More than two-thirds of US travelers embrace smart tech for a more comfortable and sustainable stay
The adoption of smart home technologies in hotels and vacation rentals raises intriguing questions for the travel industry. Do travelers feel these technologies truly enhance comfort and convenience for guests? Do they think smart tech contributes to a more sustainable travel industry, with brands minimizing their environmental footprint?
A recent YouGov survey sheds light on travelers' perceptions of smart technology in travel accommodations. The findings reveal a strong positive outlook, with roughly three-quarters of potential travelers (74%) believing that smart tech enhances the comfort of their stay. This sentiment is particularly prevalent among younger travelers, rising to 83% of those aged 18-34 years old holding this view compared to 77% of 35-54-year-olds and 63% of those aged 55+.
The survey also delves into the sustainability aspect of smart technology. More than two-thirds of US adults (68%) express that these features like smart thermostats that automatically adjust based on occupancy and smart lighting that dims in unused areas can contribute to an eco-friendlier travel experience. Once again, younger demographics tend to feel more strongly about this, with 81% of 18-34-year-olds finding smart tech helpful in terms of sustainability. This sentiment dips slightly with age, with 68% for the 35-54 age group and 58% for those 55 and over saying smart tech enhances sustainability to some degree.
The future of travel appears to be getting smarter, and travelers seem ready to step on board.
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Methodology: YouGov Surveys: Serviced provide quick survey results from nationally representative or targeted audiences in multiple markets. This study was conducted online between April 19-21, 2024, with a nationally representative sample of 1,193 adults (aged 18+ years) in the US (of whom 651 plan on traveling in the next year), using a questionnaire designed by YouGov. Data figures have been weighted by age, race, gender, education, and region to be representative of all adults in the US (18 years or older), and reflect the latest population estimates from the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey. Learn more about YouGov Surveys: Serviced.
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