A recent survey on behalf of Hilton Worldwide's (NYSE:HLT) global brand Hampton by Hilton uncovered a new type of traveler that has been defined as the "Seekender." This new group regularly takes advantage of weekends to spontaneously enjoy new experiences, with travel being at the top of the list. The study, conducted by Wakefield Research*, also revealed that Seekenders base their travel around four main types of activities/passions: food, sports, music or the great outdoors. Respondents across different generations also agreed that hitting the road for adventure and having experiences in life ranks higher than money.

"Knowing that 68 percent of Americans would rather embark on a bucket list trip than get a big promotion gives a new meaning to Hampton by Hilton's We Go Together™ campaign," said Judy Christa-Cathey, vice president, focused service brand marketing and Hampton by Hilton. "We are on a mission to encourage people to go out, play and seek unique weekend experiences and life 'firsts' through new travel adventures."

Other noteworthy survey result findings include:

  • 82 percent of working Americans would travel for a year without pay if money weren't a concern
  • 49 percent of Americans rank "traveling to other countries" above buying their dream car
  • 51 percent would prefer a trip that takes them out of their comfort zone
  • Nearly one half of respondents agreed that the best thing about experiencing something new is making a lifelong memory, followed by sharing it with family and friends, (28 percent) and discovering something new (22 percent)

"With more than 2,000 properties globally, Hampton by Hilton makes it easier for passionate Seekenders to fulfill their dreams," Christa-Cathey added. "Our great value offering and the signature 100 percent satisfaction guarantee completes the recipe for weekend happiness."

As part of Hampton by Hilton's efforts to inspire Americans to seize the weekend, the brand is enlisting the Ultimate Seekender Team. The group of travel savvy influencers will celebrate the weekend and boldly explore their global neighborhood. Their adventures, and other surprises, will be captured and shared at www.HamptonSeekender.com throughout the year beginning Aug. 10.

Hilton Survey Results Uncover New Traveler Segment  — Photo by HiltonHilton Survey Results Uncover New Traveler Segment  — Photo by Hilton
Hilton Survey Results Uncover New Traveler Segment  — Photo by Hilton

Launched earlier this year with a series of ads, the We Go Together™ campaign blends music and emotion to go beyond the functional benefits of the hotel experience. From jamming out to a concert with a best friend to reconnecting with loved ones on a weekend escape, We Go Together™ embodies the spirit of travel and Hampton by Hilton's promise to seek out the best moments alongside its guests. The brand has also partnered with Live Nation® to encourage concert lovers to seek out their music passions.

Follow the Seekender conversation at www.HamptonSeekender.com and #WeGoTogether on social media.

* Wakefield surveyed 1,504 adults nationally between July 15 and July 24, 2015, using an email invitation and online survey, with an overall margin of error of three percent.

About Hilton

Hilton is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 22 world-class brands comprising more than 7,500 properties and nearly 1.2 million rooms, in 126 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, was named the No. 1 World's Best Workplace by Great Place to Work and Fortune and has been recognized as a global leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for seven consecutive years. Hilton has introduced industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 180 million members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can't buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit stories.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.