Last month, car-sharing company Zipcar published the results of its American Summertime Driving survey, and the findings reaffirmed what many of us already suspect: Americans still cherish summer road trips. The survey reveals clear preferences in driving companions, vehicle types, destinations and even window habits during the warmer months.
When it comes to who people prefer to drive with, 33 percent said they most enjoy driving with family, 19 percent favored traveling with friends, and 18 percent liked driving solo in the morning. Another 13 percent preferred an evening or sunset drive.
Destination choices showed a strong draw toward nature: 41 percent of respondents said they would choose an SUV to head into the woods or mountains. By contrast, only 32 percent would take a convertible to the beach or a lake. Fourteen percent would opt for a luxury car when touring a city, while 12 percent would pick a compact vehicle for urban exploration.
People’s habits around car windows varied as well. Over a quarter of respondents reported leaving their windows down year-round, while 20 percent keep their windows up at all times. The remaining participants said they let weather conditions determine whether windows are open or closed.
The survey also uncovered gender differences in summer driving preferences. Thirty-five percent of men said they enjoy aimless back-road drives with no set destination, while 34 percent of women indicated they prefer driving along the beach.
These insights reflect a mix of practicality and nostalgia: many drivers choose vehicles suited to their planned destinations, yet a significant portion still embrace the simple pleasures of open roads and scenic routes. Zipcar’s survey highlights how car choice, travel companions and even small habits like window position help shape the classic American summer drive.