Domestic leisure travel is normalizing, yet, continues to experience growth—serving as a lifeline for the industry.

Why it matters: In 2023, domestic leisure generated $855 billion in travel spending.

What else: Our consumer insights data from Ipsos reveals that, while the majority of recent air travelers say they are at least somewhat satisfied with their overall travel experience (80%), less than one-third are very satisfied (32%), citing airport crowding and congestion and flight delays or cancellations as primary reasons.

  • And, over half of Americans (52%) say they would travel more for leisure in the next six months if the travel experience was not as much of a hassle.

Demand for leisure travel cannot be guaranteed—and that’s why it’s imperative that the traveler experience at every stage be improved.

The bottom line: As we look to grow travel to and within the U.S., it’s essential that we invest in significant upgrades to our air travel system.

SHOW LESS SHOW MORE

RECOMMENDATIONS

Nominate and confirm the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Travel & Tourism

Develop a roadmap to modify the TSA liquids ban

KEY RESOURCE LINKS

2024 Policy & Advocacy Priorities Monthly Travel Data Report U.S. Travel Answer Sheet

CONTACT US

U.S. Travel Association

For more information about this Issue, please contact us at:

202.408.8422

@ustravel

Research, News and Commentary on Maintain Robust Growth in Leisure Travel Demand

FORECAST January 17, 2024

Travel Forecast

Travel Forecast Logo

The latest forecast shows that international inbound and domestic business travel are still far from a full recovery. Although international travel to the U.S. is increasing, it remains below pre-pandemic levels. Business travel is expected to grow in 2024 but at a slower pace. Domestic leisure growth slowed due to reduced consumer spending amid higher borrowing costs, tighter credit conditions and the restart of student loan repayments.

REPORT January 11, 2024

Analysis on Global Competitiveness of American Travel

Analysis on Global Competitiveness of American Travel - U.S. Travel Association and Euromonitor Graphic

U.S. Travel's eye-opening study with Euromonitor found that the United States ranks second to last out of 18 top travel markets in terms of global competitiveness. Decades of underinvestment and a lack of federal focus caused the U.S. to fall behind, while other countries implement robust strategies to increase international visitation and grow economic output.