In two articles published in late 2008, travel experts offer OBX businesses an optimistic forecast for the 2009 Summer Travel season. According to an article posted on The Travel Advocate (“the travel industry is facing grim forecasts for 2009. Yet, according to a report released by travel industry supplier travel market that is more than $24 billion is poised to grow next year – vacation rental properties.” Bookt, one niche

The competitive pricing of vacation rental properties are more appealing in this recession than their more expensive, and less accommodating counterparts, such as luxury hotels or resorts. Even for travelers who need to travel to OBX by air, the savings that rental properties offer can offset the increasing air travel costs. The Outer Banks was the 3rd most popular vacation rental destination in 2008.

In an article published in November 2008, Frommers offers families 20 tips for traveling during a recession. Their #2 tip urges families to pick a destination within driving distance. According to Pauline Frommer, “The family road trip is still cheapest way to travel, and especially now that we’re seeing the price of gas going down.” This is great news for Outer Banks businesses, since according to the North Carolina Department of Commerce, over 80% of NC visitors who stayed overnight arrived by automobile.

Given the advantages for both visitors that fly and visitors that drive, the OBX appears to be a truly recession proof vacation destination, good news for Outer Banks businesses who may be frightened at the prospect of a slower summer season.