: Nearly half of respondents cite rising costs and inflation as reasons to reduce travel plans.
- Shutdown impact risk: The ongoing government shutdown could worsen travel disruptions as TSA agents and air traffic controllers work without pay.
- Traveler sentiment: AHLA notes that Americans still “trust and depend on hotels,” though uncertainty continues to weigh on decisions.
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