Exploring Domestic Holidays in the United States: A Comparison with the UK

Do Americans go on holiday around the U.S. like Brits do around the UK? The answer is a resounding yes, with a unique American twist. In the vast expanse of the United States, exploring within one's own borders is a beloved tradition, often referred to as a 'road trip.'

One of the key reasons Americans often choose domestic holidays over international ones is the sheer size and layout of the country. The United States, measured from coast to coast, is approximately equal in size to Western Europe combined with Russia, encompassing regions as vast as Texas and Germany. In this context, a road trip within the U.S. can span several states, offering an array of geographical, cultural, and historical experiences.

Reasons for Domestic Trips in the United States

The reasons behind Americans' preference for domestic trips are numerous and multifaceted. Two of the most significant factors are cost and time constraints.

Firstly, domestic holidays are often more affordable than international trips. With no need to consider airfare, currency conversion, or travel insurance, a road trip within the U.S. can provide a much more budget-friendly vacation. Moreover, the abundance of natural and cultural attractions within the country makes it possible to plan a variety of activities without substantial additional expenses.

Secondly, time constraints can also play a role. Unlike in the U.K., where a compact island can be easily traversed within a short period, the U.S. often requires more time to explore effectively. In the U.K., you can travel from London to Paris in a mere 2.5 hours or drive just 100 miles from London to reach Calais. However, in the U.S., a straightforward drive from Seattle to Miami would take nearly 48 hours without stopping, still within the same country.

Domestic Trips in the U.S. vs. the U.K.

American tourists are far more likely to choose domestic trips over international travel by a factor of approximately 25:1. An analysis reveals that only 35% of Americans travel more than 50 miles for vacation annually, while the majority of trips within a state or region remain.

The situation in the U.K. is quite different. Brits tend to favor domestic holidays over international ones by a slightly smaller margin, with a ratio of 9:8. This difference can be attributed to the relative compactness of the U.K., making it easier and more practical to explore the country in a shorter timeframe.

Cultural and Practical Implications

The cultural and practical implications of these travel preferences are significant. Americans often choose to stay within their own state for longer trips, such as the one described from the author's perspective in Tennessee. These road trips cover vast distances, but the frequency of visits to repeat locations can lead to a sense of familiarity and repetition, making it harder to discover new attractions.

One of the author's recent road trips included a 3.5-hour one-way drive to visit a basket factory and other cultural sites in the same town. Tracing the highways used on a state map revealed that less than 10% of the trip left a new mark on the map, highlighting the familiarity with the region.

For vacationers, stepping out of Texas, the author's home state, is the norm. The distance required to enter another state—approximately 5 hours of driving—demonstrates the logistical challenges of countless American road trips. However, these trips also provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse landscapes, cultures, and histories within the U.S.