Half of Americans Return From Vacation Feeling Drained, Survey Finds

A significant portion of Americans return from leisure trips feeling more exhausted than rejuvenated, according to a recent survey. The study, which polled 2,000 Americans with travel plans, found that 51% often or always feel completely drained after a vacation.

The survey, commissioned by IHG Hotels & Resorts and conducted by Talker Research, suggests that many travelers feel they remain in "host mode" even while away. Two-thirds of respondents identify as "everyday hosts," meaning they are typically the organizers of plans and facilitators of others' enjoyment. This role often extends into vacation time, with 67% agreeing that managing such responsibilities while traveling feels more like work than a break.

When asked about tasks they would prefer to leave behind on vacation to truly relax, cleaning was cited by 30% of travelers. Cooking (28%), ensuring others' happiness (27%), resolving problems (24%), and adjusting plans for others' preferences (22%) were also high on the list of desired escapes.

In response to this sentiment, "quiet questing" has emerged as a leading travel trend for 2027. This trend involves vacations focused on peace, with an emphasis on escaping notifications, crowds, and obligations. Thirty-one percent of respondents identified this as their most desired travel experience, indicating a strong desire to disconnect from daily demands. This preference was noted across all generations except Gen Z.

Following "quiet questing," traveling "like a local" ranked second, with 29% of respondents interested in experiencing destinations through the routines and perspectives of residents rather than solely focusing on tourist attractions. This suggests an increased appetite for authentic cultural immersion.

Gen Z, while also favoring the "like a local" approach (26%), showed a distinct interest in experiences that foster deeper connections with the places they visit. This preference was also shared by 27% of millennials.

Other notable travel trends for 2027 include "selective splurging" (22%), where travelers allocate more funds than usual for experiences like dining, entertainment, and accommodation; and "vacation ghosting" (19%), characterized by booking a trip without informing friends or family until after returning.

Additionally, "passport to romance" (18%) is gaining traction, with travelers seeking to find or deepen romantic connections. The survey also highlighted "pet-friendly travel" (17%), "set-it-and-forget-it" pre-arranged trips (17%), and "peak pursuits" involving physically challenging adventure activities (17%).

Regarding desired vacation sensations, excitement (36%), joy (29%), escape (26%), and calm (24%) were most sought after. Beach and coastal locations (44%) are the preferred settings for achieving these feelings, followed by major cities (29%), islands/resorts (27%), mountains (24%), and national parks (21%).

The study was conducted online between September 3 and September 13, 2026, surveying 2,000 Americans with internet access who plan to travel within the next 12 months.