Following eased border restrictions and reduced travel requirements earlier this month, a new survey reveals a pent-up demand for travel, with half of Canadians intending to travel in the upcoming year, and of those, 41% plan to do so between this winter and summer.
Commissioned by Sunwing and conducted by Angus Reid the last week of February, the survey of over 1,500 Canadians also revealed that 60% of those planning to travel are interested in an all-inclusive vacation.
“Our latest customer research shows that 51% of Canadians are ready to start planning their next vacation, with a significant portion of the population intending to do so before the summer season,” commented Samantha Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer of Sunwing Travel Group. “With eased border measures, we’re seeing a steady increase in demand for all inclusive vacations that suit customers’ budgets and travel style, with location and overall atmosphere a top consideration for Canadians looking for an all-inclusive escape.”
While more than half (57%) of respondents claim the price of all inclusive vacation packages as the most important factor when choosing a vacation provider, it’s the experiences those packages offer that draw them in. Romantic getaways are becoming increasingly sought after, with two-thirds of respondents across all household income brackets intending to escape with their significant other on their next all-inclusive vacation.
The research shows there is also an interest in family vacations, as 28% hope to travel with their children, while 27% of respondents would plan getaways with friends.
Additional survey insights include:
• Of those who may travel in 2022, respondents aged 18-54 are nearly twice as likely as those 55+ to anticipate travelling in the summer (21% versus 11%, respectively).
• 57% of respondents in Quebec, should they travel in the upcoming year, are interested in an all-inclusive vacation.
• 16% of Quebec-based respondents would travel with their significant other on their next all-inclusive vacation, compared to 25% who would plan a getaway with friends.
• Women are more likely than men to list flexible change policies as key considerations when booking all inclusive travel.
According to survey data, while travellers are excited to return to travel, they are looking to book with a tour operator that offers flexible booking conditions with Sunwing noting that it offers customers the flexibility to change travel dates, destination or resort up to seven days before departure with no fees and comprehensive COVID-19 emergency medical coverage.