BERLIN – HomeToGo has launched its first-ever One-Tank Travel Index, a new ranking designed to help travellers identify affordable and easily accessible domestic destinations across the United States as concerns over rising fuel costs influence travel planning.
The vacation rental marketplace said new research shows that 79% of
American vacationers are concerned about increasing fuel prices this summer.
According to the survey, 26% plan to travel domestically, while 23% intend to
avoid flying and instead rely on ground transportation.
In response to these changing travel preferences, HomeToGo developed the
One-Tank Travel Index, which identifies and ranks 385 destinations across more
than 40 U.S. states. Each destination is located within a six-hour drive of a
major regional hub, making it reachable on a single tank of fuel. The
destinations also feature median vacation rental rates below US$150 per person
per night.
1.
The
highest-ranked destination in the index is Grand Haven, Michigan. Located on
the shores of Lake Michigan, the destination is known for its beaches,
waterfront attractions and the Grand Haven State Park. The median accommodation
cost is US$93 per person per night.
2.
Second place is
occupied by Hot Springs, Arkansas, where visitors can combine outdoor
recreation in the Ouachita Mountains with attractions linked to Hot Springs
National Park. The destination records a median nightly accommodation cost of
US$86 per person.
3.
Wisconsin Dells,
Wisconsin, ranks third. Situated along the Wisconsin River, the destination
offers outdoor activities including kayaking, hiking, fishing and boat tours,
alongside waterparks and adventure attractions. Median accommodation costs
stand at US$85 per person per night.
4. Helen, Georgia, takes fourth place. The Blue Ridge Mountain destination is
recognised for its Bavarian-inspired architecture, outdoor recreation
opportunities, wineries and river activities. Accommodation costs average US$77 per
person per night.
5.
Completing the
top five is Chincoteague Island, Virginia. Located on Virginia’s Eastern Shore,
the island is known for its access to protected coastal areas, wildlife viewing
opportunities and the famous wild ponies of nearby Assateague Island. The
median accommodation cost is US$70 per person per night.
The new index reflects growing demand for shorter-distance leisure travel,
with affordability and accessibility increasingly influencing destination
selection among U.S. travellers.
Tags: HomeToGo
