What
New research from Allianz Partners finds that continuing progress in the development of a COVID-19 vaccine will encourage Americans to book their next vacation. Of the 3,500 Allianz customers surveyed, 58% say that a proven vaccine will make them feel safe enough to take a trip more than 100 miles from their home for at least two nights — up six points compared to responses of the same question asked in a spring survey.
Forty-eight percent of respondents say that they would feel safe if health officials announced it is safe to travel again (up three points) while 47% of those surveyed would find increased sanitization in airports and hotels encouraging (down five points).
RELATED: Some Say a COVID-19 Vaccine Will Be a Turning Point for Travel. Will It?
Why It Matters
Although many Americans have equated the development of a COVID-19 vaccine with a return to normal, some naysayers have expressed that a vaccine is not a cure-all. Mostly, these folks have highlighted the potential issues that could arise if destinations require a vaccine for travel — particularly if the emerging COVID-19 vaccines are not viewed as safe and reliable.
With pent-up travel demand at a seemingly all-time high, we anticipate Americans will be looking to book their ultimate itineraries in 2021 to their favorite destinations.
On the other hand, there is the issue that there might not be enough vaccines to meet demand. Whether you believe the development of a proven vaccine will lead to increased travel in 2021, we can be certain that there is still a lot up in the air regarding how everything will pan out.
Fast Facts
- Respondents over the age of 65 place more importance on a proven vaccine than customers under the age of 45, who consider increased sanitization the most important factor.
- Thirty-two percent of respondents (up two points) are uncertain about when they’ll travel next.
- Only 9% of respondents over the age of 65 will be traveling this fall, versus 18% of those surveyed under the age of 45.
- Allianz also found that most U.S. travelers plan to fly (70%, up 5 points) for their next trip, while those opting to drive to their destination have decreased (19%, down 9 points).
What They Are Saying
“The promise of a highly effective COVID-19 vaccine could be a substantial step toward recovery for the travel industry, and as our survey found, a key factor in customers feeling more confident booking trips for 2021,” said Daniel Durazo, director of marketing and communications at Allianz Partners USA. “With pent-up travel demand at a seemingly all-time high, we anticipate Americans will be looking to book their ultimate itineraries in 2021 to their favorite destinations.”
The Details
Allianz Partners
www.allianztravelinsurance.com
