11 January 2021
More than half (54%*) of Brits say they are waiting to see how the pandemic concludes before making a decision on their 2021 holiday plans according to a survey by AA Travel Insurance.
In the poll of more than 12,500 people, more than a fifth said they had already booked holidays taking place this year, giving a shot of confidence to both a domestic and overseas tourism revival. One in 10 said they were heading overseas (11%) while the same said they would stay within the UK (10%).
A further 20% said they were actively considering a holiday in 2021 with domestic trips slightly edging international travel (11% are planning a UK trip compared to 8% planning an overseas holiday). Meanwhile, 14% said they will not have a break this year.
As more people hope that the end of the health crisis is in sight, the allure of travel serves as a reminder of the importance of buying travel insurance. Cancellation due to covid restrictions are most likely to be covered either by travel providers, ATOL or the purchasing credit card. But for all other reasons for cancellation such as personal injury or bereavement, travel insurance can serve as a safety net**.
The chance to spread the wings is captivating, and the series of lockdowns has only strengthened peoples’ desire to explore and travel
David Coughlan, managing director for AA insurance services, says; “Travel and tourism has been one of the worst hit sectors throughout the pandemic. However there are reasons to be optimistic should the mass rollout of a vaccine prove successful.
“The chance to spread the wings is captivating, and the series of lockdowns has only strengthened peoples’ desire to explore and travel.
“Dreams of sun-drenched beaches and palm trees hold just as much desire as the opportunity to enjoy the British coast and major cities.
“We have always been an inquisitive nation and our natural inclination to discover new places and customs has only heightened during the covid crisis.”
* Yonder received 12,977 responses from AA members to its online poll between 8th - 14th December 2020. Yonder is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules.