FAMILY VACATIONS STILL A PRIORITYFOR CAROLINIANS
New AAA Survey reveals that 35 percent of Americans will travel as a family this year
CHARLOTTE (FEB. 3, 2017) ?Now is the time when families across the Carolinas start to plan getaways for spring break, summer vacation and long holiday weekends throughout the year. According to a recent AAA survey, more than one-third of Americans (35 percent) are planning to take a vacation of 50 miles or more away from home involving two or more immediate family members this year. The overall volume of travelers remains unchanged from last year, indicating that Americans continue to prioritize traveling as a family.
While most families (70 percent) are planning to take one or two vacations, there is a significant increase this year in the number of Americans who say they are planning to take three or more vacations. The 28 percent of Americans who will take three or more family vacations this year is 13 percent higher than in 2016.
“Families still view traveling together as a way to reconnect and bond in today’s busy world,” said Sarah Henshall, AAA Carolinas Vice President of Travel and Branch Operations. “We’ve noticed more Carolinians planning to cross off their bucket list destinations with a vacation spent together as a family.”TOP INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS:
- Caribbean
- Italy
- France
- Ireland
- Mexico
- Spain
TOP DOMESTIC DESTINATIONS:
- Orlando
- Alaska
- Florida beaches
- Hawaii
- Las Vegas
- California
*Top destinationsbased on AAA Carolinas Travel bookingsThe old school family road trip (79 percent) and visits to national parks (51 percent) and theme parks (40 percent) remain the most popular types of vacations for families planning to travel this year. Trips to international destinations (33 percent), going on guided or escorted tours (22 percent) and ocean cruises (20 percent) are also popular with family travelers.The number of American families planning to take a guided or escorted tour is expected to increase 7 percent over last yearGAS PRICES SLIGHTLY HIGHER THAN 2016
Those planning to pack up their cars for a road trip this year will be in good company. Compared to 2016, 10 percent more families are expected to take road trips this year, despite national average gas prices that are 47 cents higher than they were this time last year.
Right now, the North Carolina average sits at $2.19, which is 44 cents more than last year. In South Carolina the statewide average is $2.04 a gallon, a 47 cents increase from 2016.
To help families find the best hotels and restaurants, AAA’s professional inspectors have evaluated nearly 59,000 hotels and restaurants across North America. Their top picks for family-friendly AAA Approved and Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants can be foundhere.
And before setting out on a family vacation, travelers should contact their local AAA office for the expert advice of a trusted travel advisor who can provide personalized service and first-hand destination knowledge to create a memorable vacation experience.Also, download the freeAAA Mobile appfor iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can be used to map a route, find the lowest gas prices, access exclusive member discounts, find hotels and restaurants, request roadside assistance and more. For more information or to begin planning a trip, visitAAA.com/Travel.
AAA Carolinas, an affiliate of the American Automobile Association, is a not-for-profit organization that serves more than 2 million members and the public with travel, automobile and insurance services while being an advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.