With hybrid and flexible working now the norm for many, almost a third (30%) of UK holiday makers plan to work remotely for a short period during the summer, with a quarter (24%) planning on working remotely away from home for an extended period.
The results are revealed as part of Allianz Partners’ Summer Vacation Confidence research, which indicates that 85% of UK adults plan to go on holiday this summer, despite the cost of living squeeze. Of those who aren’t going to get away, two thirds (66%) cite cost as the reason. For those that do plan to holiday, money is still a worry, and over half (55%) of those planning to travel are concerned about the impact on their personal finances.
Other key findings included:
· Social media is a key source of inspiration to prospective travellers: Just under half (48%) of respondents said they are inspired about their holidays while looking at social media.
· Impact on the environment is a key consideration for travellers: Despite budgetary pressures, more than half (56%) of travellers are willing to spend more on accommodation and transport options that help to reduce their carbon footprint.
· The post-COVID rise in popularity of domestic holidays is here to stay: 57% of respondents stated their intentions to ‘staycation’ this summer. For those planning to travel abroad, Europe is the most popular destination (39%).
· Extreme weather events, the climate crisis and personal safety are among key concerns while on holiday: Almost half of UK holidaymakers (47%) are worried about extreme weather events such as flooding, storms and heatwaves, while 46% express worry about the global climate crisis and 43% are concerned for personal safety.
· The cost of overseas medical assistance is the leading driver for travellers buying insurance: 71% of travellers have either already purchased or intend to purchase travel insurance for their summer holidays. Medical assistance in an emergency is the leading driver for travellers to purchase insurance, with 58% citing this reason.
· AI is becoming a valuable travel planning tool: Almost a third (32%) of UK holidaymakers are planning to use Artificial Intelligence tools to assist with their summer holiday planning.
Commenting on the survey, Andrew Tolman, Head of Travel Insurance at Allianz Partners UK, said: “Holidaymakers are increasingly taking their work away with them, a major side effect of the post-COVID work-from-home revolution. The boundaries between work and private life have never been so blurred, and the impact this has on individuals is unclear. What is clear, however, is that this new way of life is here to stay.
“High living costs may still be front-of-mind in summer 2024, but travel intentions are high once again – continuing the post-pandemic trend. It’s clear that the traditional holiday season remains an important moment to take some time out to experience new things.“Some exciting and innovative new travels trends are also beginning to emerge. AI as a travel planning tool, the rise of social media and a desire amongst travellers for ecologically friendly tourism are stimulating the industry. With the right investment and support, these nascent ideas can bring travel to life in a lasting way for both holidaymakers and the communities they visit.
“In the meantime, concern over climate change, personal safety and security is leading to a more conscientious approach from travellers. If that means spending a little extra to reduce their carbon footprint, that’s something that many are willing to do. That conscious spending is also evident in the heightened demand for travel insurance. Awareness of the unpredictability of life has risen since the pandemic and, consequently, travel insurance is increasingly being considered by travellers.”
The research, which was carried out by OpinionWay for Allianz Partners, surveyed 1,069 people in the UK, as well as 8,428 across France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland and Poland. All statistics included in this press release are UK specific, unless otherwise stated.