Most Americans agree that family is what makes vacations great: poll

Summer is a time for BBQs, sun-filled shenanigans and, for many, family reunions.

A new survey confirms that Americans are making vacation plans around family and friends as more than half (57%) said they’ll be at a family or friend reunion this summer. And most (65%) agreed that such gatherings bring them more joy that trips without loved ones.

The poll, conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Motel 6, asked 2,000 adults where they are planning to visit this summer.

A perfect, happy-filled vacay lasts for about three days, it found, especially if they occur within a reasonable distance, as 58% of poll-takers said they’re willing to travel nearly 80 miles, while about 32% would go further, to 100 miles.

Nearly a third of respondents (32%) added that they have waited for nearly four years to reconnect with their extended family.

In 2022, 70% of travelers will be driving to their reunions by car, whether it be a rental (30%) or their own vehicle (40%). Over a third (36%) of people are deciding to check into a hotel for the duration of their stay.

Reunion games such as making matching t-shirts (35%), catching up with family and friends (24%) and having a family BBQ (20%) all top actives that people love to do with their loved ones.

Despite many taking the trip to visit their loved ones, about more than half of participants agree that family reunions look different now than they did a few years ago.

The guest lists for these soirées now include friends (42%), significant others (39%), neighbors (34%) and pets (36%).

Apart from being their old friends and family members, poll-takers are looking forward to doing other excursions on their vacations, including: returning to their favorite spot on the beach (42%) and going back to their favorite restaurants at their destinations (40%).

The survey also made a few discoveries on how others reunite with their family and their traditions.

Just over half (55%) of respondents said they are looking forward to embarking on new traditions and memories, while also engaging on old customs, while even more (64%) hope to become more connected with their traditions during their reunions.

“There’s nothing quite like a big family or friend gathering and the opportunity to connect with the people and places you love,” Rob Palleschi, CEO of Motel 6, said in a statement for South West News Service. “Whether Motel 6 is part of your journey or the destination, you can count on us to provide a clean and affordable place to rest your head at night,” he went on.