A new survey has found that the majority of families are hoping to travel in the next 12 months. The study, released by the Family Travel Association (FTA) and the NYU School of Professional Studies Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality, found that 88 percent of families are “likely” to travel with their children in the next 12 months.
Sixty-five percent of the 2,365 parents who responded also said they would consider using a travel agent in the next two years. Only 44 percent of the responding families said they took a family trip in 2020, and 80 percent changed travel plans because of the pandemic.
An important decision-maker for most families (80 percent) was flexible cancellation policies from travel companies.
“The 2021 US Family Travel Survey shows that while some family travel patterns have remained the same, there have also been significant changes due to the pandemic. Overwhelmingly, US families report they want clear communications from travel businesses: for example, while some families look for reassurance that health protocols are being followed, others want to know in advance if any amenities will be closed or have restricted access.” said Dr. Lynn Minnaert, clinical associate professor at the Tisch Center.
Of those planning to travel, the majority plan to stay domestic. Eighty-three percent said they are planning a vacation within the United States, while only 19 percent are planning to take a trip outside the U.S.
“With this report, the FTA is continuing its series of annual surveys to help our industry better understand the needs, expectations and projected behaviors of traveling families,” said Rainer Jenss, FTA founder. “The COVID-19 global pandemic had a major impact on the travel industry during most of 2020 and 2021. In fact, the lingering effects of border closures, mask mandates and vaccines will probably continue to play a major role in how people plan, book, and travel for many months if not years to come.”
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