Connecting Hobbyists Across Rural America

Beyond serving as an essential lifeline that allows users to access critical information, the Internet today also connects people with the things they love. For decades, HughesNet® has done just that for Americans living in rural parts of the country, ensuring that engaging in their favorite activities isn't limited by geography. 

Earlier this year, we surveyed more than 1,000 HughesNet customers who live in rural America to learn more about the hobbies that inspire them and how the Internet helps enable and enhance their personal pastimes. 

The most popular hobbies among respondents are: 

• Outdoor activities—hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and climbing (45%)
• Gardening and landscaping (35%) 
• Handicrafts, woodworking and crafting (35%)
• Cooking, baking and drink creation (32%)

Access to the Internet also plays a significant role in helping customers grow their hobbies. In fact, 76% of HughesNet customers agree Internet connectivity is essential for them to pursue their interests and leisure activities.

• The majority (62%) of those who use online media to pursue their hobbies spend at least five hours a month doing so. Significantly, 3 in 10 are spending 20 hours or more.
• Many users visit special interest websites (39%) and social media platforms (38%) as resources to inform ways to enjoy their hobbies. 

As much as respondents use the Internet to grow their hobbies, just as many (71%) rely on the connection to share them with others, including loved ones. 

• Just over one-third (34%) of respondents share their top hobby at least once a week.
• Most customers (66%) like family members to see or experience their number one hobby rather than other groups of people.

Overwhelmingly, yet unsurprisingly, 84% of customers believe the Internet has become more important for pursuing their personal interests and hobbies since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, as the country continues to rely on virtual connections.