Lifestyle
Half Of Americans Admit Making Excuses To Cut Holiday Family Visits Short, Hilton Survey Finds
Americans may love going home for the holidays, but new research suggests that togetherness has its limits.
A new survey from Hilton, conducted in partnership with Morning Consult, found that 53% of Americans who stay with relatives during the holidays admit to making excuses to shorten their visits.
The survey of 2,200 adults revealed that while 15% plan to stay overnight with family this holiday season, many find the experience less than restful. More than a third (36%) say they end up sleeping somewhere other than a bed — from couches to air mattresses to even the floor — and 32% report sleeping worse than usual while staying with relatives.
Nearly four in ten guests (38%) say they need time alone within 24 hours of arriving, and a quarter (25%) confess to eating whatever is served for breakfast, even if they dont like it. Among the most frustrating holiday traditions: imposed bedtimes (44%), matching outfits (43%), and mandatory group activities (39%).
Those traveling for the holidays crave simple comforts — a real bed, a private bathroom, and personal space — but stress is just as common for hosts. The survey found that 63% of holiday hosts feel exhausted by the end of family visits, and nearly half (46%) said they would enjoy the holidays more if guests stayed elsewhere.
To help travelers find rest and relaxation this season, Hilton has launched The Hilton Sale, available through Dec. 15 for stays between Nov. 12 and April 6, 2026. Guests can enjoy up to 25% off stays at participating Hilton properties across its global portfolio.
For those who prefer a change of scenery altogether, Hilton suggests trading matching pajamas for palm trees at its resort destinations, including Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton in the Dominican Republic, Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique, Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort, Conrad Punta de Mita in Mexico, the all-inclusive Hilton Cancun, and Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort.
By choosing a stay that feels like a holiday, Hilton aims to help travelers rediscover what the season is truly about — rest, connection, and joy — without the stress of family overcrowding.
