The popularity of the Outer Banks with travelers continues as we head into the 2023 season, as we’ve topped the list of most-searched summer vacation destination for this year on a popular online marketplace.
HomeToGo, which features the world’s largest selection of vacation rentals, has released findings from its 2023 Summer Travel Forecast, revealing how Americans are planning their vacations for the sunny summer season.
More specifically, HomeToGo’s 2023 U.S. Summer Travel Forecast found more than one-third of Americans have planned three or more vacations for this summer – clearly indicating an early wave of excitement.
Travelers are packing their bags, checking the weather forecast, and setting their sights on a bright summer ahead, full of relaxation and restoration. Charged up about what is typically the busiest travel season of the year, HomeToGo has gathered extensive research to uncover the trends that will define the summer of 2023.
These include where travelers are finding their inspiration, where they are heading, and how they plan to spend their time and money while traveling this summer.
“With the summer high season fast approaching, we’re thrilled to see our travelers unlock their ‘Vacation Vorfreude’ and enthusiastically anticipate their upcoming trips,” said Dr. Patrick Andrae, Co-founder & CEO, HomeToGo.
“Our findings show that travelers want to maximize their summer getaways this year and are looking to prioritize enjoyment and relaxation, while keeping value top of mind and minimizing their impact on the environment,” Andrae said. “We’re so excited about another busy high season, during which travelers can expect more industry-leading innovations and product upgrades to our platform, as we continue to deliver an unparalleled guest experience that makes it easy for everyone to find their uniquely ideal vacation home.”
Some of HomeToGo’s findings include:
- Bargain hunting, not budget cutting – Travelers are becoming more budget savvy, showing an increased appetite for travel deals and paying extra close attention on where they choose to spend their money.
- Recharging with relaxing retreats – Visiting familiar destinations, sights, and activities are on many traveler’s itineraries this year. More are choosing relaxing wellness vacations over exciting adventures, and hidden gems over iconic destinations.
- Exploring eco-friendly options – More are paying attention to the environment and social impact of their travels, but many are still uncertain of how to make the jump to traveling more sustainably.
- Film-spiration across the ages – Regardless of traveler age, blockbuster films and television series are inspiring summer travelers to visit the incredible sets and destinations they’ve seen on screen.
- Return of vacation ‘Vorfreude’ – After three years of planning uncertainty brought about by travel restrictions and cancellations, travelers are once again embracing vacation ‘Vorfreude’—joyful anticipation and excitement for trip planning.
Following the Outer Banks on the top 10 list are Destin, Florida; Myrtle Beach; Ocean City, Maryland; Gulf Shores, Alabama; Panama City Beach, Florida; Hilton Head Island; Virginia Beach; Rehoboth Beach, Delaware; and North Myrtle Beach.