notitur.com September 9, 2026
Travel Trends1 min read

Road trips gain ground as a major travel alternative

JSBy Joan SanzCurated by Joan Sanz. · July 26, 2026 · Follow on LinkedIn
Voice reading · ~1 min

Road trips are gaining momentum. RateHawk confirms it in its trends report: the road trip is consolidating as an alternative thanks to flexibility and competitive prices. Sojern and Skyscanner also see it: travelers want freedom without overspending. Read the full analysis on Hosteltur.

My take: this is an opportunity for rural hotels, motels and campgrounds. The road tripper profile wants authentic experiences and flexible check-in. If your hotel offers late check-in or free parking, you're in. You don't need to be a resort.

And note, it's not only budget travelers. Premium travelers also choose the road for the experience. That's where the business is.

Quick questions

What is a road trip?
It's a car journey, usually with your own or rented vehicle, with free stops. It's gaining popularity for its flexibility and cost savings.
Why are road trips trending?
They offer freedom, competitive prices and authentic experiences. RateHawk, Sojern and Skyscanner confirm this in their analysis.
How can hotels attract road trippers?
With flexible check-in, free parking, discounts for longer stays and packages with on-route activities.
Are road trips only for budget travelers?
No, premium travelers also choose road trips for the experience, according to industry trends.
What does Skyscanner say about road trips?
Skyscanner reports increased demand for car rentals, a sign of the road trip boom.

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