Many Americans are now considering their pets when planning road trips, with a new survey commissioned by Subaru indicating a significant shift in travel preferences. Key findings reveal that:
- Driving vs. Flying: 73% prefer driving to flying to bring their pets along, while 68% say their pets influence holiday travel choices.
- Travel Decisions: 45% of respondents have declined trips that didn’t accommodate their pets.
- Vehicle Features: Priorities for car-buying have shifted, with a focus on spacious interiors (32%), good visibility (29%), and easy-to-clean surfaces (27%).
- Younger Generations: Gen Z and millennials are more likely to travel with pets, with 75% and 70% respectively having taken their pets on road trips.
Additionally, nearly half of respondents plan pet-friendly weekend getaways well in advance. This trend suggests that pet owners are becoming an essential market for automakers, highlighting the need for family-friendly vehicles that accommodate furry companions.