June 25: With 75% of Americans saying they'll travel by car instead of flying in 2024, North Carolina is poised for increased travel spending this summer.
North Carolina ranks seventh as the best state for summer road trips, according to a new study from WalletHub.
WalletHub compared the 50 states based on 32 key metrics, from the number of tourist attractions to road conditions.
North Carolina Road Trip (1=best, 25=average):
19th – Number of attractions
5th – Cheapest room rates for 3-star hotels
19th – Average gasoline price
18th – Nightlife options per capita
18th – Car thefts per capita
4th – Access to scenic roads
25th – Lowest camping prices
27th – Driving Laws Rating
Americans have been traveling more than ever in recent years, and since the pandemic, affordable rental cars have been in short supply in travel destinations. The rising costs have created a financial push back against road trips in personal vehicles.
Can be cited
“Road trips allow you to spend money on certain things and save on others. They give you control over your vacation, and they also give you some extra money to buy delicious ice cream and other fun foods when you stop at each destination,” says Dr. David C. Miles, professor at Northern Arizona State University.
By 2024, one in five Americans will prefer traveling by car to flying.
