Trends in travel have understandably evolved as a result of the pandemic but one thing remains sacrosanct among tourists – the importance of enjoying a holiday.
This is according to British Airways’ first “Travel Trends Report”, which examined behaviours and attitudes that are influencing the current travel landscape, and how these have changed over the last three years.
The tour operator combined British Airways Holidays insight with that of industry experts, including travel journalists and spokespeople from Marriott and Mr and Mrs Smith, together with UK consumer data to reveal what travellers are now seeking from their holidays.
Highlighting key findings from over 2,000 consumers who were surveyed on questions surrounding value, luxury travel, all-inclusive holidays and sustainability, the report identified seven key areas for 2023, with example statistics including:
- All-inclusive is in vogue – 41 per cent of millennials plan to take an all-inclusive holiday in 2023, more than any other generation.
- Seizing the day – travel is a non-negotiable spend for consumers, with two-thirds saying it has become more precious after the pandemic and 63 per cent of consumers noting that holidays are the main way they treat themselves.
- The best of both worlds – travel is no longer exclusively about relaxation or adventure, as consumers are seeking a combination of both. “More than half of adventurous travellers want to spend time with loved ones on holiday.”
- Conscious consumers– one-quarter of UK travellers have taken fewer but longer holidays in an effort to reduce their carbon footprint, with the average holidaymaker planning to spend 18 days abroad in just 2.1 trips.
- Luxury redefined – luxury is more about once-in-a-lifetime experiences than it is about five-star hotels, according to 45 per cent of consumers.
- Control – consumers are balancing their desire to live for the moment with a need for tighter holiday planning. “All-inclusive hotels and holiday packages are the antidote to unexpected costs. It is younger consumers who are embracing this.”
- Trusted names – more than 70 per cent of consumers prefer to book their holidays via trusted providers for extra security.
“Whether you’re a travel industry professional or simply someone who loves to travel,” said British Airways Holidays managing director Claire Bentley, “we hope you find this report informative and engaging. I’m passionate about travel and ensuring that we remain curious and continue to analyse the data available to ensure we’re providing customers with the range of options they need to be able to take the holidays they deserve.”
British Airways is one of the main operators at Gibraltar International Airport.
