Lodging is the Top Priority During the Travel Planning Process

Finding the right hotel or hostel or apartment rental host takes more research and contemplation than airfares, activities, and weather.

It is the most commonly sought type of information during the decision-making process, concludes an Expedia survey of 1,058 travelers living in the United States.

More than half, or 55 percent, of respondents said they seek hotel information during several stages of the pre-trip process.

It is among the top three considerations when travelers pick a destination, shop airfare and lodging choices, and plan trip activities. Only during a trip does it become less important than weather, reviews, and activity-related content.

Hotel remains a top priority whether a trip is planned for relaxation, cultural interests, or scenery. However, it plays less of a role when travelers plan a trip to visit friends and family since travelers are then more likely to stay with their hosts.