Pundits have been saying for some weeks that domestic travel would be an early winner once coronavirus restrictions start to lift.
Vacation rental tech company Hostfully has joined forces with AllTheRooms, Beyond Pricing and HomeToGo to compile a report on current trends.
The study says that while the industry came to a “screeching halt” in March amid mass cancellations, there was a only a bookings blip from consumers who wanted to shelter in place away from cities, indicating how recovery might kick in shortly after.
In late May, domestic travel in the United States was already on the rise, according to the report.
It says that those who have worked from home, kept their jobs and still have some disposable income are now looking for a close-to-home escape.
Figures provided by HomeToGo in the report show the average length of stay is up 30% to 14 days, compared to 2019, and domestic travel compared with international travel is up 37%.
Unsurprisingly, urban travel is down 50%, although details from Beyond Pricing reveal some destinations such as Phoenix, Arizona, which have more space, are benefiting from the uptick.
Meanwhile, areas such as the Florida Panhandle and Hilton Head Island, are attracting the most attention.
The study is also optimistic of recovery in the U.S. autumn, with AllTheRooms indicating bookings from September through October are not much lower than 2019’s figures.
For May and June, short-term occupancy rates are close to 2019 levels, says the report, with guests tending toward booking within 30 days of an intended stay.
The study does not provide much optimism for urban rentals but does give tips on rentals in cities around addressing hygiene concerns and demonstrating cleaning procedures.
The full report is available here.