Expect longer trips post-COVID-19

Longer trips of more than 10 nights are increasingly in demand post-COVID-19, according to a poll by GlobalData. Longer trips and lengthier holidays are set to boom post-pandemic, especially as working from home become a trend.

A GlobalData poll has revealed that over one in four (26%) of respondents now prefer to take a leisure trip of ten-plus nights – the second-most popular length of trip behind stays of between four and six nights (28%).

Gus Gardner, associate travel and tourism analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Many travellers are desperate to escape their lockdown locations and need a change of scenery. A lengthier trip gives the optimal amount of time to switch off and reset, which is likely to be driving the increase in demand. Furthermore, GlobalData analysis showed that in 2019, the average trip length was 4.45 days for domestic and 9.22 days for international trips, revealing demand for longer stays has risen considerably since the pandemic began.”

Some consumers have experienced a strain on their finances, whilst others have become accidental savers. With less opportunity for recreational spending and reduced expenditure on commuting, some have saved considerable sums. These inflated funds may have contributed to the increased desire for longer stays.

Gardner continues: “Travelers who have seen a considerable increase in savings are more likely to splash out on longer stays. Adding an additional night onto a trip generally results in the average cost per night decreasing, meaning the increased cost of a longer stay is minimal. Therefore, those with higher travel budgets will easily be swayed by the prospect of a longer holiday. The pandemic has fueled the desire to travel and make-up for lost time – longer stays are a great way to do this.”

Remote working could potentially change the way we travel, and the possibility to work anywhere could improve the attractiveness of an extended holiday.

Gardner adds: “The pandemic has accelerated the work from home model, and the tourism industry could benefit. Those that are working from home, especially independent remote workers on a higher salary, no longer require a fixed location and only need somewhere quiet with the internet. This new working model, which seems set to stay for some time, could further increase the desire to blend a traditional holiday with a ‘workcation’. For those seeking a different location, they may look to book a longer holiday, utilizing some annual leave, whilst working remotely for the remaining days to maximize trip length. This new type of traveller could benefit accommodation sharing providers who can offer a home away from home.”