As the summer travel season kicks into high gear, travelers are increasingly considering the indoor air quality (IAQ) of their travel destinations and accommodations. A recent survey by Fellowes, involving 787 U.S. and Canadian respondents who stayed in hotels over the past year, revealed a surprising trend: clean indoor air ranks as one of the top two considerations for travelers, surpassing other popular hotel perks.  

This focus on IAQ highlights a crucial aspect of travel that shouldn’t be overlooked just because it’s summer. Warmer days don’t guarantee safe indoor air. After a long day in the sun, relaxing inside with the AC is a priority for most travelers, but poor indoor air quality can put a damper on any vacation, no matter the season. From allergens to COVID-19/new variants and wildfire smoke, invisible threats in the air can unexpectedly impact summer stays. 

Allergens 

Imagine planning the perfect summer escape, only to be sidelined by sneezing, headaches, and itchy eyes. About one-quarter (25.7%) of adults suffer from seasonal allergies and pollen from weeds start to ramp up drastically during the summer months in certain regions. These symptoms can ruin what should be a time of relaxation and adventure. 

COVID-19 and its Variants 

COVID-19 remains a significant concern. According to the CDC, a new summer wave of COVID-19 is upon us, with the highly transmissible variant FLiRT now responsible for more and more new infections. As UA Professor of Medicine Sairam Parthasarathy wisely noted, “COVID does not respect the season unlike the flu.” This means that even during summer travels, the risk of infection is real and can disrupt plans. 

Wildfire Smoke 

Wildfire smoke is an increasingly common hazard, with wildfire events more frequent and far-reaching than ever before. Smoke can travel thousands of miles, affecting air quality in areas far from the actual fires. If hotels in these regions are not equipped to solve the ventilation dilemma of accurately managing contaminated exterior air, guests could face dangerous air quality conditions, potentially leading to long-term health effects. 

Considerations 

When planning summer travels, it’s crucial to consider the air quality of your destination. Hotels that prioritize IAQ not only protect health but also ensure a more enjoyable and memorable vacation.  

Steps Travelers Can Take: 

1. Review descriptions of hotel accommodations for air purification details regarding shared spaces and individual rooms.  
2. If details are not listed online, consider calling the hotel for their IAQ plan including whether monitoring and air purifiers are in place, both in room and in shared spaces
3. Inquire as to whether they can make an air purifier available for your room(s) 

Steps Hotels Can Take: 

1. Upgrade HVAC and Air Purification Systems: Invest in MERV-13 filters and localized air purification with H13 True HEPA filters.  
2. Implement Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring: Use systems that provide guests with real-time data on air quality, enhancing transparency and guest satisfaction.  
3. Automate Air Purification: Ensure clean air is always available with systems that automatically adjust based on real-time conditions such as increases in occupancy, conserving energy when spaces are unoccupied.
4. Share Your Efforts: Use signage in shared spaces and list room amenities descriptions to highlight your commitments and efforts in providing healthy spaces for your guests.  

As travelers increasingly prioritize clean air regardless of the season, hotels that prioritize IAQ enhance the health and comfort of their guests but also boost the overall guest experience. 

Travel safe and enjoy your Summer!