New Study Shows Most Americans Prefer Hotels Over Short-Term Rentals For Holiday Travel

Image:  (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock)
Image: (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock)
Phil Cappelli
by Phil Cappelli
Last updated: 2:30 PM ET, Mon December 1, 2025

A new study from Upgraded Points reveals that 62 percent of travelers prefer hotels to short-term rentals such as Airbnb or Vrbo when traveling for the holidays. Amenities (73 percent), no cleaning rules or surprise fees (62 percent) and easy booking/cancellation policies (52 percent) were the top reasons why travelers preferred hotels. 

The study surveyed over 2,000 U.S. travelers and explored how price, convenience and ethical considerations such as housing affordability influence where Americans stay during the holidays.

"Travelers are thinking beyond price this year," said Keri Stooksbury, editor in chief at Upgraded Points. "Convenience, transparency, and even community impact are shaping where people stay for the holidays."

64 percent of people feel that hotels are cheaper for domestic travel and 76 percent say they are more transparent about pricing and fees. More than 70 percent believe short-term rentals drive up housing costs in popular destinations, with agreement strongest among Gen Z and Millennials (75 percent).

For those who prefer short-term rentals, 75 percent value more space and privacy, 68 percent appreciate kitchen access and homestyle amenities and 56 percent prefer them for larger groups or families.


For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore

Phil Cappelli

Phil Cappelli

Phil Cappelli is a student at the University of Tampa where he studies journalism and sociology. He is interning with TravelPulse this fall and is set to graduate college in May 2026. Phil was inspired by a tour he took of Switzerland as a kid that sparked his love for travel and pushed him to explore new places whenever possible.

Become A Travel Expert

Upcoming Webinar
Designing Meaningful and Seamless Experiences Across JapanThursday, January 15, 2026
4:00pm Eastern
Hankyu Travel DMC Japan is a destination management specialist serving both luxury and regular...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Baja California Specialist ProgramThe stunning landscapes of Baja California is a vacation paradise that is easily accessible from major...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Puerto Vallarta Specialist ProgramEnveloped in the beauty of a by-gone time, this colorful town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast is sure to win...
Upcoming Webinar
Designing Meaningful and Seamless Experiences Across JapanThursday, January 15, 2026
4:00pm Eastern
Hankyu Travel DMC Japan is a destination management specialist serving both luxury and regular...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Baja California Specialist ProgramThe stunning landscapes of Baja California is a vacation paradise that is easily accessible from major...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Puerto Vallarta Specialist ProgramEnveloped in the beauty of a by-gone time, this colorful town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast is sure to win...

Get To Know Us Better

Agent At Home

Helping leisure selling travel agents successfully manage their at-home business.

Subscribe For Free

Agent Specialization: Group Travel

Laurence Pinckney

Laurence Pinckney

CEO of Zenbiz Travel, LLC

About Me
Agent At Home

Helping leisure selling travel agents successfully manage their at-home business.

Subscribe For Free

Agent Specialization: Group Travel

Laurence Pinckney

Laurence Pinckney

CEO of Zenbiz Travel, LLC

About Me