According to new research, more than a third of Americans feel socially “trapped in instability” (37%).
The survey of 2,000 adults traveling with friends found that 39% had not made any new friends in more than a year and a similar percentage had not been to a party in at least six months (38%).
For many people, it has been at least a year since they went to a concert with a friend (59%) or went on vacation with them (44%).
Powered by Talker Research for Affordable Caribbean VacationsThe survey found that while most people describe their current friendships as fun and ever-changing (58%), a quarter of respondents said their social life feels repetitive (26%).
Thinking about your friends, the average person who said they had a best friend would award that title to their two lucky friends.
Friends are forever for eight in 10 who said they are still friends with someone after at least 10 years (81%).
But finding the time is hard: The average respondent spent substantial time with friends only seven times within the past year.
Americans are in need of social refreshment, as only 21% said they spend more time with their close friends than with others in their lives.
When they do get together, those surveyed admitted they are bored of classic hangouts like getting drinks (25%), going shopping (21%) or watching TV shows or movies (20%).
Still, half of respondents always or often make their friends feel like they don’t spend enough time together.
Most Americans miss their friends, with 76% expressing a desire to spend more quality time together.
“Going out with friends is just as essential as a romantic getaway,” said Dana Studebaker, vice president of marketing for consumer brands at CheapCaribbean Vacations. “It can be hard to carve out a trip from a group chat, but I think all-inclusive resorts give friends a chance to relax, reconnect, and make new memories without the hassle of planning. With everything from food to activities taken care of, all you have to do is enjoy the experience together – whether it’s exploring new places, diving into adventures, or simply relaxing by the pool. It’s a stress-free, fun way to bond and get away from the hassles of everyday life.”
For one in five, a trip away with their friends is exactly what they need (22%) – even above spending time with their partner or family.
On average, respondents have taken only two group trips with their friends in the past two years, while 37% have not taken any trips.
Half of those surveyed even said that taking a book trip with their friends would reduce their worries (53%).
From road trips to exotic vacations or weekend getaways – 38% of people talk about a trip in a group chat at least once a month.
Road trips are actually the buzz in these plans (45%), while the same percentage dream of beach days with their friends (43%).
Others discuss going to festivals or events (26%), city tours (24%) and adventure vacations (22%).
According to respondents, the ideal vacation with friends would last an average of a week and be filled with dinners out (58%) and beach days (48%).
Immersing yourself in the environment is important for 47% who will take time out for sightseeing (47%) and cultural experiences (31%).
For other respondents, it’s togetherness that makes the difference: 46% would be satisfied with relaxing together and another 37% would be attracted by a day of shopping with their best friend.
“Vacating with friends is all about spending time together, no matter what activities you enjoy most,” said Michael Lowery, head of global consumer business at CheapCaribbean Vacations. “When deciding on a group destination, it’s important to consider everyone’s different interests and how they can all enjoy a new shared experience together.”
Best types of trips to do with friends
- Road Trip – 45%
- Beach – 43%
- Festivals/Events – 26%
- City – 24%
- Adventure – 22%
- Lake – 21%
- Mountains – 19%
- Wellness Retreat/Spa – 13%
- Island Tour – 10%
- Backpacking – 9%
Survey Method:
Talker Research surveyed 2,000 Americans who have traveled with friends; The survey was commissioned by CheapCaribbean Vacations and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between September 20 and September 25, 2024.
