The leisure travel market in the United States is improving. Sales of hotel stays, airfare and rental cars have increased an estimated 37% between 2002 and 2007. This report highlights industry shifts that have enabled price increases, focusing on supplier activity and initiatives. Also discussed is how consumers are coping with price increases and what will keep them participating in the market.
While the amount of leisure travel is up somewhat, the largest boost to the bottom line has come from price increases across all segments. However, these have not decreased leisure travel as much as has been feared. Instead, consumers are travelling shorter distances and saving money by staying with family and friends. It is primarily higher-income travellers that are keeping the industry thriving. Special interest and niche travellers are driving trends that will have an increasing impact on the travel industry.
