65% of Americans are ‘chasing the seasons’: These destinations are the most desired

Nearly two-thirds of Americans are tracking the seasons, according to a new study.

A survey of 2,000 American adults found that 65% either have or would like to go on a “seasonal pursuit,” or intentionally travel to a destination to experience a particular season.

Of the 22% who have already done so and 43% who would jump at the chance, fall ranks as the best season to watch (51%).

But even though the seasons change, there is no shortage of destinations to see in summer (32%), spring (26%) and winter (22%).

Top must-see destinations include fall or Halloween in Salem, Massachusetts (27%) ranking as no. 1.

This was followed by winter beaches in Florida (25%), changing leaves in Vermont or New England (24%), cherry blossoms in Washington, DC, and spring or Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana (24%).

Leos are more likely to choose to experience summer on Cape Cod (27%), while Sagittarius hit the slopes for winter and snow sports in Colorado (22%) and Taurus watch the leaves change on the Blue Ridge Parkway (19%).

What elements can make or break the pursuit of the season?

Climate or temperature (43%), who they are traveling with (37%) and places or sights (36%) rank as the top three most important elements.

Conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Zipcar, the results also found that almost three in five (59%) Americans would be likely to take a spontaneous trip.

According to these respondents, the best spontaneous trips occur at 10:12 a.m. on Friday (39%) or Saturday (31%).

Best travel companions include their partner or spouse (47%), their children (28%) or their best friend (26%). About a quarter (26%) would even prefer to just take their own spontaneous trip.

While 64% would use their own vehicle, a shared or rental vehicle is another popular option for almost a quarter (21%).

Geminis are most likely to prefer choosing a car part (28%), followed by Capricorns (25%) and Sagittarius (25%).

What is the attraction of a car sharing?

Many say it relieves stress as they don’t have to worry about their vehicle (46%).

Others said it is more convenient (39%), affordable (20%) and accessible (20%) compared to car ownership. One in five Aries (21%) also believe it’s the most environmentally friendly option, more than any other sign.

“Most Americans across the country are interested in following all seasons – winter, spring, summer and fall. Whether you’re taking a weekend getaway to the beaches of Florida or heading to Washington, D.C. to enjoy the cherry blossoms , there is no shortage of destinations that are within driving distance,” said Angelo Adams, head of Zipcar.

According to the results, 74% of Americans surveyed own their own vehicle.

For those surveyed, maintenance costs such as gas, parking and insurance (54%) and maintenance costs such as broken glass or malfunctioning air conditioning (52%) are the worst parts of owning their car. .

Other car owners are plagued by worries about how many miles they’re putting on it (21%) or even the task of finding parking (15%).

Three in five (58%) admit that without these added costs, they would travel more.

Of those who do not own their own vehicle (26%), 61% admit they feel limited in their travel abilities because they cannot own a vehicle.

“Convenient access to a car allows the freedom to get up and go, according to nearly 60% of respondents who do not own a car,” said Angelo Adams, president of Zipcar. “Imagine a world without the stressors of car ownership while still having the ability to follow the seasons, visit friends and family or even just grocery shop and go on dates? The good news is that there are options for wheels when you want them without added stress.”

Regardless of whether they have their own car, respondents said the top two things that would improve their lives the most would be being able to drive to the destinations they want to see (35%) and traveling more often with friends and family (34 %). .

Survey methodology:

Talker Research surveyed 2,000 Americans of the general population; survey was commissioned by Zipcar and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between October. 11 and October. 17, 2024.