Most Americans Staying Put This Holiday Season

Financial Worries Prompt Cutback on Travel Plans

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. November 25, 2008

NOVEMBER 25, 2008. A majority of Americans (72 percent) plan on staying put this holiday season, according to a new 'Ouch Point' survey from Opinion Research Corporation, an infoGROUP company (NASDAQ:IUSA). While most respondents indicated they hadn't made holiday travel plans this year to begin with, nearly a quarter changed their existing plans due to current economic conditions.

Not surprisingly, financial concerns are having a more significant impact on the holiday travel plans of lower income households, with only 15 percent in this bracket planning to travel, compared to 44 percent of those whose incomes are over $75,000. Younger people seem to be the most unsure of their plans, with nearly one-third of 18-24 year olds undecided about making any changes.

'Americans are clearly concerned about their financial well-being in the coming months, and are making cutbacks wherever possible to economize,' said Jeff Resnick, President of Opinion Research Corporation US. 'Considering the current economic conditions and general holiday travel hassles, transportation providers must do more to get the customer experience right and convince consumers that travel is a good value for them.'

The study also ranked a list of top holiday travel hassles as follows:

o Delays (74 percent)

o Long lines (74 percent)

o Cancellations (71 percent)

o Rude employees (71 percent)

o Lost luggage (70 percent)

o Unsanitary conditions (68 percent)

o Crowds or seat availability (67 percent)